Bills: HB2588, HB2722, HB2727

Keywords: county ferry district, ferry district, passenger-only ferry, passenger ferry, Puget Sound, Vashon, Seattle, Southworth, county transportation, local taxing authority, property tax levy, general obligation bonds, municipal corporation, public transportation benefit area, WTSC, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, ferry terminal, wharf, shuttle service, marine transportation

Summary: The committee first held a public hearing on Substitute House Bill 2251, which would restructure Climate Commitment Act accounts and change how cap-and-invest auction revenue is distributed. Staff explained that the bill would create new operating and capital accounts, repeal several existing accounts, and shift revenue to a percentage-based formula that caps funding for the carbon emissions reduction account at $359 million while directing set percentages to the new accounts and the air quality and health disparities account. Members asked about the fiscal note, the effect on transportation funding, and whether the bill would change allowable uses of the CERA account; staff said it would not. Testimony was largely supportive, with proponents saying the bill adds clarity and stability, while tribal testimony urged clearer protection and accounting for the 10% tribal set-aside and carryover of unused funds. The hearing then moved to House Bill 2588, which would allow county ferry districts to operate and finance vehicle ferries, not just passenger-only ferries. County officials, ferry users, and advocates supported the bill as a local funding tool for aging ferry systems in Whatcom, Pierce, Skagit, and Wahkiakum counties, and said it would not itself raise taxes. The committee then heard House Bill 2722, which would raise the maximum vehicle weight subject to transportation benefit district vehicle fees from 6,000 pounds to 10,000 pounds; staff estimated the change could raise about 3% more revenue statewide, and the sponsor and supporters argued it would better reflect modern vehicle weights and road wear, while trucking interests said they could support a 9,000-pound compromise threshold. The final public hearing was on House Bill 2727, creating an Educational Transit Access Grant Program for transit agencies and community and technical colleges to pilot free or reduced fares for students; supporters said it would improve affordability and access to education, and the sponsor said an amendment may add inclusive post-secondary programs. After the hearings, the committee took executive action on a second substitute for House Bill 1923, which expands who can form passenger-only ferry service districts and where they can be formed, adds intent language about southern resident orcas, and changes the effective date to July 1, 2026. The substitute passed 23-4 with two excused, receiving a do pass recommendation.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank<00:20:23.920><c> you,</c><00:20:24.040><c> Representative</c><00:20:24.440><c> Wharf.
• </c> Thank you, Representative Wharf. Thank you, Representative Wharf.
• :20:42.480><c> seconded</c> Moved by Representative Wharf, seconded Moved by Representative Wharf, seconded
• I owe it to<00:22:56.000><c> Representative</c><00:22:56.400><c> Wharf.
• He asked for it to Representative Wharf.

Bills: SF0025, SF0027, SF0043, SF0066

Keywords: landowner licenses, hunting, wildlife management, quota hunt areas, game and fish commission, game management, hunting regulations, black bear, tracking dogs, wildlife conservation, conservation, contracting, supervisor, funding, districts, hunting licenses, donated licenses, life-threatening illness, vision impairment, nonprofit organizations

Transcript Highlights:

• Fish Pier, and Pier 5, which none of you have ever seen before because it was a derelict pier, and Wharf
• And there will be last in the flotilla and tie up at Wharf 8 and Pier 5.
• Wharf 8 and Pier 5, if you can picture, are back behind Leader Bank Pavilion.
• Again, there'll be ships in Charlestown on Pier 4, Pier 1, Charlestown, Rowes Wharf, Fan Pier, Commonwealth
• Pier, Fish Pier, Wharf 8, and Fan Pier.

Summary: The special commission on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution met without a quorum, but proceeded with updates on upcoming commemoration activities. Co-chairs Representative Sean Garballey and Senator Paul Mark opened the meeting and welcomed Superintendent Armstrong from the National Parks of Boston. The main focus was the approaching slate of major events tied to the Revolution and July 4th, including Bunker Hill observances, Harborfest, Sail Boston, and the Boston Pops Spectacular. Dusty Rhodes gave a detailed overview of Sail Boston, describing the arrival and anchoring of tall ships, the parade of sail, public boarding opportunities, harbor fireworks, and the Sail Boston festival site. He noted the complexity of coordinating ships, pilots, tugboats, and public safety across multiple agencies, and said the event budget is over $5 million. Kate Fox and Sheila Green then reported on Massachusetts 250 programming: strong website and email engagement, merchandise sales, grant-funded exhibits and murals across the state, multicultural outreach, the I Civics “We Declare” student project, the America 250 time capsule contributions, the July 8 national reading of the Declaration of Independence, the flag sojourn, and a new schools-and-farms partnership with state agencies. Jonathan Lane of Revolution 250 updated the commission on Bunker Hill activities, the Gloucester Battle reenactment, Treaty Day in Watertown, and the Declaration of Independence project. He said funding had been secured to reprint the Ezekiel Russell Declaration of Independence for distribution to all 351 cities and towns, with printing underway and hopes to deliver copies by July 4. The commission also discussed creating a Massachusetts-specific time capsule and forming a working group to gather ideas and possible contributions from cities and towns. Members expressed support, offered to help, and the meeting ended with thanks, announcements of an upcoming documentary screening, and a motion to adjourn that passed unanimously.

