Tagged: tom dempsey

Missouri's legislative session is over, but the work may continue for some lawmakers.

Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey says he is considering appointing at least three committees to study issues before the 2014 session.

A joint panel of Senate and House members could look into potential changes to the Medicaid health care program for the poor.

Another committee could study potential projects to be included in a bonding proposal that would be put before voters.

The top lawmaker in the Missouri Senate says there will be no vote this year on a revision of the state's criminal laws or a $1.2 billion bonding program. Both measures already passed the House. But Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey says they are too complex to bring up with just a few days remaining before Friday's mandatory adjournment for the 2013 session.

Missouri Republican leaders say it would be difficult to follow Michigan's lead in passing a "right-to-work" law that prohibits union dues as a condition for employment.

Changes in Missouri's tax code will be near the top of the agenda for Republicans in the state Senate during the 2013 session.

Sen. Tom Dempsey, of St. Charles, is expected to be elected as presiding officer when the Senate convenes in January. He says majority party Republicans want to act quickly on legislation to provide "income tax relief." The specifics remain to be finalized but could include income tax cuts for individuals, small businesses or corporations.

The Missouri Senate will be led by new people when it convenes for the 2013 session.