Merry Christmas: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 22, 2025

With Christmas approaching, I want to wish you and your family a happy and blessed holiday. Christmas is a special time of the year that invites us to slow down, reflect and focus on what is truly important. For me it is my faith, family and the many blessings we all enjoy.

Reforming Prior Authorization: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 12, 2025

The start of the legislative session is just around the corner. Beginning in December, the Missouri Senate allows senators to ‘pre-file’ some of their legislation ahead of the first day of session in January.

Veteran's Day: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 14, 2025

This past week our nation celebrated Veterans Day, a moment for Missourians and Americans alike to pause and honor the men and women who served our country in the military.

Happy Halloween: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 31, 2025

The weather has finally turned to fall accompanied by crisp air and the changing color of the leaves. Missourians are once again celebrating one of the finest and most lighthearted holidays of the year - Halloween.

Government Shutdown: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 18, 2025

Like many people in this state, I am watching what is going on in Washington with frustration. I hope this government shutdown can be resolved soon, allowing Congress to once again attend to the people’s business and thousands of hard-working federal employees to get back to work serving their country and providing for their families.

Missouri’s People Are Its Greatest Blessing: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 3, 2025

This past week I had the honor of presenting awards at the Missouri Electric Cooperatives Lineman Rodeo event here in Jefferson City. Being there was a great reminder of the strength of the hardworking people of this state.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Sept. 19, 2025

Violence is Not the Answer

Labor Day: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 29, 2025

Each year, Labor Day gives us more than just the closing of summer. It is a moment to pause and honor the hard work and perseverance of the American worker, and the effort they have put into building their community.

The State Fair: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for August 15, 2025

This past week, Sedalia hosted the Missouri State Fair. This important event is an opportunity for the people of Missouri to celebrate our state and most importantly, honor our farmers and ranchers.

The Key to Education is Great Teachers: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 1, 2025

The end of July means the start of a new school year is around the corner. With it comes the end of summer and what many children and students consider the fun time of the year. But it’s not all bad. It is also the beginning of instruction and growth.

Bills Signed Into Law: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for July 18, 2025

The past couple weeks have seen the official end of the Senate’s yearlong effort to turn legislation into law as the governor signs the bills passed during session.

Celebrating the Fourth of July: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for July 3, 2025

This week our nation celebrates the Fourth of July. It is not only an opportunity for families and friends to get together and enjoy fireworks and barbecues.

Finishing Up the Extra Session: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for June 20, 2025

The Senate spent much of the last few weeks in an extraordinary session called by the governor to pass bills relating to disaster relief, state investments and sports.

Extra Session: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for June 6, 2025

This week the governor has called the General Assembly back in for an extra session.

The End of Session: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 23, 2025

Legislative session ended for the General Assembly last week. I was happy to see such a productive session and to have so much of the legislative agenda pass the General Assembly and head to the governor’s desk for his signature.

The Final Fight of Proposition A: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 16, 2025

This week the legislative session ended, and the General Assembly completed their work for the year. In the coming weeks I will spend time telling you about all the bills we passed, but I wanted to spend this week talking about the passage of House Bill 567. This legislation repealed a majority of the 2024 ballot measure Proposition A.

Fighting Fentanyl: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 9, 2025

With only one week left in session the Capitol has become a whirlwind of action. Amidst the chaos, I’d like to focus in on a single bill that I believe is so important in the fight against drugs – House Bill 49.

The Budget: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 2, 2025

The state budget has been a priority this week as the Senate must work through the various budget bills so there is still time to work together with the House of Representatives to work out any changes before the May 9 deadline.

Reforming Proposition A: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 25, 2025

This week the Missouri Senate continued its work on fixing provisions in Proposition A that were drafted and put in place without much thought to the practical effect the changes would have on the state. The problems Proposition A has presented is a microcosm of why the initiative petition process can be so detrimental.

Have a Happy Easter - Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 17, 2025

I want to wish you a happy Easter!

Video: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter Presents Legislation to Repeal a Portion of Proposition A

Senator Mike Bernskoetter, R-Jefferson City, handles House Bills 567, 546, 758 & 958, legislation that would modify provisions relating to employee compensation.

