JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher is pleased to announce the establishment of the Special Committee on Innovation and Technology, a new initiative aimed at exploring and addressing the rapidly evolving landscape of innovation and technology in the Show-Me State. The committee will identify and evaluate emerging technologies, develop strategies for the integration of innovative solutions, create insights for guidance on technology-related policies, and foster a culture of innovation.
State Representative Chad Perkins has been selected to serve as the committee chair and State Representative John Voss as the vice chair. The distinguished members of this committee include:
- Cameron Parker, R-Campbell
- Danny Busick, R-Newtown
- Sherri Gallick, R-Belton
- Jeff Farnan, R-Stanberry
- Marlon Anderson, D-St. Louis
- Michael Johnson, D-Kansas City
- Bridget Walsh Moore, D-St. Louis
Speaker Plocher, R-Des Peres, emphasized the committee’s importance in shaping Missouri’s legislative framework in the new digital age. “As we strive to continue building the workforce of tomorrow and grow our economy in the new digital age, the Special Committee on Innovation and Technology will serve as a vital mechanism to ensure that our legislative framework aligns with the needs and aspirations of the people we represent.”
Committee Chair Perkins expressed his honor in leading this initiative, emphasizing the pivotal role the Special Committee will play in shaping policies that positively affect the lives of Missourians.
“It’s a very exciting opportunity to work for the benefit of Missourians. While technology can be a significant tool that could bring great benefits to our state, we must ensure that as it progresses, it does not trample on Missourians’ rights,” Perkins, R-Bowling Green, said. “I want to thank Speaker Plocher for this honor, and I look forward to crafting effective policy solutions with this committee.”
“I am honored to be appointed as the vice chair of the new Special Committee on Innovation and Technology,” Voss, R-Cape Girardeau, said. “As an engineer, I look forward to leveraging my expertise to navigate the intersection of technology, society, and the law.”
The formation of the Special Committee on Innovation and Technology marks a significant step towards growth in the technological realm. The committee will identify and evaluate emerging technologies, develop strategies for the integration of innovative solutions, create insights for guidance on technology-related policies, and foster a culture of innovation.
Speaker Plocher and the committee are enthusiastic about the positive impact this initiative will undoubtedly have on Missouri’s technological landscape. By supporting the development of technologies, the committee aims to ensure Missouri’s future global competitiveness, create high-quality jobs, and ensure protections for Missourians.