If you happen to be a Dallas Cowboys fan like me, you might recognize this as part of Dak Prescott’s cadence when he is ready to have the ball snapped. As much as I appreciate that, that is not what I am referring to.
The 2nd Session of the 102nd Missouri State Assembly began on January 3rd. It was great to see many of our legislators who we have not seen since last May. It was also nice to continue conversations with many legislators face to face instead of over phone, text or email. Our team is blessed to know these public servants on a personal basis and develop friendships over time.
Yes, they are going to do things that infuriate us from time to time. Yes, they are going to vote on and pass legislation we may not agree with. They are human beings just like us. They are imperfect and in need of redemption just like us.
This is now my 10th year as a volunteer for Convention of States Action. I have had the opportunity to speak with hundreds of legislators over that time. With a handful of exceptions, every one of them is in the legislature to truly serve their constituents to the best of their ability. It has been a tremendous learning experience to grow as a self-governing citizen. It continues to be an honor to carry your voice to Jefferson City and share your concerns about the survival of our republic
A republic. If you can keep it. – Benjamin Franklin
This is something you can do as well. In fact, it is your duty to know your elected officials and be involved in the political process. This is the charge we were given by our Founding Fathers and the Framers of the Constitution. When Ben Franklin was asked at the conclusion of the 1787 Convention what type of government we had been given, he responded, “A republic. If you can keep it.” Such a brief statement but, one that articulated our responsibilities to provide political muscle to the Constitution.
You may dispense with the pleasantries. – Darth Vader
Yes, I am a nerd. Time to get down to business. Here are my initial reads about the opening of the Second Session of the 102nd Missouri Assembly.
1. The First Session was extremely unproductive – Generally, the less the legislature does, the better it is for us. There are some important things the legislature should strive to accomplish. Those are items that follow absolute truths and defend our constitutional principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Two priorities of the last session were Education Reform and Initiative Petition Reform. Neither were accomplished last session for a variety of reasons. These will carry forward as focuses this session.
2. It is an election year – We will elect local government officials and school board members this spring. This November, we will elect every member of the Missouri House, a third of the Missouri Senate, a Governor and other statewide officials, every member of the House of Representatives and a third of the Senators in Washington DC. Oh yeah. There is a presidential election too. To stand here and predict how the year will transpire is impossible. There will be lots of political posturing. It looks to be a wild ride and will affect legislative activity.
3. The Missouri Freedom Caucus – A few members of the Missouri Legislature have formed this group. This is an extension of the Freedom Caucus that exists in Congress. In my opinion, all 535 members of Congress and all 197 members of the Missouri Legislature should be members. We know that is not a political reality. This is a nationwide effort to promote more limited-government legislation.
The 'Conservative Caucus' and leadership in the Senate clashed last session. Time will tell how things progress this session. Advocacy of legislation that is congruent with our Constitution and Founding Principles is absolutely necessary. Many of the issues we face today result from violations of constitutional principles and values that have made America the beacon of freedom we are meant to be.
Our Convention of States Missouri Team has introduced our Commissioner Selection Bill once again. Representative Travis Smith (MO-155) and Senator Curtis Trent (MO-20) are the Sponsors of this legislation. The House Bill number is HB1442. The Senate Bill will be formally filed this week. We are also looking to be involved in non-COS related legislation as well. We call this F3 Legislation. These are bills that advance freedom, federalism and fundamental rights.
How effective we are depends upon our team. We have our Statewide Call the 2nd Monday of each month at 8pm central time. This is a great opportunity to learn ways to be involved with Convention of States Action. If you want to jump in with both feet, go to www.conventionofstates.com/take_action and sign up for a volunteer role. There is something there for you regardless of your skill set. We look forward to meeting you!
In liberty,
Brett
Editor's Note: The dates of the future statewide calls can be found on our Teamup Calendar.
Please bookmark the Missouri Information Page and share it with family and friends.
Past Blog Posts
Did you miss last week's blog post? No worries, we've got you covered!
Click here to access our archive and see the full history of the blog.
