By Holly Thompson-Rehder, Missouri state senator
JEFFERSON CITY – Hi Y’all! It was certainly a unique start to this week with a solar eclipse taking place in the sky over Missouri for the second time in seven years. Amidst all the tough issues facing our communities today, it was an awesome experience to just watch the wonders of nature and be appreciative of the beautiful world we live in. Back in Jefferson City, the last week has been a flurry of nonstop action, with several visitors, a memorial ceremony and the passage of about 10 bills that are now headed to the Missouri House of Representatives for their consideration.
Last Tuesday, the entire Senate took time out of our schedules to honor former senators who have passed away in recent years. I was not fortunately enough to meet all of them, but it was very inspiring to hear about their lives of public service and the many great things they were able to accomplish during their time as elected officials. This is one of those events that forces you to come up out of the weeds of the legislative process and really take stock of why it is we are here at the Capitol and how the decisions we make today will have an impact for Missourians for decades to come. It was certainly a great reminder as we head into the homestretch of session, we need to stay focused and finish strong.
On Wednesday I was very happy to introduce a group of special young women to my Senate colleagues. Several future stateswomen who are part of the recently released Apple+ series “Girls State” came to meet with Missouri’s elected women, experience a day in Jefferson City and share their own visions for how to make the state better. One of the young women featured in the show, Brooke Taylor, is the daughter of a family friend, adding an extra layer of excitement to their visit. It is simply remarkable to see so many young women ready to ignore the naysayers and the negativity thrown at women in politics. I hope they all continue to fight for a seat at the table.
While we discussed many pieces of legislation on the Senate floor this week, one I am very happy to see passed and sent to the House is Senate Joint Resolution 78. This bill takes several steps towards securing our state elections and ensuring one person-one vote remains the standard. Among other provisions, SJR 78 prohibits ranked choice voting in state elections, requires elections to be completed using paper ballots and reinforces the requirement that all voters be U.S. citizens. I believe election integrity is only going to become more important as our country moves forward. I was proud to support this bill and will be encouraging those in the Missouri House of Representatives to pass this bill quickly so we can get it to the governor’s desk as soon as possible.
The Senate has received the Fiscal Year 2025 state operating budget bills from the House. This will be the primary focus for many of us, as the budget is the General Assembly’s only constitutional obligation. I take this responsibility very seriously and feel it is vital that we do all we can to make sure your tax dollars are being spent in a matter that provides necessary services to those who truly need them, improves our state’s infrastructure and invests in a better tomorrow for all Missourians. The budget is due to the governor on May 10.
I will be sure to keep you informed as the budget process moves forward and as more legislation makes its way closer to the finish line.
Contact Me
I always appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at 573-751-2459. You may write me at Holly Thompson Rehder,
Missouri Senate, State Capitol, Rm 433, Jefferson City, MO 65101, send an email to Holly.Rehder@senate.mo.gov or visit www.senate.mo.gov/Rehder.