Podcasts about senate bills

In this episode: Republican leaders in the House and Senate signal that they will not go along with enormous tax breaks that President Donald Trump and the GOP-controlled Congress passed last year. It's a move that would save the state of Florida billions of dollars that would have otherwise have been given away to some of the biggest corporations the in world. Plus: Lawmakers make improvements to dangerous bills dealing with property insurance, healthcare and agriculture policy. But the annual late-session shenanigans begin. An update from Day 43 of Florida's 2026 session.Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show: Senate Proposed Bill 7048 — Internal Revenue CodePCB WMC 26-01 — TaxationHouse Bill 943 — Citizens Property Insurance CorporationPassed the House Commerce Committee by a 21-3 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 693 — Health and Human ServicesPassed the House Health & Human Services Committee by 17-7 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 433 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesPassed the House State Affairs Committee by a 22-3 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 399 — Land Use and Development RegulationsHB 399 amendment (adopted)Passed the House State Affairs Committee by a 16-10 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 208 — Land Use and Development RegulationsSB 208 amendment (withdrawn)Passed the Senate Rules Committee by a 22-1 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1389 — Affordable HousingHB 1389 amendmentPassed the House Commerce Committee by an 18-5 vote (vote sheet) Senate Bill 1220 — TransportationSB 1220 amendment (adopted)Passed the Senate Appropriations Committee by a 17-0 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1233 — TransportationHB 1233 amendment (adopted)Passed the House Commerce Committee by a 23-1 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 945 — Statewide Counterintelligence and Counterterrorism UnitPassed the House Budget Committee by a 20-8 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1007 — Data CentersPassed the House State Affairs Committee by a 22-1 vote (vote sheet)House bill 989 — Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Importers, and Distributors and Franchised Motor Vehicle DealersPassed the House Commerce Committee by a 22-1 vote (vote sheet) House Bill 1217 — Prohibited Governmental Policies Regulating Greenhouse Gas EmissionsPassed the House Commerce Committee by a 19-4 vote (vote sheet)Senate Proposed Bill 7046 — TaxationSenate Bill 1756 — Medical FreedomPassed the Senate Appropriations Committee by a 10-7 vote (vote sheet)The stories discussed in today's podcast:Corporations could get a $3.5 billion tax break in Florida unless state lawmakers step in to stop itBuried in the budget: Mike Huckabee, Donald Trump and NewsmaxRepublican megadonor is behind bill that could affect Florida condo ownersThe billionaire and the no-bid contractDoral rep says he worked with Fontainebleau lobbyist on bill to allow water park‘Farm bill' would let the governor auction off conservation land to agribusinessesAttorney general questions legality of rural boundaries in Orange, SeminoleControversial surveillance bill moves ahead in Florida HouseQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

A new bill is looking to improve reading skills for our students. It builds on an effort that started three years ago. Senate Bill 220 would require that schools adopt an individual reading plan for every student in grades 4 through 9 who does not meet the achievement standard for reading on annual exams. It may sound good on the surface, but is it more complicated to implement than we realize and how will we pay for it? A real reading advocate and education leader in our state, Fran Rabinowitz, weighed in on this. She is the executive director of The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents.

In this episode: A top aide to Ron DeSantis admits that the administration interfered in the 2024 elections. Another of the governor's appointee refuses to answer basic questions about the “Hope Florida” scandal. The Florida Legislature can fix this. An update from Day 42 of Florida's 2026 legislative session.Show notes: The bills discussed in today's show: Senate Bill 1334 — ElectionsHouse Bill 593 — Government Agencies and PersonnelSenate Bill 802 — Public Officers and EmployeesHouse Bill 1445 (2025) — Public Officers and EmployeesHouse Bill 437 — Public RecordsSenate Bill 770 — Public RecordsSenate Bill 1120 — Water Management DistrictsHouse Bill 701 — Water Management DistrictsSenate Bill 1442 — Long-range Program PlansThe stories discussed in today's show: Hidden consultants and hurried payments: Records reveal details of DeSantis' campaign against abortion and marijuana amendmentsHere's the reason a top Florida health department attorney gave for leavingDeSantis officials tied to Hope Florida saga try again for Senate confirmationDeSantis official says she wouldn't have approved $67M Hope Florida settlementThe best and worst of Florida's 2025 session (so far)Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

A Senate Bill in Olympia that would have given Washington farmworkers the right to collective bargaining has died, for this year anyway.

This week on the Queer News podcast, in top news Kansas governor vetoes SB 244 an anti-trans bathroom bill. We celebrate that! In politics, Virginia makes strides to protect marriage equality in the constitution and Senator Shevrin Jones is Florida Democrats new leader elect. In culture and entertainment, we have a special story on Musician B. Deveaux by our Queer News contributor Corey Antonio Rose. In sports, ESPN announces Women Sports Sundays and the Black Trans Film Festival opens registrations for 2026.   Want to support this podcast?

Alabama State Senator Dr. Larry Stutts joined Greg to discuss his Senate Bill 316 to help reform Alabama Prisons.

