Advocacy Days in the Missouri Senate

Jefferson City, Mo. – During the legislative session, the Missouri State Capitol is a bustling place full of energy and excitement. Lawmakers fill both the Senate and the House of Representatives chambers as they work diligently to pass meaningful legislation.

While lawmakers are hard at work, citizens from all over the state visit the State Capitol daily, hoping to speak with their elected officials, watch the legislative process in action.

During session, civic groups travel to the State Capitol to speak with Senators and Representatives about their views on key issues. Passionate citizens also testify during committee hearings ensuring their voices are heard in the lawmaking process.

This week, more than 100 advocates for recovery and treatment for substance abuse and mental health issues visited the Capitol to speak with legislators about a variety of issues. Among the things discussed with lawmakers is the $3 million the governor included in his preliminary budget for recovery services through the Department of Mental Health. Other legislation the group discussed with lawmakers, includes: House Bill 1253, which would create the Joint Committee on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment, which would consist of 10 members, who must meet at least once during the legislative session. The committee would also hold hearings on current and future drug and substance abuse, explore solutions to substance abuse issues and draft or modify legislation as necessary to reach the goals of finding and funding education and treatment solutions to combat drug and substance use and abuse.

House Bill 1618 aims to get prescription drugs off of Missouri streets. House Bill 1618 would allow unused controlled substances to be accepted from the public through collection receptacles, drug disposal boxes and other means through drug take back programs. The legislation also requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to develop an awareness program regarding drug disposal.

For more information about the Missouri Capitol or the Missouri Senate, please visit the Missouri Senate’s website at www.senate.mo.gov.