Two takeaways for the week include Senate Bill 22 which offers the voters some welcomed changes in the appearance of future statewide ballot measures.

In the past the introduction of an issue on the ballot required a 50-word description. Soon we may see a more detailed introduction with a 100-word description. In addition, the courts will give the secretary of state three chances to write a fair and balanced introduction to each ballot issue.

Another important change brought about by SB 22 is the authority granting the Missouri Attorney General’s office the opportunity to appeal Court orders preventing the state from acting on a law. This addition to the bill balances the power struggle by the different branches of government. It mirrors the authority of the U.S. Attorney General.

SB 22 included a clause used only in special situations — an emergency clause. This provision was passed by a two-thirds majority and allows the law to go into effect immediately upon the signature of the Governor. SB 22 has been passed by both chambers and is headed to the Governor’s desk. The impact of this legislation will be interesting to watch.

Another bill that passed on party lines this week was House Joint Resolution 73 (HJR73). This bill gives voters a second chance to decide on issues relating to abortion. This second opportunity to pass an abortion bill will allow abortions in cases of medical emergencies, fetal anomalies, rape and incest up to three months of gestation. This version also creates a constitutional amendment to include a provision for women’ healthcare in cases of miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, and other medical emergencies.

HJR 73, is different from the recently passed Amendment 3 because it prohibits the use of surgeries, hormones, or drugs to assist children with gender transition.

Supporters of HB 73 argue the language of Amendment 3 was misleading to voters. Opponents to the bill say once is enough and revisiting Amendment 3 is unnecessary. HJR 73 is the middle ground between two extremes of Pro-Choice and Pro-Life. It is one of those perfect pieces of legislation creating an environment where neither side is happy.

We hope you had a great Easter with time to celebrate your faith and enjoy family and friends. There’s four weeks left in this legislative session. The days will be long and full of political rhetoric (some have a different name for rhetoric).

If you want to reach out, call Jill Ryals, our legislative assistant, at 573-751-6668 or send me an email at bruce.sassmann@house.mo.gov.