Transcript Highlights:

• Constitution, whereupon they'll turn around and come back down and populate Boston Harbor Hotel, Rowes Wharf
• Fish Pier, and Pier 5, which none of you have ever seen before because it was a derelict pier, and Wharf
• Wharf 8 and Pier 5, if you can picture, are back behind Leader Bank Pavilion.
• Again, there'll be ships in Charlestown on Pier 4, Pier 1, Charlestown, Rowes Wharf, Fan Pier, Commonwealth
• Pier, Fish Pier, Wharf 8, and Fan Pier.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The special commission on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution met without quorum, but proceeded with updates on major upcoming 250th events. Chair Sean Garballey and Senator Paul Mark opened the meeting, then Dusty Rhodes gave a detailed overview of Sail Boston and the Tall Ships festivities, including ship arrivals on July 9-10, the opening ceremony on July 10, the parade of sail on July 11, public boarding, harbor fireworks, and the Sail Boston festival. He noted the event will involve 20 countries, about 60 ships, multiple anchorages, and significant coordination with pilots, tugboats, and public safety agencies, with a budget of more than $5 million. Director Kate Fox and Sheila Green reported on Massachusetts 250 campaign efforts, including website and social media performance, merchandise sales, grant-funded exhibits and murals across the state, multicultural outreach, and July 4th programming tied to the Boston Pops Spectacular. They highlighted a series of MA 250 promotional videos, the I-Civics “We Declare” student reading project, the America 250 time capsule submission, the national reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, the Great American Block Party in Boston, and the flag sojourn that will bring a ceremonial flag to several Massachusetts sites before it is sent to Washington, D.C. They also mentioned upcoming MA 250 signage at MassDOT service plazas and a new schools-and-farms partnership announced by state secretaries. Jonathan Lane of Revolution 250 updated the commission on Bunker Hill-related events, the Gloucester battle reenactment, Treaty Day in Watertown, and the Declaration of Independence project. He said Revolution 250 secured funding to reprint the Ezekiel Russell Declaration of Independence for distribution to all Massachusetts cities and towns, using an 18th-century press and handmade paper. The commission then discussed creating a Massachusetts-specific time capsule, with members offering to help identify objects and suggesting it include both historic and contemporary items. The meeting ended with general thanks, an invitation to an upcoming Mass Humanities screening, and a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously.

Transcript Highlights:

• Constitution, whereupon they'll turn around and come back down and populate Boston Harbor Hotel, Rowes Wharf
• Fish Pier, and Pier 5, which none of you have ever seen before because it was a derelict pier, and Wharf
• And Wharf 8 and Pier 5, if you can picture, are back behind Leader Bank Pavilion.
• Again, there'll be ships in Charlestown on Pier 4, Pier 1, Charlestown, Rowes Wharf, Fan Pier, Commonwealth
• Pier, Fish Pier, Wharf 8, and Pier 5.

Keywords: 1212, all

Summary: The special commission on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution met without quorum but proceeded with updates on upcoming commemoration activities. Chair Sean Garballey and Senator Paul Mark opened the meeting, then heard a detailed presentation from Dusty Rhodes on Sail Boston/Tall Ships, including the July 10–15 schedule, ship arrivals and parade of sail, harbor anchorage, public boarding, the Sail Boston festival, fireworks, and related public safety and logistics planning. Rhodes said the event will involve 20 countries, about 60 ships, and significant coordination among pilots, tugboats, hotels, sponsors, and 67 public safety agencies. Massachusetts 250 staff Kate Fox and Sheila Green reported on campaign outreach and programming. They highlighted strong website and email engagement, merchandise sales, grant-funded exhibits and murals across the state, the Boston Pops July 4 program, multilingual media outreach, and an I Civics “We Declare” student competition. They also described Massachusetts’ contributions to the America 250 time capsule, the July 8 national reading of the Declaration of Independence, the Great American Block Party in Boston, the flag sojourn, MA 250 signage at rest areas, and a new schools-and-farms partnership with the Department of Clean Energy and Environment and the Executive Office of Education. Jonathan Lane of Revolution 250 updated the commission on Bunker Hill-related events, the Gloucester battle reenactment, Treaty Day in Watertown, and the organization’s Declaration of Independence project to reprint the Ezekiel Russell broadside for distribution to Massachusetts communities. Members praised the work and discussed a possible Massachusetts-specific time capsule, with several offering to help provide objects or facsimiles and staff planning to solicit broader commission interest in a subcommittee. The meeting ended with brief announcements about an upcoming Mass Humanities screening and Freedom Trail’s 75th anniversary, followed by a motion to adjourn that passed unanimously.

