Updates from the floor of the Missouri Senate
In an effort to expand access to broadband in rural areas, House Bill 1880 was discussed in the Missouri Senate. This proposal allows the state to facilitate and encourage the installment of fiber optic infrastructure by rural electric cooperatives. The implementation of fiber optic infrastructures in Missouri’s rural communities has become a necessity in a world that continues to depend on high speed internet. I recognize there are many communities throughout the 21st Senatorial District and across the state that have limited to no access to the internet once they leave work or school. Access to the internet has almost become a part of our school’s daily curriculum and in order for our students to be successful, they must have access to reliable, high speed internet. As the Missouri Senate continues to discuss this issue, I am committed to working with my colleagues to pass this meaningful legislation.
Budget Debate
In the midst of a difficult budget year, the Missouri Senate approved its version of the 13 appropriation bills that make up the $28 billion state operating budget for 2019. Each of these bills determine how much funding each state agency and department will receive in order to adequately and effectively serve Missourians across the state. This includes funding for our state’s elementary and secondary schools. Knowing that adequate funding for Missouri’s schools is key to preparing our youth for a successful future, I support fully funding the foundation formula. I believe providing access to a quality education while ensuring our schools have the resources they need is the only way we can continue to encourage excellence in our schools and ensure a bright future for our state.
Tort Reform
Senate Bill 608 has been approved by the Missouri House of Representatives, bringing the proposal one step closer to becoming law. This legislation would protect businesses against frivolous lawsuits stemming from third-party criminal activity that occurs on their property without their knowledge.
I believe the burden of violent crimes should be on criminals, not law-abiding business owners. The proposal gives the landowner a solid defense from people who are committing crimes or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol on their property. The Missouri Senate will now review the House’s version of SB 608. I am confident that my colleagues in both chambers can come to an agreement on this issue pass this common sense protection for Missouri job creators.
Community Updates
I was honored to have the opportunity to welcome the University of Central Missouri Women’s Basketball team and the UCM Women’s Soccer team – both ending their season as Division II champions – to the Missouri Senate this week. Last month, the UCM Women’s Basketball team took first place in the NCAA Division II tournament, defeating the Ashland University Eagles of Ohio, while the UCM Women’s Soccer team earned their first national championship in December 2017 against the Carson-Newman University Eagles of Tennessee. Both teams had a spectacular season, and I have no doubt their dedication to defense, their grit and ability to never quit propelled them during their historic seasons.
I would like to take the opportunity to draw your attention to an important upcoming event in Senate District 21. Please mark your calendars for a Veterans Round Table hosted by U.S. Congresswoman Vicki Hartzler from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on May 2, 2018. The event will take place at Camp Valor Outdoors located at 1527 SW 300 Road Kingsville, Mo 64061. For more information visit the Camp Valor Outdoors Facebook Page.
As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-4302. You may also email me at denny.hoskins@senate.mo.gov