By Mike Henderson, State Senator
JEFFERSON CITY – The past couple weeks were pretty eventful, with a doozy of a snowstorm that kept most of us bundled up indoors and a flurry of hearings in full swing. The Capitol has been bustling with people here to testify and advocate for the issues they care about. On the floor, much of the work has focused on second readings of bills before they head to committees – but keep an eye out, because we’ll start seeing bills debated on the floor soon.
The Senate Appropriations Committee I serve on is warming up by digging into the Supplemental Budget. We’re focused on making key decisions about how federal funds can best support our communities. As that work continues, I also want to share an update on some of the legislation I’ve filed and priorities I’m working on this session. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve you, tackle these challenges head-on, and keep you updated on the progress every step of the way.
Legislation to Protect Public Expression Moves Forward
Senate Bill 1067, the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act, would help protect people from being sued just for speaking out on issues of public concern or participating in public proceedings. This bill was heard in the Judiciary Committee on Jan. 21, and I expect it to move forward soon and head to the Senate floor for debate.
Progress on Updating Income Tax Returns
Senate Bill 994, my bill to update how income tax returns are filed, was discussed in the Senate Economic and Workforce Development Committee on Jan. 21. When it came up for an executive vote on Jan. 28, it passed unanimously.
Making Tests More Useful for Teachers & Students
I’m continuing to work on replacing the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) test, which I don’t think is effective. Right now, it mostly just measures what students have already learned instead of giving teachers useful information to help them teach and guide students throughout the year.
Conversations About MSHSAA Oversight
There have been some questions and concerns raised about how the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) operates, which has led to conversations about whether there should be more oversight. I’ll keep you posted as that discussion continues. While academics should always come first, extracurriculars like sports are a big part of growing up and play an important role in helping our kids develop important life skills.
Protecting the Public from Potent 7-OH Products
I’m working closely with the Attorney General’s office to crack down on – or potentially ban – products that contain 7-OH. 7-OH is short for 7-hydroxymitragynine, a very strong psychoactive substance that comes from the kratom plant. While kratom itself occurs naturally, 7-OH is often extracted or manufactured into highly concentrated products like tablets, shots and gummies. These are being sold in gas stations, vape/smoke shops and online, and are often marketed as natural, “herbal” remedies for pain, anxiety or opioid withdrawal. The problem is that 7-OH is far more dangerous than natural kratom because it has opioid-like effects on the brain, which raises serious safety concerns.
Eliminating the State Income Tax – Only if Done Responsibly
We’ll also be looking at the proposal to eliminate the state income tax, House Joint Resolution 174. It’s important to know that any change would first go to a vote of the people. Nothing happens without majority approval. I support the idea of eliminating the income tax only if it’s done responsibly, in a way that doesn’t put essential services like law enforcement, ambulance services and other basics at risk.
Stay in Touch
Thank you for staying connected and for all your support. Please continue to contact my office at 573-751-4008 with your concerns, questions and comments. To view my sponsored legislation, please visit senate.mo.gov/Henderson.
Mike Henderson represents Missouri’s Third District in the State Senate