A Moment with Mike for February 23rd, 2011

The work that we do at the Capitol runs in cycles and as we quickly approach that mid-point of this session, the majority of time is spent in the committee process. There is some floor action that has already seen passage of some priority items, however, as one that sits on four House committees and one joint committee, most of my time is filled with hearings that prepare legislation to come to the House floor or give us direction as we begin the process of developing a budget that needs to be completed in the next few weeks.

One bill passed out of committee this week would require all driving tests in Missouri to be given only in English. Presently, our state offers driver’s license tests in 11 languages besides English and allows people taking the test to have a translator. The bill approved by the House Transportation Committee would require anyone seeking a driver’s license to take the test in English, either in written form or by having someone read it aloud. While we welcome people from all parts of the world and from varying cultures, it is important to establish that the language we use here in Missouri is English. Our road and highway signs are written in English and highway patrolmen and police officers who make traffic stops are going to communicate in English as well. The bottom line is that if you are going to safely operate a motor vehicle in Missouri, you need to understand English.

Two other bills given committee approval this week would require voters to show a photo ID at the polls and allow them to cast ballots before Election Day. The House Elections Committee approved a constitutional amendment to implement both changes. The committee also passed a bill that would enact the early voting period and photo ID requirement. If passed by both chambers, the constitutional amendment would go before a vote of the people.

We need to make the voting process more accessible and a “no excuse” early voting period would provide an opportunity to vote to many Missourians who may otherwise not cast a ballot. At the same time, we must protect the integrity of the electoral process. We are required to show a photo ID for many things that we do on a regular basis. Why shouldn’t we also provide photographic proof of our identity before we vote? While some have argued that not every Missourian has a photo ID, the bill addresses that issue by requiring the state to provide a form of personal identification at no cost. Requiring photo identification is the simplest way to prevent voter fraud without making the voting process inconvenient for Missouri voters.

Also this week, the House Health Care Policy Committee approved a piece of pro-life legislation that would ban abortions after the 20^th week of pregnancy. The bill provides for exceptions that are medically necessary.

Along with many other bills, these will make their way to the House floor for discussion in the next few weeks. As bills work their way through committee we will soon find that the majority of our time will be spent debating the many issues on the House floor and committee time will be less and less.

If you have questions, you may reach me at my Capitol number 573-751-9465, at the local district number, 660-582-4014, by email at mike.thomson@house.mo.gov or by mail at Room 401B State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101