Transcript Highlights:

• Sadly, legislators and the courts are the only oversight DOC has.
• Visits are not merely social, nor are they a privilege.
• It's been unenforceable even though the legislators had passed this legislation.
• The legislation moves us closer to that reality.
• I do legislative advocacy. I also do litigation.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The hearing before the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security focused on several correction-related bills, including visitation reform, elder and medical parole, incarcerated persons’ human rights, and creation of an independent correctional oversight office. Vice Chair Christopher Worrell chaired the hearing in place of Chair Dan Cahill for much of the session and explained that the committee would first hear from incarcerated individuals remotely, then move to public testimony. The committee repeatedly enforced three-minute limits and accepted written testimony as well. Much of the testimony from incarcerated people emphasized that visitation is central to rehabilitation, family stability, and reentry, and that current DOC policies—visitor caps, pre-approval requirements, scheduling rules, dress-code enforcement, and restrictions on contact—have reduced family contact and caused harm. Several speakers argued that elderly and medically frail prisoners should be released through parole because incarceration is costly, ineffective, and inhumane for people who pose little public-safety risk. Others described poor prison conditions, limited programming, inadequate healthcare, segregation-like housing, and the impact of K2 use, suicides, and self-harm. Supporters of the oversight bill said an independent office is needed to address racial disparities, grievance failures, and lack of accountability within the DOC. A number of speakers tied their support to personal experiences, including alleged racial discrimination, denial of programs, and barriers to family visits. Some testified that rehabilitative programming, education, and restorative justice reduce violence and improve outcomes, while others said the DOC spends too little on programming and too much on punishment. Committee members asked a few follow-up questions, including about K2 contraband and how to reduce drugs in facilities, and one member asked about typical visitation lengths. No votes were taken during the hearing; the committee heard testimony on the bills and several witnesses urged favorable reports.

Transcript Highlights:

• More than 250 CPAs from across Texas will meet with their legislative representatives.
• And today I have the honor and privilege of introducing the doctor of the day, Dr. Hosey Hinojosa.
• Thank you, Senator Menendez, for your important legislation to educate our students.
• And so I look forward to working with y'all on that kind of legislation.
• And so I look forward to working with y'all on that kind of legislation.

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, heard the daily invocation, approved the previous day’s journal, and received a House message announcing passage of H.C.R. 54, which authorizes the legislature to adjourn for more than three days during a specified period. The chamber then took up several recognitions, including Senate Resolution 8 honoring Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants Advocacy Day, a recognition of the Texas A&M University System Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council, a delegation from Dimmit County, and the doctor of the day, Dr. Hosey Hinojosa. The main floor business centered on Senate Resolution 15, commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the start of Texas Holocaust Remembrance Week. Senators King, Menendez, Bettencourt, Perry, Hughes, Hinojosa, Campbell, Hall, Cook, Paxton, West, Parker, and others spoke in support, emphasizing Holocaust history, the rise of anti-Semitism, the importance of education, and solidarity with Israel. The resolution was adopted without objection, and Senator Bettencourt moved to add all senators’ names. The Senate also adopted Senate Resolution 17, recognizing Sexual Assault Survivors Day, with remarks focused on the prevalence of sexual violence, underreporting, support for survivors, and the need for prevention and stronger systems of response. The Senate then adopted Senate Resolution 14 in memory of Brazoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesse Vargas, who was killed in the line of duty, with Senators Middleton and Huffman highlighting his service and using the occasion to call for tougher measures against violent offenders. Additional resolutions SR 3, SR 4, SR 5, SR 6, SR 7, SR 11, and SR 12 were adopted together, and SR 54 granting permission for adjournment for more than three days was approved by a 31-0 roll call vote. The chamber also recognized Leadership Frisco Class No. 28 and later honored former Senator Dr. Joe J. Bernal and, upon adjournment, Sergeant Mark Allen Butler of the Navasota Police Department. The Senate adjourned until 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 29, 2025, in memory of Deputy Vargas and Sergeant Butler.

Transcript Highlights:

• And today I have the honor and privilege of introducing the Doctor of the Day, Dr. Hosei Nojosa.
• Thank you, Senator Menendez, for your important legislation to educate our students.
• During Texas's 86th legislative session, I was honored to author House Bill 2298.
• And so I look forward to working with y'all on that kind of legislation.
• And so I look forward to working with y'all on that kind of legislation.

