10:00 Hour

The Senate gaveled in

Prayer and Pledge

Roll Call

Senator Luetkemeyer waved the reading of the journal

Senator Brown (26) was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 61

Senator Beck inquired of Senator Williams

Senator Brown (26) withdrew his motion

11:00 Hour

Senator Carter was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 243

Senator McCreery inquired of Senator Carter

Senator McCreery inquired of Senator Roberts

12:00 Hour

Senator Moon offered an amendment

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Carter withdrew her amendment

Senator Schnelting brought HJR 73 before the body

Senator Beck inquired of Senator Moon

Senator Beck inquired of Senator McCreery

Senator Beck inquired of Senator Williams

Senator Williams inquired of Senator Lewis

Senator Cierpiot noticed the absence of a quorum

Senator Cierpiot stood to talk about Missouri Right to Life

1:00

Senator Cierpiot inquired of Senator Bernskoetter

Senator Cierpiot inquired of Senator Crawford

Senator Cierpiot inquired of Senator Bean

Senator Cierpiot inquired of Senator Coleman

Senator Williams inquired of Senator Lewis

2:00 Hour

Senator Williams inquired of Senator Lewis

Senator Williams inquired of Senator Roberts

3:00 Hour

Senator Roberts inquired of Senator May

4:00 Hour

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator Webber

Senator Nurrenbern noted the absence of a Quorum

Quorum established

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator McCreery

Senator McCreery inquired of Senator Beck

Senator Beck withdrew his amendments.

Senator McCreery offered Senate Amendment 2 to HJR 73 and moved for its adoption.

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator McCreery

5:00 Hour 

Senator McCreery requested a roll call vote on the amendment.

Senator Schnelting moved for the previous question. The motion passed 22-11.

HRJ 73 passed 21-1.

Amid shouting in the gallery, the gallery was cleared.

The gallery was reopened, with a threat to close it again if any more disruptions occurred.

Senator Schnelting moved for the previous question on the naming of the bill. The motion passed 21-12. The naming was passed 21-12

Senator Bernskoetter moved that HB 567 be third and passed. Senator Bernskoetter also moved the previous question on this bill. The motion passed 22-11

HB 567 passed 21-10.

The Senate adjourned until 12:00pm, Thursday, May 22

The post Senate Hour by Hour Wednesday, May 14 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

10:00 Hour

The Senate gaveled in

Prayer and Pledge

Roll Call

Senator Luetkemeyer asked that reading of the journal be dispensed with

Senator Bernskoetter was recognized for reports from standing committees

Senator Black was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 50

Senator Beck inquired of Senator Black

Senator McCreery inquired of Senator Black

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Black

Senator O’Laughlin referred the bill to Fiscal Oversight

Senator Gregory (15) was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 199

Senator Hough continued his inquiry with Senator Black to talk about the contents of the now dead HB 19

11:00 Hour

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Brown (16)

Senator Hough paid tribute to Senator Kit Bond who passed away today

Senator McCreery offered an amendment

The amendment was adopted

Senator McCreery offered an amendment

Senator Beck inquired of Senator McCreery

Senator Beck inquired of Senator Black

The amendment was adopted

Senator Gregory (15) laid the bill over

Senator Gregory was recognized for a privilege motion on SB 199

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator McCreery

Senator Lewis offered an amendment

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator McCreery

12:00 Hour

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator McCreery

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator Hudson

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator Brattin

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator McCreery

1:00 Hour

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Moon spoke on the bill

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 25-7

Senator Gregory moved for the adoption of the Emergency Clause

The Emergency Clause was not adopted by a vote of 15-14

Senator Carter was recognized for a privalaged motion on SB 150

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Carter

Senator Washington inquired of Senator Coleman

2:00 Hour 

Senator Washington continued her inquiry of Senator Carter

Senator Moon inquired Senator Carter

Senator Moon spoke on the bill.

3:00 Hour 

Senator Moon to speak on the bill.

SB 150 was adopted 29-1.

Senator Carter moved that SB 150 be third read and passed. The bill passed 30-1.

