JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Brian Munzlinger, R-Williamstown, returns to Missouri’s Capitol as the First Regular Session of the 97th General Assembly starts its duties.

“It is always an honor to serve the public and to see all of my colleagues, old and new alike,” Sen. Munzlinger said. “The first day of the session is largely ceremonial, but most of us have been working since the 2012 session ended on what we will discuss and debate in 2013, and our real work started today.”

Senator Munzlinger has already prefiled 11 bills, including three that were given their bill numbers for the year on the first day of prefiling, in December 2012.

“Since we are starting a new session with several new members, we have the opportunity for new ideas,” Sen. Munzlinger said. “In the coming weeks, we will learn of any new or expanded committees and receive our chairmanship and membership assignments. I am looking forward to another legislative session and the chance to make Missouri even better in the years to come.”

The 2013 regular legislative session will conclude on May 17, 2013.