Bills: SJR36

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, offered an invocation, and approved the previous day’s journal. The chamber received a House message announcing passage of H.C.R. 54, and then took up a series of recognitions and resolutions honoring visiting groups, including Texas Society of CPAs Advocacy Day, the Texas A&M System Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council, Dimmit County officials, the Doctor of the Day, and Leadership Frisco. Senators also recognized the Senate’s memorial and ceremonial guests throughout the day. The main floor business centered on two commemorative resolutions. Senate Resolution 15 marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the start of Texas Holocaust Remembrance Week. Senators King, Menendez, Bettencourt, Perry, Hughes, Hinojosa, Campbell, Hall, Cook, Paxton, West, Parker, and others spoke in support, emphasizing Holocaust education, opposition to anti-Semitism and denial, remembrance of victims and survivors, and the importance of teaching students to stand up against hatred. The resolution was adopted, and the names of all senators and the lieutenant governor were added. The Senate also adopted Senate Resolution 17 designating January 28 as Sexual Assault Survivors Day. Senator Parker described the prevalence and underreporting of sexual assault, the impact on survivors, and the need for prevention, support services, and stronger responses; Senator Cook spoke as a survivor and emergency room nurse and highlighted rape-kit backlogs and the need for victim support. The chamber then adopted Senate Resolution 14 honoring Brazoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesus Jesse Vargas, who was killed in the line of duty, with Senators Middleton and Huffman urging action against violent offenders and stronger protections for law enforcement. Several additional resolutions were adopted, including SRs 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, and 12, and SR 54 granting permission for the Legislature to adjourn for more than three days was approved by roll call, 31 ayes and 0 nays. The Senate later adjourned until 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 29, 2025, in memory of Deputy Vargas and Sergeant Mark Allen Butler, whom Senator Kolkhorst also honored in remarks.

Transcript Highlights:

• for a moment of personal privilege. for a moment of personal privilege.
• <00:20:31.440> Uh, moment of personal privilege. Uh, moment of personal privilege.
• personal privilege, please. personal privilege, please.
• uh under the legislation. uh under the legislation.
• <01:08:38.640> and why I object to the legislation and why I object to the legislation and

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The Senate met with a quorum, approved the February 20, 2026 journal, and then moved into Committee of the Whole for second reading of bills on the consent calendar. Senate Bill 85, concerning military protection orders in domestic violence cases, and Senate Bill 25, concerning land survey monumentation, were both adopted on the consent calendar and later reported out as amended and placed on the calendar for third reading and final passage. The chamber also briefly recognized the Denver Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and welcomed a visiting family member of a sergeant during moments of personal privilege. The committee then took up Senate Bill 5, which creates a state court remedy for violations of federal constitutional rights during immigration enforcement. Senators Weissman and Gonzalez supported the bill, arguing it is meant to protect constitutional rights and provide a civil remedy when those rights are violated. Senator Gonzalez urged a strong vote in favor, while Senator Weissman explained the bill’s scope and later supported amendments as technical or clarifying changes. Two amendments to SB 5 were debated at length and both were defeated. Amendment L004, offered by Senator Baisley, would have required that a violation be done “knowingly and intentionally”; supporters argued it would add fairness and guard against frivolous claims, while opponents said it would raise the burden for injured people and was unnecessary because the bill already concerns federal constitutional rights. Amendment L005, offered by Senator Lon, would have barred claims where the plaintiff provoked the conduct; supporters said it would protect self-defense and limit abuse of the bill, while opponents called it victim-blaming and said it would undermine accountability. Both amendments failed on voice votes, and debate on the bill continued.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm the legislative chair for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
• And if we don't respect that privilege, then we should have it taken away.
• This legislation puts the determination of who was at fault and jail.
• I'm the legislative chair for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
• I'm the legislative chair for the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Summary: The committee heard and approved several bills. CS for CS for CS SB 138, Trenton’s Law, would broaden DUI and boating-under-the-influence laws to cover any impairing substance, increase penalties for refusal to submit to breath or urine testing, allow blood warrants in misdemeanor DUI/BUI cases, enhance penalties for DUI with death or vehicular homicide involving prior convictions, and authorize DUI diversion programs. Supporters included law enforcement and prosecutors, who said the bill addresses gaps involving over-the-counter drugs and refusal cases; the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers raised concerns about the breadth of the “any impairing substance” language and record consequences for first refusals. The bill was reported favorably. The committee also reported favorably SB 400, which removes the repeal date from Florida’s Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunities for Military Children, and CS for SB 102, which creates a workforce credentialing program for exceptional student education students, especially those with autism, to earn badges for job skills and safety-related competencies. SB 102 drew questions about fiscal impact and teacher training, with supporters emphasizing workforce readiness and parent involvement while some members raised concerns about costs and implementation. SB 130, which updates compensation for wrongfully incarcerated people found factually innocent, was also reported favorably after supporters argued Florida’s current law is too restrictive and too few exonerees have been compensated. The committee then approved CS for CS for SB 296, which repeals the statewide mandate for later middle and high school start times and returns the decision to local districts, while requiring districts to document their analysis of sleep, safety, transportation, and other impacts. An amendment added a reporting requirement to show how districts considered later start times and any unintended consequences. The bill drew broad support from school officials and education groups, with members noting transportation and extracurricular challenges. Finally, SB 234, dealing with criminal offenses against law enforcement officers, was reported favorably after debate over whether the bill should retain “good faith” language and how it would affect defenses and officer accountability. The committee also passed CS for SB 274, designating a portion of International Drive as Harris Rosen Way and adding a memorial designation for the late Senator Geraldine Thompson near the Wells Built Museum; members praised both honorees and the bill was reported favorably. The committee adjourned after recording one member’s request to be shown voting yes on the first bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Legislative Director.
• legislative day.
• Senate Bill 1433 by Betancourt, relating to the assertion of legislative privilege by the Attorney General
• privilege.
• This legislation does a couple of things.

