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HCR5
basically does two things:
(1)
recognizes American Sign Language as the first or native language of
many deaf and hard of
hearing citizens of Missouri, and
(2) urges
the Governor to establish by executive order an annual "Deaf
Awareness Week" to be
held in September of each year to coincide with the
International Deaf Awareness Week, at
which time the language, culture, and contributions of
Missouri's deaf and hard of hearing
citizens will be recognized.
At the request of the Missouri Commission for the Deaf,
Representative David Reynolds introduced HCR5 on January 10. It was
referred to the House "Miscellaneous Bills and Resolutions
Committee" on January 17, had a public hearing on January 30, and
was reported out of that committee on February 6 with a “Do Pass”
recommendation. The House adopted HCR5 on February 7, with only one
minor amendment, by a vote of 148 “For” and 0 “Against.” It was
reported to the Senate on February 11, and referred to the Senate
“Rules, Joint Rules, Resolutions and Ethics Committee” on February
12. The Senate Rules Committee held a public hearing on February 28,
and today (March 21) finally reported the bill out of committee with
a “Do Pass” recommendation.
Advocates who favor this bill should now contact the President Pro
Tem of the Senate
and ask that he put HCR5 on
the Senate calendar as soon as possible. In addition, they should
call, fax, or e-mail their local senators and ask for their support
of HCR5. As always, the Missouri Commission for the Deaf would
appreciate receiving copies of any mail, fax or e-mail sent to
legislators regarding this bill.
Reminder: The House and Senate
will be on spring break starting at the end of today (Thursday,
March 21) and convening again on Tuesday, April 2. During this
period all legislators will be back in their home districts, and
probably can be contacted personally at their home district office.
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