Davis: JOBS! JOBS! JOBS!

After a short week of session due to the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr., we hit the ground running. The number 1 priority this year is job creation. The legislators this year must focus all our efforts to getting Missourians back to work. This is not going to be an easy job, but it is one that MUST get done. We face about $500 million dollar deficit this year and it is solely due to the tough job market our citizens are facing. It is up to us to find a way of getting businesses to come to Missouri and also to ensure businesses STAY here. It sometimes seems like we are driving businesses to more business friendly states or even to other countries. THAT HAS GOT TO STOP! This is going to take some tough decisions but we can no longer allow our people to have no choice but to leave our great state.

House Bill 45

HB 45 came to the House Floor for debate and was perfected on Wednesday, January 19th. HB 45, known as the “Big Government Get Off My Back Act”, provides incentives and rewards for Missouri employers who expand to provide new, full-time jobs for Missourians. The Legislation provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive each new full-time job created or a $20,000 incentive for each new full-time job created when the business offers health insurance and pays at least 50% of the premiums of all full-time employees. The bill also seeks to limit and reduce the amount of regulations that Government forces onto small businesses that simply cause them to spend time doing paperwork instead of growing their enterprise.

1. Employment law reform: Missouri is seeing legal decisions pushed by trial lawyers that are eating at the state’s employment laws. This makes Missouri seem anti-business; it is also a burden on employers to recruit and maintain quality employees. The Missouri Human Rights Act needs to be brought in line with federal laws. Changes would also include capping jury trial awards and lowering punitive damage limits.
2. Workers’ compensation reform: Judges are also making decisions that are taking Missouri in the wrong direction, after having passed new workers’ comp laws in 2005. It is time to ensure the letter of the 2005 law is followed and not abused by activist judges.
3. Franchise tax cap: Anytime we can lower or eliminate useless taxes, I am for it. The franchise tax in Missouri was created in 1914, and was meant to only be temporary. This is double taxation. Missouri’s job providers want to see the Legislature cap the tax at 2010 levels and then phase it out over time.
4. Eliminate the minimum wage escalator: Missouri’s minimum wage law allows for an automatic adjustment for inflation, based on the cost of living. This could mean the state’s minimum wage would be more than the federal wage, which only costs Missouri jobs.
5. Tort reform: There is one area in the state’s legal law that puts us at a disadvantage. Current law for assessing fault and business liability says that a business can be held liable for the entire cost of litigation if it is at least 51 percent at fault. In fact, a business can be held responsible if there is a third party involved. This loophole needs to go immediately.
6. Unemployment insurance reform: Missouri’s unemployment insurance trust fund is bankrupt. The state has borrowed more than $700 million from the federal government in order to pay unemployment claims. If Missouri does not start paying back this money, we will start to lose other federal aid. Our goal is to fix this, pay back the money, and get people back to work. The more people working, the fewer dollars that have to go to unemployment.

These are just a few ideas. But needless to say, I will work hard to see all those in my district have the opportunity to have a good paying job in order to provide for our families. May you all have a wonderful week and may God bless you and your families.

Schupp: Compete Missouri, Bill To Help Small Business A "Mockery", Happy Birthday Mom

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This week, the Governor delivered the "State of the State" address. "Fighting everyday for every job" was the dominant message. It resonates strongly as we work to craft reasoned policy to encourage job creation and growth.

Meantime, to produce a constitutionally-required balanced budget, the Governor proposes cutting hundreds of additional state jobs.

On the positive side of the balance sheet, the Governor recommends increases to Parents as Teachers, and full funding to Early Childhood Special Education. He plans to keep funding at current levels for K-12, increasing access to Higher Education through scholarship expansion for middle and low income students, and adding to the Bright Flight program.

For our seniors, he has asked for a renewal for our Missouri Rx program. NORC continues to be funded in his budget.

You can hear the Governor's Vision for Missouri at www.Mo.Gov by clicking on 2011 State of the State.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Truly,

Jill Schupp

"Compete Missouri"

In an effort to spur job growth, the Governor has announced his new initiative, "Compete Missouri!" This program is designed to streamline and simplify job growth opportunities by consolidating six different business incentives and worker training programs. It will ease the burden on businesses of all sizes that may be eligible for one or more of the programs, including job training.

This Week in the House

House Bill 45: A Small Business Growth Mockery

HB 45, the "Big Government Get Off My Back Act," as it is derisively named, was hurried through committee and brought to the house floor this week.

The bill is touted as one that will help with small business job creation. In brief, the reality is that the one time $520-$1200 tax credit incentive received will not encourage a company to hire a new full time permanent employee making $40-$50,000 per year. Rather, it will provide a credit to those companies who would be hiring new employees anyway...further diminishing the state's revenue.

The bill also states that no federal mandate can be implemented without state legislative authorization, a back door referendum against the Affordable Health Care Act.

I look forward to working with legislators and the Governor's office on legislation that will truly support small business growth in our community and our state.

Missouri Veterans History Project "behind the scenes" "Talent Search"

Next week end, the Missouri Veterans History Project will be meeting in Columbia to begin expansion of our program across the state.

We will begin signing up area volunteers to help interview and tape our Veterans' stories. Training will be provided...no experience is necessary. We will also need volunteer schedulers who can work from home.

Please let my office know that you are interested and willing to volunteer! Call Anne Marie at (314) 616-5009 or email Annemarie{dot}Rhoades{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

Happy Birthday, MOM!

On January 18, my mom, Joan Seltzer, celebrated a very special birthday. Another birthday never gets in the way of her exercise classes, her painting and her volunteer work!

How fortunate we are to have had a party with her and the family all gathered around! I know she loved every minute of the week-long celebrations! So did we, Mom! Happy 29th-ish birthday!

A Look Inside The House

This photo, taken by House Photographer Tim Bommel, shows the members of the House of Representatives at the Swearing-In ceremony; many family members and special guests look on from the upper and lower House galleries.

Visiting Nurse Association Celebrates 100 Years!

Congratulations to the Visiting Nurse Association in honor of its 100 year tradition of caring for the people of the Greater St. Louis Area and beyond.

The VNA is St. Louis' only nonprofit community-based visiting nurse agency.

They work to promote and achieve wellness, and believe that people want to have optimal quality of life in their own homes.

They are located at 11440 Olive Blvd. in Creve Coeur.

Denison: House Republicans Aim To Change Missouri's Business Climate

This week Gov. Jay Nixon gave his annual State of the State address. There were a few key things that stood out in my mind as I listened to our chief executive. First, and foremost I was glad that he joined the House Republicans call in the Show Me Solutions Initiative to make state government live within its means by keeping spending and taxes under control.

