At the beginning of the legislative session, I said I was interested in looking at the budget solutions proposed by Governor Nixon. From a fiscal standpoint, our state is better off than many. However, we are still facing tough times and hard choices when it comes to spending. While I like some of the funding ideas the governor proposed in his budget this January, I was disappointed in the fact that he tried to balance the budget on federal funding that may not be available. Now, as we approach the session's mid-way point, the actions of the federal government have again made it clear that we should not speculate on money we may receive down the road.
The governor's proposed budget relied on $300 million in expanded Medicaid reimbursements in order to balance our state's budget. At the time the governor drafted his proposal, he relied on this funding that provided in a federal jobs bill that had yet to be passed by Congress. Now, a couple months later, the U.S. Senate has approved the bill, but without the funds the governor used to balance our state's budget. This leaves the governor's budget $300 million in the red.
One of the biggest frustrations I am hearing from constituents when they contact my office or see me out and about in the 3rd district is Washington's inability to work together to get things done. I am determined not to make the same mistake in Jefferson City, especially regarding our budget. We were elected to do a job and I plan on working with both the governor and the minority party in order to make the tough decisions and cut the size of government in order to put Missouri's economy back on track.
On that note, I am proud of the work Missouri legislature got accomplished this week. We passed an extremely important bill that will affect the cost of heaS03, lthcare across the state. We perfected and unanimously passed SB 636. This bill requires that health insurance companies accept or reject a claim with in 30 days of its filing. Currently, there is so much red tape for doctors and hospitals to go through in order to get reimbursed for their work that the cost to cut through that red tape is passed onto patients. A lot of people have been through this hassle with their healthcare provider and insurance company and the headaches are unbelievable. This bill will help to ease the burden on everyone involved, not to mention save people money.
As we approach the half-way point of session, many issues are just coming to the surface. I will keep you all aware of what we are doing in Jefferson City and I look forward to hearing from you with any questions, comments, or concerns.
26 February 2010
Rupp: Don’t Just Show-Me the Money, Show-Me Education Reform
Since I've been in the Legislature, my list regarding education in our state contains many accomplishments: increasing scholarships for students, modifying the A+ schools program to include casino money, and starting the expansion of charter schools.
"Race To The Top" is a federal grant program from the U.S. Department of Education that is set to distribute nearly $4 billion to the nation's schools. Missouri could receive $150 million to $250 million in education funding, if its application is approved. I was disappointed with the final application submitted by Gov. Nixon because several of the education reforms that I've worked on were either left out or watered down. The Legislature was not given a chance to see the application before it was submitted, or I would have fought for the reforms our failing inner-city schools so desperately need. Now I want to make sure that any reforms we must complete as part of "Race To The Top" will also be in line with the Legislature's goals, and that our local control of schools will remain unaffected.
Just introduced this week, SB 976 would give the Missouri Legislature the tools to enact the reforms Missourians want for their schools. If our state's desire to reform education doesn't sync with what the federal government has in mind, then we won't accept the funding.
Senate Bill 976 includes language that establishes a special fund in the budget that holds any grant dollars the state is awarded. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education would have to provide the Legislature the details of the grant, the reforms it would enact, and the consequences of enacting the terms of the grant. With this holding fund in effect, we make sure that we don't accept terms that are not in line with our vision of education reform and that our long-term interests and local control remain the priority.
I believe it's time to change the way we think about education. We've let too many students down for far too long, and we cannot afford to just keep on going with the status quo. True education reform must include charter school expansion, the opting out of tenure, and the start of merit pay and differential pay proposals. By expanding charter schools and utilizing privately run schools, we can give students in failing districts an option to get a high quality education. We should be rewarding our best teachers, and our districts should be given the chance to provide incentives to our best teachers.
The proposed legislation is similar to how the state has handled federal stimulus funds. For example, when we were offered approximately $40 million in unemployment insurance funding, we did not agree with the permanent changes we were expected to make to our unemployment insurance fund, so we refused the money.
We are the Show-Me State, so you'll have to show us the reforms we want and the details of the program before we take any funds. It's that simple.
I plan to continue to add audio and video clips during the 2010 legislative session. To view my multimedia page, visit http://www.senate.mo.gov/multimedia/Rupp/RuppMultimedia.html.
Lincoln County Town Hall Meeting Details
Date Change for March
Due to a recent death in the family, Missouri Sen. Scott T. Rupp has rescheduled the St. Charles County Town Hall meeting originally scheduled for Saturday, March 6. The town hall meeting has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 20, beginning at 1 p.m. Citizens of the 2nd Senatorial District are encouraged to attend this event and bring questions and concerns.
Rescheduled St. Charles County Town Hall Meeting Details
As the 2010 legislative session unfolds, I will continue to keep you, my constituents, apprised of all major developments, and I look forward to continuing to serve your needs and priorities in Jefferson City. As always, if you have any questions about this week's column or any other matter involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach my office by phone at (866) 271-2844.
"Race To The Top" is a federal grant program from the U.S. Department of Education that is set to distribute nearly $4 billion to the nation's schools. Missouri could receive $150 million to $250 million in education funding, if its application is approved. I was disappointed with the final application submitted by Gov. Nixon because several of the education reforms that I've worked on were either left out or watered down. The Legislature was not given a chance to see the application before it was submitted, or I would have fought for the reforms our failing inner-city schools so desperately need. Now I want to make sure that any reforms we must complete as part of "Race To The Top" will also be in line with the Legislature's goals, and that our local control of schools will remain unaffected.
Just introduced this week, SB 976 would give the Missouri Legislature the tools to enact the reforms Missourians want for their schools. If our state's desire to reform education doesn't sync with what the federal government has in mind, then we won't accept the funding.
Senate Bill 976 includes language that establishes a special fund in the budget that holds any grant dollars the state is awarded. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education would have to provide the Legislature the details of the grant, the reforms it would enact, and the consequences of enacting the terms of the grant. With this holding fund in effect, we make sure that we don't accept terms that are not in line with our vision of education reform and that our long-term interests and local control remain the priority.
I believe it's time to change the way we think about education. We've let too many students down for far too long, and we cannot afford to just keep on going with the status quo. True education reform must include charter school expansion, the opting out of tenure, and the start of merit pay and differential pay proposals. By expanding charter schools and utilizing privately run schools, we can give students in failing districts an option to get a high quality education. We should be rewarding our best teachers, and our districts should be given the chance to provide incentives to our best teachers.
The proposed legislation is similar to how the state has handled federal stimulus funds. For example, when we were offered approximately $40 million in unemployment insurance funding, we did not agree with the permanent changes we were expected to make to our unemployment insurance fund, so we refused the money.
We are the Show-Me State, so you'll have to show us the reforms we want and the details of the program before we take any funds. It's that simple.
MULTIMEDIA PAGE
I recently added a new audio link to my multimedia page located on my Missouri Senate website. The new audio clips on my multimedia page features me discussing Senate Bill 907, which would create the Early High School Graduation Scholarship Program for public high school students who graduate from high school early. I presented the bill to the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday (2/24).I plan to continue to add audio and video clips during the 2010 legislative session. To view my multimedia page, visit http://www.senate.mo.gov/multimedia/Rupp/RuppMultimedia.html.
TOWN HALL MEETING REMINDER
Lincoln County Town Hall Meeting
Missouri Sen. Scott T. Rupp will host a Lincoln County Town Hall Meeting on March 8 to hear the questions and concerns from citizens of the 2nd Senate District.| Time: | 7:00 p.m. |
| Date: | Monday, March 8 |
| Location: | Lincoln County Health Department Community Room #5 Health Department Drive, Highway H Troy, Missouri, 63379 |
Date Change for March
St. Charles County Town Hall Meeting
Due to a recent death in the family, Missouri Sen. Scott T. Rupp has rescheduled the St. Charles County Town Hall meeting originally scheduled for Saturday, March 6. The town hall meeting has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 20, beginning at 1 p.m. Citizens of the 2nd Senatorial District are encouraged to attend this event and bring questions and concerns.| Time: | 1 p.m. |
| Date: | Saturday, March 20 |
| Location: | O'Fallon City Hall, Multi-Purpose Room 100 North Main Street, O'Fallon, MO 63366 |
As the 2010 legislative session unfolds, I will continue to keep you, my constituents, apprised of all major developments, and I look forward to continuing to serve your needs and priorities in Jefferson City. As always, if you have any questions about this week's column or any other matter involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach my office by phone at (866) 271-2844.
Nodler: A Visit from the Champion
(Windows Media Video from Sen. Nodler's office)
(Video also appears below by clicking play.)
Many Missourians that were glued to their televisions last week as one of our own, Jamie McMurray, came into the final laps of the biggest race in NASCAR, the Daytona 500. Our guy in the #1 car had Dale Earnhardt, Jr. on his tail, but history on his side, and Jamie McMurray held them all off to take the checkered flag. It was my honor to be a part of his “victory lap” in Jefferson City this week.
Jamie McMurray made the trip to the Capitol with his #1 Bass Pro Shops/Tracker Boats Chevrolet Impala [
at right] in an exciting show on Thursday. It was a thrill to see the car in action, and I joined Gov. Nixon, Lt. Gov. Kinder, President Pro Tem Shields and House Speaker Richard in greeting Jamie and welcoming him to the state Capitol. I also had the pleasure of introducing Jamie to my fellow senators and presenting him with a resolution to recognize his accomplishment and to show my gratitude for his hard work. He was joined by Johnny Morris, owner and founder of Bass Pro Shops, an important business to our state and the Southwest Missouri area.
At age 8, Jamie McMurray began racing go-karts in his hometown of Joplin. By 1991, he had earned the title of World Go-Karting Champion. During the 2002 NASCAR Busch Series racing season, Jamie made himself known on the NASCAR scene by scoring two victories and finishing sixth in the point standings. He started off this year with a bang by taking the sport’s most prestigious race. It is an honor that this accomplished Missourian hails from the 32nd District, and I was privileged to introduce him to my Senate colleagues this week.
With his recent victory in the Daytona 500, Jamie has proven to be an accomplished racer, but he’s also a great man who is a strong advocate for autism because of his personal experiences with the disorder. Having a niece with autism, Jamie developed a partnership with the Autism Society of America and helped create the “Driving Autism Awareness” campaign. He continues to help raise awareness and express the importance to continue research for autism.
In my line of work, I’ve been fortunate to meet many of Missouri’s finest, and I’m proud to say that our hometown son is certainly one of them. Jamie has shown great humility and poise, and he’s also displayed the steel nerve it takes to come from behind and win the fastest race in our country. Jamie McMurray now holds a place in history with all of the great racing champions of the Daytona 500, and I’m proud to add a Joplin native to the list of famous Missourians.
Now, let’s root Jamie on to the cup!
Speaker of the House Ron Richard, Jamie McMurray, Sen. Nodler, and John Morris in Sen. Nodler's Capitol office.
Jamie McMurray, his wife Christy, John Morris, Sen. Nodler's wife Joncee, and Sen. Nodler in his capitol office.
(Video also appears below by clicking play.)
Many Missourians that were glued to their televisions last week as one of our own, Jamie McMurray, came into the final laps of the biggest race in NASCAR, the Daytona 500. Our guy in the #1 car had Dale Earnhardt, Jr. on his tail, but history on his side, and Jamie McMurray held them all off to take the checkered flag. It was my honor to be a part of his “victory lap” in Jefferson City this week.