Washington lawmakers have passed Senate Bill 6182, creating a new Abortion Savings Program funded through assessments on health insurance carriers.What does that actually mean?In this episode of Left Coast News, we break down how the funding mechanism works, who pays, whether costs could impact premiums, and why critics argue there is no opt-out for residents who morally oppose abortion.This is not a surface-level debate. We're walking through the policy, the funding structure, and the broader implications for Washington families.Stay informed. Stay engaged.#WashingtonState#SB6182#HealthInsurance#PublicPolicy#LeftCoastNews

Dan Gates - Executive Director of Coloradans For Responsible Wildlife Management ( C. R. W. M. ) Host of Though the Gates podcast joins Bobby Marshall in studio for a powerful, co-released episode focused on the future of wildlife management in Colorado. A lifelong sportsman and passionate conservation advocate, Dan has dedicated his career to protecting Colorado's wildlife through science-based policy, ethical hunting, and responsible stewardship. As a leader of CRWM and the Save the Hunt Colorado campaign, he works at the front lines of legislative battles, commission decisions, and public advocacy efforts that directly impact sportsmen, landowners, and outdoor communities across the state.In this episode, Bobby and Dan dive deep into:• Colorado wildlife policy and the statutory mission of Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CRS 33-1-101)• The growing political influence shaping conservation decisions• Senate Bill 62 and its potential impact on rodenticide access, pesticide application, and trapping methods• The proposed statewide fur-sale prohibition petition• Beaver management strategy and harvest data• Wolf policy discussions and livestock compensation• Firearms-related policy proposals tied to wildlife governance• The importance of public testimony and engagement at CPW Commission meetingsDan breaks down why wildlife policy should be driven by science, data, and expert guidance — not emotion or political agendas — and explains why Colorado is becoming a “test market” for sweeping wildlife legislation.He also issues a call to action for the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission meetings (March 4–5 in Westminster and May 6–7 in Grand Junction), encouraging citizens to attend, submit testimony, and stay informed.Beyond policy, this conversation explores conservation ethics, biology, hunting tradition, archery, outdoor culture, and what it truly means to preserve wildlife responsibly for future generations.If you care about conservation, hunting rights, wildlife biology, or the future of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation — this is a must-listen episode.www.themountainsidepodcast.comShow Linkswww.SaveTheHuntColorado.comwww.youtube.com/@ThroughTheGatesPodcastAffiliates LinksSponsor Linkswww.ProTekt.comMountain Side listeners receive 10% off all ProTekt products! Use this link to receive discount code.www.SABObroadheads.comMountain Side listeners receive $10 off & Free Shipping on all SABO Broadheads!www.Knicpouches.comMountain Side listeners Use Discounts code: MOUNTAINSIDE15 to receive 15% off all K-Nic products!

Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:Almost a year ago, a 23 year old U.S. citizen from San Antonio was killed by ICE agent in south Texas - and it took investigative work from Newsweek to uncover that federal involvement: https://www.newsweek.com/ice-agent-fatally-shot-us-citizen-texas-dhs-records-11544225The Trump administration is set to sidestep 28 federal regulations in order to build over 100 miles of "smart wall" along the border areas in Big Bend National Park: https://www.thetravel.com/us-customs-and-border-protection-break-laws-in-big-bend-national-park-to-build-massive-border-wall/...Democratic Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez and Henry Cuellar appear to have been less than effective in fighting for that state treasure: https://www.texasobserver.org/trump-new-wall-rio-grande-valley-protected-sites/Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales, embroiled in an adultery scandal involving a staffer who later committed suicide, is accusing the staffer' s husband of blackmail: https://www.sacurrent.com/news/rep-tony-gonzales-now-claims-hes-being-blackmailed-by-husband-of-alleged-mistress/...The co-worker who blew the whistle to journalists says he raised concerns about Regina Santos-Aviles' mental health to his supervisor before her death, but was not consulted by investigators looking into her suicide: https://www.statesman.com/news/article/texas-congressman-tony-gonzales-allegations-21367439.phpUT Austin regents, on the heels of consolidating several gender and ethnic studies departments, have issued rules allowing students to bypass "unnecessary controversial subjects": https://www.texastribune.org/2026/02/19/texas-university-ut-regents-unnecessarily-controversial-subjects/Dozens upon dozens of Texas ISD's are passing on the dedicated prayer time that Senate Bill 11 offers them to implement: https://www.kvue.com/article/news/education/central-texas-school-districts-weigh-adopt-voluntary-prayer-policy/269-80f7ee10-e9f2-48d7-9be4-29afd20e0016Early voting in the March primary is underway! Research your ballot here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apps.texastribune.org/features/2026/texas-march-2026-primary-ballot/?_bhlid=7d8eca3d2a16adc7c9b44185414443fa32be6d84⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠All about voting in Texas can be found at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GoVoteTexas.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Progress Texas is expanding into both broadcast radio - including a new partnership with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KPFT-FM in Houston⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - and into Spanish language media! Make a tax-deductible contribution to our radio initiative ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and to our Spanish expansion ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://progresstexas.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode: A bill pushed by a New York investment firm that would make it much easier to develop vast tracts of rural land is inching closer to passing in Tallahassee. But opposition is growing among Republican lawmakers who represent parts of the state that would be most impacted by the bill. Plus: Money for the nonprofit that was part of a scheme to build a golf course in a beloved state park. And an elections bill that combines voter suppression with rent-seeking. An update from Day 37 of Florida's 2026 legislative session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:House Bill 299 — Blue Ribbon ProjectsPassed the House Commerce Committee by an 18-3 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 2500 — AppropriationsPassed the Senate Appropriations Committee by an 18-0 vote (vote sheet not yet available)Senate Bill 1334 — ElectionsPassed the Senate Transportation, Tourism & Economic Development Appropriations Committee by a 9-5 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1632 — Ideologies Inconsistent with American PrinciplesTemporarily postponed by the Senate Criminal and Civil Justice Appropriations CommitteeThe stories mentioned in today's show: A New York investment firm with vast land holdings across north Florida wants state lawmakers to greenlight giant developmentsAmid debate in Congress, Florida's Republican Legislature pushes election law changesQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Opinion column by Elizabeth New with Washington Policy Center examines Senate Bill 6346, the proposed 9.9% tax on income above $1 million, the Senate's 27-22 vote, and the constitutional and legal questions that could follow if the House of Representatives approves it. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-senate-shenanigans-income-tax-debate-double-standards/ #WashingtonState #SB6346 #IncomeTax #WashingtonPolicyCenter #ElizabethNew #TaxDebate #StateLegislature #Opinion

