Tim Jones: Majority Minute: The Most Floor Activity Thus Far

As we enter our ninth full week, the House Floor Calendar is seeing more activity than ever before this Session and Chamber hours will steadily increase as we work away beneath the Capitol Dome…

Today in the House

Monday, March 7, 2011

HCS HB 112 & 285, commonly known as the “Saw Mill Bill,” was perfected and printed. Sponsored by Rep. David Day (R-148), HCS HB 112 and 285, this bill classifies certain sawmills and planing mills as agricultural and horticultural property instead of commercial property for property taxation purposes. This is an excellent bill that will help promote and protect this important Missouri industry.

We also began to perfect HB 167. Sponsored by Rep. Jerry Nolte (R-33), HB 167 would require all Missouri Driver’s License exams to be administered in English. It only makes sense that when road signs, traveler alert billboards, and the like, are in English, that anyone possessing a Missouri driver’s license should be able to read basic English.

HCS HB 174, sponsored by Rep. Mike Thomson (R-4) was perfected and printed today. This bill is the Higher Education Governing Boards Bill which changes the composition of the Coordinating Board for Higher Education, the University of Missouri Board of Curators, and the Missouri State University Board of Governors.

Finally, we third read and passed HB 108, sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-150) to make much needed revisions to our State’s campaign finance laws.

Later this Week

House Joint Resolutions for Perfection

HJR 2, sponsored by Rep. Mike McGhee (R-122), is on the calendar this week for perfection. HJR 2 proposes a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the use of public property for the purpose of prayer or worship; along with a reaffirmation of the right to choose any or no religion; a cornerstone in the foundation of this great country.

House Bills for Perfection

HCS HB 213, which I sponsored, will finally and once and for all install into Missouri statutes a true ban on the barbaric practice of late term abortions. We have a responsibility to protect those whom cannot protect themselves and I am happy to report that thus far, this bill has received overwhelming bipartisan support.

HCS HB 266, sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-150), changes the laws regarding weight limitations for vehicles hauling livestock or agricultural products on state highways.

HB 339, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), changes the laws regarding telecommunications as they relate to the carrier of last resort obligations.

Throughout Session, I will continue to send the Majority Minute to my constituents, colleagues and friends across the State. If you ever have any questions, feel free to contact my office at 573-751-0562.
Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service.