Eliminating the Tax on Diapers: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 11, 2025

This week the Missouri Senate passed House Bill 594 and 508, making that legislative package one step closer to becoming law. This bill has a couple different provisions dealing with taxation, the most prominent is the elimination of the capital gains tax in Missouri. However, another very important provision that is included in this bill is the elimination of the sales tax on diapers.

Fixing Proposition A: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 4, 2025

The passage of Proposition A this past election created unforeseen burdens on our business owners which I believe will make it harder for the economy to grow. That is why I am supportive of efforts in the Missouri House of Representatives and Senate to amend this legislation and ensure it operates in a more equitable manner.

The Final Eight Weeks of Session: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 28, 2025

With Spring Break ending, the General Assembly is back in action doing the people’s work for the last half of session. With only eight weeks until adjournment in mid-May, there is still a lot of important work to get done, and I am excited to represent the people of the 6th Senatorial District.

Mid-Session Update: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 21, 2025

As we reach the halfway point of session for the General Assembly, I wanted to take a minute to quickly update you on the progress of several of my pieces of legislation. I look forward to returning to session to work for you, the people, next week when the Senate returns from its traditional legislative break

Mid-Session Report: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 14, 2025

As we reach the traditional halfway point of legislative session, I wanted to take a moment and summarize a few pieces of legislation the Missouri Senate has passed so far. This year has been very productive compared to the past couple, and I am very proud of the action we have taken to improve our state.

Making the SAFE Act Permanent: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Mar. 7, 2025

As we approach the halfway point of session, I want to talk about one very important piece of legislation the Missouri Senate has passed - Senate Bill 10. This bill was Third Read and sent over to the House last week. This bill has many provisions in it, but one of the key provisions is the removal of the sunset on the Missouri Save Adolescents From Experimentation (SAFE) Act that protects kids from transgender procedures until they are adults.

Improving Missouri's Utility Infrastructure: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 28, 2025

This week the Missouri Senate worked on the passage of Senate Bill 4. This legislation will positively impact Missouri’s economy and the future of our state by ensuring a reliable supply of electricity.

Senate Bill 104 Heard in Committee: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 21, 2025

This week the Senate committee on Local Government, Elections and Pensions heard one of the bills I filed for this session, Senate Bill 104. This legislation would authorize the village of Sunrise Beach to put a sales tax increase of .5% on their ballot for public approval. If approved, the money would go towards funding public safety measures. I believe this legislation is an important piece of public policy for two primary reasons.

Legislation to Combat Crime: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 14, 2025

Rising crime in Missouri, particularly in urban areas such as St. Louis, has created an urgent need for legislative intervention and action.

Pulling Out the Roots: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 7, 2025

This week my Senate Bill 105, dealing with combating invasive plant species in Missouri, was heard in the Senate Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee. This crucial piece of legislation is aimed at addressing the growth of invasive plant species across our state.

The Importance of Cutting Taxes for Missouri Economic Growth: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 31, 2025

This week we heard from the governor during his first State of the State address. I was heartened to hear him talk so much about the importance of cutting taxes here in Missouri to help drive economic growth and bring prosperity to our state.

Martin Luther King and the Celebration of America: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 24, 2025

This week the nation celebrated two very important days for our country. The holiday celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the inauguration of a new president.

Beginning of Session: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 17, 2025

As I start my final term representing you in the Missouri Senate, I am filled with a profound sense of duty and optimism for the 2025 legislative session. It continues to be the honor of a lifetime to serve you in this chamber. The beginning of this session was marked by the swearing-in of both re-elected and newly elected senators, a ceremony that underscores the democratic principles we uphold.

Returning to Session: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 10, 2025

This week the Senate welcomed those re-elected or newly elected this past November as they were sworn in as State Senators. It was an honor to welcome them to the Senate as session began once more.

The Christmas Season: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 24th, 2024

Christmas holds a unique and cherished place in the hearts of Missourians, symbolizing unity, generosity and shared values. It is a time when families gather to celebrate cherished traditions such as attending church services, decorating homes and sharing meals with loved ones.

Helping Our Sheriff's Retirement: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 20, 2024

This week I would like to talk to you about Senate Bill 188, another one of the bills I have pre-filed for this coming legislative session. This bill is another attempt to help sheriffs across Missouri. They are facing a major shortfall in their pension system and need help from the legislature to find a way to ensure its solvency to continue supporting retired sheriffs into the future.