Messages from the House.

Senator Gregory (21) was recognized for a privileged motion on HB80.

Senator Gregory (21)  moved that SB80 be third read and passed. Senator Gregory (21) moved for the adoption of House Amendment 1 for SB 80.

Senator Nurrernbern inquired Senator Gregory (21).

Senator Beck inquired Senator Williams and Senator Gregory (21).

House Amendment 1 to SB80 was adopted 24-3

Senator Gregory (21) moved for the adoption of House Amendment 2 for SB 80.

Senator Coleman spoke against the amendment.

Senator Washington inquired Senator Gregory (21).

4:00 Hour

Senator Washington continued her inquiry of Senator Gregory (21)

Senator Lincoln inquired Senator Gregory (21) and Senator Webber.

5:00 Hour

Senator Lincoln continued his inquiry of Senator Webber

6:00 Hour 

Senator Beck inquired Senator Roberts

7:00 Hour 

Senator Beck continued his inquiry of Senator Roberts

Senator Roberts inquired Senator Williams

8:00 Hour 

Senator Roberts inquired Senator May

9:00 Hour

Senator May inquired of Senator Williams

Quorum Call

Quorum Established

Senator May inquired of Senator Williams

Senator Williams spoke on the bill

The bill was laid over

Announcements

The Senate adjourned

The post Senate Hour by Hour Tuesday, May 13 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

2:00 Hour

The Senate gaveled in

Prayer and Pledge

Roll call

Senator Luetkemeyer dispensed with reading of the journal

Senator Luetkemeyer inquired of Senator Black to introduce Congressman Sam Graves

Senator Luetkemeyer asked that messages from the House be read

Messages were read

Senator Fitzwater was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 348

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Gregory (21)

The CCR for SB 348 was adopted by a vote of 29-1

The bill was adopted by a vote of 29-1

Senator Gregory (15) was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 199

Senator Gregory (15) asked that the vote be reconsidered

The vote was reconsidered

Senator Gregory (15) requested that the SS be sent back and sent a new SS

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

3:00 Hour

Senator Luetkemeyer sought recusal from the vote on the underlying bill

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Webber to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Bernskoetter to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Crawford to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of the chair about Senator Brown (16)’s whereabouts

Senator Hough inquired of Senator McCreery to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Williams to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

4:00 Hour

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Burger to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Bean to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Washington to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator May to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

Senator Hough inquired of Senator Black to discuss the contents of the now dead HB 19

5:00 Hour

Senator Gregory (15) laid the bill over

Senator Schnelting was recognized for a privileged motion on HJR 73

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator O’Laughlin

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Carter

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Hudson

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Crawford

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Schroer

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Brattin

6:00 Hour 

Senator Beck inquired Senator Lewis

Senator Beck moved for the adoption of Senate Amendment 1 and also moved for the adoption of Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Amendment 1.

Senator Beck inquired Senator Lewis

7:00 Hour

Senator Beck inquired Senator Lewis

Senator Luetkemeyer asked that House messages be read

Messages were read

Announcements

The Senate Adjourned

The post Senate Hour by Hour Monday, May 12 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

During the last two weeks of the session, The Missouri Times will bring you hourly updates of floor activity for each chamber. Below is all the activity in the Senate from Friday, May 9.

10:00 Hour

The Senate gaveled in

Prayer and Pledge

Roll Call

Senator Luetkemeyer dispensed with reading of the journal

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have House messages read

Messages were read

Senator Brown (16) refused to cede the Senate’s position on SB 121

Senator Luetkemeyer moved to House bills for third reading formal calendar

Senator Gregory (23) laid his bill on the informal calendar

Senator Schnelting laid his bill on the informal calendar

Senator Bernskoetter laid his bill on the informal calendar

Senator Carter laid her bill on the informal calendar

Senator Fitzwater was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 43

Senator Schroer inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Webber inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator May inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator May inquired of Senator Schroer

Senator May inquired of Senator Washington

Senator May inquired of Senator Roberts

Senator May inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Brattin inquired of Senator Fitzwater

