House Workforce Development Committee Unanimously Passes
Rep. Grier’s Workforce Legislation
The House Workforce Development Committee convened on Monday, Feb. 10 to consider Rep. Derek Grier’s (R-St. Louis) HB 1688—Expanded Workforce Act, which would require licensing authorities to grant licenses to applicants who: (1) successfully complete eighth grade, (2) complete an apprenticeship, and (3) pass an examination, if applicable. During the hearing, Rep. Doug Beck (D-St. Louis), shared he would like to see an amendment included which would outline the trade occupations. Rep. Grier did not object to considering that additional language in the future. The committee unanimously voted to pass on the bill.
Senate Education Committee Considers Sen. Onder’s In-State Tuition Prohibition Legislation
The Senate Education Committee, led by newly appointed chairwoman Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin (R-Adair), convened on Tuesday, Feb. 11 to hear testimony on SB 642. Sen. Bob Onder’s (R-St. Charles) legislation would prohibit public colleges and universities from offering in-state tuition to any student unlawfully present in the United States. Rather, such students would be charged the institution’s international tuition rate. The legislation would also require public institutions to verify that students receiving in-state tuition are United States citizens, permanent residents, or lawfully present in the United States. The legislation seeks to codify into statute budgetary instructions included in HB 3 since 2015 that prevent public institutions from offering in-state tuition to students with unlawful immigration status.
Proponents testified that the legislation would reinforce current federal law and end subsidized tuition during a time of scarce resources. Opponents testified that the bill would encourage affected students to seek postsecondary and future workforce opportunities outside the state.
Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee Takes Up Concealed Firearms Legislation
On Thursday, Feb. 13, the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee, chaired by Sen. Doug Libla (R-Poplar Bluff), heard public testimony on SB 663, which would modify and remove provisions relating to concealed firearms. As it pertains to higher education, the bill would allow a person to carry a concealed weapon at a public institution if they have a valid concealed carry permit and the consent of a member of the governing body of the institution.
Proponents testified that the bill would enable individuals to quickly act and defend themselves or others if a violent act occurred on campus. Opponents, including COPHE Executive Director Paul Wagner, testified that public institutions have police and other security personnel ready to quickly respond to problems and that allowing conceal carry on campus would increase the risk of accidents or escalated altercations on campus.
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