Missouri Senate Bill SR39

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25

Caption

Makes technical changes to the description of the President Pro Tem of the Senate in Senate Rules 10, 13, and 29

Impact

The proposed changes in SR39 are significant as they define the hierarchy of decision-making in senate procedures. By solidifying the president pro tem’s role in determining points of order, it not only streamlines leadership functions but potentially reduces the instances of legislative contention by providing a clear line of authority. Additionally, the resolution specifies that in the absence of the president pro tem, the chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence will make such determinations, ensuring continuity in procedural rulings.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 39 proposes amendments to Senate Rules 10, 13, and 29, which outline the procedures and organizational structure of the senate. The resolution aims to clarify the roles and powers attributed to the president pro tem and the process for handling points of order. It establishes that the president pro tem serves as the parliamentarian of the senate, authorized to make decisions and rulings regarding points of order in regular and special sessions. This structure is intended to improve the efficiency and clarity of legislative processes within the Senate.

Contention

While the bill highlights the efficiency of decision-making, it may evoke discussions on the concentration of authority within the senate, particularly concerning the president pro tem's powers. Some members may contest whether this leadership structure leads to equitable representation on procedural rulings or impinges on minority caucuses' ability to influence legislative proceedings. Given the critical nature of points of order in legislative debates, any changes in governance that impact their adjudication can be sources of contention, reflecting a broader conversation about transparency and fair representation in the legislative process.