11:00 Hour

Senator Brattin inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Fitzwater closes on the motion

The motion has been adopted by a vote of 32-2

The bill has been third read and finally passed by a vote of 32-2

Senator Hough was recognized on HB 18

The substitute was adopted

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 27-7

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have House messages read

Messages were read

Senator Hough was recognized for a motion on HB 19 

Senator Hough offered an amendment

The amendment was adopted

Senator Hough moved that the bill be third read and finally passed

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 27-7

Senator Hough was recognized for a motion on HB 20

The bill was third read and finally passed

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 2

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 26-8

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 26-8

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 3

Senator Washington recused herself from the vote

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 25-8

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 25-8

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have House messages read

Messages were read

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 4

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 27-7

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 27-7

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 5

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 25-8

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 25-8

12:00 Hour

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 6

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 25-8

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 26-7

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 7

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 25-7

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 25-7

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 8

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 31-2

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 31-2

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 9

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 29-4

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 29-4

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have House messages read

Messages were read

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 10

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 25-8

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 25-8

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 11

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 24-8

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 24-8

The Senate stood at ease

1:00 Hour

Senator Luetkemeyer noticed the absence of a quorum

Quorum was established

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have House messages read

Messages were read

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 12

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 20-13

Senator Brattin inquired of Senator Schroer

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 19-14

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 13

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 26-7

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 26-7

Senator Luetkemeyer moved to announcements

Senator Luetkemeyer moved that the Senate stand at ease

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have House messages read

Messages were read

Senator Hough was recognized for a privileged motion on HB 17

Senator Black was recognized for a point of personal privilege

Senator May was recognized for a point of personal privilege

Senator Washington was recognized for a point of personal privilege

The CCR was adopted by a vote of 24-6

Senator Hough thanked his colleagues and staffers for helping to get the budget passed

The bill was third read and finally passed by a vote of 24-8

The Senate adjourned

The post Senate Hour by Hour Friday, May 9 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

During the last two weeks of the session, The Missouri Times will bring you hourly updates of floor activity for each chamber. Below is all the activity in the Senate from Tuesday, May 6.

10:00 Hour

The Senate gaveled in at 10:30

Prayer and pledge

The Senate called roll

Senator Luetkemeyer moved the reading of journal be dispensed with

Senator Hudson inquired of Senator Luetkemeyer to introduce a special guest

Senator O’Laughing recognized Senator Bernskoetter for a report on standing committees

Senator O’Laughing recognized Senator Fitzwater for a report on standing committees

Senator O’Laughing recognized Senator Schroer for a report on standing committees

Senator Bean was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 28

Roll call vote called

The CCD was adopted 31-2

Senator Bean moved that SB 28 be third read and finally adopted

Senator Moon spoke on the bill’s lack of constitutionality

Senator Bean closed on the motion

11:00 Hour 

SB 28 was third read and finally passed by a vote of 33-1

Senator Luetkemeyer asked that messages from the House be read

Messages were read

Senator Gregory (15) was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 71

Senator Mosley inquired of Senator Roberts for introductions of special guests

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator Gregory (15) on SB 71

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator McCreery

Senator Gregory (15) inquired of Senator Moon

Senator Nicola inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Gregory (15) renewed his motion

The motion was adopted 31-2

Senator Gregory (15) moved that SB 71 be third read and finally passed

The bill was third read and adopted by a vote of 29-2

Senator Gregory (15) moved for the adoption of the emergency clause

The emergency clause was adopted by a vote of 31-2

Senator Luetkemeyer moved to House bills for third read

Senator May inquired of Senator McCreey to introduce a special guest

Senator Brown (16) moved that HB 225 be third read and finally passed

Senator Washington inquired of Senator Brown (16)

Senator May offered an amendment

Senator May inquired of Senator Roberts

12:00 Hour

Senator Mosley inquired of Senator May to introduce a special guest

Senator Schroer inquired of Senator Brown (16) to introduce a special guest

Senator May moved for the adoption of her amendment

Senator May was granted a standing division vote

Senator May was granted a roll call vote

The amendment was defeated by a vote of 10-19

Senator McCreery offered an amendment

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator McCreery about the amendment