Reforming the Unemployment System: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 13, 2024

This week I would like to talk to you about another one of the bills I have pre-filed for the legislative session in January. Senate Bill 8 modifies unemployment benefits based on the unemployment rate. This bill is a commonsense reform to the unemployment system I have been working on for years. I am hopeful that this year we can see it passed into law.

Emergency Medical Services Reform: Sen. Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 6, 2024

This week I would like to write to you about Senate Bill 7, an important piece of legislation that I have pre-filed for the upcoming session. This bill seeks to improve the way ambulance districts operate.

Counting our Blessings: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 27, 2024

Counting Our Blessings

Invasive Plants: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 22, 2024

I would like to write to you this week about an important issue that faces Missouri and how one of my pieces of legislation in 2025 will address the problem

Veterans Day: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 15, 2024

This week our nation celebrated Veterans Day. This is a time to honor and recognize the sacrifices made by the military veterans of our nation. It is a day dedicated to remembering the courage, dedication and selflessness of those who have answered the call to protect our nation.

Ballot Results: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 8, 2024

In the wake of the election I would like to break down the results of the various ballot measures Missouri voted on this week.

Participating in Elections: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 1, 2024

Election Day is next week, and this long campaign season is about to be over. It seems as if every cycle gets longer and longer. However, I do not want anyone to lose focus on the importance of getting out there and voting. Our great republic is built on the participation of citizens in the election process, where they can let their voices be heard. By voting you are taking part in the grand experiment of a nation founded on the principle of a government ruled by the people.

Illegal Immigration and Protecting the Border: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 25, 2024

As we get closer to Election Day, a policy that keeps coming to the forefront of our political discourse is the need to protect the border and control the flow of illegal immigration into this country.

Amendment 7 - Protecting Fair and Free Elections: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 18, 2024

This week I am writing to you to talk about Amendment 7, an amendment that will be on the statewide ballot in November.

Supporting the Passage of Amendment 6: Senator Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 11, 2024

This November election, Missouri voters will have the opportunity to vote on Amendment 6. An amendment to our Missouri Constitution I support, which will allow the administration of justice to levy additional fees to support the salaries and benefits of our sheriffs, prosecuting attorneys and circuit attorneys, who serve a crucial role in our justice system in Missouri.

The Importance of Farmers on the Public Service Commission: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Oct. 4, 2024

With the season of Fall officially here, we are getting ever closer to the legislative session in January. This coming session, I plan on working on several pieces of legislation, one of which is my legislation requiring the Public Service Commission to have representatives of the agricultural industry on it.

Breaking Down Amendment 3: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Sept. 27, 2024

This week, I would like to take a moment and discuss with you one of the major ballots measures up for consideration this November: Amendment 3. Amendment 3 is a constitutional amendment to the Missouri constitution that seeks to roll back the progress our state has made to make Missouri a pro-life state by legalizing abortion once more in the state.

The Importance of Voting: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Sept. 20, 2024

We are entering the home stretch of the election season. In the coming weeks, I will be covering the different ballot proposals and telling you my position on each of them. This week I would like to encourage all citizens to get involved in the election process.

Veto Session: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Sept. 13, 2024

This last week the General Assembly again gathered in Jefferson City for our constitutionally mandated Veto Session. This session is held every year on the Wednesday following the second Monday in September.

Remembering 9/11: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Sept. 6, 2024

Next week marks 23 years since the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001. That day was a stark and devastating blow to the nation, leading to the loss of nearly 3,000 lives and causing us, as a nation, to lose our sense of security in the world.

Celebrating Labor Day: Sen. Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 30th, 2024

As we approach Labor Day, I want to take a moment to recognize and honor the vital contributions of all hardworking Missourians.

Returning to School: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 23, 2024

Across the state, children are heading back to school as summer break comes to an end. I have watched my own grandchildren start the process of adjusting from their summer routine to getting up early and ready for school again.

Moving Forward: Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 16, 2024

The primary election for the state of Missouri was held last week, and while not all the candidates and issues you supported may have prevailed, each of our elections is marvelous to me. Elections always remind me of the strength of our nation and our democracy.

The Importance of Agriculture: Senator Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 12

There is no greater industry in our state than agriculture. Farmers and ranchers are connected to the land of Missouri, and we know how to celebrate the bounty this great state gives us.

