Senator Jamie Burger’s Capitol Report for Jan. 29, 2026

Presenting Bills in Hearings

The rare winter storm that blanketed most of the state with inches of snow pushed deliberations in the Senate back a day. I enjoyed spending a little extra time with family, after the driveway was plowed and sidewalks were shoveled, of course! For those of you who need to hear this, we’ll be springing our clocks forward in five weeks.

I moved a few of my bills forward this week by presenting them in committees on Jan. 28. Senate Bill 1008 authorizes Missouri’s attorney general to appoint commissioned and noncommissioned investigators. Under the act, commissioned investigators will be required to take an oath of office, comply with all peace officer standards and assist with law enforcement agencies. Commissioned investigators will also receive a certificate of appointment, giving them the same powers of arrest as peace offers in cases assigned or appointed to the attorney general’s office. Currently, post-certifications are only processed in Osage County. Since investigators play a huge role in public safety and solving crimes, I’d like to see this responsibility returned to a statewide office.

My post-consumer paint recycling program bill was heard by the Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy and the Environment Committee later that day. Senate Bill 917 provides the framework to implement a recycling program and permits organizations and retail paint producers to develop and submit a plan to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. I believe this bill will solve a persistent problem every household faces with disposing leftover paint, make recycling practical for everyone and protect the environment from toxic chemicals. Similar programs are already up and running in 12 other states. I’ve sponsored this bill since 2021, so it is well past time to put a second coat on Missouri’s paint recycling program this year and pass SB 917 through the Legislature.

Numerous Senate bills were second read and referred to committees on Jan. 27. This includes five of my own ranging from establishing a Lithium Battery Recycling and Safety Act to raising the speed limit to 75 on interstates and freeways. I look forward to presenting them in committees in the coming weeks and will provide more details after the hearings. 

Welcoming Guests from the 27th

As always, the highlight of my week is visiting with folks from back home. Thanks for taking the time and sharing information. 

Representatives from Recycling Grace, a faith-based addiction recovery center for women.

Missouri Soybean Association members

The president of SEMO University, Dr. Hodson, and Sarah Chapman visited Sen. Burger following her confirmation hearing on Jan. 28 to serve on the SEMO University Board of Governors as a student representative. This bright young lady will be a great resource for students and faculty.

Contact Sen. Burger

201 W. Capitol Ave., Room 334 Jefferson City, MO 

Jamie.burger@senate.mo.gov      573-751-2459

Senate.mo.gov/Burger