By Bryant Wolfin, state reprentative
Hello everyone!
We are in the thick of legislative action here in Jeff City, with over 30 bills awaiting perfection on the House floor and 8-9 bills ready for a third-read vote. I remain committed to full transparency as we navigate this busy session.
Moving forward, I’m making a slight change to how I format these updates:
In the main post, I’ll list the bills that were perfected, third-read and voted on, on the house floor the past week.
In the comments, I’ll provide details on what happened in each of my committees.
This way, the main post stays concise, while those interested in committee updates can find them in a more organized format.
Now, let’s dive into what happened last week:
First things first! Constituent shout outs!! Thank you to Crystal Jones, Executive of Perry County’s Economic Development Authority, John Boyd Jr., Ste. Genevieve High School Principal, Randy Ruzicka, Mark Marberry, and Cory Ford, Ste. Genevieve Commissioners, and Gary Stolzer, Ste. Genevieve’s Sheriff for visiting the office this week! We were able to give introductions to Crystal, Mark, and Cory on the house floor!
Monday, March 3rd
We didn’t third-read or vote on any bills, but we had a busy evening debating several pieces of legislation, including:
HCS HB 14 – The Supplemental Appropriations Bill to finalize the budget through June 30, 2025. A few minor amendments were offered, including House Amendment 3, which would have cut $2.2 million from the budget for a specific nonprofit. I voted YES, but the amendment failed.
Additionally, we debated and perfected:
HJR 4
HB 939
Tuesday, March 4th
A double session was needed to get through a busy day of bill perfection!
Morning session:
HB 999, HB 352, HB 816, HB 629, HB 1086
Afternoon session:
HB 660, HB 798, HB 225
Wednesday, March 5th
We had a mix of third-read votes and bill perfection. Here’s how I voted:
HCS HB 14 – Finalizing the budget through June 30, 2025
I voted NO – Missouri continues to be fiscally irresponsible with taxpayer dollars. Without major budgetary reforms, I will oppose all budget bills.
HB 810 – Designates the “Lloyd Memorial Highway”
I voted YES – This honors Rep. Baker’s daughter and son-in-law, who were tragically killed in Haiti as missionaries.
HCS HB 943 – Modifies healthcare provisions
I voted NO – This violates Article III, Section 23 (Single Subject Rule) of the Missouri Constitution.
HB 121 – Creates the Safe Place for Newborns Fund to install newborn safety incubators
I voted YES
HB 939 – Changes adoption of building codes & standards
I voted NO – While I agree with the intent (blocking EPA-style local mandates), I do not believe this is the state legislature’s role.
Bills Perfected:
HB 563 – Protects landowners’ rights in taking wildlife on their property
HB 233 – Updates requirements for posting of notices
HCS HB 296 & HCS HB 538 – Related to school transportation & bus endorsements
Thursday, March 6th
A big day of third readings and final votes!
HJR 4 – Proposes a constitutional amendment on real property tax assessments
I voted YES
HCS HB 999 – Expands state tax commission enforcement
I voted NO – I oppose expanding the authority of a state entity.
HB 352 – Requires posting of local government financial statements
I voted YES – This will save taxpayers thousands locally.
HB 816 – Prevents motor vehicle assessment increases
I voted YES – This ensures your car’s value won’t be artificially inflated for tax purposes.
HB 1086 – Ensures Airbnb & short-term rentals aren’t taxed as commercial property
I voted YES
HB 225 – Relating to law enforcement practices
I voted NO – This bill violates the Single Subject Rule (Art. III, Sec. 23). Jurisdiction Assistance and Emergency Vehicle Operations are two separate topics.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up a packed week on the House floor! I’m truly honored to be your voice in Jefferson City, and we have another busy week ahead.
Committee updates will be posted in the comments section for those interested.
If you’d like to receive my Capitol Reports, sign up here:
https://house.mo.gov/CapitolReport.aspx?district=145
For Liberty,
Bryant
Office Information:
Room #111
Email: Bryant.Wolfin@house.mo.gov
Phone: 573-751-5912
Legislative Assistant: Racheal Cunningham
Racheal’s Email: Racheal.Cunningham@house.mo.gov