This week, I brought before the Missouri Senate for debate Senate Bill 11. My proposal would specify that contracts for health care benefits provided by a farm bureau to its members would not be considered insurance under state law. One of the biggest problems for all sole-proprietors, including farmers, is access to affordable and quality health coverage. Senate Bill 11 offers another option to individuals and families who need access to affordable, quality benefits and result in more people having access to health coverage.

At the same time, several other proposals have been heard in varying committees in the Missouri House. Senate Bill 103 would modify provisions relating to court operations, including court automation, compensation for court reporters and court surcharges for expungement petitions; Senate Bill 13 seeks to modify provisions relating to financial institutions; Senate Bill 101 would enact provisions relating to lender-placed insurance; and Senate Bill 181 would privatize Missouri Employers Mutual Insurance Company. I hope my colleagues in the House will help keep these bills moving and we can cross the finish line by the end of session.

I wish you and your family a Happy Easter.

I am honored to serve as your senator in the Missouri Senate. If, at any time, you have questions, concerns or ideas regarding state government, please feel free to contact me at (573) 751-8793 or Sandy.Crawford@senate.mo.gov.