Keaveny: Serving the Fourth District in July

July has been a busy month, which started with my first annual free health fair for the community on July 10. We had a great turnout of residents who took advantage of free health care screenings and vital information. I appreciate the organizations and volunteers that made the day a success.

By mid-month we had learned about the potential for exposure to dangerous diseases at the St. Louis Veteran's Administration (VA) hospital.  I encourage you or any veteran you know who may have been affected to take the first step and get the free blood testing with no co-payment at the three outpatient clinics by calling the 24-hour hotline at 1-888-374-3046 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

July 14 was the last day for the Governor to sign bills into law. I'm proud to say that a bill I co-sponsored, Senate Bill 758, has been signed, and allows the Bi-State Development Agency, which encourages development with Illinois, to issue bonds and notes that mature in a maximum of 40 years from the date of issuance, rather than 30 years.

The governor also signed SB 851, a bill I co-sponsored that requires at least four days notice before voting by governing bodies of local governments on tax increases, eminent domain, and certain districts and projects. Both measures take effect Aug. 28.

A provision I sponsored that streamlines the child support process by providing clear guidance on the termination of payments in Missouri was placed into House Bill 1692, which was also signed by the governor.

I held another payday loan forum on July 21, as this issue continues to be one of the most important in our district. I plan on revisiting my legislation to regulate this industry without putting them out of business. I will continue to work with all parties to achieve this goal.

For a full recap of my work this legislative session, please visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/Keaveny and view the 2010 Legislative Report, Sponsored Bills, as well as Press Releases and Weekly Columns.