Video & Transcript : 'Ex Parte Charrette' :

Page 7 of 500
WA
Transcript Highlights:
  • Our ex officio members include Senator Conway, Senator Holy, Representative Kloba, and Representative
  • Representative Kloba and Representative Waters, and we, the ex officio members, will be voting on the
  • meeting, and at that time, the vote will occur not only with our commissioners, but by statute, the ex
  • At the commission meeting, as I mentioned, that's when the commissioners and ex officio members will
  • To make use of these flex or high-limit rooms, screening is required on the part of the tribe.
Summary: The committee held a special hearing on a tentative amended, restated gaming compact between the State of Washington and the Squaxin Island Tribe. Washington State Gambling Commission Director Tina Griffin said the state and tribe had reached tentative agreement after collaborative negotiations, and explained the approval process: public comment and a commission vote with ex officio legislative members, followed by governor review, tribal submission to the Secretary of the Interior, and Federal Register publication before the compact becomes effective. Squaxin Island representative Ray Peters said the tribe supports the amendments, describing them as clarifications that improve casino regulation and align the compact with other state compacts while supporting jobs and funding for housing, health care, and other services. Commission staff member Johnny Bray walked through the compact changes, including restating several appendices, removing the CX2 addendum, and adding new appendices on limitations and electronic table games. He said the limitations appendix raises certain wagering and facility ceilings, including higher table-game and tribal lottery system limits, authorization for credit for qualified patrons, and screening requirements for high-limit areas. He also described the new electronic table games appendix, which allows wager limits up to $500 and a nine-to-one ratio of electronic games to gaming stations, along with additional responsible-gaming commitments. Members asked about the location of the tribe and whether higher limits could increase problem gambling; staff said the limits are ceilings, other tribes already have similar authorizations, and the tribe must screen patrons and implement protections. The committee then held a work session with Secretary of State Steve Hobbs and staff on the office’s fiscal note process. Tim Gallivan explained the office’s three-day turnaround, workload-based FTE estimates, use of assumptions and ranges, and how fiscal notes include both salary/benefit costs and broader operating costs such as enterprise support and administration allocations. He also described how litigation costs are estimated in coordination with the Attorney General, including when costs are known, estimated from comparable cases, or marked indeterminate. Members questioned whether fiscal notes can reflect policy disagreements and how assumptions differ across agencies, and discussed examples involving the Washington Voting Rights Act and ranked choice voting. Hobbs and staff said fiscal notes are based on bill language, not intent, and that early sponsor contact can help refine estimates. No votes were taken in the work session.
AZ

Arizona 2026 Regular Session

03/23/2026 - Senate Federalism and Family Law

Federalism and Family Law

Transcript Highlights:
  • But part of the issue was the speed of it.
  • In her case, her ex has repeatedly attempted to obtain her protected address.
  • In her case, her ex has repeatedly attempted to obtain her protected address.
  • A big part—oh, she's okay. What's your bill? 2594. Yeah, 2594. Okay.
  • Then, just before my final trial, my ex invoked Rule 2.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Judiciary Apr 29th, 2026

Judiciary

Transcript Highlights:
  • That, okay, so I'll take the second part first and the first part second.
  • I mean, in one case, in one court date, the judge was having ex parte communication with the attorney
  • There have been at least four ex parte filings on us and no rule to show cause.
  • There have been multiple conversations ex parte between the judge and the politician father of the child's
  • These ex parte things that go on.
Summary: The committee first adopted a three-minute rule for the rest of the meeting by a 9-3 vote. It then took up SB 217, which would reorganize Orleans Parish courts by reducing judgeships in criminal, juvenile, traffic, and municipal courts and, through an adopted amendment, creating one civil district court with 13 judges and allowing hearing officers. Senator Morris argued the changes were based on caseload comparisons and population data; opponents from the Urban League and ACLU said the bill was driven by power rather than efficiency, relied on incomplete or inconsistent data, would strain the courts, and would reduce minority representation on the bench. The committee reported the bill favorably as amended by an 11-4 vote. The committee next considered SB 197, which would reduce the number of judges on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal by two. Senator Morris again cited filings and caseload comparisons, while opponents argued the bill ignored the intensity and complexity of appellate work, could increase backlog and costs, and would disproportionately affect Black women judges. The bill was reported favorably by an 11-4 vote. The committee also adopted HCR 11, expressing support for the Louisiana National Guard at Camp Beauregard and the Youth Challenge Program, and reported favorably SB 85, creating an insurance fund for retired St. Charles Parish sheriff’s employees. Several other measures were advanced with little or no opposition. HB 833 created the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment Task Force and was amended to add representatives from the coroners’ association, a survivor appointed by STAR, and a licensed clinical social worker; it was reported favorably. HB 816, with a technical correction, prohibited foreign adversaries from acquiring property near military installations and was reported favorably. HB 1053, dealing with definitions for dealers and retail dealers and allowing certain businesses to serve complimentary alcoholic beverages under agreed-upon floor amendments, was reported favorably. HB 153, as amended, removed the Office of Debt Recovery from the bill and limited it to prohibiting reporting certain criminal fines and fees to credit bureaus; it was reported favorably. SB 75, on cybersecurity reimbursement and baseline standards for local governments after cyber incidents, was reported favorably after testimony from GOSEP and others. SB 200, allowing expropriation of land near military bases owned by foreign adversaries when a court finds a threat to public health and safety, was also reported favorably after extensive testimony and discussion. Finally, HB 454, the Gracie Claire Rushing Act on chain of custody for human remains and internal organs, was converted into a substitute bill, adopted, and then introduced for further discussion, with the sponsor describing it as a transparency and accountability measure for grieving families.
CA

