Brandom: End of Session Legislation Review and Opportunities for Missourians

As discussed in earlier columns, state revenue continues to dominate all discussions throughout Missouri. Revenue is currently 9% below the expected projection and it is anticipated it will remain at that level until the fiscal year ends on June 30th. In the mean time, we in the House remain vigilant in safeguarding Missouri’s future.

The focus of this Capitol Report will be to continue informing you of additional pieces of legislation that passed the General Assembly this past session.

Sunshine Law

The Sunshine Law requires legislative meetings to be open to the public and ensure they take place at a reasonable time, and in an accessible building that is large enough to accommodate the public.

This session the General Assembly expanded the Sunshine Law. The bill [SB851] passed requires governing bodies to provide four business days notice prior to voting on issues relating to a tax increase, eminent domain for economic development purposes, the creation of a transportation development or community improvement district, as well as the approval of a redevelopment plan that is financed with public funds. If the proper notice is not given, then a vote cannot be taken. The legislation also necessitates that the public meeting allow comments from the people.

Controlled Substance

The chemically altered drug K2 – also known as “legal pot” – was added to the list of Missouri controlled substances this legislative session. The side effects of K2 are very similar to that of marijuana making the drug a public safety concern.

K2 is advertised and sold as incense and plant food. Most buyers, many of whom are teenagers, are purchasing the substances to smoke. Inhaling K2 is dangerous and may produce a mind-altering high stronger than the effects of marijuana.

The drug is known to cause rapid heart rates, paranoia, and a loss of consciousness, along with a number of other side effects. Individuals experience different reactions to K2; some users have even reported dangerous psychotic experience after inhaling. The agreed to legislation [HB1472] would ban K2 and punish individuals who are in possession of the drug with strict penalties. If signed by Governor Nixon, Missouri will join Kansas as the first states to ban this hazardous substance.

Relaxing Bingo Restrictions

Another issue the General Assembly addressed this legislative session was relaxing bingo restrictions. Abbreviated bingo license holders are currently allowed to conduct only four games annually, but under the agreed to legislation [SB940] the number would be increased to fifteen.

Other modifications were made affecting religious, charitable, fraternal, veteran, and service organization licensees. The regularity of bingo games was increased from one day per week to two days per week. Additionally, advertising limits, presently at 2% of the total amount expected from bingo receipts, would be increased to 10% providing a greater opportunity to promote events.

Presently, bingo games cannot be operated between midnight and 10:00 a.m. This act changes that restriction so that bingo games are not to be operated between 1:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Under these new regulations Bingo halls will have the opportunity to be open longer and more often.

Energize Missouri Appliance Rebate Program

Missouri Consumers receiving rebates under the Energize Missouri Appliance Rebate Program will collect an additional $50 for each individual appliance. The rebate program is designed to encourage Missourians to recycle old inefficient appliances and purchase new, more efficient, Energy Star qualified machines in their place. Beginning Ju1y 1, any remaining rebates will be available only through participating retailers and installation contractors. Additional information about the Energize Missouri Appliance Rebate Program is available online at MissouriApplianceRebate.com and through a toll-free consumer information line at 877-541-4848 or you can contact Gregg at 573-751-5471.

Energize Missouri Homes Grant

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is currently offering 7.75 million in funding under Energize Missouri Homes to provide Missouri residents with an opportunity to improve the overall energy efficiency and quality of their homes. Eligible projects include lighting, occupancy sensors, insulation, boilers, furnaces and central air.

Under the Multi-Unit Residential Retrofits Program, the department will award $4 million in grant funds for energy efficiency projects in residential buildings with 10 or more units. Eligible projects include lighting, occupancy sensors, insulation, boilers, furnaces and central air. Projects will occur in residential units and shared spaces to benefit both the residents and the building users. Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to, building cooperatives, condominium associations, university housing associations, nonprofit organizations and limited liability corporations or companies.

Applications must be submitted to the department by July 9, 2010. Application documents are available on the department’s web site at: dnr.mo.gov/transform/energizemissourihomes.htm. For more information on the programs, call 1-877-610-0834 or Gregg at 573-751-5471.