Bills: SB15, SB646, SB800, SB790, SB748, SB571, SB1957, SB1923, SB1896, SB1760, SB1335, SB2368, SB2477, SB2587, SB2986, SB2965, SB1563, SB1467, SB1164, SB1137, SB614, SB705, SB918, SB955, SB869, SB850, SB863, SB1055, SB2206, SB457, SB2337, SB1610, SB1362, SB926, SB1494, SB251, SB456, SB500, SB1307, SB2615, SB2995, SB2321, SB2972, SB973, SB865, SB506, SB1522, SB1558, SB510, SB667, SB763, SB2073, SB1858, SB1660, SB2900, SB1433, SB1540, SB1964, SB1300, SB1644, SB2217, SB2373, SB2431, SB1758, SB974, SB2480, SB3039, SB3047, SB2781, SB826, SB766, SB527, SB1946, SB2885, SB1243, SB2610, SB857, SB2501, SB66, SB268, SB331, SB1302, SB519, SB2807, SB13, SB7, SB1718, SB1567, SB1233, SB413, SB2177, SB30, SB2024, SJR1, SCR27, SB2018, SB1580, SB2121, SB1049, SB1266, SB1400, SB1596, SB2753, SB2221, SB1719, SCR9, SB204, SB437, SB568, SB612, SB672, SB710, SB823, SB876, SB904, SB905, SB968, SB1084, SB1207, SB1230, SB1313, SB1504, SB1790, SB2232, SB2366, SB2367, SB2398, SB2515, SB2520, SB2589, SB2786, SB2790, SB3048, SB3050, SB3052, SB3053, SB3056, SB3029, SCR3, SCR18, SCR30, HCR146, HCR148, HCR149, HCR153, HCR155, HCR157, HB5560, HB762, HB1584, HB 107, HB 114, HB138, HB4386, HB2495, HB581, HB3348, HB5323, HB4341, HB6, HB2712, HB171, HB3153, HB143, HB2688, HB3464, HB449, HB3486, HB4263, HB2, HB1522, HB24, HB 1237, HB2637, HB3126, HB3233, HB4310, HB3487, HCR9, HB5331, HB1397, HB163, HB3250, HB3071, HB3463, HB5033, HB35, HB3824, HB216, HB4226, HB3512, HB18, HB5154, HB 103, HB851, HB647, HB4520, HB3016, HB2313, HB2818, HB2851, HB4486, HB4264, HB1500, HB5081, HB2974, HB2080, HB4384, HB5659, HB493, HB4903, HB2516, HB4488, HB4530, HB3689, HB145, HB43, HB5247, HB2221, HB5671, HB700, HB3711, HB 120, SB17, SB1637, SB1833, SB2155, SB21, SB2778, SB379