Jamie McMurray made the trip to the Capitol with his #1 Bass Pro Shops/Tracker Boats Chevrolet Impala [
at right] in an exciting show on Thursday. It was a thrill to see the car in action, and I joined Gov. Nixon, Lt. Gov. Kinder, President Pro Tem Shields and House Speaker Richard in greeting Jamie and welcoming him to the state Capitol. I also had the pleasure of introducing Jamie to my fellow senators and presenting him with a resolution to recognize his accomplishment and to show my gratitude for his hard work. He was joined by Johnny Morris, owner and founder of Bass Pro Shops, an important business to our state and the Southwest Missouri area. At age 8, Jamie McMurray began racing go-karts in his hometown of Joplin. By 1991, he had earned the title of World Go-Karting Champion. During the 2002 NASCAR Busch Series racing season, Jamie made himself known on the NASCAR scene by scoring two victories and finishing sixth in the point standings. He started off this year with a bang by taking the sport’s most prestigious race. It is an honor that this accomplished Missourian hails from the 32nd District, and I was privileged to introduce him to my Senate colleagues this week.
With his recent victory in the Daytona 500, Jamie has proven to be an accomplished racer, but he’s also a great man who is a strong advocate for autism because of his personal experiences with the disorder. Having a niece with autism, Jamie developed a partnership with the Autism Society of America and helped create the “Driving Autism Awareness” campaign. He continues to help raise awareness and express the importance to continue research for autism.
In my line of work, I’ve been fortunate to meet many of Missouri’s finest, and I’m proud to say that our hometown son is certainly one of them. Jamie has shown great humility and poise, and he’s also displayed the steel nerve it takes to come from behind and win the fastest race in our country. Jamie McMurray now holds a place in history with all of the great racing champions of the Daytona 500, and I’m proud to add a Joplin native to the list of famous Missourians.
Now, let’s root Jamie on to the cup!
Speaker of the House Ron Richard, Jamie McMurray, Sen. Nodler, and John Morris in Sen. Nodler's Capitol office.
Jamie McMurray, his wife Christy, John Morris, Sen. Nodler's wife Joncee, and Sen. Nodler in his capitol office.
Schupp: Committee Notes, Freshmen Dems Update, Census 2010
Thank you for continuing to email and call with your opinions about issues being discussed or proposed for our state. Voters in the 82nd district will be asked to fill out a mailed survey shortly. Please make your ideas and opinions known.
While the smoke-free legislation I am co-sponsoring [HB1766] has not yet been assigned to a House committee, it has been heard in the Senate. I attended the hearing where the only testimony was in support of the legislation.
The Budget committee has been receiving departmental updates, and will work on budget mark-ups next week. I will arrive in Jefferson City early in order to attend the meetings.
Again, thank you for providing me the opportunity to serve you, our community and our state.
Truly,
Jill
We also heard a bill [HB1953] requiring county governing bodies to allow taxpayers to prepay all or any portion of their property taxes monthly based on their previous year's tax bill.
We passed a bill [HB1225] that increases the deduction for dependents to $1500 (from $1200.) Because of the large fiscal note, we amended the bill to gradually increase the tax deduction over a ten year period of time, and to also include a an annual increase based on the CPI.
We also rescheduled our session on state healthcare options and heard from Ruth Ehresman of the Missouri Budget Project immediately following the nursing home and long term care discussion.
Next week, the caucus will welcome Machelle Watkins from the MODOT (Dept. of Transportation) to discuss the future of roadways and transportation in our state.
On April 1, 2010, the nation will be asked to participate in the 2010 Census, one of the most important federal operations of the decade. By filling out and mailing in your census form, you are ensuring that there is an accurate and complete count of everyone living in the United States. An accurate count helps the federal government determine how $400 billion dollars in funding is given to states and cities. The data is used to determine how much money our community will receive for things such as streets & bridges, schools, social service programs and law enforcement grants.
It is estimated that for every person not counted in the census, we lose an estimated $1,300 per year. It is essential for the future of our community and state that everyone be counted. Please fill out and mail in your census form, and encourage others to do the same! If you mail it, you can keep a census worker from having to visit you at your home!
With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire takes just 10 minutes to complete. Households are asked to provide key demographic information, including: whether a housing unit is rented or owned; the address of the residence; and the names, genders, ages and races of others living in the household. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.
The Census is particularly vital for Missouri this year, as it has been rumored that we are in jeopardy of losing one of our nine Congressional seats. Every vote counts-and with every vote counted we will be one step closer to keeping all nine of Missouri's US Congressmen in Washington!
Here is the timeline for the Census:
While the smoke-free legislation I am co-sponsoring [HB1766] has not yet been assigned to a House committee, it has been heard in the Senate. I attended the hearing where the only testimony was in support of the legislation.
The Budget committee has been receiving departmental updates, and will work on budget mark-ups next week. I will arrive in Jefferson City early in order to attend the meetings.
Again, thank you for providing me the opportunity to serve you, our community and our state.
Truly,
Jill
Committee News
Higher Education
After much debate and discussion, the Higher Education Committee passed legislation [HB1473] that would allow students to continue to receive Access Missouri dollars with a 2.0 grade point average during the first 60 credit hours (about 2 years) of education. As stated last week, a goal is to allow more students to attend and graduate from college. The debate surrounded whether individual schools should be able to simply apply their own standards (ones they likely already have in place) to evaluate student success and progress in relation to receipt of scholarship dollars.Tax Reform
In serious times, we had what I would characterize as a ridiculous mockery of a bill [HB2131] in tax reform. Called "Governor's Nixon's Federal Scratch-Off, Match-Off" legislation, it would require that $2 per pay period be taken from the Governor's personal pay be used to purchase a Powerball lottery ticket each week.We also heard a bill [HB1953] requiring county governing bodies to allow taxpayers to prepay all or any portion of their property taxes monthly based on their previous year's tax bill.
We passed a bill [HB1225] that increases the deduction for dependents to $1500 (from $1200.) Because of the large fiscal note, we amended the bill to gradually increase the tax deduction over a ten year period of time, and to also include a an annual increase based on the CPI.
Children and Families
By a vote of 7 - 5 along party lines, the Children and Families committee met to reconsider a vote we had taken outside of proper procedure, as lead by our Chair Cynthia Davis yesterday. Today, the committee passed the abortion coercion legislation [HB1327] that, in my opinion, continues to challenge a woman's ability to make an informed and difficult decision without excessive control and intervention by the state.Administration and Accounts
In Administration and Accounts, we passed an annual resolution [HR628] that reaffirms the salary levels for various staff positions in the House. We also discussed eliminating wireless cell phones from the list of office & constituent support items that can be reimbursed through a Representative's $800/month account. Currently, if a representative has a cellular phone used for state purposes only, the cost can be reimbursed through this expense account for up to $50 per month.Freshmen Dems' Caucus Sessions
The Freshmen Democratic Caucus welcomed three speakers this week who discussed long term health care including private home care regulations and services. Director, Margaret Donnelly, Department of Health and Senior Services led the discussion, accompanied by Barbara Madison, Right at Home and John Noonan on behalf of AFSCME.We also rescheduled our session on state healthcare options and heard from Ruth Ehresman of the Missouri Budget Project immediately following the nursing home and long term care discussion.
Next week, the caucus will welcome Machelle Watkins from the MODOT (Dept. of Transportation) to discuss the future of roadways and transportation in our state.
Help St. Louis Get Its Fair Share
Census Vital to Local FundingOn April 1, 2010, the nation will be asked to participate in the 2010 Census, one of the most important federal operations of the decade. By filling out and mailing in your census form, you are ensuring that there is an accurate and complete count of everyone living in the United States. An accurate count helps the federal government determine how $400 billion dollars in funding is given to states and cities. The data is used to determine how much money our community will receive for things such as streets & bridges, schools, social service programs and law enforcement grants.
It is estimated that for every person not counted in the census, we lose an estimated $1,300 per year. It is essential for the future of our community and state that everyone be counted. Please fill out and mail in your census form, and encourage others to do the same! If you mail it, you can keep a census worker from having to visit you at your home!
With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire takes just 10 minutes to complete. Households are asked to provide key demographic information, including: whether a housing unit is rented or owned; the address of the residence; and the names, genders, ages and races of others living in the household. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.
The Census is particularly vital for Missouri this year, as it has been rumored that we are in jeopardy of losing one of our nine Congressional seats. Every vote counts-and with every vote counted we will be one step closer to keeping all nine of Missouri's US Congressmen in Washington!
Here is the timeline for the Census:
- March 8 - 11 - Advance letter comes to homes informing you that the census form will arrive the following week and that you should fill it in and mail it back quickly.
- March 15 - 17 - Census forms arrive. Forms come with postage paid return envelopes and are addressed only to the particular address and not a particular person.
- March 22 - 24 - Reminder postcards go to homes encouraging you to fill out your forms and mail them back in as soon as possible
- April 1, 2010 - Census Day in America.
- May - July 2010 - Non-Response Follow Up. The Census Bureau will send out Census Bureau employees to visit addresses that have not yet responded. The Census Bureau employees will visit homes up to six times to encourage residents to respond.
- Dec. 31, 2010 - The Census report is due on the President's desk.
- The Census Bureau is still looking to fill jobs, for more information about census jobs call 866-861-2010.
- For TDD assistance with the census form call 866-783-2010. The lines are open 8a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
- For assistance completing the form, please call the Telephone Questionnaire Assistance center at 866-872-6868. (If you prefer a Spanish-speaking operator, then dial 866-928-2010).
25 February 2010
Ervin: Slow start to the session
"We are not to consider ourselves, while here, as at church or school, to listen to the harangues of speculative piety; we are here to talk of the political interests committed to our charge." –Fisher Ames, speech before the House of Representatives, April 8, 1789
Each session has a character of its own with this session having the slowest start of any session that I have been a part of since being elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 2002.
The pace of this session is both a blessing and a curse.
While, as a limited government conservative, not passing a lot of bills is good for the long-term health of our republic - and that is a good thing - I am concerned about the possible missed opportunities for good legislation that has the potential to preserve Liberty and enable individuals to pursue prosperity without government hindrance.
The House and Senate have been slowly moving legislation through the process.
To date, only ten bills and two concurrent resolutions have been passed out of the House and sent to the Senate. The Senate has managed to send twenty bills and one concurrent resolution to the House.
The Senate concurrent resolution [SCR35], which rejects the state tax commission's recommended increase in the agricultural land productive values, has passed both chambers and has saved Missouri farmers from a property tax increase. On the other hand, both chambers have passed their own versions of an insurance mandate [HB1311, SB618]that supporters openly admit will hurt small business owners.
While few bills have been debated by the full House, committees have been at work hearing testimony on proposed legislation. The committee process dominates the early part of each session. No bill can reach the floor for debate until it has passed through a committee. Floor time should increase significantly over the next few weeks as committees pass their work on for the consideration of the full House.
To date, there have been 1034 bills, 65 concurrent resolutions, and 52 proposed constitutional amendments offered by the 163 state representatives in the House. There have been 423 bills, 19 concurrent resolutions, and 24 proposed constitutional amendments introduced by the 34 state senators.
