Senator Ben Brown’s Capitol Report for July 16, 2025

Historic Wins for Missouri’s Elections and Homeschoolers

Banning Foreign Influence in Elections

Protecting the Missouri Constitution from foreign influence has been a priority of mine since taking the oath of office. The governor signed my Senate Bill 152 into law on July 10. I’m proud of what I believe is a historic and significant win for our sovereignty, putting an end to foreign influence in Missouri’s electoral process once and for all. Senate Bill 152 closes the loopholes in state and federal laws that have allowed foreign nationals and their well-funded groups to meddle in our constitutional amendment process. No longer will outsiders undermine the voice of Missouri’s citizens or threaten our right to self-determination. Instead, the electoral process will reflect the heart and values of Missouri.

As your senator, I’m committed to protecting our state’s integrity and keeping our elections in the hands of Missourians. This is a victory for every citizen who believes our democracy should answer to us, not foreign bank accounts.

Senator Brown watches the governor take his pen to SB 152.

Homeschoolers Sports Act

The governor also signed my Homeschoolers Sports Act, Senate Bill 63, which allows homeschoolers to participate in their school district’s sports and extra-curricular activities. Parents who decide to educate their children outside the classroom still pay taxes to support public schools and these auxiliary programs, so it makes sense that their children should have access to them. All Missouri children deserve the opportunities, enrichment and life skills these activities promote, and SB 63 opens the door for countless students. 

As I reflect on this moment, my heart swells with gratitude for the countless kids and homeschool families who’ve fought for this cause over the years. In all my time as a legislator, I’m not sure I’ve ever felt prouder. Wrestling changed my life—it shaped who I am—and it fills me with immense joy to know that no homeschool student in our state will ever be denied the chance to experience the same opportunities. To everyone who paved the way, who worked tirelessly year after year to make this happen, I owe you my deepest thanks. This victory belongs to you, and I’m honored beyond words to have carried this bill across the finish line.

                                                                                                                                         Senator Brown and homeschool families look on as the governor signs SB 63.

Other Bills Signed into Law

Another proposal, Senate Bill 396, was signed on July 2. This commonsense reform permits public library districts to change the dates of their fiscal year to better align with their planning, budgets and other fiscal responsibilities. This will greatly enhance their ability to operate and serve communities more efficiently.

On July 9, the governor signed Senate Bill 68, which includes language from my Senate Bill 364 to ensure school districts do not lose their funding or get penalized for being in session less than the required 169 days. This mandate was an unintended consequence of a bill that passed in 2024 to incentivize five-day school weeks, so I’m thankful the Legislature was able to improve the law to account for inclement weather days. 

The governor also took his pen to House Bill 225. During deliberations, I added language from Senate Bill 283 to grant license reciprocity for spouses of law enforcement officers. This legislation will help attract more experienced professionals to the state and assist communities and small businesses in filling job vacancies. 

I could not have had this successful of a session without the support and advocacy of the great people who call District 26 home. If you haven’t been involved in the policymaking process before, 2026 is your chance. Please reach out if you need assistance from my team.

Franklin County Senior Property Tax Freeze Application Deadline July 31

I want to share an important opportunity for Franklin County residents aged 62 and older. If you haven’t already, you have until July 31, 2025, to apply for the Franklin County senior tax freeze, which locks your property taxes at 2024 levels. It’s simple to do—visit //www.franklinmo.org/county-collector or stop by the County Collector’s office with your current real estate tax receipt and driver’s license.

It’s an honor representing District 26 in the Missouri Senate. If you need assistance with navigating state government or the legislative process, please reach out by calling 573-751-3678 or emailing Ben.Brown@senate.mo.gov.