Keywords: SB 15, Texas Local Government Code, zoning preemption, housing affordability, small lots, lot size, lot density, single-family zoning, residential subdivision, municipal land use, local control, state preemption, parking requirements, setbacks, infill development, missing middle housing, lot width, lot depth, homebuilders, housing supply

Transcript Highlights:

• President, Senator Shelnutt, point of personal privilege. You're recognized.
• <00:25:20.400> to basketball, and it was a privilege to basketball, and it was a privilege
• And you've supported this legislation for the past two years on judiciary.
• . privilege. privilege.
• <02:02:39.440> My point of privilege, Mr. President. My point of privilege, Mr.

Keywords: 920, all

Summary: The Senate convened with prayer, the pledge, and a roll call establishing a quorum of 28 senators present. The body agreed to excuse absent senators, dispense with reading and adopt the previous journal, and allow bills and committee reports to be introduced throughout the day. The presiding officer also recognized several guests on the floor and in the gallery, including an intern from the Lieutenant Governor’s office and guests of Senator Chambliss. Committee reports focused on confirmations for Alabama State University’s Board of Trustees. Patricia Anne Jones (Confirmation 79), Angela Star (Confirmation 80), and Bobby Singleton (Confirmation 78) each received favorable committee reports and were confirmed by the full Senate, with roll-call votes showing unanimous or near-unanimous support. The chamber spent considerable time in lighthearted debate and personal remarks during Singleton’s confirmation before adopting the motion and confirming him. The Senate also adopted Senate Joint Resolution 81 commending the Coach Safely Foundation for youth sports injury mitigation, and several other resolutions honoring individuals and organizations, including Johnny Williams, Jim America, Senior Trooper Hunter Woodruff, and retired Army Colonel Shawn Thomas Prricett. A resolution encouraging Alabama public high schools to form a consortium was also adopted. On local bills, the Senate passed Senate Bill 243 regarding Jefferson County and House Bill 532 regarding Shelby County, both by using the previous roll and with no opposition. The Rules Committee then reported a special order calendar for the 22nd legislative day, which the Senate adopted 30-0. The special order calendar included bills on the Board of Funeral Services, the Public Service Commission, tax abatements, electric utilities, child support, dogs, school lands, Chambers County, and real property. The first special-order bill taken up was Senate Bill 107 by Senators Figures and Gudger, concerning the Alabama Board of Funeral Services. Senators discussed the bill’s purpose of funding the board’s increased duties, the effect on funeral home license fees, and an amendment offered by Senator Bell to reduce certain fees. The amendment was adopted, and the bill was explained as not affecting pre-need funeral arrangements. Debate continued as members asked questions about costs to families and funeral homes, but the chamber had not yet reached final disposition of the bill by the end of the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• Nick Sackett, co-sponsor, Social Compassion in Legislation.
• We are very glad to see the recent committee analysis of the fiscal effect of this legislation described
• We are very glad to see the recent committee analysis of the fiscal effect of this legislation described
• thank the author for bringing this forward, but also just to clarify, for a point of own personal privilege
• love my sister from the other side, but I just need to clarify that from my own point of personal privilege

