Missouri Senate considers state funding measures while boosting COVID-19 safety

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Missouri Senate resumed the legislative session Tuesday in the state Capitol with the goal of expediently passing two bills: a supplemental budget and reauthorizing a federal reimbursement program.

The supplemental budget passed by the Missouri House of Representatives includes appropriations funded by the federal government to combat the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

Upon entering the building all lawmakers and visitors were subjected to a health screening and provided a face mask. Meanwhile many areas of the Capitol were closed to the public.

An amendment offered by Gov. Mike Parson includes appropriation authorization of more than $5 billion which the Missouri legislature must build into the spending plan.

Shortly after 5 p.m., the Senate Appropriations Committee passed the supplemental budget bill. The full Senate is expected to finalize the bill Wednesday morning and the House is scheduled to take up the measure hours later.