While floor activity has been light, the state budget has commanded the majority of legislators' attention. The House appropriations committees have completed their grueling hearing schedule and have passed their recommendations on to the full budget committee so that they can commence their grueling hearing schedule. The House typically takes until the last week of March to send the state budget bills to the Senate.
The state budget must be completed by May 7th pursuant to the constitution. The General Assembly will remain in session until May 14th - giving the General Assembly plenty of time for mischief.
As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. LaTonya Percival, my Legislative Assistant, and I are always available to answer questions and write me at doug{dot}ervin{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov or regular mail at 201 West Capitol Avenue, Room 412A, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Each session has a character of its own with this session having the slowest start of any session that I have been a part of since being elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 2002.
The pace of this session is both a blessing and a curse.
While, as a limited government conservative, not passing a lot of bills is good for the long-term health of our republic - and that is a good thing - I am concerned about the possible missed opportunities for good legislation that has the potential to preserve Liberty and enable individuals to pursue prosperity without government hindrance.
The House and Senate have been slowly moving legislation through the process.
To date, only ten bills and two concurrent resolutions have been passed out of the House and sent to the Senate. The Senate has managed to send twenty bills and one concurrent resolution to the House.
The Senate concurrent resolution [SCR35], which rejects the state tax commission's recommended increase in the agricultural land productive values, has passed both chambers and has saved Missouri farmers from a property tax increase. On the other hand, both chambers have passed their own versions of an insurance mandate [HB1311, SB618]that supporters openly admit will hurt small business owners.
While few bills have been debated by the full House, committees have been at work hearing testimony on proposed legislation. The committee process dominates the early part of each session. No bill can reach the floor for debate until it has passed through a committee. Floor time should increase significantly over the next few weeks as committees pass their work on for the consideration of the full House.
To date, there have been 1034 bills, 65 concurrent resolutions, and 52 proposed constitutional amendments offered by the 163 state representatives in the House. There have been 423 bills, 19 concurrent resolutions, and 24 proposed constitutional amendments introduced by the 34 state senators.
While floor activity has been light, the state budget has commanded the majority of legislators' attention. The House appropriations committees have completed their grueling hearing schedule and have passed their recommendations on to the full budget committee so that they can commence their grueling hearing schedule. The House typically takes until the last week of March to send the state budget bills to the Senate.
The state budget must be completed by May 7th pursuant to the constitution. The General Assembly will remain in session until May 14th - giving the General Assembly plenty of time for mischief.
As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. LaTonya Percival, my Legislative Assistant, and I are always available to answer questions and write me at doug{dot}ervin{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov or regular mail at 201 West Capitol Avenue, Room 412A, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Stouffer: The End of the Middle Class?
Our country is in historic times. The national debt is at record highs and America is borrowing untold billions of dollars while bureaucrats talk of debt reduction. The biggest losers in this game are the folks in the middle class.
During the 2008 presidential campaign, we heard promises of no new taxes. What we are not hearing now is the fact that once the 10-year lifespan of the tax cuts that were made during the previous administration come to an end, we will be back to 1990s-era tax rates that came from the largest tax increase in U.S. history in 1993. It was then that the middle class in America began to shrink.
The middle class saw a rebound between 2001 and 2009, but that foundation is beginning to crumble. The recession our country is in could continue much longer than most folks believe, and it will be the federal government's meddling that will be the reason. The real answer lies in cutting taxes even more and eliminating regulations that continue to strangle any attempts at climbing out of this recession, not adding to the challenges citizens continue to face.
Business Insider has a fascinating list of entities to whom the United States owes money. In 15th place is Russia. We owe them $128 billion. Believe it or not, it is not a country to which we owe the most money. It is the Federal Reserve and intergovernmental holdings. The debt: $5 trillion and growing. China is actually third, in case you were wondering, behind investors and savings bonds. Translation: we owe more than $6 billion dollars to ourselves because the U.S. is printing money faster than they can count it.
There is no way we can continue to mount this kind of debt. You do not spend your way into prosperity. Look at what we are doing in the Missouri General Assembly. We are facing a $1 billion shortfall. We had been counting on $300 million to come from the federal government, but that money was erased from a so-called jobs bill yet to pass the U.S. Senate. We have to balance our budget — it is required by our state's constitution. This is a lesson the federal government should learn and our state could teach the lesson.
We are at a crossroads. Tough decisions are long overdue. This is our time to reduce the size pf government to appropriate levels.
One thing is for sure, we can no longer use the middle class to "get by" for another day. Once the middle class is gone, we are left with the haves and the have nots. We cannot afford to let this happen. It is the middle class that is the backbone, the heart and soul, of this great country. Without the middle class, we are left off-balanced and no one to take risks to start businesses. I pray folks take today's issues to heart and realize what is at stake for the future of our country.
During the 2008 presidential campaign, we heard promises of no new taxes. What we are not hearing now is the fact that once the 10-year lifespan of the tax cuts that were made during the previous administration come to an end, we will be back to 1990s-era tax rates that came from the largest tax increase in U.S. history in 1993. It was then that the middle class in America began to shrink.
The middle class saw a rebound between 2001 and 2009, but that foundation is beginning to crumble. The recession our country is in could continue much longer than most folks believe, and it will be the federal government's meddling that will be the reason. The real answer lies in cutting taxes even more and eliminating regulations that continue to strangle any attempts at climbing out of this recession, not adding to the challenges citizens continue to face.
Business Insider has a fascinating list of entities to whom the United States owes money. In 15th place is Russia. We owe them $128 billion. Believe it or not, it is not a country to which we owe the most money. It is the Federal Reserve and intergovernmental holdings. The debt: $5 trillion and growing. China is actually third, in case you were wondering, behind investors and savings bonds. Translation: we owe more than $6 billion dollars to ourselves because the U.S. is printing money faster than they can count it.
There is no way we can continue to mount this kind of debt. You do not spend your way into prosperity. Look at what we are doing in the Missouri General Assembly. We are facing a $1 billion shortfall. We had been counting on $300 million to come from the federal government, but that money was erased from a so-called jobs bill yet to pass the U.S. Senate. We have to balance our budget — it is required by our state's constitution. This is a lesson the federal government should learn and our state could teach the lesson.
We are at a crossroads. Tough decisions are long overdue. This is our time to reduce the size pf government to appropriate levels.
One thing is for sure, we can no longer use the middle class to "get by" for another day. Once the middle class is gone, we are left with the haves and the have nots. We cannot afford to let this happen. It is the middle class that is the backbone, the heart and soul, of this great country. Without the middle class, we are left off-balanced and no one to take risks to start businesses. I pray folks take today's issues to heart and realize what is at stake for the future of our country.
Tim Jones: Prompt Pay Legislation, Unfunded Mandates, Manufacturing Jobs Act
As we returned to the Capitol, bitter cold gripped the Midwest this week and reminded us that we still very much remain in the throes of winter. Against the backdrop of looming budget battles and necessary budget cuts in order to have a constitutionally required balanced State budget, we continue to have long days stretching into long nights as we become further embroiled in committee hearings and Floor debates…
"The liberties of our country, the freedom of our civil constitution, are worth defending against all hazards: And it is our duty to defend them against all attacks." – Samuel Adams
By delaying the return on health insurance claims, patients suffer. The cost of these delays is passed onto the consumer and this ends up being an extreme inefficiency in our healthcare system. Working Missourians must pay their bills and debts in a timely manner; I see no reason why health insurance companies should not also be held accountable. Currently only two-thirds of claims are processed within sixty (60) days of the claim. This excellent piece of compromise legislation will change that and make the entire system more efficient, reliable and cost conscious.
Our doctors and dentists should not be forced to wait on payment for months on end. Healthcare providers do the work needed to keep Missourians healthy and they should be paid for it. HB 1498 is a common-sense reform that will make sure that happens. I applaud all of the health care providers and insurance companies who came together in a bi-partisan way to craft a piece of legislation that will improve the health care system for all of Missourians.
This past week, the House passed House Concurrent Resolution 38, imploring the federal government not to pass unfunded mandates onto the state. We are in tough economic times and balancing the state budget will be the number one priority for House Republicans. Congress has made a habit out of passing their spending on to states when they don't feel like paying the bill, in the form of mandated programs. House Republicans have held the line for years on increased spending, but when Congress forces state officials to spend additional money, limited state resources must be rerouted from vital state services and education to entitlement spending. We fight every day to ensure that your money is spent wisely. I hope that you will join me in opposing Congress dictating to Missourians where and how your hard-earned tax dollars are spent.
The competition for bringing new jobs to this state is a fierce one. We are not above competing with other states for jobs. We should do all we can to encourage businesses to expand in our state so we can get more Missourians working. The Manufacturing Jobs Act is another tool we can use to attract serious manufacturing jobs and allow us to foster business growth to allow us to compete on the global market.
I AM PLEASED TO REPORT THAT HJR 57 HAS BEEN PLACED ON THE HOUSE CALENDAR FOR DEBATE ON THE HOUSE FLOOR. TODAY, I HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF SERVING AS ACTING MAJORITY FLOOR LEADER ON THE HOUSE FLOOR AND HAD THE NOTABLE OPPORTUNITY TO ANNOUNCE THAT HJR 57 WILL BE COMING UP FOR DEBATE IN THE NEAR FUTURE!
Thank you all very much for your continued support of this very important resolution and I will continue to keep you posted on its progress.
There will be a public demonstration held at Eureka High School on Thursday, May 6th at 7:00 pm. The demonstration is free and will provide the public an opportunity to watch some of the best Police K-9 Teams from across the Country.
This week I am extremely pleased to announce that my HB 1750 passed out of the House by an overwhelming vote of 111 – 42. This bill is commonly referred to as the "access reform" bill. If we can successfully move this bill through the Senate, this bill will result in lower telephone access charges and fees for millions of Missourians and will assist the telecommunications industry in providing greater innovations, new exciting products, lower rates and better and more advanced infrastructure across our entire State. I want to thank all of my colleagues who worked in a bipartisan way to move this bill to passage in the House this week.
We have many excellent and talented students in our District!
Winners from LaSalle Springs Middle School
Winners from Rockwood Valley Middle School
Winners from Wildwood Middle School
"The liberties of our country, the freedom of our civil constitution, are worth defending against all hazards: And it is our duty to defend them against all attacks." – Samuel Adams
Prompt Pay Legislation Passes the House
A piece of true healthcare cost reform legislation passed the Missouri House this week with overwhelming support. HB 1498, of which I am the chief sponsor, requires health insurance providers to promptly pay claims put forth by doctors and hospitals for services on behalf of patients. This is a common sense reform that will improve healthcare in Missouri and will reduce costs and inefficiency.By delaying the return on health insurance claims, patients suffer. The cost of these delays is passed onto the consumer and this ends up being an extreme inefficiency in our healthcare system. Working Missourians must pay their bills and debts in a timely manner; I see no reason why health insurance companies should not also be held accountable. Currently only two-thirds of claims are processed within sixty (60) days of the claim. This excellent piece of compromise legislation will change that and make the entire system more efficient, reliable and cost conscious.
