Opening Week of the 100th General Assembly
This week marked the beginning of an important landmark in Missouri’s history: the start of the First Regular Session of the 100th General Assembly. The 2019 legislative session began on Jan. 9, at noon, with the swearing in of newly-elected senators, myself included. The oath of office we take reminds us that we serve the people of Missouri first and foremost. We are also reminded that we abide not only by our state constitution, but also by the wisdom provided by the U.S. Constitution as well. I understand the responsibility placed in me as a Missouri state senator, and I do not take my oath lightly. It is truly an honor to serve in the Missouri Senate and to be a part of this historic time in the Legislature. My colleagues and I are committed to making our great state a better place.
Before session began, lawmakers in the Missouri Senate pre-filed over 200 bills for the 2019 legislative session. With the last day to file bills being March 1, there are likely to be more bills and proposals introduced in the Senate in the coming weeks. Regardless of whether a bill was pre-filed or filed during session, the path forward is the same. These Senate bills will be introduced on the Senate floor and then later assigned to a relevant committee for review. During the early weeks of session, much of the work in the Senate is done in these committees. Bills will be heard before committees, which will assess the merits of the proposed legislation. Once a hearing is conducted, the committee may decide to amend and vote on the legislation. If it is approved by the committee, it is then sent to the Senate floor for further consideration by all members of the Senate, before possibly being sent for consideration by the Missouri House of Representatives.
There are numerous important issues for us to tackle this session, and I am eager to get back to work. Again, it is truly an honor to serve as the senator for the 2nd Senatorial District. Over the coming months, I’ll do my best to keep you informed on the important work being done in Jefferson City.
As always, thank you for your interest in our work at the state Capitol. I look forward to discussing some of the important issues affecting our state and our community in my next report. It is an honor and a privilege to serve you in the Missouri Senate!
Very Sincerely,
Robert F. (Bob) Onder, Jr.