Senator Mike Bernskoetter

6th Senatorial District

For Immediate Release: 

May 3, 2024

Capitol Building, Room 416

Jefferson City, MO 65101

Contact Kenny Ross: 

 573-751-2076

Making a Path Forward

As we approach the last few weeks of session, it is more important than ever to assess our priorities as a Senate and the priorities of Missourians. 

This week the discussion in the Senate revolved around our largest priority at this time of year: the state operating budget. The budget must be passed by May 10th, or we will be required to return for an extra session. I believe, if we focus on the needs of our constituents and work toward equitable agreements, the Senate can pass a balanced budget that will provide for the needs of our government and Missourians. 

As part of this effort and after weathering an over 40-hour filibuster, we perfected Senate Bill 748. I believe this bill is one of the single most important pieces of legislation the Senate will pass this year and will save many Missouri lives. It handles the disbursement of the federal reimbursement allowance (FRA). This monumental federal grant provides our rural hospitals, ambulances and many other medical resources with $4.5 billion to ensure their operation. This bill is a priority and necessary for many rural hospitals and clinics across the state to continue running. In my opinion it would be irresponsible to take up the budget without approving this large portion of its makeup. 

With this legislation moving forward, the Senate is on its way to a fair and balanced budget.

As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or a desire to be a witness for a bill, please don’t be afraid to come to my office. My door is always open.

Please feel free to contact my office at 573-751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.