Bills: HB2092, HB2114, HB2172, HB2251, HB2374, HB2410, HB2552, HB2588, HB2718, HB2722, HB2727

Keywords: passenger rail, transportation, committee, advisory, infrastructure, defective license plates, vehicle registration, Department of Licensing, state regulations, route jurisdiction, abandonment, local governance, climate change, commitment act, emission reductions, sustainability, environmental policy, electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, regulation

Transcript Highlights:

• Wharf Wharf Williams Williams Williams Winter Winter Winter Wiley Wiley Wiley Yin Yin Yin Mr.<01:31:
• Wasserburger Wasserburger Wasserburger Webb Webb Webb Weber Weber Weber Wharf Wharf Wharf Williams Williams
• Wharf Wharf Williams Williams Williams Winter Winter Winter Wiley That would be a lost vote.
• Wasserburger Webb Weber Weber Weber Wharf<04:03:12.880><c> No.</c> Wharf No. Wharf No.
• Wharf Wharf Williams Williams Williams Winter Winter Winter Wiley Wiley Wiley Yin<04:37:44.439><c> Mr

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• He is the wharf master for Martinez Refining Company.
• He is the wharf master for Martinez Refining Company and previously served as a supervisor in the Office

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, offered a prayer recognizing World Water Day and the challenges of water scarcity, and then proceeded with several floor introductions. Members welcomed wildlife photographer Alice Cahill, outgoing California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Chuck Bonham, Avalon Fire Chief Michael Alegria, and a delegation of Cal Poly Pomona students participating in CSU advocacy activities. The chamber also received a message that the Assembly had passed AB 2156, and the Senate approved the March 16-19 journals as corrected. The main floor action was on Senate Concurrent Resolution 132, which designates March 22, 2026, as California STEAM Robotics Day. The author and supporting senators emphasized the value of robotics and hands-on STEAM education for career readiness, problem-solving, and workforce development. The resolution passed by a 34-0 vote. Afterward, the author introduced student and industry guests connected to robotics education, including a Poway High School student and representatives from Garner Holt Productions. The Senate then considered five gubernatorial appointments, all of which were confirmed unanimously: Paul Toopee as Director of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Peter Britery to the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission, Dr. Youngping Chen and Gregory Lung to the California Acupuncture Board, and Roy Mather to the Board of Pilot Commissioners. The body also suspended Joint Rule 62A to allow the Governmental Organization Committee to hear AB 2156 on March 24 without sufficient notice. At the end of the session, the Senate adjourned in memory of Anne Colchin, a longtime Carlsbad city councilmember and public servant, and announced it would reconvene on March 26, 2026, after the State of the Judiciary joint convention.

Transcript Highlights:

• He is the wharf master for Martinez Refining Company.
• He is the wharf master for Martinez Refining Company and previously served as a supervisor in the Office

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, a prayer marking World Water Day, and the Pledge of Allegiance, then suspended Senate Rule 55 to allow guests on the floor. Several special introductions followed, including California Wildlife Photo of the Year winner Alice Cahill, outgoing Fish and Wildlife Director Chuck Bonham, Avalon Fire Chief Michael Alegría, and a Cal Poly Pomona student delegation participating in CHESS/CSU Lobby Day. Members praised Bonham’s long service and the students’ advocacy on higher education issues. The Assembly’s passage of AB 2156 was announced, and the Senate approved the March 16–19 journals as corrected. The chamber then took up SCR 132, designating March 22, 2026 as California STEAM Robotics Day. The author and supporting senators emphasized robotics and STEAM education as hands-on preparation for careers in engineering, AI, manufacturing, and other technical fields, and highlighted partnerships with industry and programs such as FIRST Robotics. The resolution passed on a 34-0 vote. Afterward, the author introduced robotics students and industry representatives, including Ethan Wynn of Poway High School and leaders from Garner Holt Productions, to recognize their work in STEAM education and robotics. The Senate next considered five gubernatorial appointments, all brought by Senator Grove: Paul Toopee to lead the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Peter Britery to the Southwestern Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission, Dr. Youngping Chen and Gregory Lung to the California Acupuncture Board, and Roy Mather to the Board of Pilot Commissioners. Each nominee was described as experienced in the relevant field and each was confirmed unanimously, 34-0. The Senate also suspended Joint Rule 62(a) to allow the Committee on Governmental Organization to hear AB 2156 on March 24 without sufficient notice. In closing, Senator Blakespear requested adjournment in memory of Anne Colchin, a longtime Carlsbad city councilmember and civic leader remembered for decades of public service, environmental stewardship, and community planning. The Senate agreed to memorialize her, then announced that members would proceed to the Assembly chambers for the joint convention and State of the Judiciary address, with the next floor session scheduled for March 26, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Water Resources Department, or well abandonment, repair and replacement fund grants, better known as WHARF
• The WHARF program fund provides grants up to $40,000 to abandon, repair, and replace domestic wells used
• million in general fund from the Emergency Fund to the Water Resources Department for deposit into the WHARF

