Every session, the Senate has diligently worked to protect the lives of unborn children in Missouri. Last year, the General Assembly increased funding to alternatives to abortion and other pro-life programs by more than $6 million. This year, however, we have shifted our focus to making sure pro-life programs can continue their missions without government interference and keep their First Amendment rights intact.
Earlier this year, the City of St. Louis passed Board Bill 203, which would affect the ability of alternatives-to-abortion agencies to operate. The ordinance includes penalties and fines for businesses not hiring pro-choice candidates for a job or providing abortion coverage or contraception in their health insurance plans. The major problem with this ordinance is that it tramples on First Amendment rights. Similar ordinances in other cities have attempted to force alternatives-to-abortion agencies and faith-based pregnancy counseling centers to post signs or referrals that are not provided at the centers as well as other First Amendment violations. The government has no right to interfere with the mission of these organizations. That violates one of our most cherished rights as Americans – religious liberties.
This week, we debated Senate Bill 41, sponsored by Sen. Wayne Wallingford, R-Cape Girardeau, which will provide protections for alternatives-to-abortion agencies. This measure would preempt the St. Louis ordinance as well any others that might be proposed in the future. It also would allow the people of Missouri to freely practice their faith according to their conscience. No organization should be penalized for refusing to hire someone who would counsel in favor of abortion if it goes against the organization’s religious beliefs. This is a common-sense approach to people of all faiths.
Also debated on the floor this week, was Senate Bill 67. The measure addresses glaring deficiencies and safety concerns uncovered by the Senate Sanctity of Life Committee in 2015 and 2016 and closes certain loopholes in the law. This bill will uphold medical standards, protect women, and ensure public safety. It also would add accountability and clarity while strengthening our current laws.
The women of our state deserve better. These provisions are meant to ensure the health and safety of women in the Show-Me State as well as protect the religious freedoms of pro-life organizations.
This week the Senate also confirmed the gubernatorial appointments of two 33rd District residents. Former West Plains Fire Chief Tim Bean was confirmed as the Missouri State Fire Marshal. Mr. Bean has been a steadfast supporter of this community for decades. He began his service to the city of West Plains in 1984. Earlier this month, he ended his 30-year career with the fire department, when he was appointed to his new position of state fire marshal.
Carol Silvey, West Plains, was appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate this week, as a new member of the Missouri State University Board of Governors. She is the associate director for advancement for Community Foundation of the Ozarks. Ms. Silvey also worked at Missouri State University-West Plains for 38 years. She was a history instructor from 1968 to 1991 and director of development from 1991 to 2006.
Missouri has more than 200 public boards and commissions. From advocating on behalf of our children and seniors to managing our universities, the citizens who serve on these boards and commissions are essential to the numerous functions of state government.
Once the governor has made an appointment to a board or commission, the appointee answers questions before the Senate’s 11-member Gubernatorial Appointments Committee. After the committee gives preliminary confirmation to the appointee, the matter goes before the Senate for final confirmation.
If you are interested in serving our state, go to the Missouri Boards and Commissions website at www.boards.mo.gov, find a board or position you are interested in, and submit an application to the governor’s office. It is important to encourage those who you believe would provide valuable service to the state to do the same.
It’s critical Missouri citizens find opportunities to volunteer. The governor makes timely appointments and the Senate ensures those appointed individuals are qualified for the position before granting final approval.
As always, I appreciate it when groups from around Missouri and from our community back home come to visit me at the Capitol. If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, or if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1882.