Despite another band of winter weather that hit the Show-Me State this week, the Missouri Senate is working hard to get tasks accomplished for the state and to move bills through the legislative process. Thus far, I’ve been pleased with the efforts of the upper chamber. Although not everyone may agree on a particular issue, lawmakers are rolling up their sleeves and working together to better the lives of their constituents. 

Early in the week, two bills were sent on their way to the House for consideration. One of those bills would make a difference in our community, especially, as it deals with labor performed by Missouri’s youth on family farms. Senate Bill 16 would exempt farm work performed by children under the age of 16 from certain child labor requirements, including the need to obtain a work certificate. These young people would also be exempt from certain child labor requirements relating to certain jobs, including operating and maintaining power-driven machinery, climbing ladders, operating vehicles, and handling certain chemicals. These exemptions only apply to children who work on their own family farms, and, with the knowledge and consent of their parents, the family farms of other Missourians. For generations, our children have received first-hand a better understanding of a hard work ethic and responsibility, thanks to the operation of our family farms. It’s important to instill in our children the benefits of a day’s work; therefore, we need to allow our young people to grow up performing the chores that generations before them have accomplished on their farms.

Another bill sent to the other chamber, SB 75, emphasizes the importance of firearms safety and how to address a threatening situation or a potentially armed or dangerous intruder on school property. Among other provisions, the bill would allow school districts to teach the Eddie Eagle Gunsafe Program, or a similar curriculum, to first grade students. The purpose of the program is to teach young ones how they should respond in case they encounter a firearm. The use of firearms in the teaching of the program is prohibited. Whether Missourians choose to have firearms in their homes is a personal decision; however, children can potentially encounter firearms at school or their friends’ homes, and it’s important that they know how to keep themselves and those around them safe.

Throughout the last several days, as winter weather has been the culprit in creating poor travel conditions, the Capitol has been slightly more quiet than usual. I’m glad to have met with members of the Missouri Farm Bureau this week, and I look forward to visiting with more guests as session continues. As the final weeks of winter continue, I hope you and your loved ones have safe travels.  If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, please don’t hesitate to contact my capitol office at (573) 751-1882. As always, thank you for your interest in state government.