Summary: The Emergency Board approved a series of consent federal grant applications from the Natural Resources and Public Safety subcommittees, along with several budget and position requests. The board approved grant applications for parks, transportation, judicial, emergency management, higher education, school nutrition, and other programs, including retroactive approvals where deadlines had passed. One member objected to the Natural Resources consent grants over concerns about future funding needs, but the motion still passed. The board also approved a one-time increase for Judicial Department court security, including digital privacy protections, circuit court security, and a statewide facilities assessment. A major discussion centered on Southern Oregon University’s financial stability. The Higher Education Coordinating Commission reported on SOU’s structural deficits, declining enrollment, and projected cash shortfall. The subcommittee recommended, and the board approved, allocating $7.5 million from the special appropriation for short-term stability, with a required update at the September 2026 Emergency Board meeting and a future request for the remaining funds. Members debated the broader crisis in higher education, with several saying SOU’s situation reflects systemwide enrollment and funding pressures and that long-term restructuring will be needed. The board also approved an AmeriCorps volunteer generation grant, an apprenticeship expansion grant, and a Department of Education nutrition equipment grant. In public safety, it approved funding for Oregon Military Department readiness facilities, a statewide evacuation planning tool, and a juvenile justice information system modernization report, while requiring a follow-up viability report. The Department of Justice received approval for additional antitrust positions and expenditure limitation, though several members raised concerns about the funding structure and incentives tied to settlement revenues; the motion passed despite objections. In natural resources, the board approved funding for the Water Resources Department’s well abandonment, repair and replacement grants, an assistant water master position in Washington County, groundwater data collection in the Lower Umatilla Basin, a wetlands remote sensing pilot, and parks-related grant applications for operations, maintenance, and capital improvements. Members generally supported the requests but raised concerns about geographic equity, long-term sustainability, and whether some county responsibilities were being shifted to the state. The meeting also included discussion of a Department of Emergency Management evacuation tool as an urgent wildfire preparedness measure, with members emphasizing its potential to save lives.

Transcript Highlights:

• The good representative Wharf attempted to try to get a bigger joint committee together to kind of have
• The good representative Wharf attempted to try to get a bigger joint committee together to kind of have
• The good representative Wharf attempted to try to get a bigger joint committee together to kind of have
• The good representative<00:57:24.880><c> Wharf</c> representative Wharf representative Wharf attempted

Keywords: 916, all

Summary: The committee opened with quorum and housekeeping, then began setting interim topics for discussion. The first major topic was trapping, including prior legislation on mandatory trapper education and trapping setbacks. The Game and Fish director said the department had already gone through a trapping reform process in 2018-2019 and was prepared to testify on those issues again, noting that the commission had previously wanted legislative authority for them. A substantial portion of the meeting focused on a proposed non-motorized trail user fee. Supporters argued it could help fund trail systems and match state trail grants, citing demand for professionally built trails and examples from other states. Testimony estimated potential revenue at roughly $150,000 to $250,000 annually, depending on the model, while noting enforcement would likely rely on an honor system. Committee members discussed possible alternatives and related ideas, including using good neighbor authority with federal land managers and looking at motorized trail funding models. The director said the concept was not yet ready for immediate passage but was worth continued discussion. The committee also briefly discussed fishing outfitter issues, with the co-chair noting a prior bill had passed and that the current board still exists, but more data would be needed later in the interim. Another topic addressed ticket scalping and fake tickets at Jackson’s rodeo, which the sponsor said was affecting visitors and could warrant broader state discussion. The State Archives topic proposed expanding the digital archive and requiring agencies to use it, with added resources for local governments; staff said it would improve security, access, and storage efficiency. The committee then discussed problematic gaming and program funding, but noted a pending bill to create a separate statutory select committee on gaming, so the topic may be better handled there if formed. The final major discussion was the Game and Fish budget. The director said employee compensation increases had raised salary costs from about 40% to 60% of the budget, while overall revenue had not kept pace, forcing cuts to habitat and research work. She warned the department could reach a critical budget point by 2030. Committee members and the Wyoming Wildlife Federation supported a deeper interim review of the department’s finances and possible new revenue sources, with the director suggesting a three-meeting structure: first to lay out the budget outlook, then to discuss additional revenue options, and finally to consider what future generations may have to pay.

