Joe Smith: Reforming Ethics and Helping Our Farmers

Reforming Ethics in the General Assembly

Both sides of the isle in both chambers can agree on at least one thing: the perception of hard-working, ethical politicians in the State Capitol building must be restored to the public. During his opening day address, Speaker of the House Ron Richard called for the formation of a Special Standing Committee on Government Accountability and Ethics Reform that would craft a bill that creates laws ensuring ethical behavior in the Capitol.  This year alone, three Democrats in the House and Senate have been indicted.

The Speaker's committee met for the first time this week.  Chaired by Representative Kevin Wilson, R-Neosho, the committee heard four bills.  Two of the bills are sponsored by Republicans and two are sponsored by Democrats. Chairman Wilson's goal is to create one bill that combines effective ideas from members of his committee as well as specific legislation from ethics bills that have already been filed. I am here because you elected me as your State Representative.  My intention is to serve you and your best interests, without letting anything else get in my way.

You know the value of hard work and strong values, and I can promise you I will work to uphold those values.

Our sacred duty as your elected officials is the maintenance of the integrity of the Missouri House of Representatives.  With every vote we take, we must never forget the trust Missouri has put in us.  We, as members, expect nothing less than the highest integrity in this chamber and the people of the state deserve nothing less.

As the Ethics Committee continues to meet and progress, I will keep you informed of the legislation we decide is best for the people of Missouri and the members of the General Assembly.

House Passes Resolution to Oppose Governor Nixon's Tax Increase on Farming Land

During his State of the State address, and the weeks leading up to it, Governor Nixon promised Missourians he wouldn't raise taxes.  Unfortunately, that is a promise the governor didn't come through on.

In late December, the governor's tax commission raised taxes on Missouri farmers by almost 29 percent.  This devastating blow comes after one of the worst farm income years since 1945.  Missouri farmers are currently carrying some of the highest debt load in the nation and simply cannot afford to pay a property tax increase at this time.

In the House of Representatives we also promised we wouldn't raise taxes – but unlike the governor, we mean it.  That's why, this week we brought a House Concurrent Resolution to the floor, opposing the governor's tax hike on farm land in Missouri.  By a vote of 140-15, HCR 3, 7 and 17 passed, speaking out against the tax increase on agricultural land.  Farmers are the heartbeat of Missouri, and as Representatives it is our job to protect those who grow and raise crops and livestock that feed our state, our nation and our world.

When we say we're not raising taxes, we're serious about our pledge.  Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the governor but where he breaks his promises, we do our best to fix them.