On Friday, May 15, lawmakers wrapped up their work for the 2020 legislative session. Many aspects of this year’s session were vastly different from previous years. Due to the spread of COVID-19 in our state, lawmakers worked from home for several weeks in the hopes that eventually we would be able to return to the State Capitol to resume the legislative session. Despite a shortened session, I am proud of the work accomplished by the General Assembly over the past five months. In this week’s column, I want to highlight several of the bills that were truly agreed to and finally passed during the 2020 legislative session.
This year, I was proud to support legislation to help victims of sexual assault seek justice in our state. Senate Bill 569 establishes a secure tracking system to allow individuals to track the progress of their sexual assault forensic evidence kits. This legislation also establishes the “Sexual Assault Bill of Rights,” which provides victims of sexual assault with certain rights and protections during any forensic examination or interview with law enforcement, the prosecuting attorney or any member of the defense’s counsel. Under this legislation, individuals now have the right to consult with employees or volunteers of rape crisis centers during any examination or interview. In addition, the legislation directs the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to establish a telehealth network of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE), who are qualified to collect evidence following an attack. Through this network, hospitals without a certified SANE on staff would be able to seek professional consultation through the telehealth network, allowing hospitals access 24 hours a day, seven days a week to appropriate professional assistance.
House Bill 1511 allows any resident or nonresident military spouse to apply for an occupational license in Missouri, as long as they hold a valid, current license in another state. From my perspective, this legislation will make the licensing process easier for military spouses who want to continue working in their career field while their spouse is stationed in Missouri.
House Bill 2046 includes the “Fresh Start Act of 2020.” This language states that an individual cannot be disqualified from receiving an occupational license solely because of a conviction of a crime, unless that crime is related to the responsibilities and duties of that particular occupation. I believe this legislation will provide a second chance to countless Missourians who have served their time and want to create a better life for themselves and their family.
House Bill 2046 also includes the “Expanded Workforce Access Act of 2020.” This legislation allows individuals who have completed the eighth grade the opportunity to participate in a federally-approved apprenticeship program and be granted a license if they pass the necessary exams. This legislation gives additional opportunities for individuals who want to pursue a meaningful career, but may not have a high school diploma.
Despite the unprecedented circumstances surrounding this year’s legislative session, I believe my colleagues and I worked hard to pass legislation that will improve the lives of all Missourians. I feel privileged to serve you in the Missouri Senate, and I am grateful for your continued support.