Ruestman: False Accusations Being Spread

Two weeks ago a Kansas City labor union went about the business to smear my name.  They proceeded to mail cards to my constituents saying I supported hiring illegal immigrants to work in our schools.  This is simply not true.  Not only is this an outright lie, it couldn't be further from the truth.

My bill, House Bill 1960, known as "The School Construction Act" contains a clause allowing local school districts to opt out of paying prevailing wage.  Labor unions oppose this legislation out of a fear of being unable to compete in a free market.  I believe in a free enterprise and I represent citizens, conservatives and Tea Partiers who have always supported Capitalism.  Arbitrarily inflating wages through the government is not capitalism.  Instead, it stinks of socialism.

This labor union would like you to believe HB 1960 would lead to plague of illegal immigrants taking our jobs and working in our schools.  There is absolutely no evidence of this.  The idea that inflated wages saves us from illegal immigrants is outrageous.  The fact remains:  it is illegal to hire illegal aliens regardless of how much you pay them.  This is a prime example of how members of the other party fail to use common sense when making policy.  This proves how desperate unions and their cronies are to keep the law in their favor.  It also shows the lengths they will go to deceive others.

In 2008, I cosponsored and voted for House Bill 1549 bringing about the strictest immigration policy Missouri has ever had.  Details of this bill can be found at:  http://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/bills/HB1549.HTM.

What the unions won't tell you is that HB1960 will save taxpayers money.  It has been estimated that by opting out of prevailing wage school districts can save up to 25% on school construction, remodeling and maintenance.

If you have problems, questions or wish to express concern over an issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Legislator Assistant, Jonathan, at my Capitol office either by phone 573-751-9801 or by e-mail at Marilyn{dot}Ruestman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.