Our doctors and dentists should not be forced to wait on payment for months on end. Healthcare providers do the work needed to keep Missourians healthy and they should be paid for it. HB 1498 is a common-sense reform that will make sure that happens. I applaud all of the health care providers and insurance companies who came together in a bi-partisan way to craft a piece of legislation that will improve the health care system for all of Missourians.
Unfunded Mandates
Unlike the federal government, the State of Missouri is required to pass and maintain a balanced budget. Just like Missouri families, we can only spend money that we actually have. While politicians in Washington D.C. have been spending money faster than they can print it (what comes after a TRILLION?), Missouri House Republicans have been successfully fighting entitlement spending and keeping our budget balanced.This past week, the House passed House Concurrent Resolution 38, imploring the federal government not to pass unfunded mandates onto the state. We are in tough economic times and balancing the state budget will be the number one priority for House Republicans. Congress has made a habit out of passing their spending on to states when they don't feel like paying the bill, in the form of mandated programs. House Republicans have held the line for years on increased spending, but when Congress forces state officials to spend additional money, limited state resources must be rerouted from vital state services and education to entitlement spending. We fight every day to ensure that your money is spent wisely. I hope that you will join me in opposing Congress dictating to Missourians where and how your hard-earned tax dollars are spent.
HB 1675 Manufacturing Jobs Act "Creating Missouri Jobs"
The House passed HB 1675 this week creating an act that will help Missouri bring manufacturing jobs to our state. This bill allows companies that create new manufacturing jobs in Missouri to keep half of the withholding tax they would normally pay for ten years if they invest at least $50,000 per full-time employee on factory improvements for a new product. It is not about saving jobs in failing industries but creating new ones by encouraging Missouri manufacturing companies to expand their operations in this state with new products and production lines.The competition for bringing new jobs to this state is a fierce one. We are not above competing with other states for jobs. We should do all we can to encourage businesses to expand in our state so we can get more Missourians working. The Manufacturing Jobs Act is another tool we can use to attract serious manufacturing jobs and allow us to foster business growth to allow us to compete on the global market.
HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT UPDATE
As many of you know, I am the chief sponsor of HJR 57, the "Health Care Freedom Act". As I have discussed, if it is passed and approved by the voters, it will secure the current rights and freedoms that Missouri citizens have to choose to participate in whatever health care system or care that they want. Seventy five of my colleagues have co-sponsored this legislation and I am very grateful to them for their support. You may view the legislation at this link: http://house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills101/bills/HJR57.htmI AM PLEASED TO REPORT THAT HJR 57 HAS BEEN PLACED ON THE HOUSE CALENDAR FOR DEBATE ON THE HOUSE FLOOR. TODAY, I HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF SERVING AS ACTING MAJORITY FLOOR LEADER ON THE HOUSE FLOOR AND HAD THE NOTABLE OPPORTUNITY TO ANNOUNCE THAT HJR 57 WILL BE COMING UP FOR DEBATE IN THE NEAR FUTURE!
Thank you all very much for your continued support of this very important resolution and I will continue to keep you posted on its progress.
Eureka Police Department To Host National Police K-9 Workshop
The Eureka Police Department will be hosting the North American Police Work Dog Association National Workshop, April 30th - May 7th, 2010. The event is the largest Police K-9 event held annually in the United States. There will be well over 200 of the top Police K-9 teams from across North America attending the event. The Police Officers and their K-9 partners will be staying at the Holiday Inn. Six Flags will be used as the primary training location for the events which include patrol work, narcotics detection, explosive detection and search and rescue. The event will not only spotlight the City but will provide a huge economic boost to area businesses.There will be a public demonstration held at Eureka High School on Thursday, May 6th at 7:00 pm. The demonstration is free and will provide the public an opportunity to watch some of the best Police K-9 Teams from across the Country.
SIX FLAGS ST. LOUIS IN EUREKA IS HIRING!!
I am very excited to report that Six Flags St. Louis, which is located in the heart of the 89th District, is hiring more than 3,000 employees to fill positions for the 2010 season which begins on April 2nd. Six Flags will be hosting job fairs to fill these positions on February 27; March 6, 13, 20 and April 3, 10 and 17. For more information, please visit: http://www.sixflags.com/stLouis/index.aspxFAST FACTS
- The first George Washington celebration was held in St. Louis on February 22, 1817
- Westminster College was founded in Fulton on February 23, 1853
- George Caleb Bingham, painter, former State Treasurer and former State Representative (a TRUE Renaissance man!) was inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians on February 15, 2010
MODOT Traveler Information Map
For work zone location, flooding information and weather-related road conditions visit MoDOT's Traveler Information Map. It's your first source of information when planning your trip across the Show-Me state.Tim's Legislative Platform for 2010
So far this year I have sponsored and filed thirteen individual pieces of legislation. I have co-sponsored numerous other bills. To review all of the bills that I have sponsored or co-sponsored, please follow this link: http://www.house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills101/spon/spn089.htmThis week I am extremely pleased to announce that my HB 1750 passed out of the House by an overwhelming vote of 111 – 42. This bill is commonly referred to as the "access reform" bill. If we can successfully move this bill through the Senate, this bill will result in lower telephone access charges and fees for millions of Missourians and will assist the telecommunications industry in providing greater innovations, new exciting products, lower rates and better and more advanced infrastructure across our entire State. I want to thank all of my colleagues who worked in a bipartisan way to move this bill to passage in the House this week.
Personal News & Notes
Last week was Valentine's Day weekend. And although the Jones household had to deal with a sudden attack by the common cold and flu on nearly all of us (including Baby Abby who has had a runny nose since November), I treasured the time that I had to spend at home (coughing and all!) with my ever understanding and hard working wife Suzanne and our two beautiful daughters Katie and Abby. Love is truly patient (although trying at times!) and is truly kind and the love of a family cannot be appropriately described but must be experienced to be fully understood. I hope that you and your family had a great Valentine's Day weekend!Glory of Missouri Award Winners
Winners from LaSalle Springs Middle School
Winners from Rockwood Valley Middle School
Winners from Wildwood Middle School
Feel Free to Contact Us!
If my extremely dedicated (and very busy!) Legislator Assistant, Jody Williams, or I can be of any assistance throughout the year, please do not hesitate to contact us at 573.751.0562 or by email at jody{dot}williams{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov or at tim{dot}jones{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov. And if your travels find you anywhere near the Capitol, please do stop by and visit us in Room 114. Until our next report, I remain, in your service.Burlison: Focusing on Job Creation in the State of Missouri
For years, Republicans in the House of Representatives have worked to improve economic development in the state of Missouri. In recent months the focus on job creation has been even stronger due to our economic downturn.
Putting our citizens back to work is a top priority in the House and we are passionate about our focus to create jobs, retain the jobs we already have in place, and working to attract new businesses to our state.
States all over the nation are competing with us for jobs, and we must do all we can to prevent jobs from leaving Missouri. That is why, this week we took a large step by passing HB 1675, which takes measures to improve and protect Missouri's business climate.
This particular bill focuses on creating and maintaining jobs in our state by targeting two groups: Manufacturing Employers and Manufacturing Suppliers.
Manufacturing Employers
Through this bill, employers will be allowed to keep 50% of withholding taxes for up to 10 years. This means, if manufacturing employers create new jobs, they get a tax rebate while doing so.
We are confident this fiscal measure will give Missouri manufacturing businesses an incentive to expand their employee base and put our citizens back to work.
Manufacturing Suppliers
The state of Missouri would allow suppliers to retain a complete 100% of withholding taxes for any new jobs created and kept for 3 years.
While giving these manufacturing employers and suppliers a tax break in effort to create new jobs, we must also remember to protect Missouri taxpayers in the process. House Bill 1675 acts as a safeguard to taxpayers in two important ways:
As well as working on State legislation I also get to meet some very good people. Here in this picture is a group who came to my office to visit with me about their concerns dealing with issues on Alzheimer's.
And here is a picture of a school visit from the Springfield Lutheran School.
Putting our citizens back to work is a top priority in the House and we are passionate about our focus to create jobs, retain the jobs we already have in place, and working to attract new businesses to our state.
States all over the nation are competing with us for jobs, and we must do all we can to prevent jobs from leaving Missouri. That is why, this week we took a large step by passing HB 1675, which takes measures to improve and protect Missouri's business climate.
This particular bill focuses on creating and maintaining jobs in our state by targeting two groups: Manufacturing Employers and Manufacturing Suppliers.
Manufacturing Employers
Through this bill, employers will be allowed to keep 50% of withholding taxes for up to 10 years. This means, if manufacturing employers create new jobs, they get a tax rebate while doing so.
We are confident this fiscal measure will give Missouri manufacturing businesses an incentive to expand their employee base and put our citizens back to work.
Manufacturing Suppliers
The state of Missouri would allow suppliers to retain a complete 100% of withholding taxes for any new jobs created and kept for 3 years.
While giving these manufacturing employers and suppliers a tax break in effort to create new jobs, we must also remember to protect Missouri taxpayers in the process. House Bill 1675 acts as a safeguard to taxpayers in two important ways:
- If illegal aliens are employed, companies must repay the tax benefits granted to them.
- If the company fails to meet the requirements in the bill, they will be required to repay benefits to the state.
As well as working on State legislation I also get to meet some very good people. Here in this picture is a group who came to my office to visit with me about their concerns dealing with issues on Alzheimer's.
And here is a picture of a school visit from the Springfield Lutheran School.
Nance: Amber Alert System Expansion, Governor Nixon To Visit Watkins Mill
"It's not tyranny we desire; it's a just, limited, federal government." –Alexander Hamilton
Assembly members were invited for dinner at the Governor's Mansion on Tuesday. Governor Nixon thanked both parties for their cooperation on key state issues.
On Tuesday, I filed for the opportunity to serve Ray and Clay County for two more years as State Representative. On Tuesday, I also attended the Healthcare Transformation Committee. We passed a bill that would have school boards work in concert with MSHAA to develop rules relating to youth head injuries.
On Wednesday I attended the Insurance Committee meeting where we discussed mechanic liens on property and on Thursday I attend the Agriculture Committee.
HB 1521, which I sponsored, passed out of the Senior Citizen Advocacy Committee Wednesday. The bill expands the Amber Alert System to include missing endangered adults and youth that don't meet the criteria of Amber Alert.
HB 1498 passed out of the house with 155 votes. It is properly called "prompt pay" because it requires faster payment of medical claims.
Governor Nixon will be visiting Watkins Mill tomorrow at 10:00 am.
I try to attend as many functions as I can in the district to support worthwhile causes especially for our youth and elderly. Unfortunately, during session, my attendance is limited to weekends. The Richmond Rotary Club is having their annual fundraiser to benefit club programs this Saturday at the Shrine Club.
Sunday from 11:00 am -3:00 pm is a fund raising event at the Elms for the Northland Coalition. Northland Coalition is an organization dedicated to creating a healthy, safe, and drug-free community in which to raise our children. The Elms will be donating $5 from every adult meal, and $2.50 from every child's meal to the Coalition to help fund Substance Abuse Prevention Programs in the Northland.
At the Capitol
Assembly members were invited for dinner at the Governor's Mansion on Tuesday. Governor Nixon thanked both parties for their cooperation on key state issues.