I was also glad to hear the Governor talk about extending the A+ program to more high schools so Missouri children have a better opportunity to receive a college education. However, the Governor spent a great deal of himself talking about personal accomplishments relating to job creation over the past year. While we may have some things to celebrate our unemployment rate is still at 9.5% and many of our surrounding states are fairing better than we are in that category. In fact, a number of the accomplishments the Governor touted were actually initiated before he was even elected and the actual impacts of some of his claims have yet to be seen. What it really boils down to is that I don’t believe Missourians were interested in hearing the Governor pat himself on the back. Missourians know we are facing real problems and need real solutions and those solutions are for the future of Missouri not championing the past. For instance, one of the key fundamental differences that became apparent in the Governor’s speech was his stance on economic development. He spent a great deal of time talking about programs he has championed and how he wants to use those programs to improve things in the future. Well, as I said unemployment is still at 9.5%, so I don’t know that I believe tweaking, consolidating, or adding programs is the best economic development policy. Instead, House Republicans have proposed bills aimed at changing the overall business climate in Missouri like reducing regulations, fees, and taxes; cutting down on lawsuits, and providing a more stable environment for small businesses – not just big business to grow. In fact, hours before the Governor gave his speech we passed HB 45. This bill would expand the definition of small businesses from those with 25 employees to those with 50 employees. We also extended the ability of these businesses to use a tax deduction if they hire new employees and double that deduction if they offer to pay at least 50% of the employee’s healthcare benefits. Finally, this bill would require that any new federal rules, regulations, or fees would have to be approved by the general assembly first.

As we move forward in the legislative session I am excited about the plan we have, the Show Me Solutions Initiative, and how it will help our great state. This plan is grounded in common sense Missouri values and it is meant to improve our state now for the success we all want in the future.

I would like to invite you to visit, write, or call, anytime during this legislative session. I was very pleased to have so many Realtors in to see us this week. Next week will open with just the 10th day of the 96th legislative session.

Dempsey: Job Creation, Judicial Salaries and Healthcare Top Week’s Agenda

This week the House and Senate observed an annual tradition by formally meeting in a rare joint session to listen to the governor lay out his priorities for the coming year. Commonly referred to as the “State of the State” address, this speech serves as an opportunity for the governor to give us his proposed budget and to highlight his goals. One area of common ground set forth in his speech is the goal of creating jobs. While the governor proposes to consolidate some business incentives and streamline employee training programs, much more can be done.

In the Senate we will be pushing an aggressive pro-jobs agenda. Bringing jobs to Missouri means creating an environment where the businesses that create jobs can succeed. We can do this by protecting these potential employers from excessive taxes and from unfair legal liability. As has been discussed before in this column, we will prioritize capping or even repealing the state’s business franchise tax., fixing holes in Missouri’s workers’ comp system and restoring balance to the our employment law statutes.

In other news this week, the Senate Rules Committee voted down a resolution [SCR3] that would have blocked a pay raise for Missouri judges. Under the Missouri Constitution, the Citizens’ Commission on Compensation meets and recommends a pay scale for elected officials and judges. If the Legislature doesn’t reject these recommendations within 30 days, they automatically go into effect. The commission recommended no pay hikes for legislators but did propose a pay raise for Missouri judges.

I voted to stop this pay raise but, unfortunately, I was in the minority and the pay raise is likely to become law. With a lean state budget and weak economy, this is not the proper time to be increasing judicial salaries. With high unemployment, many Missourians are grateful just to have a job at all. While our judges perform a very important service, so do many other Missourians who are not getting a pay raise.

This week, the Senate also took up and passed a resolution [SR27] calling on Missouri’s attorney general to join 25 other states in a lawsuit against the federal government’s misguided healthcare law. Each state and its citizens need to be free to make decisions about their own health insurance. Flexibility in this area would promote free market solutions and lower prices. Washington’s “one-size-fits-all” approach signals a loss of liberty, greater regulation and higher prices.

If you have comments or questions about this legislation or any other issue involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Hoskins: "Full Steam Ahead" on HB45, Committee Updates

A busy week of legislative work has ended with a big snow storm. These are the days when we are sure glad to see those MoDOT snow plows clearing the way. Many thanks to all those people clearing our roads and at all hours. These are also the days when I’m glad to have four wheel drive on my own vehicle.

­Legislation

In continuation of last week’s report, HB 45 moves full steam ahead. The Big Government Get Off My Back Act was completely voted out by the House this morning and will now head to the Senate for consideration. I am proud to report that this is the first bill not only to have been debated this session but is now the first bill to be fully passed out of the House.

As I visited with constituents this summer and fall, I repeatedly heard them say that we need to find ways to put people back to work. The vast majority of new jobs are created by small businesses. That is just as true in Johnson County as anywhere else in the country. HB 45 provides a tool to encourage small businesses with 50 employees or less to earn a tax deduction for new full-time jobs paying at least the average county wage. In Johnson County, these jobs will pay at least $30,000.

Debate on the House floor yesterday afternoon was fairly lively and I felt quite productive. There was limited opposition to the bill and it came from people that admitted to not having much experience in owning or working with a small business. When the final vote was taken, the House was extremely supportive with 136 voting for HB 45 and only 21 opposing it. I’m not the only small business owner in the House as I kept hearing from House members who either own small businesses or are involved with small businesses in some way. As you see by the way this passed the House, the Missouri House understands the importance of supporting small business development as much as possible.

In other legislative news to report, my committee, Appropriations – Transportation and Economic Development, held two meetings this week. The first was an organizational meeting to help the members become better acquainted. With 9 of the 15 members being newly elected, we need every opportunity to get to know each other. At the second meeting, we heard public testimony from associations and communities concerning the importance of funding for programs contributing to efficient transportation and positive economic development. Of the 12 who spoke, several testified in support of Amtrak. I see the value of Amtrak since it stops in Warrensburg but there are many legislators not nearly as familiar with it. Railroads save time and rail travel is safer than driving. I’m certainly an advocate.

Wednesday evening, the House Chamber hosted Governor Nixon’s State of the State address. I am glad the Governor is in agreement with the General Assembly that it is imperative to put Missourians back to work and maintain a balanced budget. I have concerns about some of his key points as how they might potentially impact the 121st District. For example, I was puzzled that of the 863 state jobs he proposes to be eliminated, not one was within his own office. As House members, we are leading by example as we have already reduced expenses and are continuing to pursue other ways to cut our own expenditures. Governor Nixon also made note of his planned 7% reductions to 4-year universities and community colleges totaling $53.6 million to 4-years and $10.2 million to community colleges. This does not sound good for Johnson County. The final point that he made in his speech that I found especially of concern is Governor Nixon’s suggestion that K-12 schools will see level funding. As with most things, the devil's in the details. The Governor's statement is incumbent upon schools to sit on over $112M in new dollars until next fiscal year, a decision that will be made across 522 school districts statewide. As school districts continue to struggle, it will obviously be hard for them to sit on a cash balance while continuing to cope with lower local contributions and a withhold by the Governor of over $62 million in school transportation funds. Regardless, under the current plan by the Governor, there will most certainly be less appropriated to schools next year, which will change the way funds are distributed through the formula setting the stage for an unfortunate 'who loses the most' contest. Education is not an area that should be involved in a tug of war.

