Senator Elaine Gannon’s Capitol Report for Feb. 6, 2023

Session Shifts into Full Throttle

The 2023 legislative session shifted into full throttle last week as senators began the process of debating and perfecting bills in the chamber. On Feb. 1, the body perfected Senate Bill 25 to exempt the recipients of broadband internet expansion grants from taxation. The Senate also concluded discussions on the combined Senate Bills 3 & 69, a measure to promote business development and free small business owners from burdensome regulations. This “Regulatory Sandbox Act” permits businesses to apply for waivers from regulations for up to two years, giving them time and flexibility to introduce new products and explore innovative ways to benefit consumers. The legislation also creates the Office of Entrepreneurship to promote business growth and support entrepreneurs in Missouri, including women, minorities and veterans. These proposals will have to pass a final vote in the Senate before they are declared “third read and passed.”

On Feb. 2, the Senate passed its first piece of legislation, Senate Bill 51, and sent it to the House for consideration. This measure aligns Missouri with the other states’ policies and permits advanced-level physical therapists to evaluate and treat patients, provide educational information and introduce wellness and fitness programs, without requiring a physician’s referral or prescription. Skipping the extra steps of scheduling an appointment and paying for an office visit will save patients time and money, and I think this policy will be extremely helpful and beneficial to our rural community.

Postpartum Health Care Bill Advances

I’m happy to report my legislation to extend MO HealthNet coverage to postpartum women from 60 days to one year following the birth of her child passed out of committee and was placed on the Senate perfection calendar. Senate Bill 45 has broad support from the health care industry and advocacy groups, and I am confident extending postpartum care will reduce our state’s high maternal mortality rates and give new moms and babies a healthy start. Federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act will cover the cost of this coverage for five years.

Birthday Wishes

I was pleasantly surprised on Feb. 2 when a Senate colleague asked for an inquiry and wished me a “happy birthday” on the floor. How blessed I am to be able to celebrate my birthday surrounded by great people in the beautiful Missouri Senate chamber.

Senator Gannon receives well wishes from her Senate colleagues.