Missouri lawmakers detail goals for legislative session

More than 600 bills have been filed, and Wednesday House and Senate leadership discussed their expectations for the upcoming session.

House Speaker Todd Richardson said there will be a better working relationship between the House and Senate.

Both are controlled by Republicans for this general assembly.

Lawmakers mentioned their goal to address government oversight issues such as President Obama’s actions on gun control as well as the federal rejection on Missouri driver’s licenses.

One issue they said they don’t expect to see on the table this session is right to work.

Senate leaders said they will focus on bills that have the support of a veto-proof majority.

Overall the legislature is optimistic for 2016.

“I look forward to the session, look forward to trying to tackle some of the really difficult problems that are facing the state, and I think that will be the mark of success on whether we’re able to create the kind of environment and the kind of legislature where we tackle and solve real problems,” said Richardson.

The first items the legislature will address are those regarding ethics at the Capitol.