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

Assembly Insurance Committee Apr 2nd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • So it appears that there's a gap in the bill where they're not covered at all, and that's a growing part
  • The concern we have about only adding two ex officio non-voting members is this is sort of like taking
  • only difference, because by the fact of the matter, you have the Speaker, you have the Speaker as an ex
  • work that needs to be done, but hopefully that work will be done with these two individuals being part
  • As part of our role, we support policies that promote passive fire protection strategies in wildland
Summary: The Assembly Insurance Committee met as a subcommittee and heard several bills focused on insurance transparency, wildfire mitigation, market access, and workforce issues. AB 75 would require insurers to give homeowners 30 days’ notice before collecting aerial images of their property and allow homeowners to review those images; supporters said it would improve privacy and prevent inaccurate non-renewals, while consumer and industry groups both sought amendments. AB 234 would add the Assembly Speaker and Senate President pro Tem, or designees, as non-voting members on the California FAIR Plan governing committee; the Department of Insurance supported it as an oversight measure, while Consumer Federation of California said it was only a small first step toward broader transparency reforms. AB 428 would let water corporations join joint powers authorities for pooled insurance, with supporters citing rising insurance costs for small water systems and no remaining opposition after amendments. AB 943 would streamline producer pre-licensing education by removing the 20-hour per-line requirement while keeping ethics training; industry sponsors said it would reduce barriers to entry, while consumer advocates warned it could lower professional standards. AB 1209 would create a pathway for cannabis employers to secure workers’ compensation coverage and related services through a state-coordinated network; supporters said it would help bring the industry into compliance, while one member raised concerns about creating a special carveout for a federally restricted industry. AB 1 would require periodic review of the state’s Safer from Wildfire regulations every five years, and it drew broad support from the department, insurers, local governments, and industry groups as a way to keep wildfire mitigation incentives current. The committee also took up a consent calendar including AB 69, AB 487, and AB 570, all of which were sent to Appropriations. The committee approved AB 75 to Privacy and Consumer Protection, AB 234 to the Assembly Floor, AB 428 to Local Government, AB 943 to Appropriations, AB 1209 to Business and Professions, and AB 1 to Appropriations. Most measures passed on strong or unanimous votes after members added coauthor requests and expressed support for the bills’ consumer protection, transparency, or wildfire-related goals.
FL