Transcript Highlights:

• Or if we were to introduce bills, as we have, as we just tried to wharf a bill from Mr.
• we have, as we have, as we have. or if we were to introduce bills, as we have, as we just tried to wharf

Summary: The Assembly met on March 6, 2025, after a quorum call and prayer, then proceeded through routine floor business and several ceremonial resolutions. Early procedural motions included a failed attempt to suspend the rules to withdraw AB 844 from committee and bring it directly to the floor; that motion received 16 ayes and 45 noes. The body also unanimously approved a request to re-refer AB 341. Members then adopted several resolutions by voice vote after adding coauthors: ACR 35 recognizing Greek Independence Day, ACR 17 honoring women in carpentry and the BOOTS apprenticeship program, ACR 50 designating March 24, 2025 as Special Olympics Day, and H.R. 21 proclaiming Transgender Week of Visibility and March 31 as Transgender Day of Visibility. Each resolution drew supportive remarks from multiple members, while H.R. 21 also prompted extended debate, including opposition centered on girls’ sports, locker rooms, and claims about state policy affecting transgender Californians. In each case, the resolutions were adopted after the coauthor roll and voice vote. The session concluded with adjournment in memory of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas, Jr., who died in the line of duty on March 17. Several members spoke in tribute to his service, his work with youth football, and his family. The Assembly then announced upcoming committee meetings and adjourned until Friday, March 28, 2025 at 9 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• This wharf serves as the passenger terminal for several passenger boats and ferries, most notably the
• visit Portsouth, New Hampshire, to be on the water and take charter vessels out of the Barker Burge wharf
• Uh, the wooden deck on the wharf there is used for vessel embarkation and departures, parking, as well

Keywords: 928, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• It needs infrastructure and the opportunity for shipping to be able to have additional dock and wharf
• taxation, monetize those for a bond issue, go buy property, and develop that property. put in docks and wharfs

Bills: HB535, HB2120, HB2822, HB3243, HB3457, HB3544, HB4089, HB4192, HB4669, HB4868, HB4955, HB5253, HB5669, SB1371, SB1919, SB2001

Keywords: motor vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle, traffic safety, municipality, criminal offense, pedestrian safety, traffic regulations, municipal law, bicycle regulations, motor vehicle passing, traffic law, municipalities, bicycle operation, traffic laws, municipal regulations, port commission, Corpus Christi, Nueces County, San Patricio County

Transcript Highlights:

• , Washut, Washut, Wasserburger, Wasserburger, Wasserburger, Webb, Webb, Webb, Weber, Weber, Weber, Wharf
• , Wharf, Wharf, Williams,<01:54:04.400><c> Winter,</c> Williams, Winter, Williams, Winter, Wylie, Wylie
• Thayer, Washut, Washut, Washut, Wasserburger, Wasserburger, Wasserburger, Webb, Webb, Webb, Weber, Wharf
• , Wharf, Wharf, Williams, Williams, Williams, Winter, Winter, Winter, Wylie, Wylie, Wylie, Yin, Yin,

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Wharf Wharf Williams Williams Williams Winter Winter Winter Widely Widely Widely Yin Yin Yin Mr.<00:
• Webber<01:32:16.200><c> excused</c><01:32:16.880><c> Wharf.</c> Webber excused Wharf.
• Webber excused Wharf. Williams. Williams. Williams. Winter. Winter. Winter. Wiley. Wiley. Wiley.
• Weber<01:47:29.360><c> excused</c><01:47:30.040><c> Wharf</c> Weber excused Wharf Weber excused Wharf
• Wharf. Williams. Winter. Wiley. Yin, excused. Sorry, Mr. Speaker. Are there any changes?

