Edit: 2026_Regular_Session_Veto_and_Recommendation_Motions

Markdown Content:

= 2026 Regular Session Veto and Recommendation Motions =

This page summarizes select bills from the 2026 Session that received Governor’s recommendations and the motions to accept those recommendations during the reconvened session.

== HB1279 (Cole) – Affordable Housing; Faith-Based and Nonprofit Land ==

'''Overview:'''
HB1279 establishes a by-right approval process for affordable housing development on land owned by religious organizations and certain nonprofit entities. The Governor’s recommendations align the bill with companion legislation and refine implementation standards.

'''Governor’s Recommendations – What, Why, How:'''
The amendments make targeted adjustments to how the by-right housing process works by clarifying height comparisons, ensuring projects are taxed, allowing some local density flexibility, and tightening utility and environmental review requirements. They also confirm these projects align with local plans and encourage use of existing housing best practices.

These changes improve implementation without altering the core purpose of expanding affordable housing through faith-based and nonprofit land.

'''Floor Statement and Motion:'''
<blockquote>Mr. Speaker, the Governor’s amendments make technical and implementation-focused improvements to the bill, ensuring clarity around height, taxation, density, and environmental review while maintaining the core by-right framework.

I move that the House accept the Governor’s recommendations.</blockquote>

<hr>

== HB702 (Cole) – Firearm Give-Back / Sell-Back Programs ==

'''Overview:'''
HB702 requires local law-enforcement agencies to establish a firearm return program, allowing individuals to voluntarily relinquish firearms in a safe and structured manner.

'''Governor’s Recommendations – What, Why, How:'''
The amendment simply changes the term “buy-back” to “sell-back” throughout the bill to more accurately reflect that individuals are voluntarily returning firearms through a structured local program.

This is a technical clarification and does not change the substance or intent of the bill.

'''Floor Statement and Motion:'''
<blockquote>Mr. Speaker, this is a technical amendment that clarifies the terminology used in the bill without changing its intent or effect.

I move that the House accept the Governor’s recommendation.</blockquote>

<hr>

== HB320 (Cole) – Live Streaming While Driving ==

'''Overview:'''
HB320 creates a new prohibition on engaging with live-streaming activity while driving, aimed at reducing distracted driving and improving roadway safety.

'''Governor’s Recommendations – What, Why, How:'''
The amendment clarifies that the prohibition on live streaming while driving also includes manipulating an electronic device to enable or maintain a live stream.

This ensures the bill fully captures the behavior it is intended to prevent and closes a potential loophole in enforcement.

'''Floor Statement and Motion:'''
<blockquote>Mr. Speaker, the Governor’s amendment clarifies the scope of prohibited conduct to ensure the bill fully addresses unsafe behavior related to live streaming while driving.

I move that the House accept the Governor’s recommendation.</blockquote>

[[Category:2026 Reconvened Regular Session]]