In Other News

While the Missouri Association of Realtors was in Jefferson City this week, I learned about an opportunity I’d like to share with you. This organization sponsors Missouri Business Week, a business and leadership educational opportunity for high school freshmen, sophomores, or juniors. It will be held June 26-30 at the University of Missouri. Encourage high school students you know who might be interested in a week of learning about business and teamwork to check this out. Go to www.missouribusinessweek.com for more details and the application information.

Last week, I asked you to join me in going to Union Pacific’s web site to vote for the Little Rock Express to bring the Union Pacific Steam Train through Missouri in 2011. I am delighted to report that we did it! The Missouri-Arkansas route was selected by 3000+ votes more than the three other routes being considered. The others under consideration were the Tuscola Turn (Iowa-Illinois), the Baton Rouge Rambler (Texas-Louisiana), and the Boise Limited (Idaho-Utah). Be watching for information for when the Little Rock Express comes through Johnson County on its way to the first stop in Boonville.

Capitol Visitors

In spite of the snowy weather to round out the week, there have been lots of visitors in the Capitol. Johnson County was well represented at the Missouri Association of Realtors. A strong contingent that came to my office included Heather Myers, Vance and Loree DeLozier, Bill Aldrich, Pam Petersen, Jeff and Ramie Terry, and Joseph C. LeMay. Don Peterson was also by my office in support of KMOS, another important resource for the community and a big piece of west central Missouri. Even when I’m in Jefferson City, I have ready access to KMOS on local cable.

Please share this report with anyone you feel would be interested in this information. It is genuinely a privilege to serve as your state representative. In the meantime, keep warm and be safe during this true January weather.

Rupp: Addressing Fraudulent Motor Vehicle Contracts

On Jan. 18, I was proud to introduce Senate Bill 132 to the General Assembly, along with four other of my sponsored measures.

Senate Bill 132 addresses fraudulent motor vehicle contracts and warranties, as well as vehicle licensing, the “free look” period, deceptive practices, the suspension and revocation of licenses, and the registry of motor vehicles.

I became increasingly aware of the problem of motor vehicle warranty fraud in 2009, when Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster’s office received numerous complaints regarding the matter. In April of that year, myself, the attorney general, and several others formed a task force and met for the first time to discuss the auto service contract scams. We found that some independent marketers and salesmen were not registered with the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration, and were selling service contract coverage without providing adequate information about the coverage. Often times, these dishonest salespeople led consumers to believe that warranties they purchased for their vehicles were due to expire and would convince customers to purchase more coverage. Ultimately, consumers realized their warranties were no good, and were not able to get a refund or cancel their policy.

Knowing many Missourians have been scammed in these fraudulent marketing ploys, I filed Senate Bill 132. This legislation would confirm that fair sales of motor vehicle warranties are occurring, and that the proper documentation is being filed. This legislation would also confirm that consumers would get to view a product or service before purchasing it. It is a firm belief of mine that our citizens should have a right to know what they are receiving from a service provider, and all Missourians have the right to be protected.

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.

Committee Work Begins In the Missouri Senate

Senate Passes First Measure of the 2011 Legislative Session

Several Senate committees held their first meetings of the 2011 legislative session this week. Among those was the Senate Appropriations Committee, chaired by Sen. Kurt Schaefer, R-Columbia. Committee members heard public testimony from various state departments, including Social Services; Mental Health; Health and Senior Services; Judiciary; Public Safety; Corrections; Elementary and Secondary Education; Transportation; Economic Development; Revenue; Office of Administration; Higher Education; Conservation; Agriculture; Natural Resources; Labor and Industrial Relations; and Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration.

The panel also heard an overview of the governor’s Fiscal Year 2012 budget recommendations, which he delivered during his annual State of the State address on Jan. 19. The committee will continue to consider public testimony until members of the Legislature debate the budget measures on the floor of their respective chambers. The FY 2012 state budget must be approved by the General Assembly by 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 6.

Click here to listen to “The Senate Minute.” This program highlights the Senate Appropriations Committee’s first meeting of the 2011 legislative session.

The Senate Rules, Joint Rules, Resolutions and Ethics Committee also met this week to hear testimony on Senate Resolution 27, sponsored by Sen. Jane Cunningham, R-Chesterfield. The resolution urges Missouri’s Attorney General to file an independent lawsuit, join the state’s lieutenant governor’s lawsuit or join the other state attorneys general from across the country in challenging the constitutionality of the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.”

The resolution was voted out of committee, moving the measure to the full Senate for debate. After discussion from legislators on both sides of the aisle, the resolution was approved. Resolutions are nonbinding measures that formally express the will, wish or direction of one or both chambers in the Legislature. Senate Resolution 27 does not require action from the House of Representatives.

Senate Transportation Committee members held a meeting to consider several measures ranging from texting while driving to motor vehicle inspections.

• Senate Bill 11 – Sponsored by Sen. Ryan McKenna, D-Crystal City, the measure would prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a motor vehicle.
• Senate Bill 45 – This legislation would require official motor vehicle inspection and emission stations to have liability insurance to cover any possible damages to a vehicle during an inspection. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Robin Wright-Jones, D-St. Louis.
• Senate Bill 33 – Sponsored by Sen. Bill Stouffer, R-Napton, the bill would repeal a provision of law that requires the Missouri Department of Transportation to submit to binding arbitration in negligence actions.
• Senate Bill 28 – The measure would exempt motorcyclists age 21 and older from wearing a helmet when operating a motorcycle or motortricycle. Senator Dan Brown, R-Rolla, is sponsoring the legislation.

Last week’s “Rebooting Government” work groups prepared their panels’ recommendations and presented their findings to Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, and other members of the Senate this week.

Presentations included information on how the state can reduce costs for certain programs and departments, focusing in the areas of education; social programs; general government and the Office of Administration; agriculture, outdoors, the Department of Natural Resources, and transportation; courts, corrections, and the Department of Public Safety; and tax structure.

To see a PowerPoint presentation or listen to the complete audio of the Rebooting Government recommendations for 2011, visit www.senate.mo.gov/RebootMO.

Engler: Economic Development and a Balanced Budget

This week the governor delivered the annual State of the State address. This is the governor’s opportunity to announce his priorities for the year and present his budget plan to the Legislature. For the third year in a row, we are facing a budget shortfall, and it is more important than ever to create a fiscally responsible budget that keeps Missouri spending within its means.

