JEFFERSON CITY — Lawmakers in the Missouri Senate convened today for the 96th General Assembly, Second Regular Session, which began at noon.  The 34 members of the upper chamber utilized the opening day of session to listen to the Senate President Pro Tem’s address and introduce legislation for the 2012 session.

Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, carried on with tradition as he announced the chamber’s legislative priorities for the year, including passing a balanced budget without raising taxes; promoting economic development and commerce and reforming Missouri’s Workers’ Compensation law; and revising the state’s school foundation formula and addressing recent announcements regarding school accreditations to ensure a world-class education for all Missouri students.

More than 180 measures were first read in the upper chamber before senators adjourned.  Throughout the week, many more measures will be introduced before they are assigned to a legislative committee for consideration.  To see a complete list of bills filed for the 2012 legislative session, as well as a list of Senate committees charged with reviewing these measures, visit www.senate.mo.gov.

As session progresses, senators will continue to work to advance priorities that address the state’s financial challenges and use opportunities to move the state forward.  In turn, members of the Senate will continue to promote genuine discussion regarding matters within the state and seek balance on policies that affect all Missourians.  Senators also reiterate that all work to promote the welfare of the state is effective policy designed to move the state forward.

For more information about the Missouri Senate, visit www.senate.mo.gov. To contact the Senate Newsroom, call (573) 751-3824 or e-mail newsroom@senate.mo.gov.