Florida 2025 Regular Session

December 2, 2025 - 03:30 PM

Transcript Highlights:
  • Ex officio Cross, here. Ranking Member Lopez, here. Vice Chair Barnaby, here. Chair Alvarez, here.
  • Ex officio Cross, yes. Ranking Member Lopez, yes. Vice Chair Barnaby, yes.
  • Ex officio cross. Yes. Ranking Member Lopez. Yes. Vice Chair Barnaby. Yes. Chair Alvarez.
  • Steele, yes; Yarkosky, yes; ex officio Cross, yes; Ranking Member Lopez, yes; Vice Chair Barnaby, yes
  • Ex officio Cross, yes. Ranking Member Lopez, yes. Vice Chair Barnaby, yes.
Summary: The Criminal Justice Subcommittee considered four bills and reported all of them favorably. HB 373, by Rep. Duggins, tolls the statute of limitations for the offense of knowingly and willfully failing to report suspected child abuse until law enforcement or another outside agency learns of the violation. Members raised concerns about fairness if the underlying abuse is time-barred while the reporter still faces prosecution, and the sponsor said he would discuss possible changes with his state attorney, but the bill was not amended and passed 13-0. HB 359, by Rep. Anderson, extends the deadline for forensic examination of seized computers and electronic devices from 45 days to 365 days. Supporters from the Florida Prosecutors Association and state attorneys said modern devices are difficult and time-consuming to unlock and analyze, creating repeated requests to extend search deadlines and slowing investigations in cases involving child exploitation, homicide, and other crimes. The bill passed 13-0. HB 703, by Rep. Gentry, preserves a public records exemption for information generated by a state attorney’s conviction integrity unit during reinvestigation of a claim of innocence, with supporters saying disclosure could reveal sensitive information such as alternate suspects, witnesses, or evidence and compromise the review. It passed 12-0. HB 4001, by Rep. Tant, caps inmate health care compensation in Jefferson County at 110% of the Medicare reimbursement rate to encourage preexisting provider contracts and prevent overbilling; it also passed 13-0. The committee then adjourned.
FL

Florida 2026 Regular Session

Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice Apr 10th, 2025

Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • The second part of the bill updates the definition relating to domestic and dating violence and makes
  • The second part of the bill updates the definition relating to domestic and dating violence and makes
  • I'm going to vote yes on the bill, but I think that part really needs to be tightened up.
  • I think it's hard sometimes because we all represent such unique, different parts of the state.
  • This bill is a Trojan horse that is part of a long-term strategy nationwide to ban abortion entirely,
Summary: The committee heard and voted on a long agenda of criminal justice, public safety, victims’ rights, and related bills. SB 984 on aggravating factors in capital cases was reported favorably after debate over its focus on religious, school, and government gatherings; the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops opposed expanding the death penalty, while supporters said it was about accountability rather than deterrence. CS for SB 1140 creating a Hillsborough County substance abuse pilot program for offenders, CS for SB 1180 broadening child sexual image protections, CS for SB 10 compensating Sidney Holmes for a wrongful conviction, CS for SB 500 creating a Spectrum Alert system for missing children with autism, and SB 1054 on tampering with electronic monitoring devices all passed favorably, with the substance abuse bill drawing supportive testimony about treatment and recovery and the Holmes bill receiving emotional support from Holmes himself. The committee also approved SB 1072 on expedited DNA testing grants, CS for SB 240 on domestic and dating violence victims, CS for SB 494 creating a statewide animal abuse database, and CS for SB 1422 on unmanned aircraft over critical infrastructure and weaponized drones. SB 240 drew extensive testimony from advocates describing a feasibility study for a discreet emergency alert system and the need to align domestic and dating violence protections; SB 494 drew strong support from animal welfare groups and county officials who described local registries and the link between animal abuse and violence toward people, while members discussed whether the bill should also bar known abusers from adopting animals. SB 1422 passed after questions about “reasonable force” against drones and concerns about firearms use, with the sponsor saying the bill was meant to protect privacy and property rights. Additional measures reported favorably included SB 1268 updating Department of Law Enforcement statutes and increasing reimbursement for retired police dogs, CS for SB 1344 revising juvenile status-offender procedures, CS for SB 1252 creating a feasibility study for a statewide pawn data database, CS for SB 1386 increasing penalties for assault and battery on utility workers, CS for SB 1084 strengthening sexual cyber harassment laws for intimate and digitally forged images, CS for SB 1654 revising sex offender/predator registration and reporting rules, CS for SB 1650 expanding the vexatious litigant law, and CS for SB 1652 creating a public records exemption for stricken court filings. The final and most heavily debated bill, CS for SB 1284 on wrongful death of an unborn child, drew extensive testimony from supporters who framed it as recognizing unborn life and opponents who warned it could be used to harass abortion patients, providers, and supporters and could increase malpractice exposure; the sponsor said the bill would allow parents to recover damages while protecting mothers and lawful medical care. The transcript ends before the roll call on SB 1284 is completed, but the committee had already reported the other measures favorably by recorded votes, generally along party lines with broad support from members present.
WA

Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

House Agriculture & Natural Resources Feb 20th, 2026 at 10:30 am

Agriculture & Natural Resources

Transcript Highlights:
  • We also have the ex-official agency representatives.
  • This is a two-part question.
  • of the legislative process, part of the...
  • Because it is our understanding that that is part of the legislative process, part of the EJ process.
  • as a director as the ex officio?
Keywords: 904, all
OK

Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session

Education Oversight Mar 2nd, 2026

Education Oversight

Transcript Highlights:
  • where, if the legislature fails to adopt a resolution to either approve, disapprove, or disapprove in part
  • In fact, I'd go on to say the best building principal I ever had was an ex-Marine drill sergeant.
  • One of the best, the best, the best... ...was an ex-Marine drill sergeant, and I don't mean because he
  • One of the best second-grade teachers we ever had was an ex-nun.
  • In terms of the second part of your question...
Summary: The Education Oversight committee heard and advanced several bills, with most receiving due pass recommendations by voice vote. HB 4359, by Speaker Pro Tem Moore, would move the annual testing window to the last three weeks of the school year; members asked about district scheduling and possible cost impacts, but the bill passed 10-0. HB 4363 updated outdated statutory references tied to OSU’s early development and also passed unanimously. HB 3467 would extend school-teacher maternity leave protections to include adoption of newborn children, and it passed without opposition. HB 2987 would change how academic standards are handled if the legislature takes no action within 30 legislative days, deeming them disapproved rather than approved; supporters said it preserves legislative oversight, while concerns were raised about leaving outdated standards in place, but it passed. HB 376, as amended, would create a new alternative teacher certification pathway through third-party certifiers; debate centered on whether easier pathways would weaken traditional teacher-prep programs or help fill vacancies, and it passed after extended discussion. The committee also advanced HB 4427, which adds guardrails to the adjunct teacher program by limiting adjuncts in core subjects in grades K-4 and requiring them to work toward certification. HB 3026 would let children of U.S. military allies stationed in Oklahoma start kindergarten according to their home-country timelines, and it passed. HB 3288 would restore physical education emphasis in schools, and HB 3315 would direct a feasibility study on 90-hour bachelor’s degree programs; both moved forward. HB 3711 would require schools to post the percentage of spending devoted to instructional expenditures on their websites and bond applications, with the sponsor declining to extend the same requirement to private schools receiving public tax-credit dollars. HB 3885 drew the most debate. It would establish suspension and expulsion standards for students who physically attack teachers or school employees, with supporters arguing it gives administrators clearer authority to protect staff and students and opponents warning it could conflict with existing protections for students with disabilities and create legal risk. The sponsor said the bill is intended to address intentional violence and allow case-by-case judgment, while critics cited prior civil-rights concerns over disproportionate discipline. Despite the objections, the bill passed on a due pass recommendation. The committee adjourned after announcing it would meet again Wednesday at 9 a.m.
FL

Florida 2025 Regular Session

April 14, 2025 - 02:30 PM

Transcript Highlights:
  • Ex officio Tant? We have a quorum, Madam Chair.
  • And I think that's really the important part in developing stuff to make sure language makes sure we're
  • Ex officio Tant? No. That's 12 yays and two nays, Madam Chair.
  • Ex officio Tant? Fourteen yeas, zero nays, Madam Chair.
  • Ex officio Tant. 14 yeas, zero nays, Madam Chair.
Summary: The Pre-K Through 12 Budget Subcommittee met with a quorum and took up three bills, along with a brief budget conference-prep presentation. The first bill, CS/HB 1483 on school grading and student supports, would gradually align Florida’s school grading scale with the familiar A-F student grading scale over a 10-year glide path, add school report card transparency on the percentage of students reading at grade level, expand interventions for students with substantial reading and math deficiencies through VPK through grade 8, and create a competitive grant for diverse books in K-5 classrooms and libraries. Supporters argued the current school-grade scale is misleading and that the bill would improve transparency and supports; some members raised concerns about impacts on turnaround schools, community perception, and whether the bill adequately captures student gains. The bill passed 12-2 and was reported favorably. The committee then considered CS/HB 859 on the School Readiness Program, which revises the definition of “economically disadvantaged” for eligibility purposes. The bill originally moved from 150% of the federal poverty level to 65% of state median income, but three amendments were adopted to create a glide path and reduce fiscal impact by using 50% of state median income or 150% of poverty, whichever is greater, and by deleting an obsolete section. Public testimony was overwhelmingly supportive, emphasizing child care as workforce infrastructure and a lifeline for working families. The bill passed unanimously, 14-0, and was reported favorably. Finally, CS/HB 1607 on cardiac emergencies in schools would require AEDs in every Florida school, including charter schools, require CPR/AED training, and create a pulse-saving plan with rulemaking authority for the State Board of Education. Proponents cited alarming statistics about sudden cardiac arrest on campuses and argued that rapid AED access can save lives; supporters from the American Heart Association, PTA, and cardiology groups backed the measure. Members spoke in strong support, and the bill passed unanimously, 14-0, and was reported favorably. The meeting ended with a budget presentation explaining that House and Senate FY 2025-26 budget, appropriations project, and proviso side-by-sides had been distributed ahead of conference, followed by adjournment.
US

