Transcript Highlights:

• Reading of the journal. >> In Senate, Sunday, May 11, 2026, the Senate met pursuant to adjournment.
• His memory is truly a blessing to all of us and one that we will carry with us forward in all of the
• in our community in the Southern Tier, but most certainly in our state.
• And boy, do Lexington students rise—in academics, in athletics, in advocacy, in the arts, and in leadership
• right here in New York, in Yonkers.

Summary: The Senate convened, approved the journal, and took up a series of motions to discharge identical Assembly bills to the Third Reading Calendar, along with committee reports and amendments. The chamber also received an introduction from Senator Gonzalez honoring Maria Raine and her advocacy for guardrails on AI chatbots after the death of her son, and later adopted a Rules Committee report sending several General Business Law bills directly to Third Reading. The resolution calendar was adopted with some exceptions, and the Senate recognized several previously adopted resolutions honoring individuals and observances, including Barnabas McHenry, Arthur Jones Jr., Floyd Todd Peterson III, the Lexington School for the Deaf, Tadeusz Kosciuszko, Apraxia Awareness Month, Fibromyalgia Awareness Day, Prevention Week, Physician Anesthesiologists Week, and Golf Day in New York. The Senate then considered and passed numerous bills, many on consumer protection and public policy topics. Measures included bills on General Business Law, Public Health Law, Correction Law, Environmental Conservation Law, Executive Law, Vehicle and Traffic Law, Public Officers Law, Not-for-Profit Corporation Law, Public Housing Law, Education Law, Labor Law, and Public Service Law. Several bills were laid aside, including a Public Health Law bill by Senator Fernandez and a Public Service Law bill by Senator Parker. The chamber also passed a concurrent constitutional resolution by Senator Stec proposing an amendment to Article 14. During floor debate, senators explained votes on several measures. Senator Ramos spoke in support of paid sick leave for domestic workers, describing the bill as a long-overdue labor protection for a workforce historically excluded from such rights. Senator Fernandez described her bill as the Manufacturer Disclosure and Transparency Act, aimed at requiring notice and public disclosure of certain pharmaceutical patent settlement agreements to improve transparency and competition in prescription drug pricing. Senator Ryan and Senator Martins supported a bill restricting hidden algorithmic price manipulation online, and Senator May supported a bill limiting excessive rental car fuel charges as part of a broader consumer protection package. The Senate also passed a memorial highway bill naming a portion of Route 19 in LeRoy for Lieutenant Gary A. Scott, with Senator Borrello explaining the veteran’s service and sacrifice.

Transcript Highlights:

• He died in the line of duty in a one-car accident while responding to a suspicious person call in her
• Transportation in general, in which you can be controlled.
• in St.
• In 2024, there were 478 fatalities on Minnesota roadways, in 2023 402, and in 2022 444.
• </c> are not going in the right direction in are not going in the right direction in recent<01:24:46.080

Committee: House Transportation Finance and Policy

Transcript Highlights:

• I could never live up to President Albritton's touching memorials that were done here in the Senate just
• And you all have heard us in the words we said for her memorial service.
• On Tuesday, we had a very special memorial unveiling here in Tallahassee.
• But also, it was a moment of triumph because the Holocaust memorial here in Tallahassee on our capital
• The only thing that I would change in her memorial, and I say this with great respect, is I don't think

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opening prayer, pledge, and several member introductions and recognitions, including resolutions and visiting groups. The chamber then moved to a special order calendar and took up a series of bills, beginning with SB 88 on utility terrain vehicles, which would allow local governments to opt in to street use of UTVs under specified safety conditions; it passed 32-5 after debate over safety concerns. SB 102 on exceptional student education created a workforce credential/badge program for students with autism or on modified curricula; despite concerns about unfunded mandates, it passed 36-0. SB 106 on exploitation of vulnerable adults authorized alternative service methods for scammers through the apps they used to contact victims and passed 37-0. SB 130 expanded and eased procedures for compensation of victims of wrongful incarceration, including extending filing deadlines and removing restrictive bars; it passed 38-0. SB 158 eliminated cost sharing for diagnostic and supplemental breast exams under the state employee health plan and passed 38-0. The Senate then considered SB 234 on crimes against law enforcement officers, prompted by the killing of Officer Jason Raynor. The bill clarified that a person may not resist an officer with violence and added a mandatory life sentence for manslaughter of a law enforcement officer. A late amendment to restore “good faith” language failed, and after extensive debate over due process, racial profiling, and sentencing concerns, the bill was temporarily postponed rather than brought to a final vote. SB 262 on trust code technical changes passed 36-0. SB 274 designated portions of roads in Orlando as Harris Rosen Way and Geraldine Thompson Way; it passed 38-0 and then received 37 co-sponsors. SB 280 created an enforcement mechanism for candidate party-affiliation qualification requirements and passed 38-0. SB 296 repealed the statewide middle and high school start-time mandate and returned the issue to local districts with reporting requirements; it passed 38-0. Later, SB 356 designated January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in Florida, with the sponsor emphasizing anti-Semitism and the need for education and remembrance. The transcript also included additional ceremonial remarks and recognition of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity members in the gallery. Throughout the meeting, most measures advanced with unanimous or near-unanimous support, while SB 234 generated the most substantive disagreement and was set aside for later consideration.

