House Floor Session [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call and a prayer by Gen Chenma, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Dr. Fred Kogan was introduced as the Doctor of the Day, and Gen Kelsang Chenma and Rebecca Potter from the Kadampa Meditation Center were recognized for their contributions to meditation and well-being. Several representatives introduced guests in celebration of the Lunar New Year and Arizona's Statehood Day, which is on February 14th. Representative Willoughby acknowledged the 114th anniversary of Arizona's statehood and thanked those who provided cake for the occasion. A proclamation for National Ballet Day and the Phoenix Ballet was read, with Representative Matt Gress emphasizing the importance of the arts in the community. The meeting continued with business, including reports from standing committees and the second reading of several bills, with attendance recorded as 57 present, one absent, and two excused. During the third reading of House Bill 2190, aimed at amending regulations for the Arizona Regulatory Board of Physician Assistants, Representative Bliss highlighted its importance, but the bill failed with 20 votes in favor and 38 against. House Bill 2206, concerning the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), was discussed next. Representative Culloden raised concerns about the bill's rulemaking authorization, while Representative Kupper clarified it acknowledged existing authority. The bill passed with 33 votes in favor and 25 against. House Bill 2396 was addressed, with discussions on its implications for SNAP benefits. Representative Aguilar criticized the bill for targeting low-income individuals, particularly children. Various representatives provided explanations for their votes, with Representative Alma Hernandez opposing the bill due to food deserts in her community and arguing against restricting choices for low-income individuals. Representative Consuelo Hernandez echoed these concerns, while Representative Pamela Carter supported the bill for promoting healthier choices. Representative De Los Santos raised economic concerns about the bill's potential impact on food prices, and Representative Cruz called for investment in programs that improve access to healthy food. Representative Biasucci noted existing restrictions in the WIC program, advocating for consistency. Representative Austin suggested enhancing existing programs instead of limiting purchases, while Representative Carbone supported the bill as necessary to address non-essential items in SNAP. Representative Villegas expressed concern for children affected by the restrictions. The bill ultimately passed with 34 votes in favor and 25 against. Following the vote, announcements were made regarding upcoming committee meetings and events, including a yoga class and African American Legislative Day. The meeting concluded with procedural motions, announcements about temporary committee replacements, and bill referrals. House Bill 2273 was withdrawn from the Committee on Rural Economic Development and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, while other bills were similarly withdrawn and referred to different committees. Reports from standing committees were acknowledged and entered into the journal without objection. The first reading of bills included HB 4097, concerning large customer energy supply, AI, and innovation. The Majority Leader moved to adjourn the House until 1:15 p.m. on February 16, 2026, and the motion was passed.