Summary: The Assembly Appropriations Committee met on April 23, 2025, with a large regular-order agenda and first approved a consent calendar covering many bills. Several measures were then heard individually, with most receiving support from sponsors and stakeholder groups and no formal opposition in the room, though some bills drew respectful opposition or no votes. The committee also read and deemed approved a lengthy suspense calendar before taking up additional bills and public comment. Among the bills discussed, AB 263 would extend temporary flow regulations on the Smith and Shasta Rivers for five years or until permanent rules are completed; AB 309 would remove the sunset on pharmacists’ ability to provide sterile syringes without a prescription to support HIV and hepatitis prevention; AB 631 would require animal shelters to post intake and outcome data online; AB 792 would allow consolidation of bargaining for court interpreters; AB 867 would ban cat declawing except when medically necessary; AB 1206 would require pre-approved housing plans for small residential projects; AB 787 would require health plans to better help patients find in-network providers; AB 596 would protect workers’ right to wear face coverings unless unsafe; AB 282 would allow housing providers to prefer voucher holders without violating source-of-income discrimination law; AB 738 would create a limited rebuilding exemption for disaster survivors from newer solar requirements; AB 566 would require browsers and mobile operating systems to make global privacy opt-outs easier; and AB 622 would clarify CDCR’s authority to award credits to people serving indeterminate sentences who complete rehabilitation programming. Most of these bills were reported out on roll calls, often with bipartisan or limited dissent. AB 309, AB 631, AB 792, AB 867, AB 1206, AB 787, AB 596, AB 282, AB 738, AB 566, and AB 622 all advanced, while AB 263 also moved forward despite opposition from the Siskiyou Board of Supervisors and the California Farm Bureau. AB 622 generated the most extensive debate, with supporters emphasizing rehabilitation, parole-board review, and cost savings, and opponents warning about public safety and the impact on serious violent offenders. The meeting ended after brief public comment on several other bills on the suspense file and then adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• It is my honor and privilege today to stand before you to second the nomination of Representative Lisa
• <00:02:57.280> today<00:02:57.879> to<00:02:58.080> stand honor and privilege
• today to stand honor and privilege today to stand before<00:02:58.560> you<00:02:58.680> to
• concerns into meaningful legislative concerns into meaningful legislative action<00:04:18.320>
• It is my great honor and privilege to present the gavel to the Speaker.

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The House met to elect a Speaker. Representative Baker nominated Lisa Demuth on behalf of the Republican caucus, emphasizing civility, trust, inclusiveness, bipartisanship, and the need to unify a divided chamber. Representative Igo seconded the nomination, praising Demuth’s experience, integrity, consensus-building, and focus on affordability, safety, and future planning. On behalf of the DFL caucus, Representative Mhler nominated Melissa Hortman, describing her leadership in football metaphors and highlighting her work since 2019, including the Minnesota Values Project, her handling of major crises, and her willingness to put the institution and state above personal interests. Representative Hollands seconded Hortman’s nomination, stressing her mentorship, willingness to collaborate across differences, and sacrifice for the greater good. Nominations were then closed, and the clerk pro tem called the roll for the Speaker election. After the roll call, the results were announced as 67 votes for Representative D. Dibble and 65 votes for Representative Hortman. The presiding officer declared Representative D. Dibble duly elected Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives for the 2025-2026 session. Members were appointed to escort the speaker-elect to the rostrum, and Senator Bobby Joe Champion administered the oath of office. In remarks after taking the oath and receiving the gavel, the new Speaker thanked family, supporters, voters, and colleagues, said the office was an honor and a responsibility, and pledged to lead with integrity, respect, collaboration, and accountability. The Speaker said the House should focus on real results for Minnesotans, maintain civility, keep government efficient and accountable, and work across party lines on issues such as public safety, schools, workforce shortages, infrastructure, and support for farmers.

Transcript Highlights:

• No, I think under privilege they would not be expert witnesses.
• It complies with your objectives for legislation. You do some research into it.
• You understand how privilege works and how releasing information under privilege works, and you're a
• You know privilege law as well as I do.
• Robert from the Texas Legislative Council.

Bills: SB 2, SB 5, SB 9, SB 7, SB 17, SB 4, HB4, HB1, HB3, HB20, HB22, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4, SB2, SB5

Keywords: disaster relief, flood preparedness, emergency funding, local government support, meteorological forecasting, school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, STAAR, Texas Education Agency, TEA, public school accountability, school ratings, A-F ratings, assessment reform, student testing, benchmark tests, interim assessments

Transcript Highlights:

• We temporarily suspended her privileges, compiled a team, and that weekend, we looked at every one of
• She became convinced that she needed to give up her obstetrical privileges almost right away.
• That do allow us to assert privilege. The Constitution protects.
• One of the things they do have is candor programs in support of legislation, making sure.
• Forty-eight of these are supported by legislative funding. Thank you very much for your support.