Senator Brown (16) spoke against the amendment

Senator McCreery spoke on the amendment

Senator Washington inquired of Senator McCreery about the amendment

Senator Brown (16) spoke on the amendment

Senator McCreery was granted a roll call vote

Senator Moon rose to make a point of order on the amendment

Senator McCreery spoke on the point of order

The point is well taken on the amendment

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Brown (16)

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Schroer

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Brown (16)

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Brown (16)

Senator Roberts offered an amendment

The amendment was adopted

Senator Schroer offered an amendment

1:00 Hour

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Schroer

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Fitzwater

Senator Schroer inquired of Senator Coleman

Senator Schroer spoke on the bill

Senator Schroer withdrew his amendment

Senator Schroer offered an amendment

Senator Schroer asked that the amendment be read

The amendment was adopted

Senator May offered an amendment

The amendment was adopted

Senator Beck offered an amendment

Senator Beck inquired of Senator Brown (16)

The amendment is adopted

Senator Gregory (15) offered an amendment

The amendment is adopted

Senator O’Laughlin referred HB 225 to the Fiscal Oversight committee

Senator Luetkemeyer asked that messages from the House be read

Senator Carter was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 60

Senator Schroer inquired of Senator Carter

SB 60 was referred to conference

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to move to HB for third reading

Senator Brattin offered HB 1175 to the body for third reading

Senator Bratting moved for the third reading and final passage of the bill

Senator Brattin inquired of Senator Schnelting

Senator Cierpiot inquired of Senator Brattin

Senator Webber inquired of Senator Brattin

2:00 Hour

Senator Webber continued his inquiry of Senator Brattin

Senator Nicola inquired Senator Brattin

Senator Roberts offered an amendment and spoke on it.

Senator Carter motioned for a point of order on the amendment. Senator Roberts spoke on the point of order.

Senator Roberts had his amendment sent back and then offered a second amendment.

Senator Roberts inquired Senator Lewis

3:00 Hour 

Senator Roberts continued his inquiry of Senator Lewis. 

Senator Roberts inquired Senator Nurrenbern

Senator McCreery offered an amendment to the amendment 

Senator Brattin laid the bill over on the informal calendar 

Senator Black asked that first Senate Substitute for SCS HB 147 be moved back and moved for the adoption of the new Senate Substitute of SCS HB 147. 

Senator Moon inquired Senator Black 

Senator Black Inquired of Senator Crawford 

Senator Black motioned that SS#2 for SCS HB 147 be third read and passed. The bill passed 32-1. 

Senator Brattin brought HB 1175 back to the floor. Senator McCreery continued her explanation of her amendment to the amendment.

4:00 Hour

Senator Brattin inquired Senator McCreery 

Senator McCreery inquired Senator Washington and Senator Williams.

5:00 Hour

Senator Brattin inquired Senator McCreery

Senator McCreery inquired Senator Washington and Senator Williams.

Senator Williams inquired Senator Nurrenbern

6:00

Senator Williams continued his inquiry of Nurrenbern

Senator Williams inquired Senator Schroer

7:00 Hour

Senator Williams spoke on the amendment

Senator Williams inquired of Senator Beck

Senator Williams spoke on the motion

Senator Brattin laid the bill over

Senator Luetkemeyer moved to House bills for third reading on the informal calendar

Senator Crawford brought HB 269 up for  third reading and finally passage

8:00 Hour

Senator Trent inquired of Senator Crawford

Senator Trent inquired of Senator Coleman

Senator Coleman offered an amendment

Senator Coleman was granted a standing division vote

The amendment failed 10-18

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Moon

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Nicola

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Carter

9:00 Hour

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Hough

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Brattin

Senator Coleman offered an amendment

Senator Coleman began reading

10:00 Hour

Senator Coleman continued reading

11:00 Hour

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Nicola

Senator Nicola spoke on the amendment

Senator Crawford laid the bill over

Senator Luetkemeyer moved to announcements

Senator Luetkemeyer moved to adjourn

Senate Adjourned

The post Senate Hour by Hour Tuesday, May 6 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

