Casey Guernsey's Capitol Report: Nuisance Reform Legislation Passes

With a blizzard warning being issued for the first time ever in the State of Missouri, the Governor issued a State of Emergency and activated the National Guard this week. Now that the snow has subsided, the cleanup process has begun. We are also beginning to experience the forecasted single digit and subzero temperatures. This compounded with the 20 inches of snow in Jefferson City made for a very interesting work week! Nearly every legislator made it to Jefferson City for session and remained “holed up” safely in the Capitol. However, one member from Benton County was in a very serious car accident and is in critical condition. I would ask everyone to say a prayer on behalf of Representative Wanda Brown. The decision was made to place the House in what is referred to as “Technical Session” for the week. That way, if members needed to hold hearings to keep committee work moving along we were able to do so. It also allowed for members to go home whenever they could and not worry any legislation would be brought before the full body on the House floor for a vote.

I was one committee chairman who took advantage of an opportunity to work and held a hearing for my legislation relating to nuisance reform for farmers and agri-businesses. We met twice to hear testimony from a number of folks both in support and in opposition to my bill and debate its language. We ended up passing my bill out of the committee for debate before the whole house with unanimous support of all 15 members of my committee, both Democrats and Republicans. I am very pleased we were able to diligently work on this legislation and come to an agreement that it is imperative we fix this problem of repeat lawsuits facing farmers and agri-businesses. Rarely do members of both parties come together in committee to lend complete support for legislation. This further demonstrates the gravity of the situation facing Missouri’s agriculture sector. I will now work to see we receive the same level of support to pass this legislation out of the House to send it to the Senate. Fortunately Senator Lager has already begun work in his side of the legislature to get this passed into law.

It was very interesting and historic to work on your behalf this week. Most members remained at the Capitol Tuesday night, sleeping on the floor of their offices. I believe despite the dangerous winter weather and road conditions, this session will ultimately be successful because of the work we were able to accomplish this week in spite of the blizzard. As always, feel free to contact me anytime with your thoughts and concerns either by phone at 573.751.4285 or email; Casey.Guernsey@house.mo.gov.