Bills Being Heard in Committee this Week
The third full week of the 2017 legislative session brought with it a packed Capitol building for the numerous committee hearings being conducted. The legislative process works best when citizens are engaged and involved, so I encourage you to visit the state Capitol and attend a hearing so you can witness the action. The public is always welcome in committee hearings, and you may even feel compelled to testify in support or opposition to some of the bills that are being heard. To make sure you are up to date on what legislation is being heard each week in committees, you can visit the Senate Hearings webpage.
Last week I used my column as an opportunity to inform you about which committees I serve on and some of the legislation I’m sponsoring. This week I’ll tell you about the other bills I have filed this year.
Senate Bill 191 – would authorize the city of Jackson to impose a sales tax for public safety purposes.
Senate Bill 192 – would establish the Senior Services Growth and Development Program.
Senate Bill 193 – would require health insurers to update their electronic and paper dental services provider materials available to plan members and potential members.
Senate Bill 194 – would provide that a managed care plan’s network is adequate if the health carrier is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care.
Senate Bill 209 – would modify how fourth class cities may proceed with road improvements.
Senate Bill 233 – would create and modify certain laws relating to emergency communication services.
Senate Bill 301 – would modify mandated reporting requirements for sexual assault victims in long-term care facilities.
Once the bills are filed, they are then assigned to the proper committee for a public hearing before they can be heard by the entire body on the floor of the Senate Chamber. If the Senate passes a bill, it then is reported to the House of Representatives where it can be assigned to a House committee for a public hearing and follows a similar process as the Senate. Once the House and Senate Truly Agree and Finally Pass a piece of legislation, it heads to the governor’s desk for his signature or veto.
I urge you to contact me with any questions or concerns you have about state government so that I can better represent you during the 2017 legislative session.
Contact Me
I always appreciate hearing your comments, opinions, and concerns. Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-2459. You may write me at Wayne Wallingford, Missouri Senate, State Capitol, Jefferson City, MO 65101, or email at wayne.wallingford@senate.mo.gov or https://www.senate.mo.gov/mem27/ .
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