Brian Williams

The University City Democrat is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, which plays a major role in crafting the state budget.

Senate Democrats filibustered against the bill from early Monday evening into Tuesday afternoon. They ultimately stood down after the passage of a bipartisan amendment that stripped the proposal down to its main goal, which they think voters will reject.

The demolition process will be complete by next summer. In the meantime, St. Louis Port Authority, which owns the 142-acre property, will start the process of figuring out how to redevelop the space.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson cited the language that expanded who receives restitution after being wrongfully convicted would have burdened taxpayers with that extra cost. Supporters of the legislation say Parson vetoing the bill is disappointing.

Lawmakers have until 6 p.m. Friday to finish work on a host of key issues.

State lawmakers see this session as a greater opportunity to pass some of their priorities.

Both Senate bills now go to the House. In addition to the special session, the annual veto session ended on Wednesday, with no legislation overridden by lawmakers this year.

The caucus frequently clashed with Republican leadership but now members say they want a united front to pursue GOP platform policies.

The more than 50-page bill contains not only a photo ID requirement in order to vote, but also new rules for election authorities across the state, leading some to wonder how they will be enforced.

The budget includes millions for both starting and existing teacher salaries and school transportation as well as investments across the state.