I do agree with the governor that economic development should be our primary focus this session. We need to support legislation that encourages businesses to expand and grow new jobs. This includes expanding our economic development tools outside of the standard tax credits, some of which are no longer effective. Missouri must stay competitive with other states in attracting new businesses, while also providing incentives for companies already located in the state to stay and expand.

In the Legislature, we are working to create an environment in our state that encourages economic development. We need to reverse a judicial decision made last fall that put Missouri employees in danger of being sued over honest accidents in the workplace. We must explore reformation of our current workers’ compensation structure, unemployment laws, and liability laws to attract job-creating businesses to our state.

I have been critical of the governor in past years for delivering a budget dependent on one-time funding. The governor has again presented a spending plan that will fund K-12 education with one-time funding and depends on legislation that may or may not pass to be balanced. In order to balance the budget, we have to make at least $500 million in budget cuts, but the governor is proposing new spending and he did not include any cuts from the two largest portions of the budget….Education and Social Services, which is 70% of our budget. After five years of cuts, the other state departments will have to bear the burden again. Prisoners have to be watched twenty-four hours a day…we can’t cut that back to twenty hours.

While this increased spending might sound good in a speech, it is not the way to create a fiscally responsible budget.

Also this week, Brian Bunten started in my office as a new staff member. He is a recent law school graduate and will be available to answer your legislative questions. Please feel free to contact my office if you have any questions about legislation we have filed or any state issue.

Our work on legislation in Senate committees will continue in the coming weeks. Last week, I was appointed to chair the Senate Committee on Financial and Governmental Organizations and Elections. Several bills were assigned to that committee this week, and I look forward to meeting to hear testimony on some of this legislation when we return to the Capitol on Monday.

Torpey: Highlights From State Of The State

A Special Note

Please follow my journey through the Missouri House of Representatives on www.facebook.com and www.twitter.com.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

On Monday, January 17, 2011, the Missouri Legislature was not in session in recognition of the 25^th Anniversary celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Dr. King was an outstanding leader whose words and actions resonated throughout this nation and facilitated change long overdue. I am extremely thankful that our nation is blessed enough to allow for one person to make such a difference, even when change seems like the unpopular choice.

2^nd Week in Jefferson City

We passed House Bill 45 this week, which will reward small businesses that hire new employees and pay the average county wage. This is the first bill passed out of the House this legislative session and is now being sent to the Missouri Senate for consideration. I am proud to be a member and Vice Chair of the committee which moved this influential bill so quickly!

Governor Nixon’s State of the State Address

Governor Nixon gave the State of the State Address Wednesday evening in the House Chambers, highlighting the creation of jobs, balancing the budget without raising taxes, and investing in our future. At the same time, the governors’ recommended 2012 budget was presented online on the governor’s webpage (http://oa.mo.gov/bp/). There will be much discussion on the governor’s recommendations over the next several months as the budget must pass both the House and the Senate. Here are just a few of the points made in Governor Nixon’s budget:

• Total reductions of about $300M in various programs, far less than the $700M previously referenced by the Governor and his staff.
• The Governor proposed 863 job cuts statewide.
• $67.4M in Medicaid reductions. More than half of these reductions come from provider rate cuts. So, if providers refuse to provide the services at the set reimbursement rate, it makes no difference how many people are eligible.
• 7% reductions to 4-year universities and community colleges. Totals include ($53.6M) to 4-years and ($10.2M) to community colleges.
• Governor Nixon suggested that K-12 schools will see level funding. This statement is incumbent upon schools to sit on over $112M in new dollars until next fiscal year, a decision that will be made across 522 school districts.
• His budget adds $564M in new Medicaid costs to cover caseload growth. These Medicaid cost increases are significantly outpacing revenue growth, and the federal mandate to increase eligibility has not even hit states yet.

The governor closed with a quote from former U.S. Senator Christopher (Kit) Bond’s farewell address on the House floor: “In a world today where enemies are real… it is important to remember there is a lot of real estate between a political opponent and a true enemy. There will be issues where people of good conscience cannot come together. But never let what cannot be done interfere with what can be done.”

As our legislative session continues, I believe that members of the General Assembly should, in good faith, follow the words of Senator Bond and remember that we are here to make life better for the people of Missouri, not to create more hostility between members of differing political ideologies.

I hope you are all enjoying the seemingly endless amount of snow in our district, but please stay safe if you are traveling. I want to continue to thank you for all of the support. Please contact me or my office if you have any questions or concerns.

Stouffer: Responding to an Active Shooter

The Saline County Criminal Justice Center recently published a report on responding to an active shooter. James Simmerman, director of the center, has prepared and shared this information in response to the tragic shootings in Arizona.

Although I pray that no citizens in our area ever have to deal with this kind of situation, it is very important folks are educated and prepared to do so.

An active shooter is an individual who is actively engaged in shooting with the means to kill people in a confined and populated area. These shooters are very unpredictable and evolve quickly. These situations are often over within 10 to 15 minutes, and before law enforcement can arrive at the scene; individuals must be prepared to deal mentally and physically, with the situation.

When an active shooter is in the vicinity, it is important for folks to determine the most reasonable way to protect themselves first. In a small business setting the customers and clients are likely to follow the lead of the managers and employees of the business. If at all possible, we should be prepared to attempt to evacuate the vicinity of the shooter, or hide out in an area where you can lock or barricade the door.

If individuals are hiding in a room away from the shooter, they should immediately silence cell phones or any other electronic device and then call 911. Leaving the line open so the operator can hear what is going on is also a good idea. If individuals are able to speak to the operator, they should provide them with the location of the shooter, the number of shooters, a physical description of the shooter, the number of weapons, and the number of the potential victims at the location.

If a business does not have an emergency action plan, it is a policy to consider implementing. When creating this plan you should ask for the input of other people in your community, such as local law enforcement, emergency responders, and property managers. Employees should also practice and train for any type of emergency.

It is important to remember this type of emergency can happen anywhere, even in rural communities. Being prepared could save lives – even our own.

My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. I pray they are able to find the strength and courage to share their story and continue to be active members of their community after this devastating experience.

Tilley: Missourians Not Interested In Hearing Governor Pat Himself On The Back

This week Governor Jay Nixon gave his annual State of the State address. There were a few key things that stood out in my mind as I listened to our chief executive. First, and foremost I was glad that he joined the House Republicans call in the Show Me Solutions Initiative to make state government live within its means by keeping spending and taxes under control.

I was also glad to hear the Governor talk about extending the A+ program to more high schools so Missouri children have a better opportunity to receive a college education. However, the Governor spent a great deal of himself talking about personal accomplishments relating to job creation over the past year. While we may have some things to celebrate our unemployment rate is still at 9.5% and many of our surrounding states are fairing better than we are in that category.

