This week I was in Jefferson City for our annual Veto Session. The Governor did not veto any bills but did veto some line items in the budget. We went over these one by one discussing each one. Ultimately, the general assembly agreed with the governor’s decision. I am glad to be back in the district. I love the crisp cool mornings that lead to beautiful afternoons and perfect sunsets. I hope everyone has had the opportunity to get outside and enjoy these wonderful days!
Second Amendment Preservation Act
A federal appeals court in St. Louis unanimously ruled that Missouri's Second Amendment Preservation Act, which aimed to declare certain federal gun regulations invalid, is unconstitutional because it violates the U.S. Constitution's supremacy clause. The law, passed in 2021, penalized police for enforcing specific federal gun laws, including fines for law enforcement agencies that infringe on Missourians' Second Amendment rights. The U.S. Department of Justice challenged the law, arguing it hindered federal investigations. The ruling upheld a previous district court decision that blocked the law's enforcement, and the U.S. Supreme Court had previously denied Missouri's request to enforce the law during the appeal. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is reviewing the decision.
State auditor
A new Missouri law has expanded the powers of State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick, allowing him to initiate audits of local governments without needing consent from governing boards or a petition drive. Previously, Fitzpatrick could only audit local governments if their governing bodies agreed or if enough citizens signed a petition. This change was motivated by instances like the audit of Excelsior Estates, where a former mayor was found to have misappropriated funds. The new law empowers the auditor to act when initial investigations suggest improper activity, such as fraud or legal violations.
The law was driven by concerns over cost overruns at a school district project in St. Charles County, highlighting the limitations of the auditor's previous powers. The change is expected to streamline the process of holding local officials accountable, especially in cases where petition drives would be impractical.
The auditor's office, which has seen a decline in the number of audits due to staffing shortages and increased workloads, is currently rebuilding its staff. The new authority is not expected to interfere with the office's existing statutory responsibilities but will provide the auditor with the discretion to pursue audits when necessary.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or suggestions you might have. As your Representative, I am here to assist you however I can. I can be reached by email at Chris.Dinkins@house.mo.gov or by phone at (573) 751-2112. Please do not contact me via social media. These messages are easy to overlook and may not be responded to in a timely manner.
CHRIS DINKINS represents Missouri's 144th House district. The district includes Bollinger, Iron, Madison, Reynolds, Shannon, Washington and Wayne counties.