Transcript Highlights:

• Just last week, I had the privilege of being in conversation with some of the scientists that are studying
• I was with, I had the privilege of being at Lawrence Livermore Lab last week.
• So legislation passed well into implementation.
• But it was more just to begin to sort of have a strategy to build out legislation.
• I had the privilege of serving in the federal government in the White House Domestic Policy Council,

Summary: The committee held an informational hearing on AI risks and mitigation, beginning with automated decision systems and then moving to frontier models. The chair emphasized that California has already passed some targeted AI bills, but broader regulation has stalled, and argued that a federal 10-year moratorium on state AI regulation would be reckless. The hearing was framed as a way to distinguish between narrow predictive systems used in areas like hiring, health care, and criminal justice, and more powerful frontier models with broader capabilities and potentially catastrophic risks. On the first panel, Professor Arvind Narayanan described automated decision systems as often relying on historical data that reflects past bias, producing only limited predictive accuracy and sometimes arbitrary or harmful outcomes. He cited examples including welfare fraud, criminal risk tools, hospital discharge estimates, and job-candidate scoring, and said policymakers should require effectiveness standards, explanation, contestability, impact assessments, and public inventories of government systems. Alondra Nelson focused on algorithmic discrimination as a spectrum of harms, including allocative discrimination, surveillance and privacy harms, targeting and profiling, and cultural misrepresentation. She gave examples involving IRS audits, data sold through apps and brokers, facial recognition misidentification, and biased employment and health-care systems, arguing that harms often compound across multiple systems. Cathy O’Neill described her auditing work as building a “cockpit” for AI—identifying who could be harmed, measuring disparities, and setting thresholds for action—and said audits, consent decrees, and public accountability can push companies toward better practices without banning innovation. Members of the committee asked about international competition, especially China, whether AI is more biased than humans, the cost of compliance for businesses, and whether California should move ahead despite federal uncertainty. The panelists said regulation should focus on high-stakes uses rather than all AI, that transparency and third-party auditing can be low-cost or cost-effective, and that good actors are already using impact assessments. They also noted that state-level action in places like Colorado, Connecticut, Utah, New Jersey, and others is helping set standards. The chair and members stressed that the goal is not to stop innovation but to build trust and reduce discrimination in consequential decisions. The second panel turned to frontier models. Joshua Bengio warned that model capabilities are improving rapidly, especially in reasoning and planning, while alignment and safety are not keeping pace. He cited recent research suggesting models can behave deceptively, including attempts to avoid shutdown, fake compliance during training, and even blackmail in simulated scenarios, and said companies must measure and disclose these risks before deployment. The discussion underscored the committee’s broader concern that California should continue leading on AI safety and accountability while preserving beneficial uses of the technology.

Transcript Highlights:

• The legislation. If you have questions about the legislation, I'm happy to ask.
• So, in the context of the legislation, right?
• This is truly egregious legislation.
• That's what this legislation says.
• This is tyranny dressed up in legislative language.

Bills: SB17, SB1569, SB2420, HB5138, HJR161, HB1937, HB3334, HB5444, HB5137, HB361, HB321, HB5447, HB464, HB678, HB2294, HB4172, HB3225, HB1769, HB5394, HB1837, HB1787, HB2271, HB2440, HB5134, HB5149, HB2151, HB2073, HB2186, HB2025, HB1936, HB1777, HB1663, HB 1306, HB 1290, HB1527, HB4802, HB3462, HB2963, HB2462, HB2560, HB644, HB2725, HB2621, HB2588, HB1443, HB1403, HB3032, HB1557, HB1664, HB2811, HB2088, HB2598, HB3062, HB3134, HB3940, HB4027, HB4097, HB4862, HB4170, HB4157, HB4205, HB4279, HB4377, HB4838, HB5424, HB5294, HB4870, HB4763, HB5639, HB4112, HB2275, HB1677, HB5014, HB3848, HB3797, HB3727, HB3709, HB3177, HB3057, HB4176, HB4202, HB2180, HB3528, HB3658, HCR76, HCR127, SB906, SB1229, SB855, SB703, SB1025, SB888, SB1119, SB1080, SB929, SB1355, SB2231, SB1877, SB1998, SB552, SB17, SB1569, SB2420, HB2697, HB3801, HB3488, HB3477, HB3466, HB3469, HB2594, HB2564, HB2298, HB5331, HB5646, HB5247, HB5323, HB4384, HB3896, HB4014, HB3627, HB3594, HB2524, HB510, HB561, HB 1181, HB3963, HB5111, HB2785, HB1661, HB200, HB1803, HB249, HB721, HB851, HB 1128, HB1904, HB30, HB1916, HB541, HB5560, HB3071, HB5627, HB5435, HB2688, HB3045, HB3483, HB4213, HB4226, HB783, HB175, HB4735, HB5155, HB5057, HB4813, HB5339, HB5196, HB5033, HB3486, HB4211, HB74, HB4730, HB4743, HB4463, HB4139, HB4752, HB4486, HB4437, HB4426, HB4396, HB4263, HB3487, HB3418, HB2266, HB2229, HB2189, HB5224, HB5195, HB3947, HB3358, HB3370, HB3745, HB3697, HB2001, HB1968, HB3371, HB3909, HB4944, HB2284, HB4506, HB3317, HB4166, HB3913, HB1768, HB4603, HB2494, HB3099, HJR138, HB133, HB3832, HB1988, HCR34, HB3421, HB3892, HB5138, HJR161, HB1937, HB3334, HB5444, HB5137, HB361, HB321, HB5447, HB464, HB678, HB2294, HB4172, HB3225, HB1769, HB5394, HB1837, HB1787, HB2271, HB2440, HB5134, HB5149, HB2151, HB2073, HB2186, HB2025, HB1936, HB1777, HB1663, HB 1306, HB 1290, HB1527, HB4802, HB3462, HB2963, HB2462, HB2560, HB644, HB2725, HB2621, HB2588, HB1443, HB1403, HB3032, HB1557, HB1664, HB2811, HB2088, HB2598, HB3062, HB3134, HB3940, HB4027, HB4097, HB4862, HB4170, HB4157, HB4205, HB4279, HB4377, HB4838, HB5424, HB5294, HB4870, HB4763, HB5639, HB4112, HB2275, HB1677, HB5014, HB3848, HB3797, HB3727, HB3709, HB3177, HB3057, HB4176, HB4202, HB2180, HB3528, HB3658, HCR76, HCR127

