The Final Gavel Drops
My first legislative session as your state senator drew to a close with the final drop of the gavel on May 14. This has been an incredible few months and an amazing learning opportunity for me as I acclimated to the unique customs and rules of the Missouri Senate. I am pleased with the legislation now awaiting the governor’s pen and think we made some great conservative inroads since January.
One of my priority pieces of legislation is now awaiting the governor’s signature. Senate Bill 82 will require those who want to export water from the state to first get permission from the Department of Natural Resources. Taking proactive measures to safeguard this natural resource will benefit all Missourians.
The Legislature passed the appropriations bills that comprise the $49.8 billion operating budget for fiscal year 2026 before the deadline last Friday, May 9. The blueprint fully funds the foundation formula for K-12 public schools and increases funding for school transportation. The Missouri Department of Transportation will also receive capital to improve decaying roads and bridges in rural areas and enhance river ports. The balanced FY ‘26 spending plan is both fiscally responsible and responsive to the needs of Missourians, while leaving a substantial amount in the treasury to sustain the state’s bottom line and future revenue shortfalls.
I am also extremely thankful legislators passed House Joint Resolution 73 before adjournment. The resolution will give Missourians another chance to prohibit abortions at the ballot box, and, hopefully, restore protections for the unborn.
Prolife Missourians will also celebrate the passage of House Bill 121. Sent to the governor on May 8, the key provisions include a state match for the costs associated with installing a newborn safety incubator and an expansion of the maternity home tax credits from 70% to 100% of the contributions made.
Another bill now being considered by the governor is Senate Bill 68. Amended several times during negotiations, this bill will require school districts to adopt a written policy regarding students’ possession or use of a personal communications device, primarily limiting cell phone use during school hours. To increase overall safety in Missouri schools, the legislation also requires districts to develop a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan and a cardiac emergency response plan, complete with training personnel in CPR and AED use; install anti-intruder locks on doors; establish a stop the bleed protocol; and improve systems to remove lead from school drinking water.
To view the entire list of bills passed by the Legislature, visit the Senate website at senate.mo.gov, select the “legislation” tab and click “Truly Agreed Bills.” As always, if you have questions about bills or the legislative process itself, please reach out to my team.
It has been the honor of my lifetime to represent District 27 in the Missouri Senate. While I have thoroughly enjoyed the policymaking process and believe it has been a productive session, I am looking forward to spending time in our southeastern community and with my growing family. My office will remain open during the interim, so please reach out if you have a concern, story to share or idea to improve the state.
Welcoming Folks from Back Home to the Dome
This week I had the opportunity to welcome fourth and fifth graders from the Perryville School District. These gifted students joined me on the dais after our meeting.