4:00 Hour

The Senate gaveled in

The Senate opened with prayer and pledge

The Senate called roll

Journal approved

Senator Luetkemeyer went to reports of standing committees

Senator Bernskoetter was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 7

Senator Lewis inquired Senator Bernskoetter

Senator Bernskoetter closed

Senator Gregory (15) was recognized for a privilege motion on SB 71

Senator Coleman inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator May inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator Gregory (15)

Senator Moon stood to talk on the bill

5:00 Hour

Senator Moon spoke on SB 71

Senator Gregory (15) layed the bill over

Senator Gregory (21) was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 81 and SB 174

Senator Webber inquired of Senator Gregory (21)

Senator Schroer inquired of Senator Gregory (21)

SB 81 was brought up for a roll call vote

The CCR for SB 81 was adopted 32-2

Senator Gregory (21) moved that SB 81 be third read and finally passed

The bill was passed 32-2

Senator Gregory (21) moved for the adoption of the emergency clause

The emergency clause was adopted 32-2

Senator O’Laughlin asked that the chair reads the conferees

Senator Luetkemeyer asked that the chair reads the messages from the House

Senator O’Laughlin asked that the chair reads the conferees

Senator Brattin moved SB 262 for third reading and final passage

Senator Webber inquired of Senator Brattin

Senator Webber offered an amendment

6:00 Hour

Senator Webber spoke on the amendment

Senator Moon inquired of Senator Webber about the amendment

Senator Webber withdrew the amendment

Senator Crawford inquired of Senator Moon

Senator Brattin was recognized to close

By a vote of 33-0 the bill was third read and finally passed

Senator Black moved that HB 147 be brought for third reading and final passage

Senator Crawford inquired of Senator Black on the bill

Senator Crawford offered an amendment

The amendment was adopted

Senator Roberts offered an amendment

The amendment is adopted

Senator Gregory (21) offered an amendment

Senator Webber inquired of Senator Black on the amendment’s fiscal note

Senator McCreey inquired of Senator Black

7:00 Hour 

Senator McCreery continued her inquiry of Senator Black

Senator McCreery inquired Senator Dallas and Senator Nurrernbern

Senator Webber offered an amendment. The amendment was passed

Senator Nicola offered an amendment. Senator McCreery inquired Senator Nicola about the amendment

Senator McCreery inquired Senator Lewis, Senator Black and then Senator Lewis again.

Senator Nicola closed. The amendment was not passed.

Senator Moon inquired Senator Black.

8:00 Hour 

Senator Moon continued his inquiry of Senator Black. 

Senator Moon offered an amendment and noticed the absence of a quorum. Senator Moon also requested a roll call. 

Senator Gregory (15) inquired Senator Moon about the amendment, noting that the amendment was not related to the underlying bill. 

Senator Black laid the bill over on the informal calendar. 

Senator Brattin moved for the adoption of SCS HB 233. 

Senator May inquired Senator Brattin and Senator Black

9:00 Hour 

Senator May continued her inquiry with Senator Black

Senator Nicola inquired of Senator Brattin

Senator Nicola inquired of Senator Burger over Regional Planning Commissions

Senator Nicola inquired of Senator May over Regional Planning Commissions

Senator Nicola inquired of Senator Nurrenbern over Regional Planning Commissions

Senator Brattin laid the bill over

Senator Schnelting brought HB 75 up for third reading and final passage

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator McCreery with concerns over the bill

Senator Lewis offered an amendment

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator Nurrenbern about the amendment

Senator Schnelting spoke against the amendment

Senator Moon spoke against the amendment

Senator Schnelting was granted a roll call vote

Senator Lewis inquired of Senator Moon

The amendment was defeated 10-19

Senator Washington offered an amendment

Senator Schnelting inquired of Senator Washington

Senator Schnelting was granted a standing division vote

Senator Washington was granted a roll call vote

The amendment was defeated 10-18

Senator Nicola spoke on the bill and stated he would not vote for the bill

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator Beck

Senator Nurrenbern offered an amendment

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator Beck

Senator Nurrenbern inquired of Senator Lewis

Senator Schnelting laid the bill over

Senator Luetkemeyer asked to have messages from the House to be read

House messages read

Senator Gregory (15) was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 71

Senator Hudson was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 160

Senator Carter was recognized for a privileged motion on SB 150

Senate stood adjourned at 10:44pm

The post Senate Hour by Hour Monday, May 5 appeared first on The Missouri Times.