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• of the increasing railroad activity on the Norfolk Southern Railway originating at the Alabo Street Wharf
• hazard and increased railroad activity on the Norfolk Southern Railway, originating at the Alabo Street Wharf

Bills: SR145, SR146, SR147, SR148, SCR78, SCR12, HB302, HB221, HCR58, HB59, HB89, HB153, HB243, HB335, HB342, HB350, HB407, HB451, HB513, HB595, HB682, HB688, HB690, HB730, HB762, HB802, HB816, HB940, HB944, HB1003, HB1011, HB1029, HB1053, HB1058, HB1062, HB1064, HB1079, HB1084, HB1098, HB1161, HB1189, HB1203, HB1215, HB1247, HB1248, HB1251, HB1253, HB1257, HB1258, SCR3, SB393, SB401, SB415, SB426, SB435, SB487, SB488, SB523, SB56, SB163, SB341, SB504, SB322, SR125, SCR54, SCR59, SCR9, SCR58, SB35, SB65, SB215, SB246, SB249, SB269, SB282, SB296, SB323, SB363, SB369, SB474, SB490, SB492, SB500, SB514, HCR27, HCR28, HCR66, HCR67, HCR72, HCR5, HCR32, HCR49, HCR50, HCR53, HCR60, HCR62, HCR64, HCR68, HCR78, HCR81, HCR86, HCR97, HCR102, HCR31, HCR47, HCR3, HB1095, HB1096, HB1103, HB1129, HB1154, HB1166, HB1195, HB1230, HB316, HB511, HB799, HB1039, HB12, HB66, HB145, HB167, HB196, HB213, HB218, HB222, HB256, HB291, HB326, HB352, HB401, HB430, HB433, HB434, HB448, HB456, HB476, HB481, HB487, HB492, HB549, HB579, HB608, HB621, HB624, HB626, HB632, HB637, HB656, HB722, HB745, HB804, HB818, HB821, HB833, HB864, HB867, HB874, HB893, HB909, HB951, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB979, HB988, HB989, HB1001, HB1005, HB1007, HB1024, HB1032, HB1038, HB1050, HB1051, HB1056, HB1059, HB1077, HB1080, HB1081, HB1086, HB1108, HB1112, HB1153, HB1172, HB1173, HB1175, HB1192, HB1193, HB1204, HB1218, HB1242, HB1244, HB1249, HB1252, HB1254, HB1, HB2, HB3, HB42, HB45, HB71, HB79, HB158, HB160, HB169, HB227, HB251, HB289, HB312, HB313, HB314, HB330, HB383, HB394, HB410, HB429, HB769, HB971, HB983, HB1017, HB1126, HB1234, HB1235, HB17, HB27, HB36, HB41, HB47, HB73, HB126, HB133, HB140, HB159, HB166, HB205, HB211, HB226, HB259, HB271, HB308, HB310, HB324, HB337, HB351, HB399, HB403, HB571, HB712, HB723, HB726, HB740, HB750, HB759, HB812, HB844, HB966, HB1006, HB1009, HB1018, HB1036, HB1107, SB29, SB42, SB43, SB78, SB208, SB217, SB274, SB300, SB379, SB382, SB387, SB441, SB449, HB74, HB134, HB258, HB359, HB468, HB956, HB1117, SB149

Keywords: critical infrastructure, foreign adversaries, homeland security, task force, Louisiana Senate, military bases, oil and gas, refining facilities, energy generation, industrial manufacturing, agriculture, food supply, biosecurity, agroterrorism, Chinese Communist Party, People's Republic of China, Russia, Russian government, FBI, Secret Service

Summary: The Senate met with a quorum, received a Memorial Day guest minister introduction and prayer, and then moved through journal and legislative bureau matters. The chamber adopted or advanced several Senate resolutions, including SR 149 directing DOTD to study hazards from increased Norfolk Southern rail activity at the Alabo Street Wharf, SR 153 commending a Miss St. Tammany Parish Fair Queen, SR 154 asking LDH to study the in-home skilled nursing market, and SR 145 recreating the task force on protecting Louisiana critical infrastructure from foreign adversaries. It also adopted SCR 78 designating Bonfuca Museum and Research Center Day at the Capitol, and later adopted SCR 54 and SCR 59 memorializing Congress on the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission and Comite River Diversion Canal flood-risk map review, respectively. The Senate also considered a large number of House bills and Senate bills on concurrence or final passage, with most passing overwhelmingly. Topics included education and school policy, health care, criminal justice, natural resources, transportation, insurance, and local government. Among the measures discussed were bills on adolescent literacy, vocational training in graduation plans, special education due process, school crisis plans, autism therapy accommodations during the school day, Medicaid dental coverage, workers’ compensation procedures, prior authorization for certain generic drugs, boiler inspection authority, money transmission licensing, and alternative power sources for nursing facilities. Several bills drew brief explanations from sponsors about technical corrections or policy clarifications, while a few were returned to the calendar or recommitted to committee. A few measures prompted more substantial debate. Senate Bill 456 on workers’ compensation generated extended discussion over whether employers should be allowed to file actions to investigate questionable claims without first cutting off benefits; supporters framed it as a transparency measure, while opponents argued it would increase litigation and disadvantage injured workers. The bill ultimately passed 20-17. Senate Bill 401 on the Prescription Drug Affordability Board had House amendments rejected, and Senate Bill 487 on charitable gaming premises rental agreements also had House amendments rejected. Other bills, including SB 393, SB 415, SB 426, SB 435, SB 488, SB 523, and SB 163, had House amendments concurred in, while HB 1095, HB 1103, HB 1129, HB 1166, HB 1195, HB 220, HB 316, HB 511, HB 799, HB 12, HB 66, HB 145, HB 167, HB 196, HB 213, HB 218, HB 222, HB 256, HB 291, HB 326, HB 352, HB 430, HB 433, HB 434, HB 448, HB 456, and HB 1039 were among the House bills finally passed, many by wide margins.