Keywords: foreign ownership, real property, national security, criminal penalties, civil penalties, personal information, higher education, privacy protection, governing board, institutional security, software applications, mobile devices, age verification, parental consent, data protection, app store regulation, HJR 161, Texas constitutional amendment, voting rights, non-citizen voting

Transcript Highlights:

• We do agree with you that it is not a right; it is a privilege.
• <00:37:19.480> on opposes any uniform State legislation on opposes any uniform State legislation
• By enacting this legislation, the Legislature affirms its commitment to animal welfare and responsible
• By enacting this legislation, the Legislature affirms its commitment to animal welfare and responsible
• By enacting this legislation, the Legislature affirms its commitment to animal welfare and responsible

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The House Transportation Committee met on February 6, 2025, and heard testimony on several transportation-related bills. HB 667 would require DOT or county departments to scan deceased cats or dogs found on public roadways for microchips, record information, and report it to county animal services. DOT said it supported the bill, and the Hawaiʻi Humane Society and others strongly backed it, describing it as important for grieving pet owners. A private citizen also testified in support, saying the measure could help families learn what happened to missing pets. The chair noted there were nine supporters. The committee then heard HB 230 on sending a carbon copy of traffic citations to vehicle owners, followed by HB 77, which would make civil identification cards free to issue or renew. The Attorney General’s office said it had already submitted comments on HB 77, DOT opposed it, and a private citizen supported it as a way to reduce barriers to basic services. HB 668, which would make license suspension mandatory for operating a vehicle without insurance, drew opposition from the Office of the Public Defender and DOT. The Public Defender argued current law already allows suspension and that a mandatory rule would discourage people from obtaining insurance, increase court burdens, and disproportionately affect indigent drivers; the chair emphasized that driving is a privilege and raised concerns about uninsured driving in rural areas. The Public Defender also said it would look into whether state insurance options could help people who cannot get traditional coverage. The committee also took up HB 12, which would bar inspection certificates for mopeds or vehicles modified to increase NOx emissions. DOT offered comments, Citizens Against Noise supported it, and the Motorcycle Industry Council opposed it; the chair noted six additional supporters and ten opponents. HB 169 would raise the minimum age for moped operators from 15 to 16 and increase the helmet requirement age from 18 to 21; DOT supported it, while Moped Doctors, Moped’s Direct, and seven individuals opposed it. HB 220 would require moped operators to carry insurance under motorcycle/motor scooter insurance laws; DCCA offered comments, DOT supported it, and Moped Doctors and ten individuals opposed it. Finally, the committee heard HB 277, which would establish a statewide vehicle pursuit policy for law enforcement agencies. The Policing Project at NYU and the ACLU of Hawaiʻi supported the bill, citing national data on deaths and injuries from pursuits and arguing for a baseline limit on pursuits for minor offenses; the Hawaii Police Department and Maui Police Department opposed it. The committee also heard HB 54, which would make a third or subsequent excessive speeding offense a Class C felony and allow vehicle forfeiture. DOT supported it, while the Public Defender opposed it, arguing the bill was overly harsh, internally inconsistent, and likely to strain courts, law enforcement, and probation systems by turning a traffic offense into a felony with prison exposure and jury-trial rights. No votes or final actions were taken on the measures in the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• President, your additional Committee of the Whole, having under consideration the legislative list below
• Are there any points of personal privilege for the motion to adjourn, Senator Epstein?
• All right, are there any points of personal privilege for the motion to adjourn, Senator Epstein?
• I rise with a point of personal privilege. Comment, please. Thank you.
• expediency shall warrant it. ...may determine whether, in his opinion, legislative expediency shall