On Tuesday, I filed for the opportunity to serve Ray and Clay County for two more years as State Representative. On Tuesday, I also attended the Healthcare Transformation Committee. We passed a bill that would have school boards work in concert with MSHAA to develop rules relating to youth head injuries.
On Wednesday I attended the Insurance Committee meeting where we discussed mechanic liens on property and on Thursday I attend the Agriculture Committee.
HB 1521, which I sponsored, passed out of the Senior Citizen Advocacy Committee Wednesday. The bill expands the Amber Alert System to include missing endangered adults and youth that don't meet the criteria of Amber Alert.
HB 1498 passed out of the house with 155 votes. It is properly called "prompt pay" because it requires faster payment of medical claims.
In the District
Governor Nixon will be visiting Watkins Mill tomorrow at 10:00 am.
I try to attend as many functions as I can in the district to support worthwhile causes especially for our youth and elderly. Unfortunately, during session, my attendance is limited to weekends. The Richmond Rotary Club is having their annual fundraiser to benefit club programs this Saturday at the Shrine Club.
Sunday from 11:00 am -3:00 pm is a fund raising event at the Elms for the Northland Coalition. Northland Coalition is an organization dedicated to creating a healthy, safe, and drug-free community in which to raise our children. The Elms will be donating $5 from every adult meal, and $2.50 from every child's meal to the Coalition to help fund Substance Abuse Prevention Programs in the Northland.
Gatschenberger: Federal Balanced Budget, Job Creation Taskforce, Wentzville Town Hall Meeting
Federal Balanced Budget
For too long, Congress has continued to add billions, now trillions, of dollars annually to our federal debt. Because the federal government is not constitutionally required to pass annual balanced budgets, like 49 out of the 50 states, this process has continued to spiral out of control. The federal debt now exceeds 12 trillion dollars and Congress has shown no interest in putting a stop to this dangerous trend. That is why the House passed Budget Chairmen Allen Icet's House Concurrent Resolution 34 by a vote of 121-28. It urges the United States Congress to submit a balanced budget amendment to the states for ratification. We must stop this trend of out-of-control deficit spending that passes the cost of our projects and programs on to our children and grandchildren. If passed by the Senate, Missouri will be the 32nd state of the 34 needed to force Congress to send a Constitutional Amendment to the states for ratification.Job Creation Taskforce Meets
House Republicans remain committed to making sure there is a high-paying, quality job available for every Missourian who wants one. On Tuesday, the Speaker’s Job Retention and Economic Growth Task Force met for the second time. The panel includes approximately 25 people, experts in their respective fields, who have worked in Missouri economic development for years. Their goal is to find ways the House can help make Missouri competitive on the national level for every-thing from manufacturing and major industry to small business. Members were able to evaluate incentive packages that other states have successfully used to attract thousands of jobs. Missouri has been competitive and successful in many instances at recruiting quality employers for the state, but the goal of House Republicans and the Speaker’s Task Force is to identify areas where the state could be more efficient and effective at putting Missourians to work. We strongly believe in a robust free market where business thrives, especially Missouri’s small businesses. There is no better way to bolster Missouri’s economy than through the efforts of personal initiative.Reminder! You're Invited! Town Hall Meeting
Please be my guest at my next Town Hall Meeting… March 25, 2010 at the Wentzville City Hall, 310 W. Pearce Blvd… at 7:00 pm. Attendees of my last Town Hall Meeting requested a return visit of speakers for and against Missouri Fair Tax… so they will be there and so will Representatives from CLAIM – Missouri's State Health Insurance Assistance Program… covering Medicare issues, Missouri Rx (helping seniors and persons with disabilities on fixed incomes save up to 50% on your drugs) and the Missouri SMP (empowering Seniors to prevent healthcare fraud). If you have any Medicare issues you need help with… these people will be happy to meet with you individually after their presentation. We will also have a short presentation from an Ameren UE representative.HERE IS YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE DOWN THE REMOVAL OF "IN GOD WE TRUST" FROM OUR CURRENCY
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – THIS WEEK IN THE HOUSE
House Takes Action Towards Health Care Reform HB 1498
Health care reform is one of the most talked about issues in the country. There are several differing views on what steps need to be taken to improve health care including making it more affordable, more accessible and more transparent. Because of the controversy surrounding the issue, very little has been done on a national level to improve the system. In the Missouri House of Representatives, however, the wheels are turning and we are accomplishing the common-sense steps necessary to advance health care reform.Many health care providers in Missouri, which include hospitals, physicians, and so forth, have experienced financial difficulties because of the failure of health insurance companies to make payments for health care services in a reasonable time frame. The House saw this as a problem that needed to be remedied.
This week House members passed House Bill 1498 with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The bill sponsored by Representative Tim Jones, R—Eureka, requires health insurance companies to pay provider claims in a timely manner.
- Through this legislation, a health insurance company would no longer have the ability to delay payments to providers by suspending a claim through loopholes and special exceptions. Instead, the health insurance company would be allowed 45 days to process and pay or deny the provider's claim.
- If the health insurance company needs additional information or has any questions regarding the claim, they must do so inside the 45-day window. Days in which the health insurance company is waiting for a response from the provider for that information would not count towards the 45-day window, however.
- If the health insurance company does not pay the provider within the specific timeframe, that company would incur a penalty.
- If the provider's claim is denied, health insurance companies will be required to provide a specific reason for the denial.
The Governor's Budget Relies on Funding From…The Powerball?
This year, Governor Nixon presented the legislature with a state budget that depended on 300 million dollars that he hoped was coming from the federal government. Unfortunately, there was no guarantee of the 300 million dollars -- and at this point, the funding is not coming. As a result, the governor's proposed budget is 300 million dollars short – which is exactly what House leaders warned the governor would happen.Because of the governor's 300 million dollar shortfall, legislators are looking at other options to fill the hole. One legislator, Mark Parkinson, R – St. Charles, had a creative idea that is causing quite a stir in the Capitol building and buzzing news wires across the state.
- House Bill 2131, which was read in a hearing this week, requires a $2 deduction each pay period from the governor's personal paycheck to be deposited into the newly created Governor Nixon's Federal Scratch-Off, Match-Off Fund.
- One dollar from the fund will be used to purchase a Powerball lottery ticket each week on behalf of the citizens of the state. Any winnings collected must be deposited into the fund until it exceeds $300 million.
- At that time, the governor is authorized to dissolve the Scratch-Off, Match-Off fund and transfer the moneys to the General Revenue Fund for the purpose of filling his budget shortfall.
So, while Governor Nixon is crossing his fingers and banking on winning big with the Powerball, your Republican-led House of Representatives will be working to figure out his budget mess and correct his mistakes.
Inching Closer to a Bi-Partisan Ethics Bill in the House
Restoring the public's trust in our elected officials has been a top priority set forth by Speaker Ron Richard and members of the House of Representatives this session. There is no question that when you elect someone to represent you, you should have full trust and confidence in that person.This isn't my Chamber, this is the people's Chamber and because of that, I take pride in my work in the State Capitol. I conduct business with integrity and honesty. In addition to this personal conviction, members of the House of Representatives are working to create legislation that would reiterate these traits.
During his opening day speech, the Speaker announced his creation of his Special Standing Committee on Government Accountability and Ethics Reform and hand picked members who he assigned to this committee.
The Speaker tasked the committee with combing through every piece of ethics legislation filed in the House and working to create one bill with bi-partisan solutions improving ethical behavior in state government.
The committee chairman, Representative Kevin Wilson, R – Neosho, provided us with an update on the committee this week.
The committee, composed of both Republican and Democrat members, is working hard and has accomplished a great amount of work since its first meeting in January.
The bill they will end up being a comprehensive approach to ethical standards in state government, outlining several different rules and regulations rather than just one.
Representative Wilson and his members are hopeful to get the bi-partisan ethics bill filed before Spring break, which occurs the second week in March.
STAY IN TOUCH
As always, please let me know your thoughts about these or other matters of concern by calling my office at: (573) 751-3572 or by emailing me at chuck{dot}gatschenberger{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.FUN FACTS
St. Louis residents consume more barbecue sauce per capita than any other city in America!The soft drink Dr. Pepper was introduced at the 1904 at the World's Fair in St. Louis… also, the ice cream cone, iced tea, hot dogs and hamburgers! Now that was a fair to remember!
Joe Smith: Update-Inching Closer to a Bi-Partisan Ethics Bill in the House
Restoring the public's trust in our elected officials has been a top priority set forth by Speaker Ron Richard and members of the House of Representatives this session. There is no question that when you elect someone to represent you, you should have full trust and confidence in that person.
This isn't my Chamber, this is the people's Chamber and because of that, I take pride in my work in the State Capitol. I conduct business with integrity and honesty. In addition to this personal conviction, members of the House of Representatives are working to create legislation that would reiterate these traits. During his opening day speech, the Speaker announced his creation of his Special Standing Committee on Government Accountability and Ethics Reform and hand picked members who he assigned to this committee. The Speaker tasked the committee with combing through every piece of ethics legislation filed in the House and working to create one bill with bi-partisan solutions improving ethical behavior in state government. The committee chairman, Representative Kevin Wilson, R – Neosho, provided us with an update on the committee this week.
This isn't my Chamber, this is the people's Chamber and because of that, I take pride in my work in the State Capitol. I conduct business with integrity and honesty. In addition to this personal conviction, members of the House of Representatives are working to create legislation that would reiterate these traits. During his opening day speech, the Speaker announced his creation of his Special Standing Committee on Government Accountability and Ethics Reform and hand picked members who he assigned to this committee. The Speaker tasked the committee with combing through every piece of ethics legislation filed in the House and working to create one bill with bi-partisan solutions improving ethical behavior in state government. The committee chairman, Representative Kevin Wilson, R – Neosho, provided us with an update on the committee this week.
- The committee, composed of both Republican and Democrat members, is working hard and has accomplished a great amount of work since its first meeting in January.
- The bill they will end up being a comprehensive approach to ethical standards in state government, outlining several different rules and regulations rather than just one.
- Representative Wilson and his members are hopeful to get the bi-partisan ethics bill filed before Spring break, which occurs the second week in March.
Joe Smith: House takes Action Towards Health Care Reform HB 1498
Health care reform is one of the most talked about issues in the country. There are several differing views on what steps need to be taken to improve health care including making it more affordable, more accessible and more transparent. Because of the controversy surrounding the issue, very little has been done on a national level to improve the system. In the Missouri House of Representatives, however, the wheels are turning and we are accomplishing the common-sense steps necessary to advance health care reform.
Many health care providers in Missouri, which include hospitals, physicians, and so forth, have experienced financial difficulties because of the failure of health insurance companies to make payments for health care services in a reasonable time frame. The House saw this as a problem that needed to be remedied.
This week House members passed House Bill 1498 with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The bill sponsored by Representative Tim Jones, R—Eureka, requires health insurance companies to pay provider claims in a timely manner. Through this legislation, a health insurance company would no longer have the ability to delay payments to providers by suspending a claim through loopholes and special exceptions. Instead, the health insurance company would be allowed 45 days to process and pay or deny the provider's claim. If the health insurance company needs additional information or has any questions regarding the claim, they must do so inside the 45-day window. Days in which the health insurance company is waiting for a response from the provider for that information would not count towards the 45-day window, however, if the health insurance company does not pay the provider within the specific timeframe, that company would incur a penalty. If the provider's claim is denied, health insurance companies will be required to provide a specific reason for the denial.
