On Saturday, Jan. 31, I had the good fortune of joining many of you at the Midwest March for Life. This is a fantastic event, first and foremost because of the all-important cause that it supports, but also because of the many who turn out to actively support the fact that life is a gift from God and should be protected. At this event I was surprised, but so very pleased, to receive recognition as a "Patriot and Statesman for Life' from my friend and unbelievable disciple for life, Kathy Forck.
With the possible exception of "husband' and "dad', this title is one that I am most pleased to receive. I am thankful for all who believe that life is precious and is worth protecting, and whose beliefs motivate them to take action to protect life. This is a most worthy effort and one that has great earthly and eternal consequences. Sens. Riddle and Sater were also recognized with the same award, and both were drivers behind much of the legislation last year. I am blessed to be able to work with them.
As I have alluded to in past reports, the budget process is well underway in both the House and the Senate. Budget bills begin in the House and then move to the Senate. However, the Senate Appropriations Committee is meeting each day of session to take testimony from departments and citizens about what the state's priorities should be. Traditionally, final passage of the budget has occurred with only a week or two left in session. However, based upon the governor's ruthless utilization of the veto pen to strike funding from programs that are priorities for Missourians in favor of his own wishes, this year the Legislature will endeavor to pass a budget early enough in the session that the governor must make vetoes while the Legislature is still in session. This will give both the House and the Senate the opportunity to consider and potentially override any damaging budget vetoes.
The committee process is in full swing throughout the Senate, and this week saw the first Commerce Committee meeting. The first bill heard was one to ensure that the Legislature and the governor have advance information on the economic impacts of Missouri's plans to implement rules and regulations promulgated by the EPA. With each passing day, the EPA becomes more disconnected from reality. A noble mission has been sacrificed to an ever-increasing appetite for control, with the cross-hairs focused squarely on agriculture, small businesses and private property owners. It is good and right that DNR provide the Legislature with an impact report BEFORE they inform EPA of how they will meet federal mandates. I appreciate Sen. Gary Romine bringing this legislation before the committee.
On Wednesday the Senate gave initial approval to legislation to bring about much needed ethics reform to Missouri. Both on the floor and in press coverage since, critics have complained that this legislation did not go far enough and that it does not solve perceived ethics problems. While I cannot disagree that more can and should be done, I am also pleased to see that ethics reform, in the form of legislation, is actually progressing.
Talk has transitioned to action, and I give great credit to Sen. Ron Richard for leading these efforts. In the coming days and weeks, the legislation we began work on this week, as well as other legislation from other members, including Rep. Jay Barnes, will continue progress toward ethics reform. I am very hopeful and confident that substantive ethics reform will pass this session, and I am almost certain that such legislation will be improved and refined throughout the session and will look different than it currently does.
My purpose and my intent is to serve the constituents of the 6th Senatorial District. If you are in the Capitol during the coming weeks and months, please stop by your office in Room 220.
State Sen. Mike Kehoe, R-Jefferson City, represents the 6th District.