Affirmative Action by Jenna Holt, Callaway County

There are a lot of bills to consider in the House this year. From repealing former amendments, to increasing school funding; the list is long and the expectations are high. One particular bill stands out among the others; it is bill number H-009 written by Andrew Rupp. This bill’s whole purpose is to ban affirmative action.
Not very many people know what affirmative action is. Affirmative action is, according to the World English Dictionary, a policy or program aimed at countering discrimination against minorities and women, especially in employment and education. This bill would make the Missouri Department of Economic Development responsible for making sure that no particular person is discriminated against or granted preferential treatment.
Brad DiMariano of the Francis Howell Central Delegation said he’s against it. “Because I know that most people, when they hear “affirmative action” think black people taking jobs, or other minority groups, but what it really does is try to bring more minorities into the workplace.” Those who agree with the bill, such as Andrew Williams of Parkway South, argue that preferential treatment is never good, and that past mistakes and discrimination can’t be made up that easily.
The bill is due to be discussed later in the convention, and a lively debate will surely ensue.