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Legislative Column for the Week of April 6, 2026 |
This week, the Missouri Senate returned to work following the Easter holiday and continued moving forward on both legislation and the state budget. With the Missouri House of Representatives having already passed its version of the fiscal year 2027 budget, the Senate will begin its detailed review of those appropriations bills in committee next week. Under the state calendar, the General Assembly must pass a balanced budget by May 8, 2026, so the weeks ahead will be especially important as the Senate works through this process.
I am also pleased to report continued progress on several pieces of legislation I have sponsored this session. Senate Bill 975, which modifies provisions relating to ambulance districts and is intended to help rural districts operate more effectively, has continued advancing in the Missouri House. After being voted do pass by the House Local Government Committee on April 1, it was sent to the House Rules Committee, where it was voted do pass on Thursday by a 10-0 vote. The bill now awaits floor time in the House.
Senate Bill 974, dealing with protections involving compensation for services in veterans benefits matters, has also continued moving forward. The bill received a hearing in the House Veterans and Armed Forces Committee on Tuesday, marking another step forward as it moves through the legislative process.
On Wednesday, Senate Bill 1536 was voted do pass out of committee. This legislation allows family members and next of kin to make health care decisions for incapacitated patients, helping families avoid lengthy probate court delays and unnecessary costs during critical moments.
As chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I remain focused on making sure Missouri’s budget is responsible, transparent and centered on the priorities of our state. At the same time, I will continue working to advance practical legislation that addresses the needs of our communities, including support for rural emergency services, veterans and local economic development.
This week, I am also honored to highlight the winner of the 2026 12th Senatorial District Art Exhibit award, Duncan Jackson of Walt Disney Elementary School. I want to thank everyone who submitted the wonderful artwork we had the opportunity to view this year.
Pictured, left-to-right: Sen. Black, Walt Disney Elementary
As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is 573-751-1415, my email is rusty.black@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is ### |