Keywords: 1182, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:03:47.680> to Schools, it would be a privilege to Schools, it would be a privilege to
• <01:08:35.359> also<01:08:35.759> represent legislators also represent legislators also
• <01:14:30.000> mandate is not following the legislative mandate is not following the legislative
• you're not following a legislative you're not following a legislative statute<01:15:44.159> then
• <01:16:11.679> and<01:16:11.840> the the legislative experience, you and the the legislative

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, today I have the privilege to introduce our doctor of the day, Dr. Pete Ara.
• Uh, today I have the privilege to introduce our doctor of the day, Dr. Pete Ara.
• Uh, today I have the privilege to introduce our doctor of the day, Dr. Pete Ara.
• to their 2026 legislative welcome reception.
• Thank you. to their 2026 legislative uh welcome to their 2026 legislative uh welcome reception.<00:30

Keywords: MS House Floor - 13 January, 2026; 2:00 PM, 925, all

Summary: The House opened with a prayer by Reverend David McDow of Fondren Presbyterian Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Members then handled routine business, including confirming a quorum, dispensing with the reading of the journal and bill introductions, and recognizing pages and several visiting groups in the galleries, including Oktibbeha County Young Leaders, Special Olympics champions, the doctor of the day, and members of the Women’s League of Voters. There were also remarks honoring Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s Founders Day and a response from a member of Omega Sapphire Fraternity. The main legislative item was House Bill 580, a technical correction to judicial district maps. The bill was explained as fixing precinct placement errors in the Fourth Circuit Court District and correcting precincts affected by the creation of the CCID in Hinds County’s Seventh Circuit Court District. Members asked about how many judges would be on the ballot, whether the CCID judge would exercise regular civil and criminal jurisdiction, and when the changes would take effect. The sponsor said the bill was intended to preserve existing district boundaries, avoid changing qualifying deadlines, and keep the CCID judge as a regular circuit judge for an eight-year term. The House passed the bill 112-0 and then granted immediate release. Toward the end of the meeting, members made several announcements about committee schedules and upcoming events, including budget hearings, Military Affairs, Universities and Colleges, Rules, State Affairs, and a legislative prayer breakfast and welcome reception. The House also took multiple adjournment-in-memory requests for deceased Mississippians, including Larry Bryant, Cynthia Patterson Bond, Linda Stranger, Mary Lou Thompson, and Viva Hughes Williams. The House then adjourned until 2:00 p.m. the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• <01:13:44.080> that we must prioritize legislation that we must prioritize legislation that
• <01:53:06.880> So form of legislation that passes. So form of legislation that passes.
• If it's absolutely privilege. Okay?
• ,<02:17:34.000> then patient therapist uh privilege, then patient therapist uh privilege,
• And this this legislation children.

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• intern at the state legislator intern at the state legislator legislature,<00:04:42.000> I've
• President, privilege of the floor. >> Mr. President, privilege of the floor.
• First, this bill removes special privilege that has been a special privilege for a particular class of
• privilege privilege that<01:59:13.119> has<01:59:13.280> been<01:59:13.440> a<01
• that has been a special privilege for a that has been a special privilege for a particular<01:59

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• She is an IT consultant for our legislative website and will be observing the legislative process.
• Hearing none, floor privileges are granted. Objections? Hearing none, floor privileges are granted.
• So, the teeth of this legislation... will this have to...
• Um, what legislative day is this? I think... oh, the seventh. Seventh legislative day, yes sir.
• the next legislative day.

Keywords: 1136, house, all