As they see it.

• Position: Quotation

"This bill actually encourages people to shoot their way out of situations, and that's not how we live in a civilized society."

--Florida Senate Minority Leader Chris Smith (D), calling for a special legislative session to overhaul Florida's 2005 Stand Your Ground law following George Zimmerman 's acquittal in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

"A car is not a telephone booth on wheels."

--Maryland Senator James Robey (D), sponsor of a bill making it a primary offense, rather than a secondary offense, to drive while talking on a hand-held cell phone, as reported in the Baltimore Sun.

"We should be held accountable like any other citizen. We are elected to represent the people, and there's no reason for us to be treated differently."

--Colorado Representative Chris Holbert (R), announcing plans to introduce a bill to abolish Colorado's special legislative license plates after CBS4 News reported the plates prevent photo radar tickets from being issued to lawmakers.

"We need a forcing mechanism, and right now, there really is not one."

--Washington Senate Majority Leader Rodney Tom (D), defending his idea to fine lawmakers $250 every day they don't pass a state budget within the regular session. State workers faced furloughs this year...