JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, issued the following statement relating to the First Regular Session of the 101st General Assembly, which concluded on May 14:
“As I reflect on the 2021 legislative session, I am proud of the fact that my colleagues — both in the Missouri Senate and the Missouri House of Representatives — were able to stand up for firefighter professionals who protect our families every day. I was thankful to see legislation that will provide for their peace of mind, if they develop cancer while in the line of duty, passed by both chambers and sent to the governor’s desk.
“Protecting the vulnerable, fighting for those who need our support and balancing the budget were my priorities. I am pleased by the steps taken to increase access to mental health care for tens of thousands Missourians.
“Reflecting back on the last five months, I am disappointed that we weren’t able to solve the unemployment benefits overpayment problem that is plaguing more than 40,000 Missouri citizens. I am prepared to come back for an extra session to assist on clearing up the overpayments issue and to fund Medicaid expansion, as approved by the voters in August of 2020.
“It is always an honor to serve the residents of Springfield, and I believe by working together, we can move our great state forward.”