Dempsey: Citizens Advocate at their State Capitol

Every week, hundreds of Missourians travel to their State Capitol to watch the proceedings and to talk to their elected representatives about issues that are important to them. Over the last few days, I have had the privilege of meeting with groups and individuals with a wide range of concerns and interests.

For example, earlier this week I was visited by a group from the American Red Cross. These fine folks are pushing for a change in Missouri’s law to protect “Good Samaritans.” A “Good Samaritan” typically describes someone who voluntarily stops to help victims at an accident scene. The Red Cross proposes to expand the law to protect medical personnel (such as doctors or nurses) who use their skills to help others in the event of a natural disaster.

Another such group that visited my Capitol Office this week was the Alzheimer’s Association. This group represents many families who have been touched by this terrible illness. They were in Jefferson City for their annual Memory Day event, designed to raise awareness about the needs of those suffering with Alzheimer’s disease and to advocate for services such as respite care.

I also had the opportunity to visit a display in the Capitol Rotunda put on by college students as part of the University of Missouri’s Undergraduate Research Day. This event showcased some of the amazing research these talented students are doing, including a display by a young lady from St. Charles focusing on the detection of cancer cells in the bloodstream.

During the course of a legislative session, I have the opportunity to meet with many individuals and groups. Every meeting is a bit different, but they are connected by a common theme. All of these individuals come to tell their story and to advocate for a cause they believe in. Under our form of government, every person has the opportunity to voice his or her views to those they have elected to represent them. My hat is off to these citizens who take time out of their busy lives to try to make a difference.

If you would like to learn more about the groups highlighted above, their contact information is provided below:

American Red Cross – St. Louis Area Chapter: www.redcrossstl.org - (314) 516-2800
Alzheimer’s Association – www.alz.org/stl - (314) 432-3422

I always appreciate hearing from you. If you have any questions about issues or any legislation pending before the Missouri Senate, please do not hesitate to contact my office.