Last year, my colleagues honored me with the responsibility of serving as the Majority Whip. This role has allowed me to play a key part in decision-making at the leadership level, enabling me to push for positive changes that benefit our community. I am pleased to report that, with your support, we’ve made significant progress on various fronts.
Looking ahead, I am excited to announce my decision to run for Majority Whip once again in the next session. By doing so, I aim to continue the momentum we’ve built and ensure that our district and state continue to see positive outcomes during my next term.
I would also like to update you on the progress of two critical bills I’ve introduced in the Missouri House of Representatives: HB 1406 and HB 1401. These bills address pressing issues facing our state — catalytic converter theft and illegal immigration.
Let’s begin with HB 1406, a significant step toward curbing the continuing scourge of catalytic converter theft. This crime not only inflicts financial hardship on victims but also leaves them without transportation for extended periods. While we previously passed legislation making catalytic converter theft a Class E felony, we recognize that additional measures are crucial.
In a proactive move, I reached out to General Motors, who shared plans to incorporate Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) on catalytic converters in the coming years. However, we cannot afford to wait. Therefore, I propose a bill requiring transactions involving catalytic converters to include the VIN of the vehicle from which they were removed. This measure will enable law enforcement to swiftly trace stolen converters back to their source, serving as a potent deterrent and, ultimately, reducing thefts across our state.
HB 1406 had a committee hearing this week, marking a significant milestone in our efforts to protect Missourians from this pervasive crime. The collaboration between legislators, law enforcement and concerned citizens has been instrumental in moving this bill forward.
Now, turning our attention to HB 1401, my commitment to addressing immigration-related challenges is unwavering. Following a visit to the U.S.-Mexico border, where I witnessed the complex and troubling realities of the immigration crisis, I introduced this legislation to address trespassing by illegal aliens in Missouri.
HB 1401 establishes the offense of trespass by an illegal alien, providing a framework for law enforcement to take decisive action. The bill defines key terms, such as “alien registration card” and “illegal alien,” ensuring clarity and fairness in its application. Under this legislation, an individual found on public or private land in Missouri without legal documentation commits a Class E Felony offense, emphasizing the gravity of the violation.
HB 1401 is rapidly gaining support, reflecting the urgency and importance of fortifying our state’s stance on immigration and border security. By empowering state and local police to arrest illegal aliens and facilitating their deportation, we contribute to a national effort to maintain the integrity of our borders.
Missourians, your support is crucial as we navigate the legislative process. Together, let’s work toward a safer, more secure future for our great state.
May God bless and keep you and our great nation.
Rep. Hardy Billington serves District 152 and was the Majority Whip for last legislative session.