JEFFERSON CITY – Gov. Jay Nixon today vetoed House Bill 63, which would have prohibited any former school superintendent from running for school board in the district in which they served.
“The law should encourage – not prohibit – those who aspire to serve in public office,” wrote Gov. Nixon in his veto message. “In our democratic system, otherwise qualified candidates should not be disqualified simply because of their expertise.”
House Bill 63 was introduced by State Representative Delus Johnson of Saint Joseph after issues surrounding the St. Joseph School District Board of Education.
Nixon goes on to say in his veto message that because of an emergency clause in the bill this legislation would impact at least four former superintendents who are candidates in school board races to appear on the April 7 ballot and prohibit at least three former superintendents currently serving on school boards from seeking reelection after their current terms expire.