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. May 1st, 2025 at 08:30 am

Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel

Transcript Highlights:
  • Lohmeier you posted the following on your ex account on October 19th, 2024.
  • It's an exciting time to be part of building and making sure we have a great military.
  • Crimea was part of Ukraine, in my view, still is part of Ukraine.
  • Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan it received it's receiving 15 EXs, and that is not part
  • You said it in your in so many words, in your ex-filings and in your book.
Summary: The meeting was primarily focused on discussing nominations for key positions within the Department of Defense, specifically for roles such as the Undersecretary of the Air Force and the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. Senators expressed urgent concerns about global security threats, the need for robust military readiness, and the emphasis on effective collaboration with NATO allies amidst rising tensions with adversaries such as Russia and China. Several senators highlighted the challenges facing military infrastructure and defense capabilities, suggesting a critical need for improvements and investment in these areas to ensure national security.
NH

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

Senate Children and Family Law (02/03/2025)

Children and Family Law

Transcript Highlights:
  • Everything else is already established in law for the most part.
  • We are neutral on it for the most part.
  • The education part is what we're focusing on, and it's pretty straightforward.
  • </c> are neutral on it um for the most part are neutral on it um for the most part it<00:39:00.400><c
  • Give me a reason where I could take my ex to court and I'll grab it, you know.
Keywords: 1191, senate, all
FL

Florida 2025 Regular Session

November 18, 2025 - 08:00 AM

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think there are two parts to your question, Representative Gottlieb.
  • Representative Gottlieb, again, I think you're asking two parts of that question.
  • There's the Texas case wherein a man sued three of the friends of his ex-wife for a million dollars each
  • What, if any, parts of the bill were contributed by a medical doctor? You're recognized.
  • his ex-wife access abortion medication.
Summary: The Civil Justice and Claims Subcommittee met to consider one measure, PCS for HB 289, which would amend Florida’s wrongful death statute to allow parents of an unborn child to recover damages for the child’s wrongful death and to include parents in the definition of survivors. The sponsor said the bill is intended to give parents a remedy when a wrongful act, negligence, breach of contract, or breach of warranty causes the loss of an unborn child, while also preserving existing protections for lawful medical care and the mother. Members questioned the bill extensively about the meaning of “survivors,” whether it could reach surrogacy situations, friends or family who assist someone in obtaining abortion care, paternity issues, and whether abusive or unqualified fathers could bring claims. The sponsor repeatedly said the bill is limited to parents, does not authorize suits against the mother or lawful medical providers, and would still require the normal wrongful death procedures, including appointment of a personal representative. He cited Duncan v. Flynn as the case holding that current law does not allow recovery for the death of an unborn child. Representative Gottlieb offered an amendment modeled on criminal-law protections, aimed at expanding explicit immunity for a pregnant woman and for persons providing medical care or abortion-related conduct with consent. Supporters of the amendment said it would better align civil law with criminal protections; opponents argued it was overly broad and could shield unlicensed conduct. The amendment failed on a voice vote. Public testimony was divided, with supporters from pro-life and Catholic organizations backing the bill and some asking to remove the health care exemption, while opponents from ACLU, Equality Florida, Planned Parenthood affiliates, Florida Voice for the Unborn, Voices of Florida, and others warned the bill could chill reproductive health care, increase liability for doctors and hospitals, and invite lawsuits involving surrogates, family members, and abortion-related care. In debate, supporters said the bill simply recognizes the value of unborn children and gives parents a remedy for wrongful loss, while opponents argued it could create unintended consequences in family law, surrogacy, IVF, and medical practice, and could empower abusive partners or rapists. After closing remarks, the committee voted 13 yeas and 3 nays to report PCS for HB 289 favorably. The meeting then adjourned.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
  • based on the defendant and his ex-wife based on the evidence<00:05:27.800><c> of</c><00:05:27.880><c
  • The man and his ex-wife were very poor and had to sell drugs to make a living.
  • So, I mean, the follow-up part of it is mainly to make sure that isn't it sort of duplicative?
  • of it I mean part of it I mean I<00:07:45.759><c> the</c><00:07:45.879><c> followup</c><00:07:46.280
  • of the standard those are not part of the standard search<00:08:33.640><c> warrant</c><00:08:34.120>
Keywords: 912, senate, all
Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on SB 284, which would remove the requirement that wiretapping applications to a designated judge be accompanied by a written memorandum from the Department of the Attorney General. The Department of the Attorney General opposed the bill as drafted and instead proposed a new emergency-wiretap procedure allowing county prosecutors to seek immediate judicial authorization in exigent circumstances, followed by AG review and a follow-up application within 48 hours. The Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney’s office supported creating an emergency exception, citing a kidnapping case involving a missing material witness and the need to obtain live phone location data quickly, but asked that the AG be required to respond clearly within the follow-up period. The AG said the current wiretap process often arrives incomplete and noted a prior Honolulu application that was returned for more information and then abandoned. The committee also heard public testimony, including one speaker in support and another in opposition, and discussed whether the proposed emergency process should include imminent danger findings and what happens if the follow-up application is not approved. No vote or final action was taken in the transcript. The committee then took up SB 295, which increases penalties for violating temporary restraining orders and orders for protection and makes related changes. The Deputy Public Defender opposed the bill’s higher penalties, arguing that not all restraining-order cases involve domestic violence and that the measure could affect family disputes, property conflicts, custody battles, and other non-domestic situations. The Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney supported the bill, saying it would create a more uniform and efficient charging framework and that violations of court orders can be serious even when the conduct appears minor in isolation. Domestic violence advocates also supported the measure, emphasizing the need for meaningful enforcement and deterrence; one witness cited statewide data showing thousands of TRO petitions but relatively few convictions and fines. A representative from the Domestic Violence Action Center supported the bill but requested amendments to reduce unintended consequences for survivors. During discussion, the committee focused on the proposed minimum sentence, with the Domestic Violence Action Center recommending reducing it from 15 days to 5 days. The witness explained that longer minimums can create hardships such as job loss, housing instability, and child care problems, while still allowing time for survivors to access shelter and services. The committee chair indicated support for amending the bill to reflect that recommendation. The Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney also clarified that the bill is intended to address violations of already-issued protective orders after judicial review, not the initial issuance of restraining orders, and said the office supports eliminating the distinction between domestic and non-domestic protective-order violations because charging decisions are often made under time pressure. Multiple individuals and organizations signed up in support, and one witness testified in opposition. No vote or final committee action was announced in the transcript.
FL