This session the Missouri General Assembly is being asked to consider passing legislation that could affect the state’s most prominent industry, that being agriculture. Whether it be ending the sunset on various agricultural tax credits, or legislation to help bring affordable healthcare to those in rural Missouri, the state’s Ag industry is asking legislators to address serious issues this year. 

One of those issues is the regulation/labeling of glyphosate products, mainly Roundup. 

Glyphosate is an essential herbicide for Missouri’s agriculture, playing a vital role in helping farmers effectively control weeds and boost crop production. According to one study, 91% of Missouri soybean farmers use glyphosate as well as 66% of Missouri’s corn farmers. 

With rising demand for food and the challenges posed by invasive weed species, many farmers in the state rely on glyphosate to keep their fields productive and ensure food supplies are secure for local and national markets. The herbicide’s effectiveness in managing a variety of weeds has made it a go-to option for many, allowing farmers to maximize their yields and lower production costs. 

While many voices express concerns about the dangers of glyphosate, it’s important to recognize the extensive research and evaluation that underpin its approval by the US 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safety and efficacy. 

The EPA’s endorsement is based on thorough scientific reviews that assess glyphosate’s effects on human health and the environment, considering factors such as toxicity and exposure levels. Following rigorous testing protocols, the EPA has concluded that glyphosate does not pose significant risks when used according to label instructions. 

Despite ongoing debates about its safety, the EPA’s continued support highlights glyphosate’s essential role in modern agriculture and pest management, reassuring users of its responsible use and effectiveness.

The major concern that has been raised is based on a study published by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) which classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” in 2015. The study came to this conclusion based on “limited evidence” of cancer in humans and “sufficient evidence” in experimental animals. 

The study has been criticized for some of its conclusions due to several factors. 

First, the IARC focused primarily on limited data sources, which some experts argue did not encompass all relevant scientific studies, potentially leading to incomplete assessments of glyphosate’s safety. 

Additionally, critics have pointed out that the methods used to classify glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” relied heavily on animal studies and epidemiological data that were not uniformly robust. 

Furthermore, the IARC’s approach to risk assessment was seen as diverging from regulatory agencies, which often consider a broader range of data and the weight of evidence. 

As a result, the findings have led to significant debate and concern among scientists, health professionals, and industry stakeholders regarding the actual risks posed by glyphosate.

Despite the concerns over the accuracy of the study, the study opened the door to lawsuits against Bayer and the RoundUp product.

RoundUp has seen serious lawsuits brought against it for supposedly causing cancer. Bayer, the company that acquired Monsanto which is responsible for RoundUp, has committed to paying $10.9 billion to resolve thousands of Roundup-related lawsuits, with around 165,000 lawsuits already filed and more than 60,000 additional cases still pending. 

One case here in Cole County, Missouri saw a jury award each plaintiff $500 million in punitive damages as well as $5.6 million and $38 million in compensatory damages. The end of the trial led to Bayer paying a combined $1.56 billion to three individuals who claimed their cancer was caused by the weed killer Roundup. 

While the jury and others like them across the country may have sided with the plaintiffs, in the end juries don’t decide science. 

As concerns grow over potential restrictions on herbicides like glyphosate, many farmers are understandably worried that limiting its use could make weed management more challenging and adversely affect their yields. 

Farmers know all too well how difficult it can be to maintain productivity without the right tools. This proposed bill addresses those concerns directly, aiming not only to recognize glyphosate’s significant economic importance but also to highlight its role in protecting crops from diseases and supporting overall food sustainability. 

