Legislative Leadership Press Conference | 2026-02-12 [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a welcome and acknowledgment of the ongoing legislative session, which is reportedly going well. An update on revenue estimates indicated an increase of approximately $30 million above the governor's original projections, which could fund various initiatives, including a proposed increase for key focus areas. There was a discussion on prioritizing spending due to numerous one-time funding requests totaling around $163 million over available funds. The Senate plans to poll its caucus to determine which spending bills to pursue, with Senate Bill 195 mentioned as a notable bill that aims to remove a sunset provision from a previous law, potentially generating over $100 million in ongoing funds. The House is also making progress, with committees actively working on bills, including addressing a vetoed bill (1077) from the governor. A bill allowing municipalities to propose a tax for capital improvements was mentioned, which could save costs for taxpayers. The meeting recorded a total of 1,563 legislative drafts submitted, with 670 bills and resolutions currently in play. The importance of representing constituents and the state was emphasized, along with discussions on topics such as Second Amendment rights, SNAP issues, and school cell phone bans. The new revenue projections suggest a potential focus on increasing funding for education and state employees. While there is optimism about the additional funds, careful prioritization is recognized as necessary. The vetoed bill (1077) is expected to be revisited soon, with a lengthy discussion anticipated, acknowledging the governor's rationale for the veto and hoping for a collaborative approach. Key legislative updates included a focus on investing in public schools, healthcare, and supporting working families, particularly state employees. Representative Uri Balk's House Bill 1205, which updates the education funding formula to ensure schools can keep pace with real-world costs, was highlighted. This bill sets a growth floor of 3% based on inflation or a minimum of 3%, addressing rising costs faced by school districts, especially in light of Governor Roden's proposed 0% increase in school funding. House Bill 1182, which passed out of committee, faced criticism for creating a state registry of private reproductive decisions, seen as an infringement on reproductive rights and privacy. Representative Kaden Whitman discussed a bill establishing a three-year, $2.5 million pilot program to provide menstrual hygiene products and diapers for TANF recipients, inspired by successful initiatives in other states. Whitman also expressed excitement about a school lunch bill that received bipartisan support and is set to be reviewed by the House Appropriations Committee. The conversation included reflections on the advocacy for school lunch funding, emphasizing the importance of nutrition for children's development. There was a desire for at least a 1.25% increase in education funding. A land bank proposal was introduced to allow governments to acquire and manage land for economic development, particularly focusing on properties not generating tax revenue, addressing urban sprawl and infrastructure costs. Concerns were raised about a bill requiring education on prenatal human growth and development, with some representatives opposing what they perceived as indoctrination. The meeting concluded with discussions on a vetoed bill regarding cell-cultured meat, with representatives expressing frustration over the time spent debating a product not currently available for sale. The relationship of the land bank to property auctions was also briefly addressed, clarifying that land banks can acquire land through various means, including donations and auctions.