By Skylar Webb, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — Bobby Bostic wasn’t supposed to see freedom after his prison conviction at age 16 — his sentence was for more than two centuries. But House Bill 2201 could change this.
State and Regional News
Corrections, criminal justice highlight initial Senate budget discussions
By Spencer Norris, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — State senators raised questions about several elements of Gov. Mike Parson’s proposed 2021 budget during the Senate Appropriations Committee’s first meeting to discuss the $31 billion spending plan.
Proposal would reduce tax on feminine hygiene products
By Jordan Meier, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — People who menstruate spend upward of $1,000 on their periods during their lifetime, according to the ACLU study “The Unequal Price of Periods.” A tax in Missouri amplifies that cost with a higher sales tax on feminine hygiene products than other everyday goods.
Educators seek tax deduction to help cover classroom supply costs
By Madison Czopek, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — A bill that would help teachers cover out-of-pocket classroom supply costs received strong support at a Missouri Senate hearing Tuesday.
Lawmakers take various approaches to gun violence
By Seth Bodine, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — Efforts to reduce gun violence in Missouri were on the minds of both Senate Republicans and House Democrats on this week.
Three Republican senators proposed bills that aim to modify or increase penalties for crimes related to gun use during a Senate judiciary committee hearing. On the same day, House Democrats highlighted several bills to address firearm violence.