On Wednesday, Dec. 2, my colleagues and I approved the extra session spending bill and sent it to the governor for his consideration. I am hopeful that the funding and programs outlined in the bill will ensure our state has the resources it needs to continue providing vital services to all Missourians during the pandemic.
While much of the week’s attention was on the extra session spending bill, the Missouri Senate also approved several of the governor’s appointments and reappointments to the state’s various boards and commissions. The Senate’s role in the gubernatorial appointment process serves as a check to the governor’s ability to appoint anyone he chooses to these organizations. These groups are responsible for overseeing many aspects of our daily lives, and I believe our ability to review the governor’s appointments ensures quality, competent individuals are allowed to serve on these important boards and commissions.
As chair of the Missouri Senate’s Gubernatorial Appointments Committee, it is my job to ensure the process runs smoothly and that members of the committee have the opportunity to meet with the governor’s appointees and discuss their qualifications for the position. Appointments and reappointments must receive approval from the Gubernatorial Appointments Committee before they can be considered by the full Senate.
This week, the Missouri Senate approved more than 25 of the governor’s appointments and reappointments. During regular session, the committee would consider these individuals during the first few weeks of session; however, the extra session allows us the opportunity to get a head start on reviewing the governor’s appointments.
By considering these appointments now, these individuals will be able to begin their service to our state as soon as possible. In addition, I am also hopeful that our work this week will lessen the number of appointments we will have to consider in January.