Transcript Highlights:

• in camps.
• and in each...
• In.
• So, in conclusion, and in summary, it's four.
• So we honor their memories, and we continue to lift up their families in prayer and support.

Committee: House The July 2025 Flooding Events, General Investigating

Transcript Highlights:

• Senators, this is the time for us to do our adjourn in memory.
• Senator Hurtado, you are recognized for your adjourn in memory. Thank you, Madam President.
• Please join me in adjourning in memory of Detective Randy Hopper.
• Please join me in adjourning in memory of Detective Randy Hopper, Jr.
• Thank you, Senator, for that very moving adjourn in memory.

Summary: The Senate began with a roll call, a moment of silence for the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, prayer, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The body then moved through gubernatorial appointments, confirming Julia Montgomery as General Counsel for the Agricultural Labor Relations Board and reappointing Dr. Cynthia Glover Woods, Dr. Brenda Lewis, and Gabriela Orozco Gonzalez to the State Board of Education, and George Cardona as Chief Trial Counsel for the State Bar. The Senate also heard a guest introduction welcoming Cal Lutheran University students, faculty, and staff to the gallery. The chamber then took up several resolutions, including SR 111 recognizing the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex Phobia, and Transphobia; SCR 129 designating part of Highway 152 as the Rusty Arraes Highway; SCR 169 proclaiming October 2026 as Women's Small Business Month; and SCR 173 designating May 2026 as California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month. All of these resolutions passed, with members speaking in support of Arraes, women-owned businesses, and the public safety and community roles of fairgrounds. The Senate also passed a series of policy bills. These included SB 1154 on best-value procurement for community college public works, SB 1369 on judicial recall safeguards, SB 1106 shortening the data broker deletion timeline under the Delete Act, SB 1417 increasing transparency for mutual water companies, SB 1408 authorizing a future Contra Costa transportation sales tax measure, SB 1172 adding guardrails to local tax sharing agreements, SB 1383 protecting locally adopted labor standards in density bonus projects, SB 1371 barring waste haulers from suspending service during lawful labor disputes, SB 908 streamlining residential window replacement permits, SB 1361 limiting actions taken solely to avoid transit-oriented housing standards, SB 1014 requiring early fee and improvement estimates for housing projects, SB 1272 giving homeowners more time to fix preexisting code violations, SB 1406 targeting the Montana tax loophole, SB 1238 increasing HOA transparency and oversight, and SB 868 creating a plug-in solar framework. Most passed on largely party-line votes, with some Republican members objecting to labor-related or regulatory measures. Later in the day, the Senate approved additional health, education, privacy, and AI measures, including SB 950 on early-onset Alzheimer’s treatment coverage, SB 874 on Medi-Cal behavioral health treatment oversight, SB 1049 on correcting health plan claims, SB 1067 on early math screening, SB 1202 on Medi-Cal outreach amid federal changes, SB 944 on acupuncture coverage, SB 957 on notice for federal subpoenas to social media companies, SB 998 on discrimination prevention coordinators, and SB 1000 on AI content transparency. The final item shown, SB 1056 on protective orders for sexually explicit material involving adult victims, was introduced with the author noting ongoing work on amendments, but the transcript cuts off before final action is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• Yansy. >> Adjourn in memory.
• Yansy Yansy Yansy &gt;&gt; adjourn<00:35:17.359><c> in</c><00:35:17.520><c> memory.
• Today I'd like to adjourn in memory of a local legend in Jackson County in Pascagoula, Mr.
• We join you in that adjournment. All right.
• We join you in Thank you, gentlemen. We join you in that<00:35:39.359><c> adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• I also move that when the House adjourns, we do so today in honor and memory of Michael A. Newsom.
• today, it adjourn in the honoring memory of Michael Antoine Newsom.
• today, it adjourn in his honor and memory.
• In 2007, the Grace Tinsley Memorial Scholarship Program was founded.
• The memorial resolutions be adopted in block.

