After the prayer and introductions this morning, the Senate recessed briefly to be addressed by three of the interns that have served the Legislature this session. Carlo Sciara, Emily Mervine and Stephen Schelling spoke fondly about their experiences in the past months at the state Capitol. College students have the opportunity to be interns for specific members, for committees or for all members through a journalism internship for the Legislature during regular sessions.
Following the addresses, members adopted two resolutions. The first was to congratulate the Martinsburg High School basketball team for winning the 2009 Class AAA championship, through Senate Resolution 57. Then, through Senate Resolution 58, the Senate memorialized life of Glenn Thomas “Tom” Searls (pictured), a longtime capitol reporter for the Charleston Gazette. Several members rose to recall memories and the Searls family was present on the floor to accept the Resolution.
The Senate received messages from the House regarding 17 bills. Members refused to concur on Senate Bill 249, which would relate to the annual school calendar, and sent it back to the House. For bills like House Bill 2621, which prohibits the use of cell phone and text-messaging devices while operating a motor vehicle except for emergencies, the Senate refused to concur with the House and appointed a conference committee to settle the matter. Nine bills were passed and completed legislative action.
The Senate also heard executive nominations this morning. Members voted to show their consent for nominations within messages 2, 4 and 8.
The Senate recessed until 2:00 p.m.
