Limiting Governmental Overreach

The final week of February was productive at the State Capitol. The Senate perfected several more proposals, and I had the opportunity to present my bills to prevent governmental overreach during two public hearings.

After weeks of deliberation and multiple amendments and substitutions offered, the Senate passed Senate Joint Resolution 74 on Feb. 22. If the Legislature and Missouri voters approve SJR 74, constitutional amendments will have to receive a majority of votes cast statewide as well as in five out of eight of the state’s congressional districts to pass. I believe this added provision will make it more difficult for out-of-state special interest groups to pour money into our state to try to essentially "purchase" an amendment to our constitution. It will also give rural voices better representation in deciding the fate and content of this imperative document.

I voted against the final amendment to the resolution because it stripped what I believe was vital language clarifying residency and citizenship requirements, as well as protections from foreign or out-of-state influence. However, this language would have only prevented non-U.S. citizens from voting on initiative petitions. My Senate Joint Resolution 78, which is expected to be voted out of committee soon, would prevent non-U.S. citizens from voting in ALL elections, as well as prevent ranked choice voting in our state. I believe preserving the integrity of our elections is vital, and I am committed to continue fighting to ensure our elections are fair and secure. Overall, I was disappointed that the final bill that passed the Senate lacked these provisions, but I am hopeful that the Missouri House of Representatives will restore similar or stronger language to ensure the protection of our Constitution.

Honoring Our Veterans and Fallen Heroes

My proposals to honor two fallen heroes from our community were combined into one bill and passed by the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee on Feb. 21. I look forward to ushering this legislation across the finish line to commemorate the lives and service of former Hermann Police Chief Mason Griffith, who perished in the line of duty, and Staff Sergeant Paul Hasenbeck, a POW/MIA who served in Vietnam. If the legislation passes, the memorial highways will be designated in Hermann and Freeburg, these heroes’ prospective hometowns. Click here to view my presentation.

Last week another proposal of mine moved one step closer to making its way to the Senate floor. Senate Bill 912 would allow veterans with verified disability status to not have to be burdened with repeated verifications of their status in order to obtain their disabled license plates or windshield placards. This legislation also extends the renewal period of disabled plates from 4 years to 8 years. 

I learned about this issue from a veteran while I was going door-to-door during my campaign. I was appalled by this burdensome requirement by our state. I’m hopeful we can remove this unnecessary “red tape” for military veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. 

Another component of this bill removes the fee for specialized military plates for veterans and creates a new specialized license plate for “Army of Occupation” medal recipients. This honor is extended to veterans who served in occupied territories after WWII, such as Germany, Italy, Austria, Japan or Korea. I believe offering free specialized plates to our veterans is the least that we can do for our service members. Click the image below to watch my presentation on SB 912.

2024 Washington Area Chamber of Commerce Government Forum

On Feb. 23, several area legislators and I joined the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce for the annual Government Forum to discuss a number of important community issues. 

Senator Brown addresses the audience at the annual government forum.

Removing Red Tape to Grow Workforce

During the Senate Governmental Accountability Committee hearing on Feb. 29, I explained the prevalence of Missouri’s labor shortage and the importance of limiting governmental interference when attracting professionals to the state’s workforce. Under Senate Bill 817, workers with three years of related experience in another state will be able to apply for an expedited, two-year temporary license, enabling qualified applicants and military service men and women to work and provide for their families as they complete training and other requirements to obtain a permanent occupational license. I believe this measure strikes a balance between maintaining safeguards to protect the health and safety of every Missourian and securing a competent workforce in a highly competitive market. This measure passed the Senate last session, so I expect quick passage again this year.

Job Shadowing at the State Capitol

On Feb. 28, I enjoyed showing a student from Osage County the inner workings of the Missouri Senate and the legislative process. Maya Libbert is a member of Fatima High School’s FCCLA Chapter, and she traveled to Jefferson City with other leaders to tour the Capitol, meet with elected officials and job shadow legislators.

Maya Libbert joins Sen. Brown on the Senate dais.

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.