Sen. Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 1: Breaking Down Amendment 4

Following up on last week, I would like to talk about the other amendment to our state constitution that will be on the August Primary ballot – Amendment 4.

Sen. Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for July 26: Breaking Down Amendment 1

With the August primary election approaching, I want to take the next couple of columns to go through the different constitutional amendments that have been put on the August ballot. While voters may only vote for nominees on the party ballot they requested, all Missourians, regardless of party, are afforded the ability to vote on any and all proposed amendments to our state constitution.

Senator Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for June 7, 2024

Memorial Day is a time when we as a people join together to remember and celebrate the sacrifice of those who have paid the ultimate price to protect our freedoms and allow this nation to flourish. This has led me to dwell on those currently serving and those who have served in the past and all they have done to allow us to live as we do in America.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 17, 2024

The end of session is upon us. At this time of session, it becomes an absolute priority the budget is completed. Otherwise, it can cost taxpayers substantially for us to come back for an extraordinary session that would need to be called by the governor.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 3, 2024

As we approach the last few weeks of session, it is more important than ever to assess our priorities as a Senate and the priorities of Missourians.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 19, 2024

I hope you enjoyed the warmer temperatures this past weekend and took advantage of this little taste of summer. I love looking over the rolling green hills here in central Missouri and it reminds me of how important it is to protect this beautiful land we call home.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 12, 2024

I hope you all had the chance to see the eclipse this past week. What an extraordinary event that Missouri has been blessed with, not just once but twice in the last seven years.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 5, 2024

I hope you all had a beautiful Easter weekend. Easter is such a wonderful time of year. The world turns greener and brighter and birdsong returns in force, but the most important part is the celebration of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – his death, sacrifice and resurrection.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 28, 2024

Legislative spring break is over and the Senate has reconvened. I am happy to be in the Capitol and back to work for Missourians.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 15, 2024

I hope you are enjoying this beautiful start to spring. It is wonderful to see Missouri wildlife waking up after winter. Here in the Capitol, I’m preparing for the midpoint of Missouri’s legislative session. So far this session, the Senate has accomplished quite a few priorities.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 8, 2024

Another beautiful week with some thunderstorms rolling through the state. It’s feeling more like spring every day. Here in the Senate, discussions have focused on perfecting bills through amendments and compromise. While the process can be tedious, I am working tirelessly to ensure you are properly represented.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 1, 2024

I hope you enjoyed the string of warm weather this past week. It makes me think of all the beautiful land that will soon bloom across Missouri. In the meantime, I’ve worked here in the Capitol to get legislation important to you through the Senate.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 23, 2024

I hope you enjoyed the holiday this week and that your families are well. The Senate made progress these past few days on my legislation as well as initiative petition (IP) reform.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 16, 2024

I hope you have had a good week, celebrating the holiday as well as the Chief’s Super Bowl win.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 9, 2024

We can accomplish great things when we work together. This week reminded me of that fact as I heard from our friends overseas and worked alongside my colleagues in the Senate.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 1, 2024

Through negotiation and compromise the Senate was able to make substantial progress on legislation this week and approve the gubernatorial appointments.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 26, 2024

Despite the disagreements occurring in the Senate Chamber, the work continues as bills continue to be heard and voted out of committee.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 19, 2024

This week brought about more progress on my legislative priorities as bills worked their way through committees.

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 12, 2024

Committees and Appointments

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 5, 2024

General Assembly Gaveled into Session for 2024

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 7, 2023

Burst of Activity Ahead of 2024 Session

An Attitude of Gratitude

Thanksgiving

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Nov. 9, 2023

Remembering Their Sacrifice

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for October 27, 2023

Standing with Israel

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Sept. 18, 2023

Then it was Over

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 24, 2023

A Season of Returning

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Aug. 10, 2023

Connecting People with Agriculture

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for July 13, 2023

A Flurry of Bills Across the Finish Line

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for June 27, 2023

Remembering History and Celebrating Freedom

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for June 15, 2023

Updates to the State Workers’ Pay Schedule

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for June 1, 2023

What's Next?