Transcript Highlights:

• In Kentucky, we estimate about one in three homes.
• Ron was killed in the line of duty in 2016.
• I'm testifying in support of S-1719 with devised funding for the law enforcement memorial of agents,
• How much he would like to have this plate with his brother's shield number in memory of his brother.
• It's been mentioned a few times in 1719: that's the Blue Star plate and also the memorial that we have

Committee: Joint Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security

Summary: The hearing focused on a range of public safety bills, with especially emotional testimony on the Maggie Hubbard Rental Safety Act, which would require short-term rentals to be inspected for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and require platforms or agents to verify compliance before listing. Rep. Hadley Luddy, Sen. Julian Cyr, and the Hubbard and Waldron families described the fatal Airbnb fire that killed Shannon Hubbard and her daughter Maggie in New York, saying the deaths were preventable and that the bill would save lives. Committee members expressed sympathy and support for the families’ efforts to turn their loss into legislation. The committee also heard testimony on a proposed peace officer oath (S. 1680), described by Sen. Lydia Edwards as a binding ethical standard tied to certification and recertification, with discipline and annual reporting to promote accountability and de-escalation. Rep. Tom Walsh testified for a bill requiring hotel and motel workers to be trained to recognize human trafficking and to post hotline signage, and later testimony supported a school safety data grant program to provide first responders with standardized, up-to-date school maps for emergencies. Another major topic was a bill to allow temporary door-locking devices in public buildings; supporters said the devices are removable, do not alter fire code, and could improve lockdown response during active shooter events. Additional bills discussed included measures to transfer the Office of Emergency Medical Services to EOPSS, increase penalties for unlicensed hood-system cleaning, expand membership on the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, and strengthen confidentiality for peer support and critical incident stress debriefings. Firefighters and fire chiefs also supported a bill to tighten penalties for violations of hot-work regulations, citing the 2014 Beacon Street fire that killed Lt. Walsh and Firefighter Kennedy. Law enforcement groups backed a package including a Blue Star plate and Blue Alert system for fallen officers’ families, stronger move-over penalties, and a memorial fund, while the State Police Association supported the move-over provisions but asked for further work on the special state police officer bill before final action. No votes were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• In that moment, distance collapses.
• Born in North Carolina, Ms.
• New York State in the future.
• But she has a long-time history of participation in schools in the New York City community.
• In some states, they — the Commissioner of Education is elected in an election.

Summary: The Senate opened with an invocation focused on memory, gratitude, and recognizing the unseen people who sustain public life, then approved the prior day’s journal and moved through introductions of guests, including domestic violence advocates, medical scholars, and student advocates. Senator Webb’s Resolution 1633, designating February 23, 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Day, was adopted after remarks describing the scope of domestic violence in New York and the need for more survivor services. The chamber also adopted memorial Resolution 1558 honoring Margaret D. Williams, a vocalist, public servant, and community leader, and Resolution 1630 marking the 20th anniversary of Park and Public Lands Advocacy Day, with comments emphasizing the health and community benefits of parks and green space. The Senate then took up a series of bills on the calendar, passing measures including amendments to the Environmental Conservation Law, Labor Law, Education Law, Administrative Code of New York City, General Municipal Law, Tax Law, Cannabis Law, and Executive Law. Senator Ramos explained her support for the labor bill as the Anti-Waiver of Employment Rights Act, which would prevent employers from forcing workers to waive labor and human rights protections in applications or onboarding documents. Several bills were passed by wide margins, while some were laid aside for the day. The chamber also restored Senate Print 438 to the third reading calendar after reconsideration. A contested amendment to Calendar 234, Senator Comrie’s Executive Law bill, was ruled non-germane by the chair; Senator Walczyk appealed, arguing the amendment addressing the state energy code and all-electric building mandate was relevant to housing costs, but the Senate voted 20 to sustain the chair’s ruling. The underlying bill was then returned to the non-controversial calendar and passed. Finally, the Senate adopted a concurrent resolution electing two members to the Board of Regents, with supporters praising the nominees’ experience and critics objecting to the limited vetting time; the resolution passed 42-15. The Senate then adjourned until Thursday, February 26 at 11:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• name in stone on our memorial wall, signifying the sacrifice he made in the service of others.
• our memorial wall, signifying the sacrifice he made in the service of others.
• So I know there's a lot of memorial services all over the Commonwealth, and there'll be many here in
• All those in favor say aye. Aye. Opposed, nay. We are adjourned. Thank you. Opposed, nay.
• We are adjourned.

