The Countdown to Adjournment

It seems like I was just being sworn in to serve as your state senator, but here we are, already counting down to adjournment. With only one more week to transform legislative proposals into law, legislators are diligently working to negotiate language, add amendments and move legislation to the governor’s desk. I’m proud to report Senate Bill 167 is approaching this destination and has been placed on the House calendar for third reading. If this passes, our hardworking professional drivers will have more options to submit their medical certification for a CDL. Its passage will also signify my first piece of legislation to make it across the legislative finish line.

At this point in session, the focus has shifted in our chamber from perfecting Senate Bills to passing proposals approved by the House. I have been named the bill handler for three House bills and one joint resolution. One of these, House Bill 437, mirrors my proposal to enable public library districts to change the dates of their fiscal year from July 1- June 30 to the standard calendar year. This easy switch will help libraries adhere to contracts, apply for funding and plan events accordingly. I’m also handling House Bill 184, which is similar in scope to my electrical vehicle charging station legislation and was debated at length on the Senate floor on April 24.   

I took Senate Bill 88 up another notch by presenting it to the House General Laws Committee on May 4. This bill allows experienced, qualified professionals from other states to obtain a temporary, two-year license to work in Missouri.

My legislation which would permit home-schooled children to participate in school district activities was approved by the House General Laws Committee on May 4. All children deserve the enrichment and life skills participating in extra-curricular activities provides, regardless of where and how they receive their education. I’ll continue pushing forward to get this across the finish line in the final week of session.

It is an honor serving those who call the 26th Senatorial District home. If you need assistance with navigating state government or the legislative process, please reach out by calling 573-751-3678 or emailing Ben.Brown@senate.mo.gov.