In fact, a number of the accomplishments the Governor touted were actually initiated before he was even elected and the actual impacts of some of his claims have yet to be seen. What it really boils down to is that I don’t believe Missourians were interested in hearing the Governor pat himself on the back. Missourians know we are facing real problems and need real solutions and those solutions are for the future of Missouri not championing the past.

For instance, one of the key fundamental differences that became apparent in the Governor’s speech was his stance on economic development. He spent a great deal of time talking about programs he has championed and how he wants to use those programs to improve things in the future. Well, as I said unemployment is still at 9.5%, so I don’t know that I believe tweaking, consolidating, or adding programs is the best economic development policy. Instead, House Republicans have proposed bills aimed at changing the overall business climate in Missouri like reducing regulations, fees, and taxes; cutting down on lawsuits, and providing a more stable environment for small businesses – not just big business to grow.

In fact, hours before the Governor gave his speech we passed HB 45. This bill would expand the definition of small businesses from those with 25 employees to those with 50 employees. We also extended the ability of these businesses to use a tax deduction if they hire new employees and double that deduction if they offer to pay at least 50% of the employee’s healthcare benefits. Finally, this bill would require that any new federal rules, regulations, or fees would have to be approved by the general assembly first.

As we move forward in the legislative session I am excited about the plan we have, the Show Me Solutions Initiative, and how it will help our great state. This plan is grounded in common sense Missouri values and it is meant to improve our state now for the success we all want in the future.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve here in the House of Representatives. As always, I welcome your comments. You may reach me at 573-751-1488, send your e-mails to steven{dot}tilley{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov or write to me at the Missouri House of Representatives, State Capitol, Room 308, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

If you know of anyone who would like to receive my Capitol Reports electronically, please contact me with their e-mail address.

Tim Jones: Response To State Of The State, Progress As Promised

Mother Nature’s serene countenance last weekend turned into a ferocious wintry onslaught of deep swirling snow and icy temperatures as travels from far and wide across our great State sought refuge and warmth beneath the Capitol Dome on Wednesday evening to listen attentively and with a fair, yet critical, mind to the Governor’s Annual State of the State address. In the People’s House, the Majority brought forth a bill to fulfill the number one priority of all Missourians, to do whatever we can to encourage small business growth and job creation, a bill that obtained overwhelming bi partisan support and is now on its way to the Senate…

“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.” –Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

On Monday, January 17, 2011, the Missouri Legislature was not in session in recognition of the 25^th Anniversary celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Dr. King was a magnanimous leader whose words and actions resonated throughout this nation and facilitated change long overdue. Our nation will forever be indebted to the efforts of Dr. King.

Missouri State of the State Address

On Wednesday, January 19, 2011, Governor Nixon delivered the State of the State Address. The Governor was correct in stating, “This is a critical time for Missouri” and in affirming that we must balance our State’s budget “without raising taxes”. The steps we need to take to put Missourians back to work, halt tax increases, balance the budget, stop the federal government’s disastrous health control law, invest in small business, and a number of other issues are currently being debated. Although the Governor’s speech was rhetorically inspiring and uplifting in tone, it lacked the specific “nuts and bolts” proposals for how we will reach a balanced budget, how we will reform education, how we will provide much needed reforms for our small business communities and how we will address unfunded federal mandates in so many areas, specifically healthcare. Because of this, the heavy lifting will be left to the General Assembly and I can assure you that the House and Senate are once again up to the task of delivering to you, your families and your businesses. The specifics contained in Speaker Tilley’s Show Me Solutions Initiative will continue to provide the framework that will continue to assist Missourians in meeting the challenges of these tough economic times. The Leadership that the House and Senate will provide will lead the way.

Progress As Promised: The Week in Review

January 18, 2011. Ford announced they will invest $400 million in retooling the Claycomo Plant. The plant will replace the Ford Escape with an unannounced vehicle. As incentive for investing $400 million dollars in Missouri, Ford will qualify for up to $100 million dollars in tax incentives extended over a 10 year period. The tax incentives are contingent upon Ford maintaining the current 3750 employees and adding new ones. The tax incentives can also apply to other manufacturing in the state. This exciting announcement is a direct result of the legislation that was passed by the House and Senate in our Special Session in the summer of 2010. It is extremely satisfying to witness positive results from such a difficult legislative accomplishment.

January 19, 2011. The House General Laws Committee voted “do pass” HB 73. This bill would allow for drug testing of individuals receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program benefits. Hard working, tax paying, Missourians providing money for the purchase of illegal substances for the poor makes no sense when it can be stopped through drug testing. This bill will help eliminate this problem and will make sure that your hard earned tax dollars are only going to those truly needy who will not waste your funds. I expect this bill to be debated on the House Floor next week. (This bill is one of the legislative priorities included in the Show Me Solutions Initiative.)

January 19, 2011. The House overwhelmingly gave final bi-partisan approval (136-21) to an expansion of the “Big Government Get Off My Back Act” (HB 48) by increasing income tax deductions from $10,000 to $20,000 per each new full-time employee, by requiring statutory authorization from the General Assembly of any federal mandate implemented by the State, and by changing the definition of small business to include up to 50 employees so that more will be eligible for this worthy program. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses. (This bill is one of the legislative priorities included in the Show Me Solutions Initiative.)

In future reports, I will discuss in detail other elements of the Show Me Solutions Initiative and will report to you the progress of other bills. I will also report on the progress relating to reordering the priorities of State government as we work through the budget. We have to do more with less, just like nearly every Missouri business and family. By living within our means, we can position Missouri well when the economic recovery begins.

These are massive challenges, but present major opportunities for your legislature this year. It is now time for us to continue to work for the People.

Visiting the Capitol

If you ever find yourself in or around Jefferson City at any time during the year, please feel free to visit us! Stop by our new office location in Room 302 and we will be happy to meet and greet you!

Personal News & Notes

I am finding that my duties as Floor Leader truly run the gamut. I am sought out by members, of both sides of the aisle, for my advice and counsel on a number of issues, from legislation to human resources to office administration. I am very humbled by the fact that I can be of service to not only my own constituents, but to constituents and their Representatives all across the State. As I make my way carefully home this evening across snow covered hills and through frosty valleys, I am looking forward to seeing Suzanne and the girls who keep the home fires burning and all of my colleagues at DosterUllom who keep the lights on at the office while I am away! And again, if we can ever be of any assistance to you at your State’s Capitol, do not hesitate to contact us at: 573.751.0562 or you can reach my primary assistant, Jody, at: jody{dot}williams{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

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

Kelley: Freshman Rep's Reflections From First State Of The State

This week I observed my first State of the State Address as a member of the House of Representatives. This is similar to the State of the Union Address which is given by the President to a joint session of Congress. In our case, the speech was given by Governor Jay Nixon to a joint session of the Missouri General Assembly.