Through HB1498, we are giving health care providers an opportunity to remain financially stable in their practice and give them the ability to rely on the prompt payment of their claims. This legislation has gained wide-spread support throughout the state and on both sides of the isle.
Many health care providers in Missouri, which include hospitals, physicians, and so forth, have experienced financial difficulties because of the failure of health insurance companies to make payments for health care services in a reasonable time frame. The House saw this as a problem that needed to be remedied.
This week House members passed House Bill 1498 with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The bill sponsored by Representative Tim Jones, R—Eureka, requires health insurance companies to pay provider claims in a timely manner. Through this legislation, a health insurance company would no longer have the ability to delay payments to providers by suspending a claim through loopholes and special exceptions. Instead, the health insurance company would be allowed 45 days to process and pay or deny the provider's claim. If the health insurance company needs additional information or has any questions regarding the claim, they must do so inside the 45-day window. Days in which the health insurance company is waiting for a response from the provider for that information would not count towards the 45-day window, however, if the health insurance company does not pay the provider within the specific timeframe, that company would incur a penalty. If the provider's claim is denied, health insurance companies will be required to provide a specific reason for the denial.
Through HB1498, we are giving health care providers an opportunity to remain financially stable in their practice and give them the ability to rely on the prompt payment of their claims. This legislation has gained wide-spread support throughout the state and on both sides of the isle.
Carter: Supporting funds for Amachi, Committee Actions
At Right: Representative Chris Carter at the Sheltered Workshop in St. LouisRecently funding for the Amachi/Boys and Girls Club Program was brought up in the Public Safety and Corrections Appropriations Committee I on which I sit. This mentoring program focuses on one of the most at-risk group of young people in our state; children with an incarcerated parent or parents.
This year, with budget constraints squeezing funds from even the most worthy of causes, it may seem odd that a youth mentoring program would receive this sort of attention from a committee focusing on funding the state's efforts to fight crime and promote public safety.
These are your tax dollars and I feel an obligation to inform you on how they are being spent, and to do my best to see that we in Jefferson City appropriate your tax dollars wisely. To that end, I believe funding Amachi is an important investment in our future. Seventy percent of children who grow up with an incarcerated parent will become incarcerated themselves. Besides improving the wellbeing of many at-risk youth, Amachi helps reduce crime by supporting people who are very likely to commit crime without the positive influence a mentor provides.
While old sayings do not fit every situation, it is certainly true that in terms of crime, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If we can reach at-risk youth before they commit crimes instead apprehending them as offenders later on, we save the state costs in courts and in prisons. More important then the costs, though, is preventing these youth from perpetuating a sad cycle of neglect and crime in their own lives and with their own children.
For some of you it may not be your family specifically that is torn apart by crime but we have a shared burden to see that everyone's tomorrow can be brighter than today. Like President Obama has said, "It is that fundamental belief- that I am my brother's keeper, I am my sister's keeper- that makes this country work." It is absolutely critical that we use the resources we have at our disposal to fight crime and build better, safer communities. That is exactly what the people at Amachi are doing, and that is why I fought successfully to see that they continue to receive funding for the excellent job they are doing.
FLOOR ACTIVITY
All activity as of February 22, 2010# House Bills Filed - 1,052
# of HBs Referred to Committee -340
# HBs Reported Do Pass - 37
# HBs Reported Do Pass Consent - 20
# HBs Perfected -8
# HBs Third Read - 8
# HBs Reported Do Pass in the Senate - 1
# HBs Third Read in the Senate - 0
COMMITTEE ACTION
During the last three weeks, House Committees have been busy holding public hearings and passing legislation on to the House Floor. Following is a summary of some of this legislation.- The House Special Standing Committee on Health Insurance voted do pass HB1311 and HB1341, which requires health carriers issuing or renewing a health benefit plan to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
- The House Special Standing Committee on General Laws voted do pass HJR48, HJR50, and HJR57, which propose a constitutional amendment prohibiting any person, employer, or health care provider from being compelled to participate in any health care system.
- The House Committee on Elections voted do pass HB1497, which requires special elections to fill vacancies in the offices of Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, and United States Senator.
- The House Committee on Healthcare Transformation held a public hearing for HB 1548, which would establish the High School Sports Brain Injury Prevention Act, which requires school boards to work with the Missouri State High School Activities Association to develop guidelines regarding head injuries.
- The House Committee on Elections held a hearing for HB 1966, which would allow for an advance voting period for an election in which any statewide office is on the ballot. The committee also heard testimony on HJR 64, which proposes a constitutional amendment
changing the laws regarding voter identification.
- The House Committee on Public Safety held a public hearing on HB 1205, which would prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving motor vehicle on any highway in this state. The Committee also held a hearing on HB 1472, which adds 1-Pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole to the list of Schedule I controlled substances.
- The House Committee on Crime Prevention held a public hearing for HB 1695, which would change the laws regarding driving while intoxicated. The Committee also heard testimony on HB 1695 and HB 1742, which change the laws regarding driving while intoxicated.
- The House Special Committee on Urban Issues voted do pass on HB 1519, which changes the laws regarding the crime of assault ofa law enforcement or corrections officer, emergency personnel, or highway worker by adding transit operators and employees of mass transit systems
- The House Committee on Energy and the Environment heard testimony on HCR 46, which urges the Environmental Protection Agency to rescind its formal endangerment finding on greenhouse gases and urges Missouri's congressional delegation to vote against H.R. 2454 known as Cap and Trade.
- The House Special Committee on Children and Families held a public hearing for HB 2000 and HB 1327, which change the laws regarding the consent requirements for obtaining an abortion and creates the crime of coercing an abortion.
- The House Committee on Corrections and Public Institutions held a public hearing for HB 1644, which specifies that use of force by a parent or other caregiver of a minor or compentent person; a teacher; certain operators of vehicles; or a physician is justifiable if the person is acting in self defense.
Carter: Legislation affecting St. Louis City, Dropout Prevention Task Force Report
OTHER ACTIONS
by Marc Powers, Assistant Minority Floor Leaders OfficeAs of February 4, 2010
GOVERNOR CUTS ANOTHER $74 MILLION FROM BUDGET
State general revenue collections for January 2010 plummeted by 22.4 percent compared to January 2009, forcing Gov. Jay Nixon on Feb. 2 to order another $74 million in cuts to the state budget. With the latest round of cuts, Nixon has eliminated more than $700 million in state appropriations lawmakers approved last spring for the fiscal year running from July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2010.Missouri's net general revenue collections for January 2010 totaled $561.2 million -- $161.6 million less than what the state collected in January 2009. January's sharp drop in revenue collections brought the year-to-date decline in collections for the fiscal year to 12.5 percent compared to the same period the year before. The state has collected $3.88 billion so far this fiscal year – more than a half-billion less than the $4.44 billion it had received at the same point the previous year.
The latest cuts include slicing another $29.18 million from a statewide interoperable communications network for law enforcement and trimming $24.21 million for upgrading broadband access in rural Missouri. Other cuts include reducing funding for the Parents as Teachers program by $2 million and saving $2.19 million by suspending the state's contribution to the deferred compensation program for state employees.
FEDERAL GRAND JURY LOOKING AT PAY TO PLAY IN HOUSE
A federal grand jury convened in Kansas City is investigating pay-to-play allegations in the Missouri House of Representatives, a state senator confirmed on Feb. 2. State Sen. Matt Bartle, who is not a target of the investigation, told reporters for The Kansas City Star, The Associated Press and other news organizations that he testified before the grand jury for about 50 minutes regarding a 2005 bill he sponsored to impose strict regulations on the adult entertainment industry.After the Senate passed the bill, then-House Speaker Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill, assigned the measure to a committee whose chairman was known to oppose it. Jetton made the assignment four days after a campaign committee with ties to House General Counsel Don Lograsso, a top Jetton adviser, received a $35,000 donation from strip club owners. The bill died in the House committee.
"The receipt of that money looks horrible, and I think there is a link between that money and the bill dying," Bartle, R-Lee's Summit, told the AP shortly after testifying. In a Feb. 3 St. Louis Post-Dispatch story, Jetton said he believes he is the target of the investigation but maintained he did nothing wrong.
David Byrn, the treasurer of the campaign committee that received the porn industry funds, also testified on Feb. 2. Byrn, who is now a Jackson County circuit judge, said he not a target of the investigation. According to the AP, the grand jury met on Feb. 2 and Feb. 3 and has not issued any indictments. It is scheduled to meet again on March 9.
HOUSE APPROVES BILL ALLOWING TAX STACKING
The Missouri House of Representatives voted 132-19 in favor of a bill that would clarify that municipalities may impose two separate sales taxes of up to 1 percent each, so long as each is approved by voters. Relying on a 1999 statutory interpretation by the Missouri Department of Revenue, about 75 cities have won voter approval for multiple sales taxes. In recent years, however, a Farmington attorney has sued several of those cities on claims that the practice is illegal.The attorney, former Republican state representative Tom Burcham, controls a political campaign committee that has funneled more than $100,000 to House Majority Leader Steve Tilley, R-Perryville. State Rep. Tim Jones, R-Eureka, told The Associated Press in December that the FBI had questioned him in October about Tilley's role in killing a 2009 bill Jones had sponsored to allow tax stacking. Jones is also the sponsor of this year's tax stacking measure, HB 1442. That bill now goes to the Senate.
SENATE PASSES AUTISM INSURANCE COVERAGE BILL
The Missouri Senate on Feb. 3 gave first-round approval to legislation that would require state-regulated insurance companies to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autistic children. Earlier in the day, the House Special Committee on health insurance approved a less generous version of the bill.The Senate version, SB 618, would require insurers to cover up to $55,000 a year in treatment expenses up to age 21. The House bill, HB 1311, would mandate up to $36,000 a year in coverage for children age 9 and under, with the cap dropping to $20,000 a year for those age 10 to 21. The Senate bill requires one more vote before it moves to the House, which is expected to take up its version next week.
CHIEF JUSTICE SAYS TOUGHER LAWS HAVE BACKFIRED
Missouri Supreme Court Justice William Ray Price Jr. told lawmakers on Feb. 3 that a generation of tough-on-crime policies by the legislature has been "a great waste of resources" that has done nothing to reduce crime and has actually increased recidivism among nonviolent offenders. Price made his comments during the annual State of the Judiciary address before a joint session of the General Assembly."Perhaps the biggest waste of resources in all of state government is the over-incarceration of nonviolent offenders and our mishandling of drug and alcohol offenders," Price said. "It is costing us billions of dollars and it is not making a dent in crime."
While suggesting no leniency for violent offenders, Price urged the legislature to establish alternative forms of sentencing for nonviolent offenders that stress rehabilitation over incarceration. Alternative sentencing is proven to reduce recidivism and comes at a fraction of the cost of putting people in prison, Price said. On the other hand, Price said 41 percent of nonviolent offenders sentenced to prison commit new crimes within two years of release.
Price was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1992 by Republican Gov. John Ashcroft and is the longest-serving member currently on the court. He is serving his second two-year term as chief justice, having previously held the post from 1999-2001.
