Senator Elaine Gannon’s Capitol Report for Jan. 27, 2023

Wrapping Up the Fourth Week

It seems like we just kicked off the 2023 legislative session, and here we are, already wrapping up the fourth week. Committee hearings and the introduction of bills were the main activities this week, and I was happy to add two more proposals to my list of sponsored bills.

Senate Bill 507 addresses our state’s disproportionately high rates of lead poisoning. Those of us who grew up in Missouri’s Lead Belt are no strangers to both the benefits and risks of lead. According to the Department of Health and Senior Services, lead can damage the brain, central nervous system, kidneys and immune system. While lead is most harmful to children under 6, it is detrimental to children under three because their systems are still developing. Under SB 507, children’s health care providers will provide education and testing options for children under four, and every child under six will be annually tested or assessed for lead poisoning risk. The other measure I introduced to my colleagues is Senate Bill 527, which makes a few modifications regarding access to dental provider networks, contracts and health care services.

I have some great news to share about broadband expansion in our community. The Missouri Department of Economic Development has announced the 60 recipients of the Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program. These funds are projected to create more than 55,000 connections in areas that previously lacked adequate internet service. Thanks to these grants, each county in the 3rd Senatorial District may enjoy improved connectivity and internet speed in the coming months.

Senator Gannon discusses broadband expansion with representatives from Spectrum Mid-America.