Committee: Joint Joint Committee on Public Service

Summary: The Joint Committee on Public Service held a hearing on several public safety-related bills, with testimony focused heavily on firefighter cancer presumptions, death benefits, and age-limit waivers for public safety appointments. Boston Firefighters Local 718 and the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts testified in support of legislation tied to the late Boston firefighter Matt Troy, describing his service, his occupational cancer diagnosis, and the family’s ineligibility for benefits because his diagnosis fell just short of the statutory presumption period. Witnesses urged the committee to advance the bill so his widow could receive accidental death benefits and to address broader concerns about cancer risks, bunker gear, and early detection programs for firefighters. Committee members asked questions about how the diagnosis date affected eligibility and discussed the need for broader systemic changes rather than repeated home-rule petitions. Senator Nick Collins and Representative Dan Hunt both testified in support of the Troy-related bills, and the committee also heard that written testimony had been submitted by additional supporters. The committee also heard local home-rule petitions to extend the employment of fire chiefs in Rochester and Northfield. Representative Alan Silvia supported H. 4235 to allow Rochester Fire Chief Scott Wego to continue serving until age 70, citing his nearly 50 years of service and leadership in department improvements. A Northfield select board chair testified virtually in support of H. 4236 to keep Fire Chief Floyd “Skip” Dennell on the job, explaining that he has been central to building planning, volunteer recruitment, training documentation, and an organizational review as the town prepares for his eventual retirement. Both local bills were presented as measures to preserve continuity and support ongoing public safety planning in their communities. Another major topic was S. 2583, which would waive the maximum age requirement for Jonathan Lewis to be appointed to the Massachusetts State Police. Senator Collins described Lewis’s community service and strong exam score, and Lewis testified about his background in Dorchester, his prior interest in becoming a trooper, and his recent ranking on the eligibility list. Committee members expressed support and noted the importance of recruiting qualified candidates and diversifying the force. The committee also heard support for H. 4443, which would raise the maximum age for original appointment to firefighter or police officer positions, and members discussed related retirement and health-review issues that have arisen in prior home-rule cases. At the end of the hearing, no further witnesses came forward, and the committee voted to adjourn.

Transcript Highlights:

• But in Seminole County, you have the Fred R. Wilson Memorial Law Library.
• But in Seminole County, you have the Fred R. Wilson Memorial Law Library.
• I think there's one in there.
• $2 million in debt.
• .papers as being in chaos.

Summary: The Joint Legislative Auditing Committee met to receive updates on Transparency Florida and related transparency tools. The Governor’s Office and the Department of Financial Services described the Transparency Florida website, the state payment and contract systems, and the local-government financial reporting system (Logger X/XBRL), emphasizing public access, searchable payment and contract data, downloadable reports, and ongoing upgrades. Members asked whether school districts and the Department of Corrections are included in these systems; staff explained that state agencies like Corrections are covered through Transparency Florida, FACTS, and the state financial reports, while Logger X is for local governments. Committee staff reported that the Transparency Florida Act’s requirements have been met and noted that any new recommendations would need legislative action; members were invited to submit recommendations by October 30. The committee then reviewed repeated audit findings for local governments and educational entities. Staff explained the statutory process for “three-peat” findings: first requesting an updated written corrective-action status, then possibly requiring an appearance before the committee, and finally taking further action if findings remain uncorrected. Most entities were recommended for written updates, while the City of Daytona Beach was singled out for an in-person appearance because of a repeated finding involving unexpended building permit balances. Members also raised questions about specific entities, including McIntosh, White Springs, Pahokee, and the Fred R. Wilson Memorial Law Library special district, with staff explaining the nature of the findings and noting that some entities may warrant further review. The committee adopted a motion to accept staff’s recommendations and to send letters to entities with uncorrected audit findings in late-filed 2023-24 audit reports. It also approved a motion directing the Auditor General and OPPAGA to conduct the required audit of the Department of the Lottery for fiscal year 2025-26, with the Auditor General handling financial, internal control, and compliance work and OPPAGA preparing operational recommendations. The meeting concluded with notice that the next meeting was tentatively scheduled for November 3 at 3:30 p.m., followed by adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• Join me in prayer, please.
• Join me in prayer, please.
• In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Please join me in the pledge.
• Senate and Governmental Affairs will meet tomorrow upon adjournment in Room F.
• Senator in governmental affairs will meet tomorrow upon adjournment in Room F.