Because the House has a larger chamber, the speech was held there. In many ways the event contained the same elements as what is seen on television for the State of the Union. After we were assembled in the House chamber, the Speaker recognized the Sergeant-At-Arms. In a loud voice he announced, ‘Mr. Speaker, the Senate approaches the Chamber’. The Speaker replied, ‘Open the door and let them in’. The senators then entered and took seats near the front of the chamber. The doors were then closed and the Speaker again recognized the Sergeant-At-Arms. This time he said, ‘Mr. Speaker, the governor approaches the Chamber’. The Speaker responded with, ‘Open the door and bid him welcome’. Governor Jay Nixon then entered and, with an escort committee consisting of ten senators and ten representatives, made his way down the center aisle. As he and the escort committee made their way forward, handshakes were exchanged between them and members of the House who were near the aisle. After proceeding to the front of the room, he ascended the dais. In addition to the members of the House and Senate, statewide elected officials and justices of the Supreme Court were also in attendance.

By Constitution, the governor is to deliver the State of the State to the legislature. It is during this time he delivers his budget to the members and outlines the basic blueprint during his speech. Also by Constitution, all spending bills originate in the House of Representatives. The House Budget Committee will now begin deliberations, using the Governor’s recommendations as a starting point. From what I understand, the final document will probably look quite different.

The Constitution requires the state budget to be balanced. As I listened to the speech, I couldn’t help but notice some of the money he wants to spend depends on passing legislation this session. I would be more comfortable spending only what we have available in our current situation. Spending money we may or may not have in the future is not a responsible way to craft any budget, much less one using taxpayer dollars.

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

Kraus: Comments on the State of the State Address

Each year I have been in the General Assembly, we have had to make tough decisions on the state’s budget. This year, as a member of the Senate Appropriations committee, I will be heavily involved in the budget process, which will include looking for as much as $500 million in cuts. Finding the right cuts and protecting critical programs will be a challenge that requires leadership and determination.

This week, Governor Jay Nixon delivered his State of the State speech and presented his budget to the General Assembly. Based on the Governor’s speech and his submitted budget, it looks like the House and Senate will need to be the ones to look more closely at this year’s budget as the Governor continues to rely on one time federal funds and phantom savings to balance his budget.

Most of the families in the 8^th District have had to tighten their belts over the last few years. Your state government needs to do the same. Many of the easy choices were made in the last few years, so tough choices now have to be made. Hiding behind using federal funds as “overdraft protection” is not the way to get there. It wouldn’t work in your house and it won’t work in Jefferson City.

I do agree with the Governor on one point, we cannot ask taxpayers to shoulder any more of the burden. Any tax increase would fall heavily on those who can least afford to pay and would negatively impact the small businesses we need to help drive us out of these tough economic times.

The Governor also talked about job creation in his address. Missouri’s unemployment rate has not significantly improved over the last year. More than 280,000 Missourians have been out of work for a year and a half. And while the Governor hops around the state taking credit for new jobs, Missouri has actually lost 103,948 jobs since June of 2008. It is time we focus on a jobs program that works for all of Missouri.

Of course, while we protect taxpayers today, we must also focus on the future of Missouri. Funding K-12 education will be a top priority for me and for many others in the General Assembly this year. Using education funds as a political hammer is unacceptable - our children matter too much. We must fund the school formula to the greatest extent possible, protect critical programs like Parents as Teachers, and continue to fund innovative programs like Missouri’s virtual school.

In the first week of session the Senate looked at ways to Reboot Missouri Government and find short- and long-term cost savings across the board. We need to implement many of those ideas this year. Some ideas will bring small savings, but small savings add up. Ideas such as eliminating the front license plate, cutting back on state funded advertising and sponsorships, and continuing to consolidate functions that cross state agencies will save taxpayers money.

As always, my door is open if you have comments or suggestions on how Missouri can work better for you and how we can spend your tax dollars more wisely.

New Office Information

As your senator from the 8^th District, please feel free to contact me or my staff with any questions or suggestions you might have. Please note that my new e-mail address is will{dot}kraus{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov. The District 8 telephone number is 573-751-1464.

Please feel free to visit my Senate web site, www.senate.mo.gov/kraus to view my legislation, committee assignments, and other information.

I look forward to hearing your comments or concerns and will be happy to help you find answers to any questions you might have.

Nance: Ford Signs Memorandum Preserving Claycomo Jobs

At left: State Senator Ridgeway, Governor Nixon, Ziad Ojakli, Ford Motor Company, State Representatives Nolte and Nance.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” –Martin Luther King, Jr.

Ford Motor Company signs a memorandum of understanding in which the company commits to invest at least $400 million to bring a next-generation production line to its Kansas City Assembly Plant

Our work week began on a high note Tuesday with Ford announcing they will invest $400 million in retooling the Claycomo Plant. The plant will add an unidentified vehicle assembly line to replace the Ford Escape line. That line is moving to Louisville, Ky., after the first of 2012. Ford said manufacturing of the Escape will continue in Kansas City until the Kentucky operation is ready. The Ford F-150 pickup is also built here, but the incentive was used to guarantee that another line would be placed here instead of elsewhere.

Many are reporting Ford will receive $150 million from the State of Missouri over a ten year period for this investment. That is incorrect. They will qualify for up to $100 million in tax incentives over ten years after they invest the $400 million and keep their current 3750 workers for ten years along with adding new employees. The incentives would come from an exemption to employee state withholding tax. The tax incentives could also extend to other auto-parts manufacturers in Missouri. This affects our seat plants (Magna), suppliers (Henkel), and other small businesses that supply the automaker.

We passed HB 45 this week which will reward small businesses that hire new employees and pay the average county wage.

Governor Nixon gave the State of the State Address last night in the House Chambers. He spoke on job creation, making government more efficient, and balancing the budget without raising taxes. At the same time, the governors’ recommended 2012 budget was presented online on the governor’s webpage. http://oa.mo.gov/bp/

There will be much discussion on the governor’s recommendations over the next several months as the budget must pass both the House and the Senate.

Sater: Winter Road Conditions (Thursday, January 20, 2011, 9:45 a.m.)

Community Relations, 888-ASK-MODOT, 888-275-6636 or 417-621-6500

I-44 from the OK state line tto Springfield I-44 is mostly clear. (IMPROVED)

US 71 from the Bates Co line to Jasper Co is partly covered; south to the Arkansas state line is covered. (IMPROVED)

US 160 from Kansas state line to Green county line is covered.

US 54 Kansas state line to Hickory Co line is partly covered.(IMPROVED)

US 60 OK state line to Christian County line is covered.

MO 13 Henry Co line to Polk Co line is partly covered. (IMPROVED)

MO 37 from Route 60, Barry Co., to AR state line is covered.