In this episode: On a frenzied day in Florida's Capitol, lawmakers advance bills that would help Donald Trump and a gun manufacturer that makes allegedly “ghost-firing” guns — but hurt laid-off workers and college kids who want to vote. An update from Day 36 of the Florida Legislature's 2026 session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show:House Bill 191 — Reemployment Assistance Benefit EligibilityPassed the House of Representatives by an 81-31 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 919 — Commercial Service AirportsPassed the House of Representatives by an 81-30 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 706 — Commercial Service AirportsPassed the Senate Rules Committee by a 17-6 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1551 — Products Liability for FirearmsPassed the House Judiciary Committee by a 13-5 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 455 — Protection of Historic Monuments and MemorialsPassed the House Judiciary Committee by a 14-5 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 641 — Gender Identity Employment PracticesPassed the House Judiciary Committee by a 13-6 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 743 — Prohibited Sex-reassignment Prescriptions and ProceduresPassed the House Judiciary Committee by a 14-5 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 991 — Election IntegrityPassed the House State Affairs Committee by a 17-6 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 173 — Parental RightsPassed the House Education & Employment Committee by a 12-4 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1506 — Civil LitigationRejected by the Senate Rules Committee by an 11-13 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 164 — Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn ChildNote: This bill was referred to by the wrong bill number during the showHouse Bill 1421 — Cattle Grazing on State LandPassed the House State Affairs Committee by a 20-3 vote (vote sheet)Stories discussed in today's show: A billionaire-backed think tank keeps sabotaging Florida workers. More attacks are coming.Prodded by business lobbyists, lawmakers may cut more Floridians off from unemployment insuranceBuried in the budget: Mike Huckabee, Donald Trump and NewsmaxA gun company gave lots of money to Florida lawmakers. Now it's lobbying for legal immunity.Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes was joined by health care providers, students, patients and the Illinois Academy of Physician Associates for a press conference on a new law that would modernize PA practice laws, improving health care access across the state. “Last year, I was proud to sponsor legislation to begin the journey to allow physician assistants to practice to their full potential,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “This year's Senate Bill 3421 is critical as we face an access to health care crisis in Illinois.” With similar training as nurses and doctors, PAs can provide high-quality health care, but have run into difficulties getting their license approved due to a long, tedious paperwork approval process. Senate Bill 3421 would remove outdated practice barriers for PAs, allowing them to deliver care more effectively and efficiently. The legislation allows PAs to obtain a license to prescribe and administer certain controlled substances without a written agreement from a doctor, as nurses are currently able to do. “This legislation is vital because our healthcare system continues to face increasing strain. Recognizing and empowering PAs in our communities will make a significant impact,” said Timothy Kinsey, a PA in emergency medicine and executive director of IAPA. “They are highly trained professionals who can serve as the first line of defense against serious health issues.” This legislation is crucial as it aligns with the growing demand for health care services while maintaining high standards of safety and quality. “Many communities, including my own, are experiencing medical deserts, and PAs are a vital part of the solution,” said Cervantes. “The federal government has initiated a Rural Health Transformation initiative, and Illinois risks leaving tens of millions of dollars on the table if we do not modernize our PA practice laws. The time to act is now.” Senate Bill 3421 awaits assignment to a legislative committee.

Senate Bill 5973, which would have added new restrictions on paying signature gatherers and required 1,000 signatures at filing, failed to advance in the Washington Legislature after drawing opposition from Let's Go Washington and Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/foes-called-it-the-initiative-killer-now-its-dead-in-the-wa-legislature/ #WashingtonState #Politics #InitiativeProcess #LetsGoWashington #StateLegislature #WAStateStandard

In this episode: Republican leaders in the Florida Legislature unveil new state budgets with big funding gaps over everything from affordable housing and AIDS medication to a new baseball stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays. At the same time, the state House wants to impose serious spending guardrails and transparency rules on Gov. Ron DeSantis. The Florida Senate does not. Plus: New College of Florida, money sink. An update from Day 35 of Florida's 2026 legislative session.Show notesThe bill's discussed in today's show: House Bill 5001 — General Appropriations ActPassed the House Budget Committee by 26-1 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 2500 — AppropriationsHouse Bill 5503 — Trust Funds/Re-creation/Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund/EOGPassed the House Transportation & Economic Development Subcommittee by a 12-0 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 5601 — Higher EducationPassed the House Higher Education Budget Subcommittee by a 9-4 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 437 — Public RecordsPassed the House Justice Budget Subcommittee by a 13-0 vote (vote sheet)The stories discussed in today's show: Buried in the budget: Mike Huckabee, Donald Trump and NewsmaxCorporations could get a $3.5 billion tax break in Florida unless state lawmakers step in to stop itFlorida DOGE Details Disproportionate Spending at New CollegeFinding more room for New College is a state priority, USF board chair saysQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

Mark Harmsworth of the Washington Policy Center writes that recent discussion around Senate Bill 6347 and other tax proposals signals concern over high-net-worth individuals and businesses leaving Washington state amid cumulative tax burdens including estate, capital gains, and payroll taxes. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-democrats-signal-retreat-on-the-death-tax-as-exodus-fears-mount/ #MarkHarmsworth #WashingtonPolicyCenter #DeathTax #MillionairesTax #EstateTax #SmallBusiness #WashingtonState