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 15, 2023

Tallying the Session

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for May 5, 2023

The Clock is Ticking

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 27, 2023

Senate Weighs In On Budget

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 20, 2023

Committee Work Continues

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 13, 2023

Springtime at the Statehouse

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for April 6, 2023

Entering the Final Stretch

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 30, 2023

Punishment to Fit the Crime

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 23, 2023

Overcoming a Filibuster

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 10, 2023

Toiling Toward Consensus

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for March 2, 2023

Committee Activity Continues

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 23, 2023

State Worker Pay Raise Passes

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 9, 2023

Advancing Legislation

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Feb. 2, 2023

Celebrating Our Independence

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 26, 2023

An Emotional Hearing

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 20, 2023

The State of the State

Senator Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Jan. 12, 2023

The Session Begins

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter's Legislative Column for Dec. 15, 2022

As the song goes, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Lights and decorations adorn every street corner, holiday music on the radio, brightly-wrapped presents under Christmas trees and schedules packed with parties and family gatherings — it certainly feels like Christmastime.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Nov. 17, 2022

Beyond Blessed

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Nov. 3, 2022

Honoring Those Who Serve

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Oct. 20, 2022

Protecting the Integrity of Our Elections

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Oct. 6, 2022

Wrapping up the Extra Legislative Session

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Sept. 22, 2022

Moving Forward with Extra Session

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Sept. 8, 2022

A Special Relationship

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Sept. 1, 2022

Returning to the State Capitol

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Aug. 18, 2022

An August Tradition: The Missouri State Fair

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for July 28, 2022

Best Time of the Year

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for July 21, 2022

The Best Part About Being a Lawmaker

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for July 12, 2022

Another Fair Season

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for July 8, 2022

Extending Agricultural Priorities

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for June 29, 2022

Securing Our State

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for June 24, 2022

Investing in Agriculture and Our Rural Communities

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for June 15, 2022

Protecting Our Farmland Farmland is a precious resource in our state, serving a wide range of functions.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for June 8, 2022

Honoring “Old Glory" It was 1777, and the war for independence had been raging for two years already.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for May 25, 2022

Protecting the Integrity of Our Elections Elections are at the foundation of the way our government operates.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for May 18, 2022

Wrapping Up A Successful Session The 2022 legislative session has come to a close.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for May 5, 2022

Protecting Property Rights On May 5, the Senate passed an important piece of legislation to protect Missourians’ private property rights, as well as the value of farmland

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for April 28, 2022

Missouri Senate Passes Budget After a marathon voting session, the Missouri Senate passed its version of the state operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for April 21, 2022

Budgeting Time for the Budget Over this past week, the Senate’s Appropriations committee has been working through the state’s proposed operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for April 14, 2022

Helping Our State Workers As the General Assembly enters the final four weeks of the 2022 legislative session, I have several pieces of good news to report.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for April 7, 2022

Plowing Ahead with Priorities There’s an old Irish proverb that says “You will never plow a field if you only ever turn it over in your mind.”

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for March 31, 2022

Moving Through the Legislative Process It was another busy week in the Missouri State Capitol, as lawmakers continue to shepherd priority bills through the legislative process.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for March 24, 2022

Starting the Second Half of Session The Missouri General Assembly was back in full swing, as we enter the second half of this year’s legislative session.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for March 10, 2022

Getting Ready to Celebrate 250 Years of Freedom

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for March 3, 2022

The Legislature reached a milestone on Feb. 24 by passing its first bill of the 2022 legislative session. House Bill 3014 is a supplemental budget bill that helps fund a variety of state operations and obligations through the remainder of the fiscal year, which ends on June 30.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Feb. 24, 2022

“Not of Words but of Deeds” “I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds…” These are the opening words of the FFA Creed, which gets recited by every young person who puts on that famous blue corduroy jacket.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Jan. 27, 2022

Moving Priorities Forward We’ve come to the end of the first month of the 2022 legislative session, and a number of priorities are moving through the legislative process.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Jan. 20, 2022

On Jan. 19, lawmakers from both legislative chambers gathered together to hear the governor deliver his State of the State address.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Jan. 12, 2022

On Jan. 10, the Missouri General Assembly began its first full week of legislative activity of the 2022 legislative session, and already we’re tackling some of the big issues.

Sen. Mike Bernskoetter’s Legislative Column for Jan. 6, 2022

The State Capitol is once again alive with the rush of legislative activity, as the Second Regular Session of the 101st General Assembly gets underway.