On the Floor: Key Missouri Senate Bills and Resolutions This Week
The Missouri Senate was bustling with activity this week as lawmakers debated and advanced several key bills and resolutions. From parental rights to solar energy regulations, here’s a comprehensive look at what happened on the Senate floor and in committee hearings.
Parental Rights and Statewide Oversight Bills Take Center Stage
The Senate floor saw discussions on several impactful bills, including:
- Senate Bill 948: This bill aims to solidify parents’ fundamental rights to direct their children’s upbringing, education, health care, and mental health without government interference.
- Senate Bill 863: Proposes the governor appoint a board of directors to oversee statewide activities associations for secondary school students.
- Senate Bill 1020: Would allow the Missouri Department of Revenue to contract with reputable businesses or organizations for fee office services if no competitive bids are received.
- Senate Bill 890: Focuses on streamlining state government by requiring departments to report and repeal obsolete administrative entities.
Senate Passes Property Conveyance Bill
The Senate third read and passed Senate Bill 937, authorizing the conveyance of certain state properties. This marks a significant step in managing state-owned assets efficiently.
Senate Rule Changes Adopted
The Senate adopted Senate Resolution 640, which modifies procedural rules. Key changes include:
- Requiring Senate bills with House amendments to lie on the table for one day before action.
- Increasing the number of senators required to demand a motion for the previous question from 10 to 18.
Committee Highlights: Judiciary, Commerce, and Appropriations
Judiciary Committee
The Judiciary Committee reviewed several bills, including:
- Senate Bill 945: Presented by Senator May, this bill allows the St. Louis circuit court to increase its civil case filing surcharge to $20 for law library maintenance and courtroom enhancements.
- Senate Bill 1039: Establishes provisions for alternative dispute resolution.
- Senate Bill 1311: Amends continuing legal education requirements for lawyers, focusing on ethics.
- Senate Bill 1393: Proposes increasing the number of judges in St. Charles County.
Commerce Committee
The Commerce Committee focused on solar energy and infrastructure:
- Senate Bill 849 & Senate Bill 933: Both propose a moratorium on solar project construction.
- Senate Bill 879: Addresses permits and taxation for solar farms.
- Senate Bill 903: Expands the definition of “critical infrastructure facility” and strengthens trespassing laws.
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee heard funding requests for the Fiscal Year 2027 state operating budget from departments including Higher Education, Natural Resources, and Mental Health.
City of St. Louis Extends Tornado Recovery Deadlines
In other news, the City of St. Louis extended the deadline for private property assistance applications to Feb. 28. This program offers stabilization, repairs, and debris removal for tornado-affected properties. Residents can apply online at STLRecovers.com or visit the STLRecovers Outreach Center.
House Advances Video Lottery Terminal Regulations
The House Emerging Issues Committee advanced House Bill 2989, which seeks to regulate unlicensed video slot machines. The bill proposes licensing and taxing these machines, which have proliferated across Missouri. However, it allows unregulated operation for two more years, sparking debate.
Sports Betting Generates Minimal Tax Revenue
Missouri’s first month of legalized sports betting saw $543 million in wagers but generated just $521,200 in tax revenue. Generous tax deductions for promotional credits and federal taxes have left many operators with negative balances, raising concerns about the long-term financial benefits for the state.
House Targets Deceptive Campaign Fundraising
The Missouri House approved House Bill 1788, which aims to curb deceptive campaign fundraising practices. The bill requires clear identification of donation recipients and mandates opt-in for recurring contributions.
Attorney General Pushes for Census Redo
Missouri’s attorney general filed a lawsuit seeking to exclude non-citizens from the 2020 and 2030 U.S. Census counts. This controversial move could significantly impact federal funding and congressional representation.
Stay Informed and Engaged
For more updates on Missouri legislation, visit The Narrative Matters for in-depth analysis and related topics. If you have questions or concerns, contact my office at 573-751-3599.
This week’s legislative actions highlight the dynamic and often contentious nature of Missouri’s political landscape. From parental rights to solar energy, these decisions will shape the state’s future. Stay tuned for more updates as the session progresses!
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