This week...
Overnight Senate filibuster ends with movement on IP reform, confirmation of Governor's appointees
Senator Mike Moon (R-Ash Grove) and members of the Freedom Caucus held the Senate floor for nearly 16 hours Monday evening into Tuesday morning, attempting to block the confirmation of more than 40 individuals appointed by the Governor to various boards, commissions, and state jobs. This effort was orchestrated last week and resulted in the Senate abruptly adjourning.
Monday evening, Sen. Mike Moon (who is not a member of the Freedom Caucus) began filibustering the appointment of just one individual — former Senator Dan Hegeman to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission — citing a 2021 incident in which Hegeman refused to help Sen. Moon override the Governor’s veto of money that would have been allocated to businesses hurt by the Department of Revenue’s re-interpretation of state tax laws.
Tuesday morning, after coming to Sen. Moon’s aid to continue the filibuster overnight, members of the Freedom Caucus claimed victory for securing a committee vote on SJR 74, the Senate vehicle for initiative petition reform. Republican leadership pointed out this outcome was inevitable and only delayed by the excessive floor time and procedural maneuvering over the first few weeks of session.
Open Enrollment legislation passes Missouri House
Legislation that would allow students to enroll in neighboring school districts was approved by the lower chamber for the fourth year in a row, by a 83-69 vote. It is the first bill this year to be debated and passed by the House. It is one of several education reform policies being considered. Read more.
Sports Betting Bill Voted out of Committee
HB 2331, which would legalize sports betting in Missouri, was voted out of the House Special Committee on Public Policy 5-2 Thursday morning. The bill will be heard in a House Rules Committee before heading to the House floor for debate.
House Budget Committee Begins Review of Governor’s Recommendations
This week, the House Budget committee and subcommittees began reviewing the Governor’s proposed $53 billion budget for FY 2025. The proceedings began this week with a presentation from the Office of Administration. Next week, they will hear from the Department of Mental Health and Department of Health and Senior Services.
Lawmakers are constitutionally required to pass a balanced budget by Friday, May 10.
Dates of Interest
Friday, March 1: Last day to file new bills
Monday, March 18 - Friday, March 22: Spring Break
Monday, April 1: Easter Break (no session)
Friday, May 10: Constitutional deadline to pass balanced budget for FY25
Friday, May 17: Last Day of Session
Wednesday, September 11: Veto Session
Reviewed 2024-02-05