Schaefer: K2 Ban Set For Final Passage, Several Sponsored Appointments and State Champions

Another busy week has passed in the Capitol, and only two more weeks of session remain. This week was a very difficult one, as Missouri legislators met in conference committee to discuss, and later pass, a budget that will best work for the people of this state during these difficult economic times. Many tough choices were made, but we worked hard to ensure the well-being of Missouri citizens remained at the forefront of our decisions. The Senate has passed the budget a full week ahead if its required date, and now we can focus on passing legislation that will benefit our state's citizens.

Legislative Action

On Tuesday, Senate Bill 884, regarding the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, was passed out of the Senate Governmental Accountability and Fiscal Oversight Committee and will be heard on the floor sometime next week. Also on Tuesday, Senate Bill 887 was passed out of the House Public Safety Committee, and is set for final passage in the House. This bill bans spice cannabinoids, more commonly known as K-2 or "spice."

In addition, Tuesday was the day I had the enormous privilege of welcoming nearly 200 World War II veterans who participated in the Honor Flight program. I am honored that 63 of these veterans reside in my district, and I extend my most sincere thanks for their service and dedication to our great nation.

On Wednesday, I attended a press conference in the House Lounge regarding Senate Bill 999, which deals with provisions to the Enhanced Enterprise Zone program. This bill provides a new tax credit for taxpayers who establish a new business facility in a certified industrial zone approved or designated as an enhanced enterprise zone by the Department of Economic Development. In Missouri's current financial condition, it is crucial that we continue to create measures to spur economic development in our state.

Capitol Visitors and Gubernatorial Appointees

I had many visitors this week, and I was honored to present resolutions to three athletic teams from my district. On Tuesday, I honored the Harrisburg High School women's basketball team, who were the undefeated state champions in Missouri. The Sturgeon High School men's basketball team visited on Wednesday, who also won the state championship with a record of 32-0. I also honored the University of Missouri-Columbia's women's gymnastics team with a resolution. The team finished the 2010 season with a NCAA Regional Championship and No. 12 final team tanking.

Harrisburg women's basketball team with Senator Schaefer	Sturgeon men's basketball Team with Senator Schaefer	Mizzou women's Gymnastics Team with Senator Schaefer

I also had the honor of presenting three people for consideration in the gubernatorial appointments hearing on Wednesday: Russell Still, State Board of Education; John Harper, the Missouri Planning Council for Developmental Disabilities; and Lisa Althoff, Executive Director of the Missouri Women's Council.

Russell Still with Senator Schaefer	John Harper with Senator Schaefer	Lisa Althoff with Senator Schaefer

Thank you for your continued interest in the issues that affect the citizens of Boone and Randolph counties. If you have any questions or concerns involving state government, please contact my office.