Bills: SCR63 , SCR12 , HB89 , HB451 , HB595 , HB617 , HB621 , HB730 , HB1064 , HB1125 , HB221 , HCR58 , SB106 , SB206 , SB248 , SB441 , SB104 , SB122 , SB180 , SB260 , SB424 , SB476 , SCR9 , SCR30 , SB57 , SB414 , SB525 , SB35 , SB65 , SB135 , SB215 , SB246 , SB249 , SB269 , SB276 , SB282 , SB296 , SB323 , SB363 , SB369 , SB474 , SB484 , SB490 , SB492 , SB500 , SB501 , SB513 , HCR31 , HB462 , HB547 , HB613 , HB691 , HB712 , HB720 , HB723 , HB728 , HB735 , HB747 , HB759 , HB825 , HB845 , HB846 , HB903 , HB904 , HB907 , HB923 , HB929 , HB941 , HB962 , HB965 , HB1036 , HB287 , HB370 , HB515 , HB521 , HB570 , HB1200 , HB29 , HB39 , HB58 , HB67 , HB73 , HB76 , HB77 , HB82 , HB112 , HB121 , HB125 , HB132 , HB134 , HB151 , HB154 , HB155 , HB161 , HB166 , HB187 , HB191 , HB207 , HB211 , HB224 , HB238 , HB241 , HB242 , HB250 , HB260 , HB265 , HB275 , HB300 , HB320 , HB338 , HB339 , HB349 , HB379 , HB399 , HB427 , HB463 , HB464 , HB468 , HB545 , HB550 , HB551 , HB565 , HB588 , HB639 , HB725 , HB782 , HB805 , HB808 , HB834 , HB847 , HB853 , HB858 , HB861 , HB883 , HB916 , HB937 , HB977 , HB1012 , HB1027 , HB1044 , HB1054 , HB1091 , HB1117 , HB90 , HB127 , HB138 , HB150 , HB201 , HB268 , HB273 , HB285 , HB315 , HB354 , HB355 , HB360 , HB376 , HB445 , HB506 , HB606 , HB649 , HB665 , HB681 , HB721 , HB746 , HB757 , HB781 , HB835 , HB844 , HB857 , HB872 , HB886 , HB889 , HB892 , HB982 , HB987 , HB1037 , HB1068 , HB1072 , HB1078 , HB1085 , HB1132 , HB1137 , HB1167 , HB1174 , HB1232 , HB1238 , HB23 , HB136 , HB17 , HB21 , HB51 , HB55 , HB74 , HB106 , HB108 , HB133 , HB140 , HB159 , HB168 , HB215 , HB226 , HB263 , HB296 , HB299 , HB322 , HB364 , HB519 , HB535 , HB538 , HB568 , HB571 , HB622 , HB635 , HB676 , HB772 , HB784 , HB1006 , HB1018 , HB1033 , HB1034 , HB1043 , HB1070 , HB1134 , HB1237 , HB1239 , HB36 , HB119 , HB126 , HB129 , HB245 , HB271 , HB280 , HB337 , HB351 , HB677 , HB726 , HB789 , HB850 , HB956 , HB966 , SB149 , SB382

Keywords: fiscal notes, legislation, legislative auditor, state policy, conflict of interest, logging, recognition, John Keith, environment, safety, HB89, Act 615, district attorney, assistant district attorney, retiree health insurance, group health insurance, retirement benefits, public employee benefits, Third Judicial District, Thirtieth Judicial District

Transcript Highlights:

• Our memorial is asking the legislator to recognize the value that insects have in all of our ecosystems
• In the audience, can we have a show of hands of anyone who opposes This bill, this memorial.
• Is there anybody in All those in favor who support the memorial, please raise your hand so that we can
• For a show of hands, who in the audience Supports House Memorial 26.
• In any way does this memorial, so with pushing some of this to game and fish, is this going To restrict

