With the close of session this week, only four weeks remain in the 2017 legislative session. There is much to be done in these final weeks, the most important is passing a balanced budget for FY2018. Sen. Dan Brown, the Appropriations Committee, and staff will likely complete the Senate committee version of the budget next week, putting the budget on the floor of the Senate during the week of April 24. This will leave about a week to work through the differences in the House and Senate versions via conference committee and meet the constitutionally established deadline of May 5for sending a budget to the governor.
This week the Senate completed work on several issues, sending legislation to the House for further consideration and action. Among these bills is another version of a statewide prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP). This is a significant and pressing issue that rightly generated a great deal of discussion and compromise. In addition to PDMP, the Senate gave initial approval to a comprehensive education bill and completed work on legislation relating to Transportation Network Companies. The house quickly approved this legislation, more commonly known as 'the Uber/Lyft Bill,' and it now awaits the governor's signature.
As I write this on Good Friday, the actions of the legislature this week and session are rightly put into perspective when viewed in light of the crucifixion of Christ. Truth be told, His death, burial and resurrection is the most significant event in human history, to which nothing done of human hands or institutions can compare. I am thankful for Good Friday because Easter Sunday, an empty tomb, and a risen Savior followed. Claudia and I wish each of you a wonderful Easter and hope that it is a day of thankfulness, great blessing, and time spent with friends and family.
State Sen. Mike Kehoe, R-Jefferson City, represents the 6th District, and shares his perspective on statehouse issues each week.