Transcript Highlights:

• of the increasing railroad activity on the Norfolk Southern Railway originating at the Alabo Street Wharf
• hazard and increased railroad activity on the Norfolk Southern Railway, originating at the Alabo Street Wharf

Bills: SR145, SR146, SR147, SR148, SCR78, SCR12, HB302, HB221, HCR58, HB59, HB89, HB153, HB243, HB335, HB342, HB350, HB407, HB451, HB513, HB595, HB682, HB688, HB690, HB730, HB762, HB802, HB816, HB940, HB944, HB1003, HB1011, HB1029, HB1053, HB1058, HB1062, HB1064, HB1079, HB1084, HB1098, HB1161, HB1189, HB1203, HB1215, HB1247, HB1248, HB1251, HB1253, HB1257, HB1258, SCR3, SB393, SB401, SB415, SB426, SB435, SB487, SB488, SB523, SB56, SB163, SB341, SB504, SB322, SR125, SCR54, SCR59, SCR9, SCR58, SB35, SB65, SB215, SB246, SB249, SB269, SB282, SB296, SB323, SB363, SB369, SB474, SB490, SB492, SB500, SB514, HCR27, HCR28, HCR66, HCR67, HCR72, HCR5, HCR32, HCR49, HCR50, HCR53, HCR60, HCR62, HCR64, HCR68, HCR78, HCR81, HCR86, HCR97, HCR102, HCR31, HCR47, HCR3, HB1095, HB1096, HB1103, HB1129, HB1154, HB1166, HB1195, HB1230, HB316, HB511, HB799, HB1039, HB12, HB66, HB145, HB167, HB196, HB213, HB218, HB222, HB256, HB291, HB326, HB352, HB401, HB430, HB433, HB434, HB448, HB456, HB476, HB481, HB487, HB492, HB549, HB579, HB608, HB621, HB624, HB626, HB632, HB637, HB656, HB722, HB745, HB804, HB818, HB821, HB833, HB864, HB867, HB874, HB893, HB909, HB951, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB979, HB988, HB989, HB1001, HB1005, HB1007, HB1024, HB1032, HB1038, HB1050, HB1051, HB1056, HB1059, HB1077, HB1080, HB1081, HB1086, HB1108, HB1112, HB1153, HB1172, HB1173, HB1175, HB1192, HB1193, HB1204, HB1218, HB1242, HB1244, HB1249, HB1252, HB1254, HB1, HB2, HB3, HB42, HB45, HB71, HB79, HB158, HB160, HB169, HB227, HB251, HB289, HB312, HB313, HB314, HB330, HB383, HB394, HB410, HB429, HB769, HB971, HB983, HB1017, HB1126, HB1234, HB1235, HB17, HB27, HB36, HB41, HB47, HB73, HB126, HB133, HB140, HB159, HB166, HB205, HB211, HB226, HB259, HB271, HB308, HB310, HB324, HB337, HB351, HB399, HB403, HB571, HB712, HB723, HB726, HB740, HB750, HB759, HB812, HB844, HB966, HB1006, HB1009, HB1018, HB1036, HB1107, SB29, SB42, SB43, SB78, SB208, SB217, SB274, SB300, SB379, SB382, SB387, SB441, SB449, HB74, HB134, HB258, HB359, HB468, HB956, HB1117, SB149

Keywords: critical infrastructure, foreign adversaries, homeland security, task force, Louisiana Senate, military bases, oil and gas, refining facilities, energy generation, industrial manufacturing, agriculture, food supply, biosecurity, agroterrorism, Chinese Communist Party, People's Republic of China, Russia, Russian government, FBI, Secret Service

Transcript Highlights:

