Time is a very precious commodity, especially during the last two weeks of the legislative session.

 

Today, we held our first hearing on Senate bills.

 

After one senator had testified on his legislation, I asked, “Is your bill identical to the version that has passed the House?”

 

“Yes” was the reply.

 

I would have told the committee that before any questions were asked.

 

Another senator fumbled with his laptop before presenting a power point on a bill that had already passed the House.

 

“’If you have the votes, sit down and shut up,” I reminded my seatmate.  “In this instance, sit down and keep your laptop off.”

 

An advocate came to me with a letter asking the Governor to fund a program in his supplemental budget, which he could submit as soon as tomorrow.

 

“Instead of spending time getting more members to sign the letter,” I advised, “get it up to the Governor’s office.”