Creating a smaller, better government that helps to create jobs and increases meaningful work opportunities will be this year’s focus according to Senate Leader Ron Richard, R-Joplin, and Majority Floor Leader Mike Kehoe, R-Jefferson City. The Senate Majority leaders made the announcement Jan. 3 as the Second Regular Session of the 99th General Assembly commenced.

“Step-by-step, we have been making Missouri a more attractive place to live, work, conduct business and invest in the future,” said Richard. “But, there is some unfinished business that I would like us to accomplish in my last year.”

Richard said labor issues like prevailing wage and tort issues will be on the top of his list as well as looking at a fix for the funding issue for in-home and nursing home care.

“We need to make sure government gets out of the way so businesses can be successful. We need to have the desire to go talk to business owners and see what it is they need to succeed. Regulatory reform and what the governor is already doing is a step the right direction,” said Richard.

Tax reform is also something that will most likely get floor time according to Majority Floor Leader Kehoe.

“We were closely following what the federal government did before the new year, and now we are watching to see what effect it will have on Missouri,” said Kehoe. “The most important issue is putting more of people’s own spending money back into their pockets. Numerous tax reform bills have been filed, and I’m sure will have robust conversations about possibilities in the coming weeks.”

Because this is the Second Regular Session, Kehoe said he expects the House, Senate and the governor to work well together for the benefit of Missourians.

“We are ready to continue moving forward and pass legislation that continues to improve Missouri,” said Kehoe.

The Second Regular Session of the 99th General Assembly will run through May 18. To learn more, visit www.senate.mo.gov.