By securing access to glyphosate, Missouri farmers can mitigate risks related to crop loss and maintain a steady supply of food, which is vital for both state and national food security.

Additionally, there is a pressing national security angle to consider. The Chinese Communist Party has been making moves to gain a stronghold on the glyphosate market, which poses a potential threat to U.S. agriculture.

In 2015, China produced over 800,000 metric tons of glyphosate which accounted for nearly 70% of the world’s glyphosate production. Since then Chinese production of glyphosate has decreased, in 2021 it still managed to produce 760,000 metric tons which accounted for 60% of global glyphosate creation. 

Chinese domination of glyphosate production could create dependencies that would pose serious risks for American farmers and the food security of the entire nation. In this context, protecting glyphosate use in Missouri could be even more urgent, highlighting the need for the U.S. to maintain its independence in agriculture and to strengthen local farming practices. 

This is not just about ensuring that farmers have access to the chemicals they need; it’s about safeguarding the entire agricultural infrastructure of the country from foreign control.

Whether or not the legislation passes through the Missouri General Assembly, it’s clear that this bill will affect Missouri’s top industry and possibly national security. 

The post Roundup Resistance: Glyphosate’s Role in Missouri Ag and America’s Food Security appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“As a lifelong Missourian, I believe our state needs strong, conservative leadership that prioritizes lower taxes, job growth, and personal freedoms,” said Casteel. “I am running for State Senate to be a voice for blue collar workers, small businesses, and the traditional values that make Missouri great.”

Casteel, the founder of Gutter Pros, has been a tireless advocate for economic growth, parental rights in education, and Second Amendment protections. His platform priorities include:

• Lowering Taxes & Cutting Wasteful Spending – Casteel is committed to reducing the tax burden on Missouri families and small businesses while ensuring that government remains efficient and accountable.

• Defending Conservative Values – A strong advocate for faith, family, and freedom, he will stand against government overreach and policies that threaten Missouri’s way of life.

• Supporting Law Enforcement & Public Safety – Casteel will continue to ensure law enforcement is fully funded, strengthen laws against violent crime and illegal immigration, and support first responders.

• Protecting Parental Rights in Education – He believes parents should have a say in their children’s education and will push for policies that remove political propaganda in the classroom, while increasing teacher pay to recruit and retain quality educators.

• Standing Up for the Second Amendment – As a strong supporter of the right to bear arms, Casteel will fight against any attempts to infringe on gun ownership and the right to self-defense.

Casteel’s campaign is focusing on grassroots engagement, meeting directly with voters across the district to listen to their concerns and advocate for policies that reflect their values.

“Jefferson County deserves a leader who will fight for ‘We the People’ — our freedoms, wallets, and the conservative values that define our way of life. That’s my mission for the state senate.”

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As a State Representative, Pollitt has been a steadfast advocate for education, farmers, and the protection of constitutional freedoms. His legislative efforts include sponsoring open enrollment for Missouri school districts, empowering K-12 students with greater autonomy and flexibility in their education.

In addition to his legislative duties, Pollitt is the owner and operator of Rocker P. Cattle Company LLC as a lifelong farmer. As a member of the Missouri Farm Bureau, he understands the challenges faced by local farmers and is dedicated to supporting family farms and businesses.

Pollitt’s campaign is built upon unwavering, commonsense conservative principles. He is committed to protecting life at all stages, standing with local law enforcement, and defending the right to bear arms. A staunch opponent of “woke” ideology infiltrating Missouri’s classrooms, Pollitt pledges to uphold core Missouri values and ensure that education remains focused on excellence and integrity—not identity politics.

“I am running for the Missouri State Senate to continue serving the people of our great state,” said Pollitt. “Together, we the people can preserve our constitutional freedoms, support our agricultural heritage, and ensure a brighter future for all Missourians.”

Brad Pollitt resides in Sedalia with his wife, Danette. They have three children: Kevin, Whitney, and Brianna, and are active members of Maplewood Church in Sedalia.

For more information about Brad Pollitt and his campaign, please visit www.pollittformo.com.

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