Senate Floor Session [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an electronic roll call showing 29 members present and one excused. The journal from the previous meeting was approved. Senator Miranda introduced students and leaders from Scouting America Cub Scout Pack 787, Troop 787, and Troop 244, recognizing den leader Rebecca Pereira and several scouts and parent leaders. Senator Kavanaugh introduced Dr. John Galgiani, highlighting his work with the Valley Fever Center for Excellence and a proclamation for Valley Fever Awareness. Dr. Sarah Lee Davidson was introduced as the doctor of the day. The President announced communications from the Governor and appointments to the Committee on Judiciary and Elections. Several bills were introduced, including SB 1494 on open pit mining and SB 1036 on unemployment benefits, which sparked discussion about micromanagement of unemployment insurance recipients. Senators expressed differing views on the bill's necessity. The Committee of the Whole was called to order, discussing various bills including SB 1056 on budget unit vacant positions and SB 1236 on AHCCCS enrollment verification. Amendments were proposed, and motions for do pass recommendations were made and approved. A motion from the Majority Leader recommended SB 1236 for a do pass after the Committee of the Whole reported. The Health and Human Services Committee proposed an amendment to SB 1236, which was adopted. Senator Gonzales opposed SB 1236, citing concerns about restricting eligibility for 1.8 million Arizonans under the ACCESS Medicare program. Senator Kavanaugh clarified the amendment's intent, and the motion to adopt SB 1236 passed. SB 1238, amending Title 32 regarding the Arizona Regulatory Board of Physician Assistants, was discussed and passed with a do pass recommendation after a floor amendment was adopted. The Committee of the Whole reported on several bills, including SB 1036, SB 1056, SB 1236, and SB 1238, all receiving do pass recommendations. Discussion on SB 1036 revealed opposition regarding its potential to weaken unemployment insurance. The bill passed with 17 ayes to 12 nays. SB 1056, aimed at prioritizing vacancy reductions in state agencies, also passed with 17 ayes to 12 nays. Senate Bill 1126, amending educational records, passed with 29 ayes, 0 nays, and 1 no vote. Senate Bill 1189, concerning campaign expenditures, passed with 27 ayes, 2 nays, and 1 not voting, with senators expressing varied concerns about the bill's implications. Senate Bill 1211 passed with 29 ayes, 0 nays, and 1 not voting. The Senate reconsidered actions on Senate Bill 1333 and Senate Bill 1368, with House Bill 2206 substituted for Senate Bill 1333, passing with 17 ayes, 12 nays, and 1 not voting. House Bill 2396, related to SNAP, faced opposition for micromanaging purchases but ultimately passed with 17 ayes, 12 nays, and 1 not voting. House Concurrent Resolution 2055, a death resolution for Victor E. Hardy, was unanimously adopted, followed by a moment of silence. Senator Ortiz highlighted the case of Yari Marquez, emphasizing human rights concerns. Committee announcements included caucus meetings for both parties scheduled for the following day. House Bill 2190 passed with 26 ayes, 3 nays, and 1 not voting, and House Bill 2796 passed despite concerns about its impact on health insurance access for vulnerable populations, with 17 ayes, 11 nays, and 2 not voting. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn until February 17th at 1:15 p.m., which was approved.