All minor routes in the MoDOT Southwest District are covered.

Crews continue to treat and clear roadways.

Additional information is available at http://www.modot.mo.gov/southwest/major_projects/Weather.htm or by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636).

Dugger: Visitors Express Concern About Proposition B's Passage

Speaker Tilley has set up a very aggressive itinerary for this session. So far this week we have delved straight into the “meat and potatoes”, with a major concern that every Missourian is faced with. On Thursday we adopted the House Rules [HR38] by which we will conduct business for this session. On the 19th we will hear the Governor’s State of the State Address and his budget plan for the next year.

HR 39

This resolution asked Chris Koster, Missouri’s Attorney General, to join in the Florida Law Suit against the Federal Government of the National Health Care Plan set in place by the Obama Administration. If he does not want to join in the conglomerated law suite, the bill asks him to launch an independent law suit on the same grounds. Thank you for all your E-mails informing me on how you feel on this topic. I was honored to vote in favor of this resolution. The final vote for HR39 was 115 for, and 46 against.

Groups That Visited The Capitol

I was honored to visit with a local group of dog breeders and veterinarians from my district that visited the Capitol this week. They expressed the negative effects Proposition B would have on their business. I am hopeful we can make some changes to this Proposition this session.

Visiting the Capitol

If you ever find yourself in or around Jefferson City at any time during the year, please feel free to visit us. Stop by our new office location in room 407B and we will be happy to meet with you.

As always it’s an honor to represent you in Jefferson City, Please contact my office if we can be of service to you.

“I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must stand with anybody that stands right, and stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he goes wrong.” –Abraham Lincoln.

Sater: This Week In The Missouri House, Issue 2

FYI…

[Click here to read]

Tim Jones: Majority Minute: Remembering Dr. King, "Big Government Get Off My Back"

As we enter our second full week of Session, the House is hitting its stride with upcoming Floor Activity…

Monday, January 17, 2011

The House of Representatives was out of session on this, the 25^th Anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a great American hero whose efforts to correct the injustice of discrimination and racism helped this nation overcome the blindness of bigotry and served as a beacon of hope for millions of Americans longing for the day when we are all united; the day when we view each other as fellow human beings and fellow Americans, not colors. This nation has made tremendous strides since that fateful day in 1968 which ended the life of Dr. King. On Monday, we remembered and celebrated the unwavering message of Dr. King.

House Bill 45

HB 45 will come to the House Floor for debate and perfection tomorrow, Wednesday, January 19^th. HB 45, known as the “Big Government Get Off My Back Act”, provides incentives and rewards for Missouri employers who expand to provide new, full-time jobs for Missourians. The Legislation provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive each new full-time job created or a $20,000 incentive for each new full-time job created when the business offers health insurance and pays at least 50% of the premiums of all full-time employees. The bill also seeks to limit and reduce the amount of regulations that Government forces onto small businesses that simply cause them to spend time doing paperwork instead of growing their enterprise.

Throughout Session, I will continue to send The Majority Minute to my constituents, colleagues and friends across the State. If you ever have any questions, feel free to contact my office at 573-751-0562.

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

Schaefer: Job Training Funds for IBM

JEFFERSON CITY — Senator Kurt Schaefer today announces the availability of funds from the Department of Economic Development (DED) that have been allocated to train 80 workers at International Business Machines (IBM) in Columbia.

The funds are the result of IBM’s participation in the Missouri Customized Training Program through DED’s Center for Workforce Development. The program assists companies by providing funds for various types of industry training as new job positions become available.

“This program is a great incentive toward job creation, not only in mid-Missouri, but all across our state,” Sen. Schaefer said. “In addition to its many benefits, the Customized Training Program helps strengthen the workforce and productivity of citizens in our state by placing well-trained employees in new or existing positions.”

For more information on the Missouri Customized Training Program, visit www.ded.mo.gov/Programs.aspx and navigate to the “Customized Training” link under the “Workforce Training” header.

As always, should you have questions or concerns about any facet of the Missouri Legislature, please feel free to contact Sen. Schaefer’s office.

Mayer: Legislative Committees Announced and Lawmakers Take Further Action to Streamline State Government

Last week was a busy one in the Missouri Senate as I announced the appointments of members and chairs to 18 Senate standing committees. Work also began on the seven “Rebooting Government” panels, which considered areas of state government regarding: education, general government and the Office of Administration, retirement and employee structure, social programs, tax structure and economic development, courts and public safety, agriculture, outdoors, the Department of Natural Resources and transportation.

Eighteen committees mean 18 committee chairs, and I’m proud to appoint several of my colleagues to these leadership positions. Among the many responsibilities I hold as Senate leader, I also chair the Senate’s Administration Committee, which oversees the day-to-day operations of the Missouri Senate, and the Gubernatorial Appointments Committee, which considers the appointments of various Missourians who have been named to serve on a governor’s board or commission. Now that these important standing committees have been established, I look forward to moving measures through the legislative process in order for my colleagues and I to take them up for debate on the Senate floor.

In other Senate action, all seven Rebooting Government panels met to consider ways to further control, alter or delete state departments and programs in order to save taxpayer dollars and maximize resources. Various members from each working group will present their panel’s findings and recommendations to their colleagues in the Senate, and we’ll make those reports available to you on the Senate’s Rebooting Government website (www.senate.mo.gov/RebootMO). On this same site, I urge you to continue to submit your ideas on how we can best streamline state government. Some of the best suggestions come from our state’s citizens, and it’s important we hear from you on how to efficiently run departments and programs here in Jefferson City, as well as throughout our state.

I eagerly await the governor’s State of the State address tomorrow, when he will detail how he believes your hard-earned taxpayer dollars should be distributed for the upcoming year’s fiscal budget. It is my hope that his proposal outlines a budget that only spends what the government takes in, and does not depend on special legislation to pass in order to be balanced and accountable. As the former chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a continued advocate of fiscally responsible distribution of funds to support our state’s departments and programs, I know we will be able to come together and find the best solutions for the Fiscal Year 2012 state budget.

This is the third fiscal year in a row where we will begin the budget process with a shortfall. However, the good news is that over the last two years, we have made tough decisions in the Legislature that puts our state in better financial standing than most. Our state’s revenue is showing signs of growth, but not enough to avoid further budget reductions. We are still facing a $300-$500 million shortfall, leaving us with little flexibility in where to cut back in state spending. As lawmakers work on crafting our state’s spending plan, I will keep you informed on how the General Assembly stretches every tax dollar for the programs that mean the most to you.

Please feel free to contact me throughout the year with any comments, questions, or issues on my website at www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.

