While some are calling for an outright repeal, Senator-elect Mike Parson R-28 is one lawmaker who believes 'fixing' Prop B is the best route.
He outlined his ideas at a forum in Bolivar on Thursday night, and promised to work toward implementing those possible changes.
“When you start limiting the private sector in what they can own and sell, I think that’s a problem,” Parson explained.
“When you look at the proposition, the content of it, and read it, there are some areas that need to be clarified,” added State Senator Robert Mayer, R-25.
The proposition passed with 51% of the vote. Many lawmakers believe voters who supported the issue were misinformed and were swayed by propaganda.
“I think it was a very polished and well-funded campaign in favor of the proposition. The opposition got started late, had limited resources,” said Mayer.
“The initiative petition process has become such a money market. And whether you are for the issue or against [an issue], usually it is a special interest group with large money behind it trying to pass it,” said Parson.
There were a limited number of Proposition B supporters at Thursday night’s gathering, including Gene Davison.
“As a state we had the right to vote on that, and as a state, Missouri passed Proposition B. I think it is disingenuous to overturn the will of the people, Davison said.
Also being questioned by opponents is the supposed “fairness” of the vote.
Most voters in the metro areas of Kansas City and St. Louis voted in favor of ‘B’, with the vast majority of other non-urban counties voting ‘no’.
“I think if the legislators will vote their districts, then we will be able to do that [reform Proposition B], said Parson.
Opponents say regardless of where it came from, a vote is a vote.
“We don’t vote by county, we vote by person. And the people passed this ballot initiative.
Both sides will agree it looks like the battle over 'B' is far from over.
The legislative session begins January 5th. The Senate will take up the issue first, followed by the House.
