JEFFERSON CITY — While most people only hear about activity in the Capitol through local news outlets, like newspapers, radio and television, a normal day in the Missouri Senate is so much more than what goes on in the chamber.

During the legislative week, numerous Senate committees hold hearings on bills, and listen to testimony either for or against bills. During session, sitting on the Senate Appropriations Committee takes up a large chunk of time, as it should. Hearing testimony from every state department regarding its wants and needs requires hours of testimony. Then working with the House budget bills, the 13 bills that make up the financial plan for the next fiscal year, starting July 1, 2014, is time consuming, as well. However, those details are incredibly important to all Missourians, as we strive to be fiscally responsible to the citizens of Missouri.

As chairman of the Senate Education Committee, I have the responsibility of running weekly hearings on education bills. All levels of education, from pre-school to higher education, fall under the umbrella of the Education Committee. I also have the honor of sitting on two other Senate committees: the Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee, and the Financial and Governmental Organizations and Elections Committee.

Many days, the Appropriations Committee runs from 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., until the Senate is called into session. Now that we are in the latter part of session, committee hearings are conducted upon noon adjournment, lasting until 3:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m., and sometimes reconvene when the Senate recesses in the evening.

Many days, I have the opportunity to meet with individuals and groups visiting the Capitol from the 21st District. I also get to host many elementary, high school and university groups.

Of course, this is a description of typical day in the Missouri Senate. One of the interesting things about holding an elected office is how often things aren’t what could be considered typical. I meet so many people in the course of the 19-week legislative session, make new friends and work on many different topics that I continue to learn new things each and every day. Although there are only four weeks left in this legislative session, much work remains to be finished. However, I genuinely enjoy the opportunities I have here in the Capitol, and I love the work we do, strengthening and securing the Show-Me State in order to ensure a solid future.

As always, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions and trying to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 866-277-0882 (toll-free) or 573-751-2272, or by fax at 573-526-7381.