We welcome the nearly 200 Missouri lawmakers who come from all parts of the state to the 2022 legislative session that starts today.
Like all sessions, this one will contain weighty and contentious topics, some new and some that are unfinished business from previous years.
One of the first orders of business will be redistricting: creating maps designating the state's new U.S. congressional districts following the 2020 census.
Lawmakers also are considering setting a higher bar for citizens to amend the state Constitution through the initiative petition process.
Spending priorities from the state's record revenue and federal COVID-19 relief dollars will be another big issue.
Also, education reform bills abound, including those on controversial subjects such as critical race theory and the 1619 Project.
There will be many bills and opportunities for debate that will test the mettle of our lawmakers -- not only in their effectiveness in convincing their colleagues to their point of view, but their ability to do so while remaining civil.
It's a delicate balance: All lawmakers want wins for their sides of the aisle and for their points of view. But, at the same time, we should expect them to have civility and respect for opposing opinions.
We hope lawmakers of all political persuasions will work in the spirit of bipartisanship to the extent possible.
Our country, and our state, do not need more divisiveness.
It comforts us to know Missouri lawmakers start with two traditions that seek blessings and guidance from a higher power.
Today, the annual Legislative Prayer Service will take place at Concord Baptist Church. The event is open to the public.
On Thursday, Gov. Mike Parson will host the 2022 Governor's Prayer Breakfast in Jefferson City. Pastor John Modest Miles, of Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church of Jesus Christ in Kansas City, will deliver the keynote address.
As of this writing, there still were seats available for the prayer breakfast: www.missourigpb.com/reservations/.
News Tribune