Kelley: Seven Weeks Left In Session

This week the Legislature marked its annual spring break. This is traditionally considered to be the halfway point of the legislative session, but when we return, there will only be about seven weeks left before the May adjournment.

By most accounts it has been a successful session so far. Although the budget is always the focus of each General Assembly, this year it is especially important. Missouri has not escaped the economic downturn which has affected the entire country. Our state’s constitution requires the budget to be balanced each fiscal year.

The chairman of the House Budget Committee is in his first year on the job. Representative Ryan Silvey (R-Kansas City) took over from former Representative Allen Icet (R-Wildwood) who was forced out by term limits. Silvey drew high praise from both republicans and democrats for how he handled the committee proceedings.

Prior to adjourning for spring break, the House Budget Committee passed its version of the budget. When we return on May 28th, the entire House will debate the budget. Since there is a limited amount of money to spend, there will not likely be many amendments which will be seriously considered. Money added in one area must be subtracted from another area. As a member of the Appropriations-Education Committee I have seen firsthand how many good ideas there are which are worthy of funding. The task at hand becomes trying to decide which good idea is going to be left behind while another moves forward.

The House as also addressed legislation requiring driver’s license tests to be taken in English [HB167], phasing out the corporate franchise tax [HB76], reforming the worker’s compensation system [HB91], and making constructive changes to the recently passed Proposition B [HB131]. As Missouri attempts to pull out of the economic downturn, it is important we do all we can to not only bring new businesses to Missouri, but also to retain those we already have. Successful businesses tend to grow over time, adding new jobs and activity along the way.

Hopefully you have received the legislative survey I sent out a couple weeks ago. I encourage you to fill it out and send it back at your earliest convenience. The more I know about your views and opinions, the better job I can do representing your interests in Jefferson City. The learning curve has been steep, but I am thoroughly enjoying the job you have entrusted me with. I again thank you for the honor of being your voice in the Missouri House of Representatives.

Until my next update, I am, and remain, in your service,

Mike