####Senate supports firearm training in public and charter schools
The Missouri Senate gave final approval to Senate Bill 75, sponsored by Sen. Dan Brown, R-Rolla, on Wednesday.
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives to receive final consideration.
Under SB75, Missouri would be allowed to provide training and education about firearms safety to school districts and charter schools. The bill would also address the issue of educating faculty about armed intruders.
The Active Shooter and Intruder Response Training for Schools Program would be implemented, which would authorize interested teachers and employees to be annually trained on classroom procedures if the threat of a dangerous situation were to occur. The program would address how to deal with a potentially dangerous suspect on school premises.
Furthermore, SB75 would allow schools to teach the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program to first grade students annually. The program’s objective is to educate children on their safety and protection when encountering a firearm.
If approved by the House and signed by the governor, the bill would go into effect Aug. 28.
####Senate approves child labor exemption bill
Senate Bill 16, sponsored by Sen. Brian Munzlinger, R-Williamstown, also passed the Senate this week.
SB16 exempts children younger than 16 from certain child labor requirements. Under the act, youth would be allowed to obtain work certificates, operate high-powered machinery and vehicles, climb ladders and work with certain chemicals. The measures would only apply to youth working on family farms and other family farms with the consent of parents.
The bill will go into effect Aug. 28 if passed.
####Nixon declares State of Emergency
Gov. Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency Thursday of last week in response to severe winter weather that had accumulated late Wednesday night and early that morning. The winter storm made roads dangerous to travel and power outages likely with the mix of snow, sleet and ice throughout the state.
Gov. Nixon encouraged Missourians to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves.
