Missouri lawmakers start special session

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson wants legislators to focus on two bills during the special session that he vetoed because of language he said was problematic.

A STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education bill, Senate Bill 894, would require the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to create an online program to teach middle school students about STEM careers.

Parson rejected the STEM education bill in July over concern the bill favored one company as the program provider.

The Senate introduced the bill during the first day of the special session. Sen. Doug Libla, R-Poplar Bluff, said the language the governor was concerned about is fixed.

Parson had also vetoed a treatment courts bill, House Bill 2562, which would help reform and expand drug treatment courts. He said it’s important for Missourians to be able to receive proper treatment, if needed, so they can further their education and get back into the workforce.

The treatment courts bill would offer programs specific to adults, juveniles, veterans and DWI. Participants must complete interventions and supervisions as part of the program.

The session is expected to last all week.