Oxford: Committee Appointments, Make the Capitol Smoke-Free

Friends, Allies, and Constituents,

I was sworn in for my fourth and final term in the Missouri House of Representatives on Jan. 5, 2011, alongside 78 "freshmen" who were filling an open seat or replacing an incumbent who had been defeated. That means almost half of our body of 163 representatives are new (although four of that 78 had served either in the House or Senate previously - just not last term). 106 House members are Republicans and 57 are Democrats. (109 is a "veto-proof majority" so it is close!) We have 41 women serving this year, up from last year, but still a disproportionately small number. (The Democrats have very diverse representation - 23 of our 57 members are women, and we also have diversity of ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, etc. - how fortunate we are to have such a rich variety of backgrounds!).

I have been appointed to the following committees:

• Children and Families - where I will be Ranking Democrat (and where I also look forward to serving under new chair Rep. Scott Largent who has reached out to me repeatedly in opening days, a very positive sign)
• Ethics - for which I am vice chair (this is a committee with equal representation, five GOP and five Dems, and the majority names the chair, while the minority names the vice chair)
• Tax Reform - I served on this for two years previously
• Financial Institutions (this is a new one for me, and one about which I am excited due to my concern about payday loans and the foreclosure crisis)

I am presently circulating several bills to collect co-sponsors and will fill you in on my legislative agenda for this year in future editions. I have already signed on to co-sponsor several bills by others, and you can see this constantly growing list at: http://www.house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills111/spon/spn059.htm

Speaker of the House Steven Tilley has made some overtures to the minority caucus about willingness to work in a more bi-partisan fashion than recent speakers of the House. It is too early to predict how this will work out, but I do appreciate some of the changes he has made in undoing past policies and practices. I also appreciated the speeches that both Majority Floor Leader Tim Jones and Minority Floor Leader Mike Talboy made on Monday, January 10, responding to the recent shootings in Arizona. Both floor leaders called on House members to debate with civility and dignity before leading our body in a moment of silence for those dead and injured. I will certainly do my best to promote gentleness of spirit, integrity, and fairness as we carry out our business throughout this Session.

Campaign to Make the Capitol Building Smokefree

For years I have been concerned that smoking is allowed in our state capitol building. I oppose this for the following reasons:

1. public health - we know secondhand and thirdhand smoke are dangerous, beyond a shadow of a doubt. Those working in spaces with tobacco smoke have a higher risk of cancer, stroke, respiratory illness, spontaneous abortion if pregnant, asthma attacks, etc.
2. leading by example - we tell children not to smoke, and tens of thousands tour the Capitol Building annually. It undercuts our message for these children to discover that elected officials smoke in the seat of state government.
3. following the same rules we ask of others - smoking is not allowed in other state buildings. Legislators should submit themselves to the same rules as others.
4. attracting jobs to Missouri - Missouri is not advantaged in the national competition to attract jobs to our state when employers hear our state capitol building allows smoking. Virtually every major company has a smokefree policy and promotes cessation among their employers. Missouri's affinity for tobacco gives us an image problem, making us appear to reject science and to be behind the times.

When we debated the Rules [HR38] for the 96th General Assembly on Thursday, January 13, I offered House Amendment 5 in an attempt to make all parts of the Capitol Building under the control of the House smokefree. Unfortunately Majority Floor Leader Tim Jones chose to make it a partisan vote by asking his caucus to vote no, and all Republicans did (even though I know some of them wanted to vote yes), so my amendment lost 113-45 (with nine Democrats voting no). You can read about the issue and/or the debate at:

http://www.stlmag.com/Blogs/SLM-Daily/January-2011/Missouri-Legislators-Defend-the-Smoke-Filled-Room/
http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/article_ee2fc060-3d58-5e13-9967-53ef611b7a42.html
http://www.newstribune.com/news/2011/jan/12/your-opinion-lawmaker-urges-smoke-free-capitol/
http://www.newstribune.com/news/2011/jan/12/your-opinion-lawmaker-urges-smoke-free-capitol/

I may have lost the vote, but I have not given up the fight. A vote of the House or Senate members is not the only way to convince the Missouri Capitol Building adopt a smokefree policy. Those responsible for the building's policies could simply decide to follow the smokefree policy for state office buildings already implemented by the Office of Administration. I hope you will urge them to do so. Please send letters to the following leaders who could cooperate to make this decision:

The Honorable Steven Tilley
Speaker of the House
House of Representatives
Jefferson City, MO 65101

The Honorable Mike Talboy
Minority Floor Leader
House of Representatives
Jefferson City, MO 65101

Mr. Adam Crumbliss
Clerk of the House
House of Representatives
Jefferson City, MO 65101

The Honorable Robert Mayer
President Pro Tem
Missouri Senate
Jefferson City, MO 65101

Mr. Jim Howerton
Senate Administrator
Missouri Senate
Jefferson City, MO 65101

You can use some of the points I made above in your letter or get facts about the dangers of secondhand smoke at:

http://www.tobaccofreekids.org/research/factsheets/pdf/0103.pdf

Surrounding Our Schools with Care Update

I recorded a public service announcement for cable television last week, and the topic was volunteering in local schools. I will continue to work with the schools in my district and other schools and share news we can celebrate and service opportunities in this newsletter.

Announcements

Stonewall Democrats of Eastern Missouri will meet Sunday, January 23, 2011, at 3 p.m. at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Rd. It's in the Hanke Room (to the right as you enter the back door). LGBT Democrats and their allies who support liberty and justice for all are urged to attend.

Here's an exciting new business - Backdoor Harvest is St. Louis urban farmers who grow, maintain and harvest small crops in local backyards, schools, restaurants and neighborhoods. There farms are maintained with organic and sustainable practices. There’s not a lot that can beat the taste of a fresh picked vegetable! When was the last time you saw the true color of a vine ripened tomato, or heard the snap of a green bean being picked right off of the bush? Also, your garden will help benefit the environment. Your vegetables are brought in fresh from the yard- not trucked in from a faraway state or country! That equates to your radishes leaving almost no carbon footprint! And - since the vegetables they grow are maintained using organic practices- you can rest assured that not only are there zero added chemicals or pesticides, but also that each plant you grow is not genetically modified. So if you need some assistance in getting your own backdoor garden growing, here's their contact information:

Backdoor Harvest LLC
314-479-9187
St Louis, MO
farmers{at}backdoorharvest{dot}com
www.BackdoorHarvest.com

Ameren Missouri has filed a rate case seeking to increase their annual operating revenues by approximately $263 million. For the average residential customer, the proposed increase would be about $9.30. Hearings are being held in the St. Louis Region on Feb. 16, 17, and 22, as well as in several other parts of the state. If you would like to receive a PDF file with addresses and times for these public hearings, please write me at this address, and I will supply it. If you can't attend the hearing, but would like to file a comment online, go to this link:

https://www.efis.psc.mo.gov/mpsc/Comments.html