Florida 2026 Regular Session

FL House Floor Session - 2026-01-15 (10:00AM Session)

Florida House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, first part of your question, would you be liable for that pregnancy?
  • Her ex learns about this bill and sues Publix for unlimited damages.
  • And I said, ex, not their partner, and ex decides to sue Publix for unlimited damages, alleging that
  • So we see y'all said no to the consent form part.
  • And so it's part of just enforcing the law.
Summary: The House convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and quorum established, then adopted the Rules and Ethics Committee’s special order report for the day. The chamber first took up HB 167 on former phosphate mining lands. Sponsor Rep. McClure said the bill would remove strict liability for previously mined phosphate lands if a Department of Health study is done at the owner’s request and the former mining status is recorded publicly. Opponents, including Reps. Cross, Nixon, and Eskamani, argued the bill did not provide enough notice to future buyers and renters and could create health and disclosure concerns. The bill passed 87-24. The House then passed HB 145 on suits against the government, which Rep. McFarland said updates Florida’s sovereign immunity caps for the first time since 2010, raising them to $500,000 per person and $1 million per incident with future automatic increases, aligning the statute of limitations with private claims, and allowing governments to settle above the caps if they choose. He said the bill would make redress more accessible without eliminating the liability shield. The bill passed 104-7. The chamber then considered CS/HB 289 on civil liability for the wrongful death of an unborn child, a bill by Rep. Greco that would amend the Wrongful Death Act to allow parents and other survivors to bring claims for the death of an unborn child, while exempting the mother and lawful medical care provided within the standard of care. Debate centered on whether the bill could affect abortion access, fertility treatment, miscarriage care, surrogacy, and liability for doctors, friends, family members, and others. Multiple amendments were offered to narrow the bill or add carve-outs for abortion, fertility care, surrogates, perinatal professionals, rape/incest/human trafficking situations, and to require the mother’s consent before suit; sponsors and opponents argued over whether these changes would prevent frivolous lawsuits or instead create loopholes and weaken the bill. None of the amendments were adopted during the portion of the transcript provided.
MO

