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Senator presses leadership on timing of weather decisions; Senate adjourns until March 17
Summary
During March 12 proceedings, Senator Dotzler criticized leadership for not cancelling or delaying floor business earlier amid hazardous road closures; Senator Evans defended continuity. Senator Klumich moved to adjourn and the Senate adjourned until March 17 by voice vote.
Senator Dotzler raised concerns about member safety during a severe storm, saying he had driven in hazardous conditions and that it would have been preferable for leadership or staff to decide earlier to delay or cancel floor action. Dotzler said major interstates were closed and described a near-accident on his drive, urging timelier decisions in the future to avoid putting senators at risk.
Senator Evans responded by emphasizing that meteorological tools and preparation allowed him to arrive ahead of the storm and that constituents expect representatives to continue business. He noted committee and subcommittee meetings scheduled for the day and affirmed his ability to attend despite weather.
After remarks from senators on both sides of the issue, Senator Klumich (identified in the transcript with varying spellings) moved that the Senate adjourn until Tuesday, March 17 at 9 a.m. The presiding officer called for a voice vote; the chair declared the motion prevailed and the Senate adjourned. The transcript does not record a roll-call tally for the adjournment motion.
Why this matters: The exchange highlights internal debate about balancing member safety and legislative responsibilities during severe weather. Dotzler’s comments called for clearer, timelier decisions from leadership; no formal procedural change was recorded in the transcript.
The Senate is scheduled to reconvene Tuesday, March 17 at 9 a.m.