• bill, it does differentiate construction from renovation, maintenance, or improvement of buildings, wharfs
• bill, it does differentiate construction from renovation, maintenance, or improvement of buildings, wharfs

Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government heard a full agenda of bills covering port procurement, housing litigation, special district audits, cemetery district governance, county discretionary funding transparency, labor standards in density bonus projects, transit planning, and homeowner code enforcement. SB 983 would let the Port of San Diego use job order contracting for smaller repair and maintenance work; supporters said it would speed repairs and reduce costs, while opponents raised concerns about construction definitions and project labor agreement language. SB 1256 sought to limit repeated litigation against the Harmony Grove Village South housing project; supporters framed it as a response to duplicative lawsuits delaying housing, while opponents argued it could weaken wildfire and subdivision-map review. SB 992 would make permanent and expand a small special district audit flexibility, and SB 1115 would give Tulare County a narrower way to remove dysfunctional cemetery district trustees rather than taking over the district entirely. Both drew support from county and district representatives, with CSDA opposing SB 1115 but continuing talks on amendments. The committee also considered SB 1193, which would impose transparency and conflict-of-interest guardrails on Alameda County discretionary funding. The author and supporters said the bill responds to grand jury findings and would require clearer public reporting and board approval, while Alameda County argued it already has strong public processes and that the bill is overly restrictive. SB 1383 would clarify that density bonus projects cannot use incentives and concessions to waive locally adopted labor standards; labor groups supported it as protecting worker safety and wages, while housing interests were not present in opposition during the hearing. SB 1361 would prevent local governments from undermining planned transit projects to avoid SB 79 density requirements; LA Metro and labor supported it as protecting transit investment, and the Bay Area Council withdrew opposition. SB 1272, the CASH Act, would give homeowners more time to cure certain non-safety code violations tied to prior owners’ work, with counties and code enforcement groups opposing the introduced version but saying they were working on amendments. Several bills were voted out of committee, many on amended or consent motions, with some remaining on call before later final votes were recorded. SB 983, SB 992, SB 1115, SB 1193, SB 1256, SB 1383, SB 1361, and SB 1272 all ultimately received committee approval, while the consent calendar bills SB 1187 and SB 1388 were also adopted. The chair repeatedly noted ongoing negotiations on several measures, especially SB 983, SB 1193, and SB 1272, and members emphasized wildfire safety, transparency, and labor protections as key issues during debate.

Transcript Highlights:

• With respect to recent state investments, we are constructing a new wharf at Berth 301 at Port Redwing
• This large-scale wharf project will provide a larger container site for larger container vessels and

Summary: The Transportation Committee heard SB 356 by Senator Wright, which would create an opt-in framework allowing counties and municipalities to designate certain roads for utility-terrain vehicles (UTVs) under local conditions, including driver licensing, insurance, and speed-limit restrictions below 55 mph. Senator Wright said the bill would give law enforcement clearer authority and mirror the local-option approach used for golf carts. Supporters included a retired Volusia County sheriff and county commissioner, who argued UTVs are safer than golf carts and are already being used on roads, while opponents from the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association and Honda warned that UTVs are designed for off-road use, lack federal safety standards, and pose crash and tire-blowout risks on public roads. Several senators raised safety concerns, especially about speed and crash severity, but the committee ultimately voted to report SB 356 favorably. The committee then held a lengthy discussion on seaport infrastructure and funding, beginning with a moment of silence for JaxPort COO and former FDOT employee James Bennett. FDOT presented data showing Florida’s 16 deepwater seaports generate major cargo volume, jobs, and economic impact, and described state funding programs such as FSTED, SPI, and the construction aggregate grant program. Port representatives from Port Everglades, PortMiami, Port Tampa Bay, and the Port of Palm Beach described record cargo and cruise activity, major capital projects, and the need for continued state and federal support for dredging, bulkheads, cranes, rail, and terminal expansion. Senators asked about ROI, trade shifts, intermodal connections, fuel and LNG availability, leverage and reserves, and operational risks such as flooding, sea level rise, and channel depth; port officials emphasized resiliency, private partnerships, and long-term master planning. The committee also confirmed appointees to the Tampa Hillsborough County Expressway Authority and the Tampa Port Authority in one vote, with no objection. Finally, FDOT presented the statewide mapping programs work group report required by SB 1662, explaining that coordinated statewide use of LiDAR and aerial imagery could reduce duplication, improve emergency management and planning, and support insurance and storm-damage assessment. FDOT recommended a formal statewide coordination program, shared procurement and cost-sharing agreements, dedicated staffing, and statutory updates to Chapter 334 to support interagency agreements and recurring funding.