Bills: HM26 , HB243 , HB109

Committee: House House Agriculture, Acequias And Water Resources

Keywords: insects, ecosystem, education, public awareness, wildlife conservation, state agency involvement, New Mexico, equine welfare, animal rescue, shelter funding, trust fund, veterinary care, water project fund, water project finance act, New Mexico Finance Authority, water infrastructure, water grants, water loans, regional water planning, water rights adjudication

Transcript Highlights:

• The hour to which the House adjourned having arrived, the House will be in order.
• Speaker Mariano of Quincy moves that when the House adjourns today, it do so in respect to the memory
• And the House stands adjourned to meet Thursday next at 11 a.m. in an informal session.
• Speaker Mariano of Quincy moves that when the House adjourns today, it do so in respect to the memory
• And the House stands adjourned to meet Thursday next 11 a.m. in an...

Summary: The House opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and then took up reports from the Temporary Committee on Rules. The committee recommended adoption of three resolutions: honoring Roberta Dupre’s retirement and service, congratulating Chief Michael A. Noble on his retirement as police chief of Maynard, and recognizing the legacy of Representative Patricia A. Haddad. The House suspended the rules and adopted all three resolutions by voice vote. The House also adopted an order setting the next meeting for Thursday at 11 a.m. Speaker Mariano then moved that the House adjourn in respect to the memory of former Representative Carol A. Doherty of Taunton, who served from 2020 to 2024; that motion was adopted. Finally, on motion of Mr. Wong, the House adjourned, with the next session scheduled for Thursday at 11 a.m. in an informal session.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's why we live in Vermont.
• . memory. memory.
• HCR 175 is a House concurrent resolution in memory of the venerable J. Stannard Baker of Shelburne.
• And in 1999, the Vermont Supreme Court in the landmark decision Baker v.
• </c> arrived in Massachusetts. arrived in Massachusetts.

Transcript Highlights:

• And currently, why you have that gap in here is you're kind of running in series.
• in Harris County.
• In the past in Harris County, they just say, oh, we don't have to do this.
• put in place in Harris County.
• In order...

Bills: HB311 , SB447 , SB505 , SB2217 , SB2753 , HB311

Committee: House Elections

Keywords: voter registration, electronic, Texas election law, Signature verification, DPS, internet application, Texas Election Code, signature verification, online application, data security, electronic application, Department of Public Safety, information security, electronic voter registration, voting technology, voter access, state election laws, digital signature, election irregularities, audit

Summary: The committee heard several election-related bills. SB 447 would let the City of Mission in Hidalgo County permanently move its municipal elections from May to the uniform November election date if it chooses. The bill was described as permissive and intended to increase turnout and reduce costs. Mission’s mayor testified in support, saying voters had already approved the change by a wide margin in a charter amendment election. The bill was left pending after no objection. SB 2217 focused on standardizing election data reporting and reconciliation across counties to improve transparency and comparability. Testimony was generally supportive of the goal, but Dr. Laura Presley and others flagged technical issues, including a discrepancy between a three-ballot mismatch threshold in existing law and a 1% threshold in part of the bill, plus a definition issue involving central accumulators. Supporters said consistent auditing and reconciliation would help election integrity, while the bill was also left pending. The committee then took up SB 2753, a major proposal to create a continuous in-person voting period that would combine early voting and Election Day into one uninterrupted process, with precinct consolidation and other changes. Supporters said it could simplify administration, reduce equipment changes, and improve security by using one set of machines. Opponents and neutral witnesses raised concerns about cost, staffing, ballot security, reporting changes, weekend voting, and whether the bill was ready for implementation; several urged a pilot or study instead. The committee substitute was withdrawn and the bill was left pending. SB 505 would create a process for election workers, candidates, party officials, and measure proponents or opponents to request explanations of election irregularities, with escalation to the Secretary of State for audit or enforcement if responses were unsatisfactory. Supporters said it would provide a way to resolve irregularities and restore confidence, while opponents argued it was too broad, lacked guardrails against abuse, and could be used by partisan actors to pressure counties. The bill was left pending. Finally, HB 311 would expand Texas’s online voter registration system to first-time registrants and others, with supporters citing efficiency, lower costs, and broader access, and opponents raising concerns about signature verification and implementation details. Testimony was cut short because of the session deadline, and the bill had not been disposed of in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• The bricks are in the front.
• In 1984 and again in 1988, he ran for President of the United States of America.
• In 1984 and again in 1988, he ran for the President of the United States of America.
• Jemison now, in the movement here in Baton Rouge during the bus boycott.
• Chairman Boreak moves to adjourn. Chairman Boreak moves to adjourn.

