This week, the Missouri House third read and passed HB 2062, a piece of legislation seeking to prohibit counties, municipalities or political subdivisions from implementing eviction moratoriums unless explicitly allowed by state law. Supporters argued that eviction moratoriums infringe on property rights and disrupt contracts between landlords and tenants, emphasizing that eviction is governed by state law.
The legislation is the House’s third attempt to address the issue since the pandemic began. It aims to prevent local governments from imposing eviction moratoriums, highlighting the goal of safeguarding property rights.
__Veteran mental health__
In a significant move toward prioritizing the mental health and well-being of Missouri veterans who have selflessly served our nation, the Missouri House has third read and passed House Bill 1495. This legislation, passed with an unanimous bipartisan vote of 157-0. The legislation underscores a proactive approach in addressing the mental health challenges faced by veterans, recognizing the need for tailored and effective support mechanisms. Collaborative efforts between the Missouri Veterans Commission and the Department of Mental Health aim to establish a comprehensive framework that goes beyond conventional methods to ensure the well-being of those who have served our country.
__Texas border__
The Missouri House Special Committee on Homeland Security has approved the “Homeland Security Act,” a legislative response to challenges posed by illegal immigration and threats to public safety. The act prioritizes heightened border security, leveraging constitutional authority, and encouraging interstate collaboration. Notably, it introduces the offense of “Trespass by an Illegal Alien” with increased penalties, emphasizing urgent action due to the humanitarian crisis and security threats resulting from millions of illegal crossings at the southern border.
Addressing the fentanyl crisis, the legislation imposes stricter penalties on traffickers. In 2023, the Missouri State Highway Patrol seized almost 12,500 grams of fentanyl, a quantity sufficient to cause fatalities twice over among Missouri’s population. With committee approval secured, the act awaits consideration by a rules committee before potential approval on the House floor.
Gov. Mike Parson responded to the southern border crisis this week by activating up to 200 Missouri National Guard members and 22 Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers. Parson attributes the fentanyl crisis and its devastating consequences to the open-border policies of the Biden administration. His plan includes deploying MONG members on a rotating basis of approximately 30 days, sending MSHP troopers equipped with standard law enforcement gear, and requesting a $2.3 million supplemental budget from the Missouri General Assembly to support border security efforts and replenish the emergency response fund. MSHP troopers will begin active support by March 1, and MONG personnel will commence their mission on March 10, with advance planning underway in coordination with the state of Texas.
__Baby box success__
On Feb. 8, a mother utilized the Safe Haven Baby Box at Mehlville District’s Fire Station 2 to provide a secure and anonymous option for her newborn baby girl. This significant event reflects the successful implementation of legislation passed by the Missouri General Assembly and signed into law by Parson on July 15, 2021.
The first Safe Haven Baby Box in Mehlville District was installed Aug. 8, 2023, as part of a comprehensive effort to offer a safe and legal alternative for at-risk mothers facing difficult decisions. This temperature-controlled incubator, discreetly integrated into the fire station’s exterior wall, allows mothers to place their newborns securely and anonymously.
The commitment to ensuring the baby’s safety and a bright future is evident, thanks to the sacrifice made by the mother. Safe Haven Baby Boxes were established to prevent parents from abandoning newborns in unsafe locations, ultimately saving lives.
The Mehlville Fire District, promptly responding to the situation, retrieved the newborn girl from the Safe Haven Baby Box, providing immediate care and transporting her to a hospital for further evaluation. The successful implementation in Mehlville District underscores the importance of community collaboration and legislation aimed at protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
It is an honor to serve the 153rd District. If you have any questions or concerns I can be reached at Darrell.atchison@house.mo.gov or 573-751-1066.
Atchison represents District 153.