Springtime at the Statehouse

Spring has arrived in mid-Missouri and the signs are everywhere at the State Capitol. If the blooming flowers around the grounds weren’t enough, the throngs of visitors to the Statehouse leave no doubt we’re nearing the end of the legislative session. The next few weeks will bring a bustle of activity as school groups from across the state travel to Jefferson City for field trips. A lot of public advocacy groups schedule their Capitol events for these final weeks as well. The nice weather makes travel more enjoyable, and they know legislators will be focused on getting things done as adjournment nears.

This week, we had a variety of groups in the Capitol making their case to lawmakers. Tuesday, electric linemen from around the state visited the Capitol for Lineman Appreciation Day. I had the privilege of introducing a group of Ameren line workers in the Senate chamber. Wednesday morning, Missouri firefighters rallied in the Rotunda to honor all the brave public servants who keep us safe. If you didn’t see the giant American flag flying high over Capitol Avenue from the boom of a Jefferson City Fire Department truck, you missed an impressive sight. It was something to see. Thanks to all our firefighters!

Amid all the activity, the legislative process continues with committee hearings and floor debates. This week, Senate Bill 22 received a hearing in the House Judiciary Committee. This legislation would make minors convicted of second-degree murder ineligible for early parole. I was inspired to sponsor the bill by the murder of Elizabeth Olten in 2009. The then-15-year-old child who killed Elizabeth was originally sentenced to life in prison, but a subsequent change in Missouri’s sentencing law made parole possible. The details of this crime are so egregious, I don’t expect the killer to be released any time soon, but I see no reason Elizabeth’s family should have to face the killer and relive the crime in parole hearing after parole hearing. It’s my hope the bill will be passed by the House and sent to the governor’s desk for his signature.

In other activity, my Senate Bill 20, regarding the terms of service for members of the board that oversees the retirement system for MoDOT and Highway Patrol employees, was voted out of the House Committee on Pensions. Also this week, the Senate General Laws Committee issued a “do pass” recommendation for my Senate Bill 647, a measure modifying provisions relating to the Sheriff’s Retirement System.

As always, it is an honor to serve the 6th Senatorial District. If my office can be service to you, please feel free to contact us 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.