Missouri 2026 Regular Session

Government Efficiency Apr 16th, 2026

Government Efficiency

Transcript Highlights:
  • And in certain parts of the United States, Religious laws around the world and in certain parts of the
  • Representative Boyko inquires about the parts of the bill that deal with arbitration decisions and private
  • court shall enforce or apply a judgment, decree, or arbitration decision if it relies in whole or in part
  • He says that is part of the impetus behind the bill.
  • And I think we— The only exemption that was given was an amendment that was related to a part in the
Summary: The Committee on Government Efficiency first established a quorum and then went into executive session, where it voted House Bill 2809 do pass by an 11-0 vote, with two members present. The committee then moved to public hearings after noting House Bill 3108 would not be heard that day. Senator Nick Schroer presented Senate Bills 977 and 1011, which were described as “American law for American courts” measures restating that the U.S. Constitution, the Missouri Constitution, and state law cannot be superseded by foreign laws, foreign treaties, or outside organizations, except in narrow circumstances such as voluntary business agreements and certain Hague-related matters. Supporters said the bills were needed to prevent courts or local governments from relying on foreign or religious law in ways that could override fundamental rights, while opponents and questioners raised concerns about private arbitration, family-law contracts, tribal jurisdiction, and whether the bills were unnecessary or targeted specific religions or organizations. A witness from Liberty Link Missouri testified in favor, saying the law should be restated even if it is technically unnecessary. No vote was taken on the Senate bills during the hearing. The committee also heard House Bill 2589, which would require only a rear license plate on vehicles. The sponsor argued the change would save money and align Missouri with many other states, while noting he had consulted a sheriff who did not object. Members raised concerns about law enforcement, camera enforcement, stalking victims, and whether some vehicles or commercial categories would still need two plates. Supporters cited fiscal savings and convenience, while opponents emphasized public-safety and identification concerns. No vote was taken on House Bill 2589, and the hearing was closed after no additional witnesses came forward.
NH

New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

House Children and Family Law (02/24/2026)

Children and Family Law

Transcript Highlights:
  • </c><00:13:10.480><c> my</c><00:13:10.720><c> primary</c> part-time jobs is considered my primary part-time
  • </c> did not receive any of my ex-husband's did not receive any of my ex-husband's um,<00:46:18.960><
  • Which is again part of the disparity.
  • Which is again part of the disparity.
  • </c><04:12:18.239><c> of</c> decide that alimony will be part of decide that alimony will be part of
Keywords: 1189, house, all
OK

Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session

Public Safety Feb 3rd, 2026

Public Safety

Transcript Highlights:
  • I just wanted from the chair to say this is part of crime that just is growing.
  • Seen as a part of the cleanup.
  • Her kids were molested by her ex-husband.
  • Her ex-husband is now serving a life sentence for child molestation in Kansas.
  • Her kids were molested by her ex-husband.
Summary: The committee first heard Senate Bill 1226 by Senator Rader, which would add property damage to the state’s leaving-the-scene statute so a driver who damages property and leaves would be treated similarly to a vehicle accident. After brief questions about whether the driver would need to wait for law enforcement or the property owner, the bill advanced unanimously, 6-0. Several sunset-extension bills from Senator Burstrom were then considered. Senate Bill 1456 would extend the Board of Tests for Alcohol and Drug Influence to 2036 and passed 6-1. Senate Bill 1462 would extend the Oklahoma Organized Retail Crime Task Force to 2036; members questioned whether a task force created in 2023 needed such a long extension, but it still passed 6-2. Senate Bill 1463 would extend the Polygraph Examiners Board to 2036 and passed 8-1, with some members again objecting to the 10-year sunset length. The committee also advanced Senate Bill 1980 by Senator Logan, which updates larceny and forgery language to cover gift cards, gift certificates, and redemption information when possessed or used with intent to defraud. Members pressed the author on whether the offense would be a misdemeanor or felony and on the bill’s scope, but the measure passed 7-2. Senate Bill 1479 by Senator Stewart, dealing with release of crime- and collision-scene information by first responders, was amended to strike the title after concerns about scope and private entities; it then passed 6-2. Senate Bill 1608 by Senator Frick, as amended, would make school location and employer information searchable in sex offender and violent offender registries, and it passed 6-2. Finally, Senate Bill 1923 by Senator Murdoch would prohibit inmates from accessing social media, prompted by a constituent’s concerns about inmates contacting victims’ families through contraband cell phones. Members questioned whether the bill was necessary given existing DOC policies and whether it should address tablets as well; an amendment was withdrawn, and the bill passed 7-1. The committee also laid over Senate Bill 1612 and concluded its Public Safety agenda for the week.
FL

