Lobbyists for HBA of Missouri and the HBA of Greater Springfield provided an update to those in attendance at the HBA’s March membership meeting on Tuesday, March 15. While Jewell Patek and Scott Swain had planned to appear in person for the program, the demanding and fluid schedule of the legislature pre-empted their trip to Springfield.

As they reported later via a web connection at the meeting, one of the reasons for remaining in Jefferson City was the Work Comp reform legislation we are following was being taken up on the Senate Floor. Both lobbyists reported that the Senate version of the HBA-Supported “mandatory option” fire sprinkler bill (which extends to 2019 the current required “offer” and does not allow adoption of a code mandating residential fire sprinklers) has been referred to the House of Representatives. Once passed there, it will be “Truly Agreed and Finally Passed,” awaiting the Governor’s signature. Patek and Swain believe the bill is considered to be an important job creation priority, and that hopefully this will encourage the Governor to sign it.

HBA members from around the state will be meeting at the State Capitol in Jefferson City on April 6 to encourage final passage and signing of the bill. If you are a builder member and would like to ride the bus and participate in Legislative Day, please contact the HBA office at 881-3711 to register. Associate members can make the trip possible by sponsoring a seat for a builder/remodeler member and can even ride the bus at a certain level of sponsorship. To learn more about participating in the event and/or sponsorship information click here.

Many thanks to our sponsors to date:

Luncheon Sponsor: $1000

Millstone Custom Homes

Transportation Sponsors: $500

Herrman Lumber
Jim Hutcheson Realtors
Meek’s – The Builders Choice

Advocacy Sponsors: $250

Acme Brick
Beaman Electric
Taylor Marble
Dyke Lumber

Builder Sponsor: $100

ADT
Great River Associates
Alside
Fiberlite Technologies
Signature Home Comfort
Springfield Ready Mix