Schaefer: Defending Programs That Benefit Education, Legislation In Progress, Capitol Visitors

After a relaxing and joyful Easter break, the Senate continues to discuss bills and budget issues.

The budget continues to be our top priority in the Senate. As Vice-Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, I am fighting hard for programs I believe in. Programs such as Parents as Teachers and Career Ladder are vital to the success of our children. Cutting these programs even more than they have drastically been cut over the last few years is a detriment to our kids' future. I am working hard to maintain the educational programs that will benefit all of Missouri's students.

Legislation In Progress

On Tuesday, Senate Bill 828 was voted out of the Senate Health, Mental Health, Seniors and Families Committee.  This bill allows for the county counselor of Boone County to receive state money for performing duties related to mental health and mental health facilities. The Boone County counselor is the only county counselor that does not currently receive this reimbursement. In addition, a Senate Committee Substitute to Senate Bill 975, a bill regarding electronic death registration systems, was passed by the same committee.

Also on Tuesday, Senate Bill 884, which amends various provisions regarding the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, needs the Senate's final approval before it can move to the House for similar consideration.

Two of my bills were heard in House committees this week. On Wednesday, Senate Bill 855, regarding heritage birth and marriage certificates, was considered in the House Special Standing Committee on Children and Families. Additionally, Senate Bill 829, which pertains to nuisance abatement ordinances for Boone County, was heard in the House Crime Prevention Committee on Tuesday.

Capitol Visitors

During Wednesday's Senate Gubernatorial Appoinments Committee hearing, I had the privilege of testifying in support of Jean Leonatti to serve on the Alzheimer's State Plan Task Force.

I also had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Kristin Sohl, a doctor of pediatrics from Columbia, and other pediatricians from the area. Dr. Sohl is the director of the Community Advocacy through Resident Education (CARE) program. The program works with physicians in the Department of Child Health at the University of Missouri-Columbia to improve pediatric care in the area. Additionally, the group works with legislators to make a difference for children in the Columbia area.

At left: Community Advocacy through Resident Education participants


Thank you for your continued interest in the issues that affect the citizens of Boone and Randolph counties. If you have any questions or concerns involving state government, please contact my office.