Week 13: A Short Week That Delivered

With Monday off for the holiday, this was a shorter week in Jefferson City - but it still brought important progress.

Strengthening Transparency in Sentencing

On Tuesday, I joined Governor Kehoe for the signing of SB 888, a bill focused on improving Missouri's criminal justice system.

This legislation included my bill on sentencing reform - an effort centered on making the system clearer, more transparent, and more consistent for everyone involved.

SB 888 does the following:

1. Improves information sharing.

Allows better record sharing between law enforcement and prosecutors.
Helps track cases more effectively, including juvenile adjudication history.

2. Increases penalties for sexual criminal offenses.

3. Advances sentencing reform.

Streamlines how sentencing processes are handled.
Adds clarity and transparency to how parole eligibility is calculated.

Why This Matters

For too long, parts of the criminal justice system have been difficult to navigate and understand - not just for those inside the system, but for victims and families.

This reform is about bringing clarity where there has been confusion.

It's about making sure:

Victims have confidence in the system.
Law enforcement has the tools they need.
Sentencing is applied in a way that is consistent and understandable.

At the end of the day, accountability and transparency go hand in hand. When the system is clear, it works better for everyone - and it builds trust in the rule of law.

Protecting Ratepayers in Energy Policy

On Wednesday, the Senate took up a nuclear energy bill, where I offered an amendment addressing Construction Work in Progress (CWIP).

What's Happening

CWIP would allow utilities to begin charging customers in advance for the construction of large energy projects - before those projects are complete and producing power. This measure was passed last year in SB 4, which pertained to natural gas facilities.

What My Amendment Does

Prohibits utilities from charging upfront for nuclear plant construction.
Ensures ratepayers are not financially responsible for projects that are still uncertain.
Applies specifically to nuclear energy facilities.

This amendment passed narrowly by a 14-13 vote.

Why This Matters

Missouri families are already dealing with rising costs. Asking them to fund major construction projects upfront - without guarantees those projets will be completed, stay on budget, or deliver results - is not fair.

At the same time, we continue to see large corporations receive significant tax abatements and discounted energy rates. For example, a data center project in Independence is receiving over 90% tax abatement along with energy discounts.

My concern is simple:

Large corporations are often given incentives and protections
Meanwhile, everyday Missourians are asked to take on more financial risk

That imbalance is something I believe we must address. Protecting ratepayers and ensuring fairness should remain a priority as we shape Missouri's energy future.

A Step Forward

While it was a shorter week, it was still a productive one. I remain hopeful as we continue working through the legislative process, pushing good measures forward and working to protect liberty and freedom for Missouri families.

Stay Connected

As always, you can view all my votes by clicking "My Votes" at the top of the page. Transparency matters and I want you to be able to see exactly how I'm representing you.

If you have questions, need assistance, or want to share your thoughts, please reach out to our office. We are here to serve you and be a resource for you.

God bless you, and I look forward to continuing the work ahead.