Senate Chamber
[Source]
Committee
Senate Chamber
Location
Senate Chamber
Date & Time
Feb 19, 2026 • 8:53 AM
Duration
3h 31m
The meeting commenced with a roll call confirming a quorum, followed by an invocation led by Reverend Harry Eberts, who expressed gratitude for the senators and staff. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and Senate Majority Floor Leader Peter Wirth acknowledged the contributions of Reverend Eberts and the support of staff and families. Unanimous consent was granted to excuse Senator Lopez and allow cameras in the chamber.
The agenda included a concurrence calendar starting with House Bill 34. Senator Munoz presented Senate Bill 273, which had been amended by the House, reducing funding duration for several counties and reallocating funds to Torrance County. Concerns were raised about the impact on Otero County, leading to a debate on the fairness of funding distribution. After discussion, the Senate voted to concur with the House amendments, resulting in 22 votes in favor and 18 against.
The meeting included messages from the House regarding the passage of several bills and requests for concurrence on House amendments. Chief Clerk Lisa M. Ortiz McCutcheon reported on the House's actions, including the passage of the Senate Rules Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 132 without an emergency clause.
Senator Stewart presented amendments to Senate Bill 37, which included provisions for biliteracy for English language learners. The Senate debated the amendments and ultimately concurred with the House amendments. Senator Nava moved for concurrence on Senate Bill 100, which involved defining an "extension of a dwelling." Significant debate ensued regarding the implications of the new definition, leading to a consensus to not concur with the House amendments.
Senator Brantley discussed the importance of property rights, opposing the bill. The Senate voted not to concur with the House amendments to Senate Bill 100. Senator Charlie then moved to concur with House amendments to Senate Bill 41, which passed after a brief debate.
Senator Wirth introduced House Bill 34, addressing school nurse licensure, which received unanimous support. Senator Charlie presented House Bill 20, allowing Native American applicants to request a distinguishing designation on their IDs. Concerns were raised about formal resolutions from tribal chapters, but the bill was emphasized as necessary for addressing constituent needs.
The meeting also discussed issues faced by the Navajo Nation regarding documentation of tribal identity. Senator Shindo highlighted the importance of tribal sovereignty in determining membership criteria. The discussion then shifted to House Bill 43, a cleanup bill for the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA), which clarified benefits without altering financial liabilities. The bill passed unanimously.
House Bill 38 was introduced to ensure individuals with disabilities can receive power-assisted devices and prosthetics. Senators raised questions about insurance coverage, and the bill passed unanimously. The meeting also covered a bill requiring defibrillators in schools during athletic events, which passed unanimously after discussions about financial implications for private schools.
Senator Cervantes sought clarity on definitions in a healthcare bill, emphasizing the need for consistent definitions. House Bill 306 passed unanimously. Senator Bergman introduced House Bill 200, creating a new homes program with a $10 million budget, which passed despite concerns raised.
Senator Munoz moved for the passage of House Bill 158, focusing on government accountability, which passed unanimously. House Joint Memorial II, convening a task force for the Inspection of Public Records Act, also passed unanimously.
Senator Jaramillo introduced House Bill 309, clarifying property tax valuation for electric energy storage. The bill aimed to provide certainty for utilities and developers and was discussed regarding its implications for counties. The meeting concluded with motions to inform the House and the Governor of their work completion, and reflections from members on their service and accomplishments during the session. Senator Wirth expressed gratitude to staff and members for their contributions.
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