As we slowly begin to inch our way out of the winter season, Senate measures continue to receive debate in their respective committees. The deadline to file legislation was Feb. 28, and the upper chamber is working to move measures forward in the Legislature. Several of my bills have recently received Senate hearings; one of those measures, SB 265, received a hearing on Tuesday (3-5). The bill addresses the protection of Missourians’ property rights.

Our country was founded upon the values of a free and just nation, with national sovereignty and liberty as our foundation. If a notion threatens our good American values or has the potential to damage the freedoms for which so many brave people have fought and dedicated their lives, we need to take a stand. Senate Bill 265 would prohibit our state and any political subdivision from implementing policy recommendations that infringe on private property rights without due process and are traceable to Agenda 21. This act was adopted in 1992 by the United Nations. The bill also applies to any other international law or ancillary plan of action that contravenes the U.S. or Missouri constitutions.

Agenda 21, among other provisions, aims to “promote and support policies, domestic and international, that make economic growth and environmental protection mutually supportive.” Although the act was drafted with good intentions, it has the potential to threaten Americans’ private land rights. It touts a “big government” agenda that could potentially step in and tell citizens how they can use their private land. Part of the American dream for many is to own their own property, and citizens take great pride in their home and land. A foreign, over-reaching entity should not threaten their vision of a free and prosperous life in this country.

Although Agenda 21 was not ratified by the U.S. Senate, nor does it contain the force of law in the United States, we should not let our guard down. If any initiative comes along that could harm our American principles, we need to be proactive and act before the damage is done. Lawmakers in other states have already proposed a ban on Agenda 21, and we need to join the ranks to protect our cherished American liberties.

If you have any questions regarding SB 265, please contact my Capitol office. You can also watch my recent Video Report regarding this bill by visiting my Multimedia page on my Missouri Senate website (www.senate.mo.gov/nieves). Thank you and God bless.