House of Representatives introduces more than 30 measures, refers bills to committees and appoints a trio to notify Senate of joint convention

The House of Representatives opened a floor session by approving the correction of the journal, introducing House Joint Resolution 1 and House files 1 through 31 on first reading, and referring each measure to standing committees, members said.

The introductions covered a wide range of policy areas, including education, public safety, health and human services, commerce and local government. Representative Golding moved that a committee of three be appointed to notify the Senate that the House was ready to receive it in joint convention; the motion passed and the speaker named Representative Golding (Lynn), Representative Gerhold (Benton) and Representative Kurth (Scott) to the committee. Later, Representative Windschittel moved that the House recess until 5:30 p.m. for the joint convention; that motion also was adopted.

Why it matters: the batch of first readings sets the agenda for committee consideration in coming weeks. Several measures would affect school policy, public-safety enforcement and health-provider reimbursement if they advance beyond committee. The appointment of a notifying committee and the recess signaled the chamber’s transition to a planned joint session later in the day.

Most notable introductions and committee referrals included:

- House Joint Resolution 1: “proposing an amendment to the constitution of the state providing that the people for the state have the right to hunt, fish, trap, and harvest wildlife.” Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.

- House File 1 (Stone): eligibility of students enrolled in nonpublic schools to participate in extracurricular scholastic athletics and contests. Referred to the Committee on Education.

- House File 2 (A. Meyer): qualifications of county…