ANTI-COURT GROUP URGES SENATORS TO INTERVENE IN CASE
The leader of a group seeking to scuttle the Missouri Nonpartisan Court Plan has urged Republican state senators to contact members of the Missouri Supreme Court about a pending case that could overturn a 2005 law championed by Republicans that limits recovery for damages in medical malpractice cases. In response, the general counsel for the Senate leader warned senators that such interference with the court could be illegal.James Harris runs Better Courts for Missouri, which is pursuing an amendment to the state constitution that would give the governor and lawmakers control over the judicial selection process. Under the existing process, independent commissions selects finalists for openings of the Supreme Court, Missouri Court of Appeals and circuit courts in the St. Louis, Kansas City and Springfield areas. The governor is required to appoint from among those finalists or forfeit the selection to the commission.
In a Jan. 25 memo to Republican senators, Harris wrote: "Missouri cannot afford for our court to embrace judicial activism in this case. Overturning tort reform would be harmful to our economy and impede access to health care. I encourage you to speak with members of the Court and be prepared to act if they overturn the law."
Brendan Cossette, the general counsel to Senate President Pro Tem Charlie Shields, R-St. Joseph, responded with his own memo to Republican senators on Jan. 27. "Please know that any ex parte communication from you with the Judges about this case or any issue before the court may involve serious legal ramifications and should be avoided at all costs," Cossette wrote.
The court heard arguments in the medical malpractice case, Klotz v. St. Anthony's Medical Center, on Jan. 14. It has yet to issue a ruling in the case.
HOUSE REJECTS PROPOSED CHANGES TO FARMLAND VALUES
The Missouri House of Representatives on Jan. 27 voted 140-15 to reject the State Tax Commission's recommended changes in agricultural land values. State law requires the commission to review the productive values of farmland, which are used to determine property taxes, every two years. The values were last adjusted in 1995.Under the commission's recommendation, tax values would be lowered on about 65 percent of agricultural acreage but increased on the remaining 35 percent, which accounts for the state's most productive farmland. However, because the increases in tax values would be substantial and the decreases relatively modest, the overall tax value of farmland would go up about 11 percent.
The commission's recommendations will take effect on Jan. 1, 2011, unless the General Assembly passes a resolution rejecting them by March 7. The Senate overwhelming passed a similar resolution on Jan. 28, but both chambers must pass the same measure in order to override the Tax Commission.
HOUSE COUNSEL ON LEAVE AMID FEDERAL INVESTIGATION
House General Counsel Don Lograsso announced on Jan. 22 that he is taking an indefinite leave of absence to seek treatment for failing eyesight. Lograsso's explanation for his sudden departure was met with skepticism, however, as it came on the same day The Kansas City Star reported that the FBI is investigating possible pay-to-play allegations involving Lograsso.Former state Rep. Bob Johnson, R-Lee's Summit, told The Star that the FBI recently had interviewed him concerning a 2005 bill regulating the adult entertainment industry that then-House Speaker Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill, had assigned to a committee chaired by Johnson, a known opponent of the bill.
As first reported by The Star in 2006, Jetton assigned the bill to Johnson's committee four days after a campaign committee that Lograsso worked for as a paid fundraiser and consultant received a $35,000 contribution from the adult entertainment industry. That campaign committee in turn funneled the money to Republican candidates for office. By assigning the anti-porn bill to Johnson's committee, Jetton essentially ensured the bill wouldn't advance.
GAMING COMMISSION VOTES TO CLOSE ST. LOUIS CASINO
The Missouri Gaming Commission on Jan. 27 unanimously voted to revoke the license of the President Casino in downtown St. Louis as of July 1. Commissioners said Pinnacle Entertainment Corp., the casino's owner, has intentionally allowed the President Casino to decline since opening a new casino just blocks away in 2006.The President Casino is located on the century-old Admiral riverboat, which is expected to lose its certification to carry passengers. Pinnacle had hoped to retain its license for the President but move it to a new facility in north St. Louis County, but the Gaming Commission shot down that idea last year when it ruled gaming licenses are nontransferable.
The stakes are high for Pinnacle due to a 2008 ballot measure approved by voters that, among other things, capped the number of statewide gaming licenses at 13. The effort to place that measure on the ballot was entirely bankrolled by Pinnacle and another casino company. Pinnacle officials have vowed to fight the revocation of the President's license, but if the company is unsuccessful, the Gaming Commission could award the license to another company for a casino in another part of the state.
BUDGET AX FALLS HARD ON MISSOURI SOCIAL SERVICES
By David A Lieb, Associated Press WriterThe budget ax fell hard on Missouri's social services Tuesday as House lawmakers began the long and painful process of crafting a state spending plan amid slumping tax revenues.
If the cuts hold up, Missouri would halt funding for crisis pregnancy centers and maternity homes, eliminate its operating aid for community health care centers and cut in half the state subsidies for domestic violence shelters.
Those were just a few of the roughly $60 million in state spending cuts approved Tuesday by the House Appropriations Committee for Health, Mental Health and Social Services as it began work on the 2011 budget.
House Budget Committee Chairmen Allen Icet has instructed the six appropriations committees that serve as a starting point for Missouri's budget to try to trim 5 percent from the $23.9 billion operating budget proposed last month by Gov. Jay Nixon.
Tuesday's decisions show that the cuts for some specific programs could far exceed that. But the cuts embraced Tuesday still could be partially or fully reversed.
Under Missouri's budget process, the spending plans approved by House appropriations committees then go to the full House Budget Committee before moving to the House floor. The budget also must pass through the Senate before going to Nixon for his signature or vetoes.
Advocates for social services warned of potential dire consequences from the cuts.
The House committee, for example, voted to eliminate the entire $9.25 million in state grants for Federally Qualified Health Centers, the vast majority of whose patients are either uninsured or covered by the government's Medicaid program for the poor.
The health centers still would receive Medicaid payments, but if the state operating grants are eliminated, some of the 180 community health sites could be forced to close or lay off doctors and nurses, said Joseph Pierle, CEO of the Missouri Primary Care Association.
"The bottom line is this is going to reduce access to care in both urban and rural Missouri," Pierle said.
The House panel also voted to eliminate the entire amount - nearly $2 million - proposed for the Alternatives to Abortion program, which provides grants to nonprofit agencies that encourage pregnant woman to give birth instead of having an abortion. The agencies provide such services as food, clothing, housing, ultrasounds and parenting skills.
"This is a program that has been funded since the mid-1990s, through Democratic and Republican administrations," said Sam Lee, of Campaign Life Missouri. If the cuts remain, "it could possibly lead to an increase in abortions, and that would be very unfortunate."
Domestic violence shelters would see a cut of nearly $2.4 million - half of their total funding from state general revenues, although their federal funding would not be affected. That cut could prevent thousands of women and children from receiving safe temporary housing, said Colleen Coble, CEO of the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
Even without cuts, Missouri shelters have been forced to turn away people. About 10,500 women and children received shelter in 2008, the latest year for which statistics were available, while more than 9,000 were turned away because shelters were full.
"All of us understand it is a difficult year" for the state budget, Coble said. "But 50 percent is beyond a fair share (of the cuts), especially for women and children in danger."
LEGISLATION FILED THAT AFFECTS CITIZENS OF ST. LOUIS
This year, legislation has been filed that I feel will affect citizens of St. Louis City. I have summarized each of these pieces of legislation below.Missouri House Gives Preliminary Approval to Bill Authorizing Drug Testing for TANF Recipients and Elected Officials
On Thursday, the Missouri House gave first-round approval to a bill that would set up a system of drug screening for state elected officials and welfare recipients suspected of using illegal controlled substances. HB 1377, sponsored by Rep. Ellen Brandom, R-Sikeston, passed the House by a vote of 113-40."This bill is the result of many, many taxpayers concerned that their … tax-paid dollars are being used to subsidize illegal use of controlled substances," said Brandom of the bill that received three days of discussion on the House floor. "Most people today have to take a drug test for their job and they do not understand why anyone abusing the system can have tax dollars and spend them illegally."
The bill would require the Missouri Department of Social Services to drug test work-eligible adults who apply for and receive benefits from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program if the department has a reasonable suspicion of drug use. Individuals who test positive or refuse to submit to testing would be denied benefits for one year.
During discussion on the bill, Rep. Ryan Silvey, R-Kansas City, added an amendment that would require drug testing for Missouri elected officials.
"I don't think it's any kind of a burden that we shouldn't subject ourselves to. I don't think anybody in this room has anything to hide in this area. I for one would be happy to take a drug test any time," said Silvey.
Most of the discussion on the bill focused on Silvey's amendment, which received support from members of both parties.
"It is very common for individuals in many trades to have to take random drug testing. I think it is only proper and fitting that we as elected officials do the same," said Rep. Bryan Stevenson, R-Webb City.
"If we're going to make people do it, we need to step up and do it ourselves," said Minority Floor Leader Paul LeVota, D-Independence.
"I do agree it would be less hypocritical of us to single out this particular group for scrutiny that we don't offer to ourselves, and that we're both recipients of state funds," said Rep. Jeanette Mott Oxford, D-St. Louis.
Rep. Scott Dieckhaus, R-Washington, added an amendment to the bill that would immediately cut off benefits for those who test positive for drug use. The original version of the legislation would have allowed individuals who test positive to complete a drug treatment program and still keep their benefits. Dieckhaus said the change would create a strong incentive for TANF recipients to not use drugs.
"I think we need to send them a stern message that they need to get off the drugs and that they need to provide for their children and their families," said Dieckhaus.
Rep. Jeff Roorda, D-Barnhart, expressed concern about the potential impact the change could have on children of TANF recipients. "You work off the assumption ... this money is going for drugs," Roorda said to Dieckhaus. "I work off the assumption that it's going for the bologna sandwiches that keep these kids fed." In response, Dieckhaus pointed out that the legislation allows for children to continue receiving benefits through a third party outside the household.
The bill needs an additional vote in the House before moving to the Senate for discussion.
House Approves Unemployment Benefit Extension
On Tuesday, the Missouri House of Representatives gave final approval to a bill that would extend the state's eligibility to receive federal funds to provide unemployed individuals compensation beyond the current benefit period. The House approved HB 1544, sponsored by Rep. Barney Fisher, R-Richards, by a vote of 145-12."This is a federal extension of time that Missouri's unemployed can be on unemployment. This is 100 percent full federal funding. It costs the state of Missouri nothing. It costs Missouri businesses nothing," said Fisher. "It would address the unemployment needs of about 62,000 Missourians."
The bill would extend federal unemployment benefits for workers that have exhausted all state and federal benefits. Legislation passed in 2009, HB 1075, set a cutoff date of December 5, 2009 for the extended benefits. If HB 1544 is signed into law, the sunset provision would be removed and unemployed workers would receive extended benefits as long as the federal government fully funds them.
"What we're trying to do here is eliminate the sunset, cut through the red tape, and get unemployment benefits to our constituents when the (federal government) extends the benefits," said Rep. Gina Walsh, D-St. Louis.
