Governor calls special session for state lawmakers

Gov. Greitens is calling state lawmakers back to Jefferson City for a special session starting in just four days.

The governor announced Thursday the sole focus is a bill bringing a steel mill to Missouri. His office claims efforts failed to pass the legislation before last Friday’s deadline because of “some career politicians in the Senate.”

In a statement, Gov. Greitens said they “failed to do their jobs and then went home. That’s wrong. We’re cancelling their summer vacations and calling a special session to get this done.”

The Missouri Democratic Party criticized the Governor’s decision Thursday afternoon.

“After spending the session bickering with each other and failing on big issues like ethics reform and the opioid epidemic,”said Director Stephen Webber. “Missourians are now footing the bill so the dysfunction of Eric Greitens and Republicans in Jefferson City can go into overtime..

The Missouri Republican Party also issued a statement Thursday night.

“Governor Eric Greitens promised to fight hard for more jobs and higher pay for the people of Missouri, and he is keeping his word.” said Executive Director Austin Stukins. “Today, Governor Greitens, called a special session that will focus on bringing jobs back to Missouri, because he knows his job is to fight for jobs. The Governor is a conservative outsider who is keeping his word to Missourians.”

The new special session will start at 4 p.m. Monday.