Leaders say sequencing and a floor reading slowed transmission bill; cultural resources bill advanced

Asked about late procedural events on the Senate floor, leaders said they had hoped to move a cultural-resources bill and a transmission bill at the same time but the sequencing and limited time meant only the cultural-resources-related path secured the votes.

Jamie Peterson said the leadership had aimed to move both bills together but acknowledged the complexity and collateral consequences of the measures. He said Senate votes coalesced late in the afternoon for the cultural-resources bill and that the transmission bill did not advance as planned.

On the procedural issue, Peterson said Senator Short exercised her right to request the transmission bill be read in full; he called that within her rights and said the actionwas part of Senate rules and floor prerogatives.

Leaders said they will continue to work on both topics and expect further negotiations in the interim and in the next legislative session if necessary.