Senate Session - Senate Session of February 19, 2026 [Source] Translate

The meeting began with the Senate coming to order and members reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. February 19th was recognized as Iwo Jima Day, commemorating the bravery of U.S. armed forces during the battle of Iwo Jima, with a ceremony taking place in Memorial Hall. Senator Lovely presented a resolution congratulating Elizabeth Beth Renard on her retirement from public service in Salem, which was adopted without objection. The Senate then addressed House Bill 4272, authorizing the town of Hudson to grant an additional license for the sale of wine and malt beverages not to be consumed on the premises. The bill was ordered to a third reading, read, and passed to be engrossed. The Committee on Rules reported on granting the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture until March 31st to make its final report on related Senate documents, which was adopted. A similar report was made for the Committee on Transportation, which was also adopted. Several petitions from the House were referred to their respective committees after suspending joint rule 12. Senator O'Connor welcomed guests from the Pinecrest School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Senate then passed House Bill 3977, authorizing alternate members for the Conservation Commission of Beckett, and House Bill 4438, allowing Swampscott to establish a fall annual town meeting. Both bills were signed by the president and laid before the governor. The Committee on Ways and Means reported on House Bill 4769, recommending it pass with amendments. An order was presented to consider the bill immediately, which was adopted. Senator O'Connor moved to suspend Senate Rule 36 to consider a petition regarding violations of the U.S. Constitution, which was also adopted. An order was made for the Senate to adjourn until the following Monday at 11 a.m. Senator O'Connor moved to adjourn in memory of Phyllis Chapman, a notable resident of Hingham who passed away at 108. Her life and contributions to the community were celebrated, and a moment of silence was observed in her memory. The Senate then adjourned.