Speaker keeps cameras rolling as senators argue over procedure

It was Round 3 in legislative session today as senators continued expressing disagreements. The arguments didn't focus on the bill before them - instead, over process, transparency, and procedure once again dominated the floor.

In an effort to move Bill 25 forward, Senator Chris Duenas assured colleagues the measures public hearing notices, testimonies, and transcripts were properly posted in full compliance with the Legislative Committee on Rules. Duenas announced, “So I take absolute umbrage with this statement that ‘We don’t get to come to the hearings’. You have access, you have staff.”

The discussion, however, spiraled into a back-and-forth about legislative processes and past practices. Vice Speaker Tony Ada, chair of the rules committee, calling for an end to outdated procedures.  “These may have been things that have been allowed in the previous legislatures, but I think, Mr. Speaker, this needs to stop," he said.

The debate intensified, as Speaker Frank Blas, Jr. made an unusual move - calling for recess, but keeping their livestream active and their microphones on.

Blas said, “It was purposeful, ma’am. So that people can hear how we’re going to get through this, okay?”

Senator Telo Taitague pointed out that the public voted for change, demanding more action from lawmakers, saying, “There’s going to be trial and error. There’s going to be mistakes made and we’re here to make it better, correct it. Not point fingers or what used to happen.”

For some senators, the real concern was not just process, but the public's frustration over continuous bickering. Senator Vince Borja reminded his colleagues why they were elected, stating, “When we stand here and talk about trying to make things better, it’s not just getting what you want. It’s about trying to work with everybody else so that you put the best bill forward.”

Senator Sabrina Salas Matanane was direct in her criticism, saying, “I feel like all I’m hearing is a bunch of noise, complaining, bickering! For those that are incumbents, how many of you had your bill held back, not had a public hearing?”

She added, “Who was in charge of the Committee on Rules? Who was the speaker?”

To end, Senator Shawn Gumataotao made a simple but firm appeal to his colleagues, declaring, “We have rules. We have work to do. I’m hoping that we can get to it at some point.”

Ultimately, Bill 25 was moved to the Third Reading File.