After hours of heated debate, the Washington Senate passed Senate Bill 6346, a proposal to impose a 9.9% tax on personal income over $1 million, with amendments on diapers, the marriage penalty, and constitutional changes rejected before a 27-22 final vote. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/video-income-tax-bill-passes-wa-senate-after-hours-of-heated-debate/ #WashingtonState #SB6346 #MillionairesTax #WALegislature #JohnBraun #IncomeTax #StatePolitics

There are new concerns surrounding housing legislation in our state. As you know, during a special session in November 2025, House Bill 8002 was approved and eventually signed into law. Now, there's apparently a new proposal on the table: Senate Bill 151, An Act Prohibiting Certain Land Use and Zoning Limitations on Housing. We spoke about the concerns around SB151 with co-founder of CT169Strong, Alexis Harrison.For more information: https://ct169strong.org/To read the bill: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Q2x0V5ESrDxp2BCfEZhXubAypnOfJVLt/edit?fbclid=IwY2xjawP_a0ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETJaRko2aXA4TmxkTm52UGpkc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHu-SN8sSkiejyYOK_wWdq-gdNMc46537cjH8obnSOKZb45KDxc23Eu5uzmte_aem_q2egz9p39JKosUiLwRUBqw&pli=1

WMAL GUEST: JONATHAN ALEXANDRE (Legislative Counsel, Maryland Family Institute) on Senate Bill 4, which threatens the tax-exempt status of churches and religious nonprofits that engage in candidate-related speech. WEBSITE: MarylandFamily.org READ: MFI Opposes SB 4 'Keeping Charities Nonpartisan Act' Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Audible, and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Monday, February 16, 2026 / 8 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's newsletter: A divided council vote on immigration-related language, C-TRAN's action on the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program SEIS, Battle Ground and Washougal levy results, and opinion on Senate Bill 6346 and the I-5 Bridge highlight a week spanning politics, education, transportation, business, and community life. https://mailchi.mp/clarkcountytoday/this-weeks-top-news_february_13_2026 #ClarkCounty #InterstateBridgeReplacement #SchoolLevies #CTran #WashingtonPolitics #CommunityNews

The Washington State Senate approved Senate Bill 5974 to impose stricter eligibility standards on sheriffs and police chiefs and restrict volunteer posses, advancing the legislation to the House after party-line debate. This report was first published by the Washington State Standard. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/stricter-standards-for-wa-sheriffs-approved-in-state-senate/ #WashingtonState #WALeg #SB5974 #Sheriffs #PoliceAccountability #WashingtonStateStandard

Friday's Community Connection, Representative Earl Harris, (D) East Chicago, IN House District 2 and chair of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus, joins Tina and Contributing Analyst James Patterson, to discuss the latest developments in the Indiana General Assembly. They dive into the impact of Senate Bill 76, a bill that Representative Harris calls "bad" and "disastrous" for the state. He shares his concerns about the bill's effects on local control, racial profiling, and the treatment of immigrants. The conversation also touches on the importance of community engagement, voter registration, and the need for a strong, unified voice in the face of adversity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is about to get cut off from an emergency-response fund he raided to rush construction of an immigrant detention facility in the Everglades. There's a showdown brewing between Republican leaders in the state House and Senate over whether he should get to keep it. Plus: The DeSantis administration admits spending opioid settlement money on anti-marijuana TV ads; car dealers are once again using the Legislature to keep themselves between consumers and new cars; and Uber and Lyft want to spend less money insuring their drivers. An update from Day 30 of Florida's 2026 legislative session.Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show: Senate Bill 7040 — Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund/Executive Office of the GovernorPassed the Florida Senate by a 29-10 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 7040 amendmentFailed in the Florida Senate by a 12-27 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1562 — Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Importers, and Distributors and Franchised Motor Vehicle DealersPassed the Senate Transportation Committee by a 7-0 vote (vote sheet)Passed the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee by a 9-1 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 989 — Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, Importers, and Distributors and Franchised Motor Vehicle DealersPassed the House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee by a 16-1 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 632 — Transportation Network Company, Driver, and Vehicle Owner InsurancePassed the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee by a 6-3 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1296 — Public Employees Relations CommissionPassed the Senate Governmental and Oversight Accountability Committee by a 6-3 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1119 — Materials Harmful to MinorsPassed the Florida House of Representatives by an 84-28 vote (vote sheet)The stories discussed in today's show: Florida emergency agency ran up $405 million immigration tab in six monthsAn immigrant detention camp in the Everglades, financed with hurricane-response fundsFlorida state official acknowledges opioid money funded anti-weed campaignFlorida's top cop uses his power to prop up car dealersThe billionaires financing union-busting in FloridaQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this opinion column, Rep. John Ley provides a legislative update on Senate Bill 6346 and a proposed state income tax, developments in the Interstate-5 Bridge Replacement Program, efforts to open the Brockmann Campus, and House Bill 2605 on fibrous silicate materials. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-is-a-state-income-tax-coming-and-the-latest-on-the-i-5-bridge-project/ #Opinion #JohnLey #WashingtonState #I5Bridge #StateIncomeTax #ClarkCountyWA

Today we're talking about a quiet power grab that most Americans won't see until it's too late: states moving to weaken—or outright override—your locally elected sheriff. Sheriffs answer to you, the voters, and that's exactly why they're being targeted.I'm joined by Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank to break down Washington's Senate Bill 5974 and what it would really do: give unelected state bodies the power to disqualify, decertify, and effectively remove sheriffs the people chose. This isn't about “standards.” It's about who holds authority—citizens, or bureaucrats.Also—quick update from Olympia: we recently showed up to push back on a major homeschool regulation bill, and by God's grace, it was stopped in committee. Freedom isn't free, and God's people have to show up.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off! Show mentions: Mentions — Heidi St JohnWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday

In this episode: After fierce opposition from activists on both the right and the left, Florida senators backed down from a plan that would help the state's sugar industry threaten defamation litigation against Everglades activists, wellness influencers, and news outlets. Senators also softened — very slightly — a bill to protect a gun manufacturer that has been making enormous campaign contributions from lawsuits over company-made guns that allegedly fire without anyone ever pulling the trigger. But both battles are still far from over. An update from Day 29 of Florida's 2026 legislative session.Show notesThe bill's discussed in today's show: Senate Bill 290 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesPassed the Senate Rules Committee by a 24-0 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1748 — Evidence in Civil Actions Relating to FirearmsPassed the Senate Judiciary Committee by an 8-3 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1566 — Local Government SpendingPassed the Senate Community Affairs Committee by a 7-1 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1177 — Space FloridaPassed the House Ways & Means Committee by an 18-1 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1471 — Systems of Law and Terrorist OrganizationsPassed the House Education & Employment Committee by a 16-4 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1279 — EducationPassed the House Budget Committee by a 20-7 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1071 — EducationPassed the House Education & Employment Committee by a 15-4 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 173 — Parental RightsPassed the House Judiciary Committee by a 15-4 (vote sheet)The stories discussed in today's show: Florida politicians may give Big Sugar legal power to go after activists and silence criticsThey said they wanted to help farmers. They really wanted to hurt environmentalists.Could Florida's conservation lands soon be sold for agriculture?A gun company gave lots of money to Florida lawmakers. Now it's lobbying for legal immunity.Williams Celebrates Groundbreaking of Florida FacilityQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this opinion column, Nancy Churchill criticizes Senate Bill 5400 and argues that proposed subsidies for select media outlets, combined with credential denials for independent journalists, threaten a free press in Washington state. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-olympias-war-on-a-free-press/ #Opinion #FreePress #SB5400 #WashingtonState #FirstAmendment #NancyChurchill #DangerousRhetoric

Jake Ramsey discusses the proposed Senate Bill 1545. Paul Monies has an update on some of the lawsuits still pending stemming from the significant natural gas costs for Oklahoma utility customers following a winter storm in 2021. Keaton Ross talks about how Republican gubernatorial candidates have loaned themselves millions to launch their campaigns ahead of the June 16 primary election. Shaun Witt hosts.

Mica Miller called police fourteen times in her final months. She told officers she was afraid for her life. She told family members if she ended up with a bullet in her head, it wasn't by her—it was JP. Two days after serving her husband divorce papers, she was dead. Her death was ruled a suicide.Now the federal government has indicted Pastor John-Paul Miller. They allege he cyberstalked her for eighteen months—tracking her car, posting a nude photo of her online, contacting her over fifty times in a single day, and lying to investigators about all of it. He has pleaded not guilty.But this story doesn't start with Mica. It starts with JP's father—a man whose own ex-wife testified he exercised absolute control over his family and congregation. It continues through JP's first marriage, where his ex-wife alleges he confessed to sexual misconduct with underage church members. And it connects to Chris Skinner—a quadriplegic who drowned two weeks after allegedly confronting JP about sleeping with his wife. JP married that widow thirteen months after Mica died.Psychotherapist Shavaun Scott, who has spent thirty years treating survivors of coercive control, walks through how coercive controllers weaponize systems against their victims. In February 2024, Mica was involuntarily hospitalized. When she got out, her car was gone, her accounts were locked, and documents she'd collected about his abuse had allegedly been removed. JP told media Mica had "mental health struggles." Scott explains how abusers use these narratives to ensure no one believes their victims.Two civil lawsuits allege JP and his father sexually abused minors for decades. They deny everything. South Carolina still has no standalone coercive control law. Senate Bill 702 keeps stalling. This case shows exactly why.#MicaMiller #JPMiller #JohnPaulMiller #CoerciveControl #FederalIndictment #PastorAbuse #SolidRockChurch #MyrtleBeach #DomesticViolence #HiddenKillersJoin Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspodInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/tonybpodListen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872This publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.

Washington state Democrats want to slap a 9.9% income tax on millionaires, and they swear—pinky promise—it won't trickle down to everyone else. Where have we heard that before? This breakdown exposes the proposed Senate Bill 6346 that Republicans say violates the state constitution and contradicts a 2024 voter initiative prohibiting income tax. The kicker? It hits married couples earning $500K each combined, and as usual, the threshold will inevitably drop. Meanwhile, tech companies are hemorrhaging thousands of jobs, wealthy residents are eyeing Florida real estate, and working families will ultimately foot the bill when high earners flee. Democrats claim it's about "rebalancing" the tax code while Republicans warn it's the slippery slope voters have rejected 11-13 times before. Washington already leads the nation in gas prices, housing costs, and regulatory burdens—what could possibly go wrong with adding one of the highest income tax rates in America? Is this the final straw that turns Washington into the next California exodus story? Will voters wake up before the threshold drops to $50K? Drop your thoughts below, smash that like button, and subscribe for more government accountability content!

