Kelley: Floor Update Continued

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

SS SCS HCS HB 163 was truly agreed to and finally passed by the vote off 138 to 13. This bill, which has now been sent to the Governor for signing into law, allows the state to continue to receive extended federal unemployment benefit funds until August 28, 2013. While the overarching goal of the 96th General Assembly is to create an economic environment rich with opportunity, the fact remains, our unemployment rate is still high and the economy still sluggish. We must take measures to provide immediate assistance to those continuing to suffer due to this tough economy. At the same time, our efforts have led to the passage of many bills designed to promote business and create growth in Missouri’s economy.

From passage of tax incentives for the development of international trade routes through HCS HB 840, to protecting farmers rights and restricting undue and burdensome government regulation on Agri-business in HCS HJR 3, every week we are making significant steps toward positioning Missouri for future economic success and prosperity for Missourians.

SS SCS SB’s 113 and 95 was truly agreed to and finally passed by the vote off 85 to 71. This bill is the Senate version designed to address the issues developed in the passage of Prop B. Although I voted, consistent with my District, in support of this bill, many argue that Prop B was designed to put lawful dog breeders out of business and did nothing to stop abusive procedures in unlicensed puppy mills. In addition, it has been argued that the mission of the organization that spent nearly five million dollars to get Prop B passed by a 1.5% margin, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which is a separate organization from the Missouri Humane Society and the Missouri Animal Alliance, is to work towards ending animal agriculture completely. HSUS initiatives in other states such as California and Florida have been devastating on the agricultural industries in those states and many fear that Prop B was the initial “camel nose under the tent.” Time will tell where this issue eventually goes in our state.

SCS SB 188 was truly agreed to and finally passed by the vote off 93 to 63. This bill deals with the issue of unlawful discriminatory practices.

SS SCS HB 209, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), was truly agreed to and finally passed by the vote of 110 to 45. This bill deals with the regulations surrounding nuisance lawsuits. There is a clear benefit to farmers and the agriculture industry by protecting farmers from continually being served with nuisance lawsuits. Under this legislation, plaintiffs would be required to prove how they were injured, and damages will be limited to fair market values. If we do not take steps to end the assault on farmer and agribusiness (Missouri’s largest industry), the onslaught of regulation and litigation will strangle our farmers into extinction.

HCS HB 174, sponsored by Rep. Mike Thomson (R-4), was truly agreed to and finally passed by the unanimous vote of 151 to 0. This bill changes the composition of the Coordinating Board for Higher Education, the University of Missouri Board of Curators, and the Missouri State University Board of Governors.

For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, visit www.house.mo.gov.

Visiting the Capitol

I always enjoy it when constituents visit the Capitol and want to thank all who make the journey. If you ever find yourself in or around Jefferson City at any time during the year, please feel free to visit us.

Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service.