Florida 2026 4th Special Session

January 13, 2026 - 01:00 PM

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, in accordance with Rule 7.7, Representative Borrero has been appointed to serve as ex officio
  • Ex Officio: Yes. Chair: Yes. Clerk: 15 yea, zero nay.
  • Maggard: You're talking about the bill part? Rep. Skidmore: I am. Rep.
  • As part of the analysis, the pre-post, it has to equal.
  • Ex Officio: Yes. Rep. Mooney: Yes. 11 yes, 3 no. The bill is reported favorably.
NH

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

House Children and Family Law (10/21/2025)

Transcript Highlights:
  • There are law for the most part.
  • Um the other part of uh settle the case.
  • They're part social worker as well as part lawyer, and that's just something that jumped out at me.
  • They're part they're good at this.
  • worker as well as part lawyer and social worker as well as part lawyer and that's<00:39:24.320><c> that's
Keywords: 928, house, all
Summary: The subcommittee met without a quorum and discussed how to proceed with its family court review work. The chair said preliminary, unofficial reports could be circulated and voted on by email, and noted that next year the work might continue as a full committee rather than a subcommittee. Members also discussed carrying unresolved issues into next year, including the long-standing “one judge, one case” concept. Later, the committee received additional materials from a member who could not attend, including a packet on state-funded transcript requests and background information on how different states structure family court systems. A major presentation focused on improving New Hampshire family court pre-trial and mediation practices. The presenters said current rules give judges broad discretion, which can lead to inconsistent discovery, evidence, and timelines, especially for self-represented parties. They raised concerns about uneven mediator training and oversight, lack of uniform domestic violence screening, and unclear information for families about their rights and how to exit mediation. They recommended standardized pre-trial case management orders, clearer plain-language deadlines, mandatory domestic violence screening, stronger mediator certification and continuing education, a mentorship program, an independent oversight board, and a pilot program in a few counties before any statewide rollout. Members and presenters also discussed existing court forms and practices, including mediation agreements, mediator preparation forms, first appearances, and the use of Zoom for mediation. One participant argued that mediation can work better when parties are better prepared and when cases are not sent too early, and suggested that neutral case evaluation is another useful alternative dispute resolution tool. The discussion also touched on the need for better educational materials for pro se litigants, with one member describing efforts to create a more accessible guide for people going to court. No votes were taken, and the session ended with plans to continue reviewing materials and refine recommendations.
HI

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

JDC Public Hearing 04-11-2025

Judiciary

Transcript Highlights:
  • ,</c><00:25:34.080><c> if</c> prompt dispositions on my part, if prompt dispositions on my part, if allowed
  • My ex very quickly abused my son verbally and berated him for his sexual orientation.
  • to not even have unsupervised ex-husband to not even have unsupervised phone<00:35:37.040><c> calls,
  • </c><00:36:04.480><c> my</c><00:36:04.720><c> son</c> My ex very quickly abused my son My ex very quickly
  • So, part of our process we it?
Keywords: 912, senate, all
Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on Governor’s Message 767, the nomination of Kanoi AD Jackson to serve as circuit court judge for the Third Circuit. The chair announced that the committee would not vote on the governor’s message or two judge nominations until Tuesday, April 15, but planned to vote that day on two Defender Council items. Testimony on Jackson’s nomination was limited to two minutes per speaker, and the hearing was conducted partly by Zoom. Supporters emphasized Jackson’s qualifications, work ethic, judicial temperament, and community ties. Testifiers included the West Hawaii Bar Association, family members, a retired teacher, retired Judge Robert Kim, and the Hawaii State Bar Association. The West Hawaii Bar Association said Jackson received high marks from its review process and that the Third Circuit needed a permanent judge for stability. Judge Kim and others praised her preparation, intelligence, humility, and experience as a prosecutor and litigator. Jackson also spoke in her own behalf, acknowledging that her background is primarily criminal rather than civil, but saying she is committed to learning the civil docket and serving the community if confirmed. Members questioned the Hawaii State Bar Association about the basis for its support, including how many members responded and whether concerns were raised about Jackson’s lack of civil experience. HSBA said it uses a confidential review process, receives both positive and negative comments, and does not track votes or percentages, but its board voted to support her. Judge Kim responded that judges can learn new areas of law, that civil dockets can be managed with benchbooks and help from other judges, and that Jackson’s trial experience would serve her well. No vote was taken on Jackson’s nomination during this hearing.