Bills: SB309 , SB457 , SB513 , HB148 , HB149 , HB358 , HB384 , HB428 , HB487 , HB593 , HB613 , HB657 , HB675 , HB712 , HB716 , HB720 , HB723 , HB728 , HB732 , HB845 , HB846 , HB965

Committee: House Transportation, Highways & Public Works

Summary: The House Committee on Transportation met on April 22, 2026, with a quorum present and heard several transportation-related bills, many involving license plates, toll exemptions, and administrative changes. The committee first advanced HB 988 by Rep. Bagley, which changes the fee distribution for current and retired legislators’ special prestige license plates so the proceeds support repairs at the Pentagon/first LSU building rather than going to the state. It then heard HB 1001 by Rep. Marcel, designating a portion of U.S. Highway 190 as the Jesse Jackson Memorial Highway; the bill was supported with remarks honoring Jackson’s civil rights legacy, and the committee observed a moment of silence before reporting it favorably without objection. The committee next considered HB 989 by Rep. Boyer, which updates and clarifies fees charged by public license tag agents. Rep. Phelps offered an amendment to exempt Shreveport from the fee increase, but it failed on a roll call vote, and the bill was then reported favorably by a 13-2 vote. HB 1192, also by Rep. Boyer, creating a Louisiana Dental Hygienist Association specialty license plate, was amended to remove a restriction limiting issuance to association members and then passed favorably without objection. HB 1032 by Rep. Wiley, which clarifies the substances referenced in DUI-related motor vehicle statutes, received technical amendments and was reported favorably without objection. The committee also advanced HB 748 by Rep. Brough, exempting Louisiana school board-owned and leased vehicles from tolls on bridges and highways, including the Bell Chasse toll bridge area, after testimony from Plaquemines Parish school officials and the district attorney describing toll costs and operational burdens; the bill was amended to include leased vehicles and then reported favorably without objection. HB 1108 by Rep. Omade creating a homeschool pride specialty plate was also reported favorably without objection after discussion of the plate design and proceeds going to Homeschool Louisiana. Finally, HB 1081 by Chairman Wright, restructuring the Louisiana Ports and Waterways Investment Commission under the Office of Multimodal Commerce and DOTD for administrative support, was amended at the request of the Governor’s Office and reported favorably without objection. The committee adjourned after completing its agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• And it reminds us that how we legislate memory does not exist in isolation.
• The most diverse country in the world is here in America.
• Senator Jones continued: “Nobody in my community, nobody in your community, Senator Simon, nobody in
• This is pushing a narrative that in this country has us in the position that we’re in today, and I’m
• Senator Jones continued: “Nobody in my community, nobody in your community, Senator Simon, nobody in

Bills: S0194 , S1246

Committee: Senate Education Postsecondary

Summary: The Committee on Education Postsecondary met with a quorum and first considered SB 1246, which would expand Florida’s Line Fund for health service workforce shortages. Senator Davis explained that the bill would broaden eligibility beyond nursing to include health science education programs and students, allow matching funds from private contributions, and permit use of funds for scholarships, faculty recruitment, equipment, simulation centers, and facility renovations. Senator Harrell asked for more specificity about which professions would qualify, and Davis said the bill was intended to add flexibility but could be made more concrete. Several witnesses supported the bill, and the committee reported SB 1246 favorably without additional funding being requested. The committee then took up SB 194, which would designate October 14 as Charlie Kirk Day of Remembrance. Senator Martin said the bill would recognize Kirk’s influence on civic engagement, youth leadership, and constitutional education without creating a state holiday. The bill drew both support and opposition from public speakers, with supporters emphasizing Kirk’s advocacy for free speech and unborn children, and opponents arguing that his public statements on race, civil rights, and Black leaders made him an inappropriate figure for state honor. Members also debated whether statute was the right vehicle for such recognition and whether the bill could encourage future requests for similar commemorations. A late-filed amendment by Senator Jones would have added George Floyd to the remembrance language, framing the issue as selective remembrance and pointing to Floyd’s death as another national reckoning. Senator Martin opposed the amendment as unfriendly, and it failed on a roll call vote. The committee then debated SB 194 at length, with supporters describing Kirk as a defender of open debate and opponents saying the bill would legitimize divisive rhetoric. The committee ultimately reported SB 194 favorably, with Senators Berman, Harrell, and Jones voting no, Senator Rodriguez and Chair Simon voting yes, and Chair Calatayud casting the deciding favorable vote. The committee then adjourned after a motion to record Tab 2 in the affirmative was adopted.