The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
Four weeks and 10 bills later, House debates autism measure
House speaker had promised autism bill would be the first debated in 2010The Missouri House of Representatives today for the first time debated legislation that would require insurance companies to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autistic children. House Speaker Ron Richard, R-Joplin, had promised the bill would be the first piece of legislation debated on the House floor during the 2010 legislative session; instead it was the 11th.
"Although parents with autistic children no doubt wish Speaker Richard had kept his promise, House Democrats are pleased to finally be debating the autism insurance bill," said House Minority Leader Paul LeVota, D-Independence. "It's too bad we had to wait a month and spend hours debating nonbinding resolutions, but at least we are finally working on this issue."
During a Dec. 3 conference call with reporters, Richard promised the autism bill would be the first measure debated by the House this year, a pledged reported by numerous news organizations, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in a Dec. 4 story.
Instead of the autism bill, HB 1311, the first legislation the House debated this year was a nonbinding resolution [HCR18] to Missouri's congressional delegation on Jan. 19. That bill was taken up four weeks to the day prior to HB 1311.
DROPOUT PREVENTION TASK FORCE DISCUSSES REPORT
The House Dropout Prevention Task Force met to discuss the report it will submit to the Speaker of the House. The task force is led by Rep. Jamilah Nasheed, D- St. Louis, who is concerned by Missouri's current dropout rate."This is a silent epidemic. This is a serious issue and there needs to be a school improvement process to increase the graduation rate in Missouri," said Nasheed.
Rep. Jeanette Oxford, D-St. Louis, had several suggestions for the report, including raising the age a student may choose to dropout of school to 18. The group also discussed options for increasing monitoring of children at risk, beginning in the third grade. Monitoring could include a student's reading level, as well as attendance.
"Monitoring is a matter of noticing that a student is exhibiting A, B, and C problems, and then stepping in to intervene," said Oxford. Representatives from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education echoed that suggestion, saying monitoring before third grade would be even better.
Rep. Doug Funderburk, R-St. Peters, expressed that he wanted to make sure nothing in the report would have unintended consequences for home-schooled children or children who attend private schools. The task force agreed with Funderburk's recommendation.
The task force also discussed the benefits of early childhood education, as well as longer school days. The discussion of the report was tabled to a later date to allow for more research into some aspects of the report.
House Education Appropriations Committee Hears Testimony on Higher Education Budget
Witnesses from the Missouri Department of Higher Education (DHE) testified before the House Education Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, requesting funds for higher education components such as scholarships, student loans, community colleges and University of Missouri (UM)-related institutions.Early in the testimony, Reps. Mike Thomson, R-Maryville, who chairs the committee, and Maynard Wallace, R-Thornfield, questioned the role of the DHE in the A+ scholarship program and its expansion. The witness said that as long as DHE receives a transfer of funds from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the department could successfully handle the college scholarship portion of the program. However, other program initiatives like the evaluation of high schools would remain the responsibility of DESE.
The committee also heard testimony on the Missouri Student Loan program, and Rep. Thomson wondered about the potential effects of a federal bill now being reviewed in Congress. A bill currently in the U.S. Senate would require all federal student loans to come directly from the federal government, shutting out private lenders such as banks. Many colleges and universities in Missouri are already preparing to switch to direct lending, a process that would not involve DHE at all.
"It would change our role significantly," DHE Deputy Director Paul Wagner said. "We're confident that there would still be a role for state guarantee agencies several years into the future, but obviously it would fundamentally change the nature of our business."
Representatives also discussed funding for higher education institutions. Rep. Rick Stream, R-Kirkwood, said that although community colleges had agreed not to raise teachers' salaries, some schools still implemented increases.
"We've got Missourians all across this state who are losing their jobs, being laid off, getting less hours, having to pay more money into their benefit programs, and getting their benefits cut," Stream said. "And yet, some institutions felt obliged to give their teachers a four percent pay raise…. I don't think it's right."
Spokespersons for UM-related institutions also testified, stating that recent budget cuts have caused their programs to run at less than full capacity. According to testimony, the Missouri Research and Education Network (MOREnet) struggled last year, eliminating 20 percent of their positions and freezing growth. MOREnet Executive Director John Gillispie testified that further cuts would cause the network to increase fees to the point that some schools would no longer be able to afford internet access.
The committee meets next week to hear more testimony on the budget.
Purgason: Ethics Bill and State Budget
This week the Senate passed an ethics bill [SB577] that would make changes to some of the ethics laws that have been put into place over the years. As you may remember, three of our state legislators have resigned over ethics violations in the past year with one serving a prison tem.
Although this bill would not have affected any of these cases, many thought that we need to make changes and review some of the laws that were in place. All in all, we can write all the laws we want and we will never make unethical people ethical. The ultimate authority needs to remain the voter. This means that voters must educate themselves on their elected officials, how they vote and how they conduct themselves in both public and private life.
At the risk of repeating myself week after week on the severity of our state budget, I must once again stress to you what will happen to the future of our state if we continue to delay tough choices.
The majority of legislators still do not understand the stress that is being put on our state budget. The proposed budget would spend $8.3 billion which exceeds any reasonable estimate of tax receipts for the upcoming year by more than a $1 billion. This means that our budget is structurally out of balance and cannot be sustained with the current spending plan.
Fortunately, the disciplined decisions of the past few years have put Missouri in a better financial position to weather the economic storm than most states, but we are not immune to having to make difficult budget decisions that will keep us financially sound.
As you may recall, our budget difficulties earlier this decade were a result of uncontrolled spending that relied on one-time monies. Such a policy is not sustainable, but politicians are often afraid of making difficult decisions because they fear unpopularity, especially in an election year.
It may be considered good politics by some, but in the end it is lousy fiscal policy. We cannot allow one-time federal dollars to lead us down the path to ever more federal dependency and greater threats to your pocketbook. Otherwise the states become mini-federal governments that depend upon deficit spending.
How out of touch with our existing economic condition can we be to accept a budget that will require nearly 15% more of your general revenue dollars when the one-time money runs out next year? This is a time for restraint, a time to truly prioritize spending and a time to make our state bureaucracy more efficient.
Unlike Congress, our Missouri Constitution requires that we must have a balanced budget. The state of Missouri cannot borrow our way to prosperity or print money to satisfy unrestrained and politically motivated spending habits.
People are outraged with the unparalleled and unending spending spree in Washington, D. C., which denies the economic reality that we live in today. Long-term and continuous deficit spending, regardless of which political party is in power, must stop. Nipping at the edges of this issue with small spending cuts and other current thinking doesn't even come close to solving the problem. Missouri cannot and must not follow in those footsteps.
As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. I can be reached in Jefferson City at (573)751-1882, e-mail to chuck{dot}purgason{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov or by regular mail at 201 West Capitol Avenue, Room 420, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Although this bill would not have affected any of these cases, many thought that we need to make changes and review some of the laws that were in place. All in all, we can write all the laws we want and we will never make unethical people ethical. The ultimate authority needs to remain the voter. This means that voters must educate themselves on their elected officials, how they vote and how they conduct themselves in both public and private life.
At the risk of repeating myself week after week on the severity of our state budget, I must once again stress to you what will happen to the future of our state if we continue to delay tough choices.
The majority of legislators still do not understand the stress that is being put on our state budget. The proposed budget would spend $8.3 billion which exceeds any reasonable estimate of tax receipts for the upcoming year by more than a $1 billion. This means that our budget is structurally out of balance and cannot be sustained with the current spending plan.
Fortunately, the disciplined decisions of the past few years have put Missouri in a better financial position to weather the economic storm than most states, but we are not immune to having to make difficult budget decisions that will keep us financially sound.
As you may recall, our budget difficulties earlier this decade were a result of uncontrolled spending that relied on one-time monies. Such a policy is not sustainable, but politicians are often afraid of making difficult decisions because they fear unpopularity, especially in an election year.
It may be considered good politics by some, but in the end it is lousy fiscal policy. We cannot allow one-time federal dollars to lead us down the path to ever more federal dependency and greater threats to your pocketbook. Otherwise the states become mini-federal governments that depend upon deficit spending.
How out of touch with our existing economic condition can we be to accept a budget that will require nearly 15% more of your general revenue dollars when the one-time money runs out next year? This is a time for restraint, a time to truly prioritize spending and a time to make our state bureaucracy more efficient.
Unlike Congress, our Missouri Constitution requires that we must have a balanced budget. The state of Missouri cannot borrow our way to prosperity or print money to satisfy unrestrained and politically motivated spending habits.
People are outraged with the unparalleled and unending spending spree in Washington, D. C., which denies the economic reality that we live in today. Long-term and continuous deficit spending, regardless of which political party is in power, must stop. Nipping at the edges of this issue with small spending cuts and other current thinking doesn't even come close to solving the problem. Missouri cannot and must not follow in those footsteps.
As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. I can be reached in Jefferson City at (573)751-1882, e-mail to chuck{dot}purgason{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov or by regular mail at 201 West Capitol Avenue, Room 420, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Carter: Census 2010
On April 1, 2010, the nation will be asked to participate in the 2010 Census, one of the most important federal operations of the decade. By filling out and mailing in your census form, you are ensuring that there is an accurate and complete count of everyone living in the United States. An accurate count helps the federal government determine how $400 billion dollars in funding is given to states and cities. The data is used to determine how much money our community will receive for things like streets, new housing developments, schools, social service programs and law enforcement grants.
It is estimated that for every person not counted in the census, we lose an estimated $1,300 per year. It is clear that we cannot afford to have one single person not counted in the census. Please fill out and mail in your census form, and encourage others to do the same!
With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire takes just 10 minutes to complete. Households are asked to provide key demographic information, including: whether a housing unit is rented or owned; the address of the residence; and the names, genders, ages and races of others living in the household. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.
Here is the timeline for the Census:
Here are some important phone numbers for your use:
(If you prefer a Spanish-speaking operator, then dial 866-928-2010.)
It is estimated that for every person not counted in the census, we lose an estimated $1,300 per year. It is clear that we cannot afford to have one single person not counted in the census. Please fill out and mail in your census form, and encourage others to do the same!
With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire takes just 10 minutes to complete. Households are asked to provide key demographic information, including: whether a housing unit is rented or owned; the address of the residence; and the names, genders, ages and races of others living in the household. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.
Here is the timeline for the Census:
- March 8 – 11 – Advance letter comes to homes informing them that the census form will arrive the following week and that they should fill it in and mail it back quickly.
- March 15 – 17, 2010 – Census forms hit doorsteps. Forms come with postage paid return envelopes and are addressed only to the particular address and not a particular person.
- March 22 – 24 – Reminder postcards go to homes encouraging people to fill out their forms and mail them back in as soon as possible.
- April 1, 2010 – Census Day in America.
- May – July 2010 – Non-Response Follow Up. The Census Bureau will send out Census Bureau employees to visit addresses that have not yet responded. The Census Bureau employees will visit homes up to six times to encourage residents to respond.
- Dec. 31, 2010 – The Census report is due on the President's desk.
Here are some important phone numbers for your use:
- The Census Bureau is still looking to fill jobs, for more information about census jobs call 866-861-2010.
- For TDD assistance with the census form call 866-783-2010. The lines are open 8a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
- For assistance completing the form, please call the Telephone Questionnaire Assistance center at 866-872-6868.
(If you prefer a Spanish-speaking operator, then dial 866-928-2010.)
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