JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Brian Munzlinger, R-Williamstown, announced today (2-12) Senate Bill 17 has received committee approval and will move to the full Missouri Senate for possible debate.

"I am pleased, despite original differences in the bill language, we were able to come together and put the needs of the career and technical education field first,” Sen. Munzlinger said. “This demonstrates the commitment of everyone involved towards education and the creation of future jobs for Missouri citizens.”

The substitute bill changes the name of the council, seeks additional member participation and requires the council's annual budget recommendation to go to the State Board of Education.

Senator Munzlinger continued, “I felt it was important that this council be given the latitude to operate while responding to the needs of our career education fields, the departments of education and workforce development, as well as Missouri employers. It is important that we have this council in state statute so that they can work to close the gaps that currently exist between the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Coordinating Board for Higher Education and Missouri Division of Workforce Development."

Senator Munzlinger says the legislation is a collaborative effort among many lawmakers in the Missouri General Assembly. Missouri Association of School Administrators Executive Director Roger Kurtz, Missouri Council of Career and Technical Administrators President Randall Gooch and Mark Fuchs, President of the Missouri Association for Career and Technical Education also recognize the work of lawmakers from both chambers.

“I would like to thank Sen. Munzlinger and Rep. Mike Thomson, R-Maryville, for their work with stakeholders to develop a plan that works best for Missouri’s schools, economy and most importantly its students,” said Kurtz. “Career and technical education is a vital part of our economic future, and Senate Bill 17 puts career and technical education back in the spotlight by ensuring this important part of our educational system is protected for years to come."

"I have read the revised language of Senate Bill 17, and I am confident that this is a positive step for career and technical education in the state of Missouri,” said Gooch. “The structure that this bill defines will provide a platform to ensure that Missouri is a leader in career and technical education for the purpose of preparing students to compete in the current and future economy, as well as serve as an engine for economic growth within our state."

“We support Senate Bill 17 and appreciate the work that Sen. Munzlinger has put into it,” said Fuchs. “He's truly a champion at the policy level who cares about career and technical education students. Our hope is these committees will be instrumental in developing a comprehensive long-range strategic plan for career and technical education in Missouri and best represent the interests of this type of education in future legislative measures.”

The substitute bill was voted out of the Senate Financial and Governmental Organizations and Elections Committee on Feb. 11, 2013. The bill now waits for a spot on the formal calendar and floor debate before heading to the Missouri House for similar consideration.