Torpey: A Special Note, Legislative Session Begins, Meet The Staff

A Special Note

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I am sure that, by now, you have heard of the tragedy that has taken place in the state of Arizona. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and several of her constituents and staff experienced what is truly an appalling event.

While we grieve the loss of those in Arizona, we also hope for the quick recovery of those still fighting for their lives. I urge everyone to keep our fellow Americans in Tucson in our thoughts and prayers until time can heal their emotional and physical wounds.

While many across the country try to turn this terrible event into a political stunt, we must stop and take the time to understand that it is much easier to work out problems and find solutions without the use of force. It is my hope that we in Missouri continue to openly debate real issues facing Missourians, continue to meet openly with our constituents, and continue to defend and uphold the outstanding ideals found in our constitution and founded by our democracy.

2011 Legislative Session begins

The House Welcomes New Faces and Leadership:

• At noon Wednesday, January 5, The 96th General Assembly convened in Jefferson City. Representative Steven Tilley was sworn in as the 70th Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives. Representative Shane Schoeller was sworn in as Speaker Pro Tem.
• House Republicans hold the majority with 106 members. Democrats have 57 members. A veto-proof majority is 109.
• There are 45 committees, including 6 Appropriations Committees, the Special Committee on Redistricting and the Committee on Downsizing State Government.

As we embark on coming weeks:

• Committees are beginning to meet; more committee information can be found on the House website (www.house.mo.gov), under the Committees link.
• Representatives continue to file bills through April 1. More information can be found on the House website, under the Bill Information link.
• I look forward to speaking with many of you about upcoming legislation that will potentially impact our district if signed into law. Please contact my office with any questions.

Committees:

I have been graciously appointed as the Vice-Chairman to the Small Business Committee.

I will also be serving on the Fiscal Review Committee, the Downsizing State Government Committee, and Appropriations of Public Safety and Corrections.

Meet the Staff:

Each State Representative is allowed to hire one Legislative Aide. This session, my LA is Amanda Petelin. Feel free to contact her with any questions, or if you are unable to reach me. Her email is: amanda{dot}petelin{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

I also have the unique privilege of having an intern work with my office this year. Stephanie Boeth is a junior from Northwest Missouri State University, studying Political Science and International Studies. We are very pleased to have Stephanie in our office this session!

The General Assembly will meet regularly until May 13, 2011. If you ever find yourself in the capitol, feel free to stop by our location in Room 415 B. We will be happy to meet and speak with you!

I wish you a blessed and safe New Year. Thank you for all the support you have given in the past year. And, as always, feel free to contact me if you have any questions.