Majority Democrats in Washington on Tuesday rolled out the much-anticipated income tax bill. Senate Bill 6346, with Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, as the prime sponsor, is being called by supporters the ‘millionaire's tax' as it's a 9.9% tax on income over one million dollars. House Democrats advanced two proposals Monday that local officials fear could undo all the work Spokane has done downtown over the past several months to tackle public camping. HB 2489 would prohibit cities from enforcing camping bans unless they can afford to house every homeless person with their pets and belongings in the immediate area. As Washington state senators contemplate a proposal that would exempt some state employees' identities from public disclosure, a House bill would set up a task force that one critic says would “gut” the Public Records Act and undermine government transparency. Proponents argue that the task force will help tackle what they consider to be overly burdensome, expensive or frivolous requests meant to harass local governments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As Maryland lawmakers weigh how to address a looming transportation “cliff,” local leaders are sounding the alarm about what's at stake for local roads and bridges.In this special episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Michael Sanderson and Shantelle Malcolm-Lym bring listeners inside the February 3 Senate Budget and Taxation Committee hearing on Senate Bill 288, legislation aimed at stabilizing Highway User Revenues for local governments.This episode features testimony from local officials, public works leaders, and other elected officials from across Maryland, all making the case that predictable transportation funding is essential for road safety, snow removal, emergency response, and long-term infrastructure maintenance. Speakers detail how years of underfunding have created backlogs, deferred maintenance, and increased fiscal pressures on local budgets, and most importantly, why falling off the FY28 funding cliff would make those challenges worse. Listen for a full breakdown of the local perspective and why SB 288 is a critical step toward restoring balance in the State–local transportation partnership.Follow us on Socials!MACo on TwitterMACo on Facebook

This week's Legislative Update Podcast takes a slightly different approach. Instead of a full bill-by-bill recap, the episode highlights something just as important—school leaders using their voices at the Statehouse. Two Indiana principals testified this week on Senate Bill 78, sharing practical, real-world perspectives on implementation and reminding us that when principals speak, policymakers listen. I encourage you to take a few minutes to listen to this week's episode. Thank you for continuing to stay engaged in the legislative process. Your voice and perspective matter—especially as these bills continue to move forward. Sincerely, Cindy Long

The Cybercrime Magazine Podcast brings you daily cybercrime news on WCYB Digital Radio, the first and only 7x24x365 internet radio station devoted to cybersecurity. Stay updated on the latest cyberattacks, hacks, data breaches, and more with our host. Don't miss an episode, airing every half-hour on WCYB Digital Radio and daily on our podcast. Listen to today's news at https://soundcloud.com/cybercrimemagazine/sets/cybercrime-daily-news. Brought to you by our Partner, Evolution Equity Partners, an international venture capital investor partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs to develop market leading cyber-security and enterprise software companies. Learn more at https://evolutionequity.com

Two branches of Delaware government are facing off over regulation of legal cannabis businesses as the state's sluggish roll-out of legal marijuana sales continues.The General Assembly passed Senate Bill 75 last year along party lines. It nullifies ordinances passed in the last two years by county government bodies like Sussex County Council that place heavy restrictions on where cannabis businesses can set up shop.Gov. Matt Meyer vetoed the bill in August and now lawmakers are working to override it.This week, DPM State Politics reporter Bente Bouthier sat down the bill's State Senate sponsor Trey Paradee to get his thoughts on why he feels a veto is necessary.

Ryan Frost of the Washington Policy Center breaks down a proposed Washington income tax, outlining how Senate Bill 6346 would tax income above $1 million, affect capital gains and business owners, amend Initiative 2111, and limit the referendum process. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-the-income-tax-proposal-has-arrived/ #WashingtonPolicyCenter #IncomeTax #WashingtonLegislature #StateBudget #TaxPolicy

The federal indictment reads like a checklist: tracking devices on her car, a nude photo posted online without consent, fifty-plus contacts in a single day, financial interference, and lies to federal investigators. Pastor JP Miller pleaded not guilty. Mica Miller is dead — two days after serving him divorce papers, her death ruled a suicide. She'd told her family if she ended up with a bullet in her head, it wasn't her.Psychotherapist Shavaun Scott has worked with coercive control survivors for thirty years. She explains exactly what the Miller indictment reveals. Mica said JP "groomed" her from age ten. In February 2024, she was involuntarily hospitalized. When she got out, according to family affidavits, her car was gone, her accounts were locked, and documents she'd collected about JP's abuse had allegedly been removed. JP told his congregation that mentally ill people "don't know they're sick" and need to "trust people around them." Scott breaks down how abusers weaponize mental health systems and narratives to discredit victims.Mica made fourteen police reports in her final months. Reported trackers. Reported fear for her life. Tried to get a restraining order. Nothing stopped what was happening to her. Scott explains what this case exposes about how law enforcement and legal systems fail coercive control victims — and why South Carolina's ongoing failure to pass Senate Bill 702 keeps leaving victims without protection.#MicaMiller #JPMiller #TrueCrimeToday #CoerciveControl #FederalIndictment #ShavaunScott #Grooming #PastorAbuse #SystemFailure #SenateBill702Join Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspodInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/tonybpodListen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872This publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.

The federal indictment against Pastor JP Miller is a roadmap of coercive control: tracking devices planted on her car, a nude photo posted online without consent, over fifty contacts in a single day, financial interference, and lies to federal investigators. Mica Miller called police fourteen times in her final months. She reported GPS trackers. Slashed tires. Harassment. She told officers she was afraid for her life. She told her family if she ended up with a bullet in her head, it wasn't by her — it was JP. Two days after serving him divorce papers, she was dead. Ruled a suicide.Psychotherapist Shavaun Scott has spent thirty years treating survivors of coercive control. She explains exactly what the Miller indictment reveals about how these patterns work — and why every system designed to protect Mica failed. Mica told police JP "groomed" her starting when she was ten years old. In February 2024, she was involuntarily hospitalized for forty-eight hours. When she got out, according to family affidavits, her car was gone, her accounts were locked, and JP had allegedly removed documents she'd been collecting about his abuse.JP told media Mica had "mental health struggles." In a sermon, he told his congregation that mentally ill people "don't know they're sick" and need to "trust people around them." Scott breaks down how abusers weaponize mental health narratives to discredit victims and ensure no one believes them when they finally try to escape. South Carolina still has no standalone coercive control law. Senate Bill 702 has been reintroduced — and keeps stalling.#MicaMiller #JPMiller #HiddenKillersLive #CoerciveControl #FederalIndictment #ShavaunScott #Grooming #PastorAbuse #Cyberstalking #SystemFailureJoin Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspodInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/tonybpodListen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872This publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost approved petition paperwork this week that could put Senate Bill 56 on the November ballot.