Transcript Highlights:

• In Jesus' name, amen.
• Roughly 80% of the guns seized in Mexico are... ...has doubled in recent years.
• , in fact, involved in straw purchasing and running guns to Mexico.
• in the country.
• Signed in open session.

Summary: The House convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, approval of the prior journal, and several points of personal privilege recognizing guests, including a newly graduated Army servicemember, the Doctor of the Day, and members of Delta Sigma Theta visiting for Delta Day at the Capitol. The chamber also adopted a proclamation designating April 10, 2026, as Founders Day in the City of Tolleson, with remarks highlighting the city’s history and the Whoopi Days Festival. The House then appointed a conference committee on HB 2874 after voting not to concur in Senate amendments. The House considered several bills in Committee of the Whole. On SB 1058, a floor amendment offered by Rep. Gutierrez to address gun trafficking, merchant codes, and related enforcement tools failed by a vote of 17-32, and the bill was then recommended do pass. SB 1094, dealing with civil liability related to gender transition procedures for minors, drew extended debate over constitutionality, medical liability, and impacts on physicians and patients, and it was also recommended do pass. SB 1136, SB 1422, and SB 1663 (with a Blackman floor amendment adopted) each received do pass recommendations. Later, the House adopted Committee of the Whole reports placing SB 1075 and SB 1202 on third reading, retaining SB 1419 on the calendar, and advancing SCM 1004 and SCM 1007. On third reading, the House passed SB 1024, SB 1148, SB 1232, SB 1293, and SB 1586, with members explaining votes on issues including vehicle registration, Supreme Court administration, outdoor advertising and zoning, GPLET tax policy, and state agency matters. The chamber then recessed briefly for announcements and personal privilege remarks, and finally adjourned until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• in memory of Jane Yolen.
• I would now ask all members and guests and staff to join me in a moment of silence in memory of Jane
• Gomez, moves that when the Senate adjourns today, it do so in memory of Charlene M. Naylor.
• I would now ask all members, guests, and staff to rise and join me in a moment of silence in memory of
• And we are adjourning today in memory of Jane Yolen and Charlene Naylor.

Summary: The Senate took up a series of local and statewide measures, including bills on parking fines in Scituate, a conservation restriction in Middleton, park and field dedications in Boston, toxic-free medical devices, a regional school district vote, and several local personnel and land-use matters. It also approved or engrossed bills concerning the Dalton Fire District, fire and police employment in Conway, reclassifying Beverly fire alarm operators, a Waitley Water District dissolution, a Dighton conservation land/public way issue, Milton liquor licenses, Billerica bike path land transfer, and an easement exchange involving Eversource. Several of these were advanced by suspending rules, ordering third readings, or concurring in House amendments; the Senate also accepted a committee report consolidating S. 545 with H. 899 and passed the consolidated park-dedication bill to engrossment. A major focus was the bill requiring health care employers to develop and implement workplace violence prevention programs. Senators and sponsors described the measure as a compromise aimed at protecting health care workers through annual risk assessments, prevention plans, paid leave, reporting requirements, privacy protections, and a narrow warrantless-arrest provision for assaults on health care workers. The Senate adopted a number of amendments, including changes to employee definitions, complaint protections, disfigurement language, paid leave coverage, federally qualified health center exemptions, de-escalation and community-based response language, mental health treatment coverage, and a one-year pause for certain DDS-related provisions. Some proposed amendments were adopted, while others were rejected or withdrawn, and the bill was ultimately ordered to third reading and passed to be engrossed. The Senate also considered the home care and long-term services bill, with members emphasizing home care licensure, oversight, and planning for long-term care financing. Amendments added or modified provisions related to home care training, evacuation procedures, minority-party representation on commissions, MassPACE participation, and representation for people living with dementia; one amendment on family caregiving was withdrawn after discussion. The chamber likewise advanced an economic development bond and appropriation package through a Ways and Means substitute and adopted a conference committee process on a separate energy affordability bill after the House disagreed with the Senate’s version. The session included ceremonial moments honoring guests and memorializing Jane Yolen and Charlene M. Naylor, and it ended with the Senate adjourning to meet again the following Monday.