In this episode: An unlikely alliance of MAHA activists, fishing guides, evangelicals and environmentalists has formed to fight a bill that would make it easier for agricultural corporations to sue people who “disparage” the industry. But the idea is still moving through Florida's Republican-controlled Legislature. Plus: General Motors wants to charge “processing fees” on car loans, a national conservative think tank wants to force more companies to fight unions, and Ron DeSantis wants to publish his own textbooks. An update from day 23 of the Florida Legislature's 2026 session. Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show: House Bill 433 — Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesPassed the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee by a 14-0 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1236 — Employers Receiving Economic Development Incentives from State AgenciesPassed the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee by a 6-3 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1217 — Prohibited Governmental Policies Regulating Greenhouse Gas EmissionsPassed the House Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee by a 12-3 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 838 — Electronic Payments of Retail Installment ContractsPassed the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee by a 10-0 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 221 — Minimum Wage RequirementsPassed the House Careers & Workforce Subcommittee by an 11-5 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 7036 — EducationPassed the Senate Education PreK-12 Committee by a 5-2 vote (vote sheet)The stories discussed in today's show: Florida politicians may give Big Sugar legal power to go after activists and silence criticsThey said they wanted to help farmers. They really wanted to hurt environmentalists.Florida's Education Department could get into the textbook publishing game Companies linked to a Trump appointee are seeking money from Florida taxpayers — and giving money to Florida lawmakersQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

On today’s “Closer Look,” first, we hear from WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali. He discusses the latest political news in Georgia, including Georgia Republican Barry Loudermilk’s decision not to run for reelection, what it could mean for Democrats in Georgia, as well as how it could impact the midterm elections. He also talks more about the 2026 Georgia Amended Fiscal Year Budget and several bills he’s following, including Senate Bill 433, that would allow Georgia drivers to have specialty license plates to inform law enforcement officers that someone in the car has a developmental disability. Plus, as part of “Closer Look’s” extended coverage following National School Choice Week, we hear from Bonnie Holliday, the president and CEO of the Georgia Charter Schools Association. She discusses school choice and her organization’s work to support Georgia charter schools. Lastly, for decades, the Atlanta-based Carter Center has monitored elections across the world. But as President Donald Trump continues to call for greater federal control in elections, The Carter Center is keeping an eye on potential election interference for this year’s midterms in the U.S. We hear from Paige Alexander, the CEO of The Carter Center.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Join Clay Edwards for an eye-opening segment from Episode #1148 of The Clay Edwards Show, where he breaks down the unanimous defeat of House Bill 2—the controversial school choice bill—in the Senate Education Committee. Clay celebrates the bill's death as a win influenced by his listeners' calls to legislators, noting its razor-thin passage in the House by just two votes, with suburban Republicans in A-rated districts voting no and two others walking out. He argues the bill wasn't as popular as proponents claimed outside the political bubble, critiques aggressive tactics like labeling opponents racist or parading controversial figures, and questions the all-or-nothing approach versus incremental reforms like Senate Bill 2002. Plus, insights on why conservatives balked at its welfare-like income provisions and the push for separate bills on charter schools and education savings accounts. Strap in for unfiltered, no-holds-barred commentary on Mississippi politics and fighting for common-sense education policy.

In this episode: Sig Sauer, one of the country's biggest gun manufacturers, is facing dozens of lawsuits from police officers and other firearm owners who suffered gunshot wounds when a company-made pistol allegedly fired without anyone ever pulling the trigger. The company is now lobbying Florida lawmakers for protection from so-called “ghost firing” suits — and it is handing out giant campaign contributions while it does so. On a more promising front: Top Florida senators want to put an end to predatory fees charged by homebuilding giant Lennar and some other housing developers. Those were among the bills on the move during day 22 of the Florida Legislature's 2026 session.Show notesThe bills discussed in today's show: Senate Bill 530 — State LotteriesPassed the Senate Regulated Industries Committee by a 9-0 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1498 — Community AssociationsPassed the Senate Regulated Industries Committee by a 7-0 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 1551 — Products Liability for FirearmsPassed the House Civil Justice Subcommittee by a 13-4 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1632 — Ideologies Inconsistent with American PrinciplesPassed the Senate Judiciary Committee by an 8-3 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 485 — Petitions for Injunction for Protection Against Domestic Violence Containing Allegations of Marriage FraudPassed the House Civil Justice & Claims Committee by a 14-0 vote (see votes)Senate Bill 1220 — TransportationPassed the Senate Transportation Committee by a 9-0 vote (vote sheet)Stories discussed in today's show: A homebuilding giant is lobbying for the power to collect endless profits from homeownersAvatar v. Gundel (2023)A gun company gave lots of money to Florida lawmakers. Now it's lobbying for legal immunity.A Walmart-backed startup doesn't like local government rules. It wants Tallahassee to overturn them.Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode: Florida's Republican-controlled Legislature is quickly coalescing around a plan to cut spending on health insurance and food stamps by using bureaucratic hurdles and red tape to block people from accessing the programs. They're doing it at the same time as they consider billions in tax cuts for corporations. Plus: Some Republicans in Tallahassee are ready to go union-busting again. Show notesThe bill's discussed in today's show: Senate Bill 1758 — Public AssistancePassed the Senate Health Policy Committee by a 8-3 vote (vote sheet)House Bill 693 — Health and Human ServicesPassed the House Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee by a 12-4 vote (vote sheet)Senate Bill 1296 — Public Employees Relations CommissionTemporarily postponed by the Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee.House Bill 995 — Public Employees Relations CommissionPassed the House Government Operations Subcommittee by a 12-5 vote (vote sheet)The stories discussed in today's show: Medicaid: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)The Uncertain Hour: The Welfare-to-Work Industrial ComplexA billionaire-backed think tank keeps sabotaging Florida workers. More attacks are coming.How conservative billionaires shape decisions inside the DeSantis administrationThe billionaires financing union-busting in FloridaQuestions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe

In this eye-opening interview, Clay sits down with Michael Jones, owner of Helping Hand Family Pharmacy in Vicksburg, to expose the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) "racket" that's devastating independent pharmacies across Mississippi. Michael breaks down how PBMs—middlemen like Express Scripts (Cigna), CVS Caremark, and Optum (UnitedHealth)—started as claim consolidators but evolved into profit machines through spread pricing, manufacturer rebates, and vertical integration, forcing locals to sell meds below cost and leading to widespread closures.   He shares his fight's origin: Post-COVID reimbursement drops hit hard, shuttering stores like People's Drugstore, creating "drug deserts." Michael dug into campaign finances, uncovering PBM-linked donors influencing lawmakers, and went public—posting at his store and on social media—to rally customers. A Mississippi audit revealed Optum paying affiliates 20x more than independents, while PBM profits soar into billions.   Urgent action: Support House Bill 1672 (State Affairs Committee) and Senate Bill 2575 (Public Health and Welfare)—bills must exit committee by February 3. Michael urges calls to the Capitol switchboard at (601) 359-3770 to demand fair reforms. Last year's near-win died at the eleventh hour; don't let it happen again. This is a battle for community businesses—stand up before independents vanish!

In this high-energy episode of the Clay Edwards Show, host Clay Edwards kicks off with a motivated Monday vibe, diving into Central Mississippi's hottest issues. He breaks down a dramatic police pursuit in Madison involving brothers Donta "Demon" Palmer and Darius Palmer, who allegedly tried to run over officers in a stolen Challenger. Clay connects the dots to a notorious local crime family, critiques Attorney General Lynn Fitch's handling of similar cases, and calls for accountability in law enforcement prosecutions.   Shifting gears, Clay spotlights the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) "racket" that's threatening independent pharmacies. Guests Robert Jordan of Corner Pharmacy in Flowood and Michael Jones of Helping Hand Family Pharmacy in Vicksburg join to explain how big chains are squeezing out locals through unfair pricing and vertical integration. They discuss key bills—House Bill 1672 and Senate Bill 2575—and urge listeners to contact legislators before the February 3 committee deadline to support protections for community businesses.   In hour three, Clay teams up with Andrew Gasser for a deep dive into the newly released Epstein files, unpacking mentions of high-profile figures like Trump, Clinton, Gates, Musk, and others, while questioning the FBI's delays and global implications.   Tune in for unfiltered talk on corruption, justice, and standing up for Mississippi's small businesses. Call your reps at (601) 359-3770 to back independent pharmacies!  

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: Senate Bill 2 from the 88th Texas Legislature (2023) required the election of 3 public members to appraisal district boards in counties with 75,000 or more in population. Micah O'Hair, director, Place 1, Lubbock Central Appraisal District, is one of these inaugural elected appraisal district board members. What he has seen, heard, and experienced is exactly what led the legislature to create these elected positions – and he says it justifies having a fully elected board. A First: Texans to Elect Appraisal District Directors Tarrant Appraisal District Directors Pass Reforms Requested by Taxpayers Texans get their first crack at electing the people overseeing the state's complicated property appraisal process Tarrant Appraisal District Scrutiny for Misallocating Votes to Elect Board Members – the non-elected members, these are “elections” to the board by taxing entities. Williamson Central Appraisal District Board Appoints Election Winner Previously Declared Ineligible Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

ERCOT is overhauling how it processes and approves large load interconnections. Here are the changes that are under consideration. Subscribe to the Blockspace newsletter! Welcome back to The Blockspace Podcast! Today, Tom Kleckner, a veteran energy correspondent at RTO Insider, joins us to talk about how ERCOT is overhauling the Texas grid to handle the unprecedented AI boom. We dive into the massive 233GW interconnection queue, the impact of Senate Bill 6 on transmission costs, and new reliability measures like DRRS. Tom breaks down the "batch process" for large loads and whether Bitcoin miners or AI data centers are better at balancing the grid. We also touch on the future of Texas energy, from gas plants to small modular nuclear reactors. Subscribe to the newsletter! https://newsletter.blockspacemedia.com Notes: * 70% demand jump to 145GW by 2031. * Interconnection queue reached 233GW. * SB6 shifts transmission costs to large loads. * Large loads defined as 75MW or greater. * Texas Energy Fund has $10 billion available. * 73% of queue requests from data centers. Timestamps: 00:00 Start 01:51 Interconnection queue changes 06:46 Kill switch 08:50 Batch system 11:22 What's DRRS? 13:39 Is DRRS an ancillary service? 16:13 Storage (battery) 18:22 4CP 22:00 Rate of change 24:18 Current state of changes 26:24 Timeline 27:33 Baseload & ghost loads