Schupp: Prop B Compromise Was Its Repeal, Fallen Trooper Honored, Conservation Day

Dear Friends And Neighbors,

Thoughts and prayers go out to our neighbors who are suffering from the tornadoes and flooding in the most recent episodes of severe weather.  Many of you have stepped forward to lend a hand and offer support in this time of need.   Actions speak volumes.

In our State Capitol, issues including Congressional redistricting, puppy mills and charter schools have made their ways center stage.

Many of you have been in contact.  Proposition B, the puppy mill legislation, has generated more interest and contact from you than any other issue this year. The legislative status is described in an article below.

Responses to the legislative survey you received are still pouring in, and we continue to tally the results.  As we move quickly to the end of session and toward legislation that is "Truly Agreed and Finally Passed," I remain committed to hearing your suggestions and concerns, and representing you to the best of my abilities in your State House.

Thank you again for allowing me to serve.

Truly,
Jill Schupp

Redistricting Update

After months of discussion, a deadlock between the House and the Senate was broken and a congressional redistricting bill, strongly favoring Republicans, was sent to Governor Jay Nixon.

House Bill 193 passed 96-55 in the House and 27-7 in the Senate. The House suspended its rules in an attempt to pass this legislation quickly.  Passage by April 27 was critical to Republicans because it ensures that, even if the Governor vetoes the bill, the legislature will still be in session to try to overturn the veto.

As many of you know, Missouri will lose a congressional seat in January 2013 as a result of the 2010 Census numbers, lowering our Congressional representation from 9 to 8.

In a state that has historically been politically balanced, HB 193 creates a map with six safely Republican districts and two safely Democratic districts.

Missouri Democrats believe that this map does not meet the standards of contiguous and compact by unnecessarily dividing some counties and adding some rural areas to a Kansas City district.  Because of the diverse interests of districts as proposed, fair representation to rural versus urban versus suburban areas of the state would not be achieved.

In this tough partisan battle, Democrats are calling for Governor Nixon to veto this legislation and allow the courts to determine the district boundary lines.  Democrats are hopeful that a new map will minimally include 3 Democratic seats, and therefore 5 Republican seats.

A Canine Compromise?

The repeal of Proposition B, the puppy mill legislation, has garnered more interest from our district than any other issue this year.   Thank you to those of you who have made your position on this issue known.

Proposition B was passed by Missouri voters in November 2010, was repealed by Senate Bill 113, which the Governor signed into law.

The Governor signed this legislation with the understanding that Senate Bill 161, would be passed. This compromise bill would tighten protections for our canine friends, but was still not as protective as the original legislation passed by Missouri voters:  Prop B.

I could not justify supporting either of these repeals of your votes.  I voted to leave Prop B intact.

Additionally, I voted against the passage of an "emergency clause" which makes the repeal go into effect immediately. It essentially strips voters of the chance to appeal this change through a referendum.

Both the repeal and emergency clause passed, but I continue to stand behind the vote you took in November.  I 

Showing Students Their Show-Me State Capitol

I was pleased to welcome 75 students and 22 parents and teachers from Bellerive Elementary School. These fourth graders, led by teacher Julie Otey, toured the Capitol and Supreme Court, got a firsthand look at the original Jefferson Landing site, and were introduced to the House during session. It is always a privilege to meet the bright young minds of tomorrow!

Recent Legislation:

Honoring a Fallen Trooper;


Sergeant Schuengel's mother, pictured here, and sister visited the Capitol to support HB 518, which establishes a part of Highway 64/40 be named in his honor. Private donations cover all costs.

HB 518:  Honoring Sergeant Joseph Schuengel

I presented House Bill 518, a memorial highway naming bill, to the House committee on Transportation on March 29. HB 518 honors Missouri Highway Patrol Sergeant Joseph Schuengel, who was killed in the line of duty in St. Louis County in October 2010. While the bill has not been passed out of committee, It looks as if it may move forward as part of a larger transportation bill.  There has been an outpouring of support and respect for the family of Trooper Schuengel and I hope to see that reflected in legislation these final two weeks of session.


I had the privilege of introducing Sergeant Schuengel's mother, Georgiana Schuengel, and his sister, Adrianne Miller, to the members of the House of Representatives. Missouri Highway Patrol Lieutenant Bob Wolf and Corporal Jeff Myers (not pictured) were also on hand to support HB 518.

Conservation Day at the Capitol

Steve O'Rourke and his daughter, Katie visited the Capitol for Conservation Lobby Day. Steve's group focused its efforts on speaking to Representatives and Senators about Renewable Energy initiatives, including the geographic sourcing of Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) and expanding interconnection standards.

Green Tip of the Week

By Liz Augustine, Legislative Intern

Go paperless!
The amount of paper used in regular mailings that we rarely look at is tremendous. To cut down on this paper usage, get yourself off the junk mail list. It saves the environment and gives you less of a headache when you check your mailbox! Consider switching to online magazine and newspaper subscriptions, most of which provide full coverage with little or no cost.

Visit OptOutPreScreen.com to add your name to the Do Not Mail list at the Direct Marketing Agency, which provides lists to credit card, insurance, mortgage and other companies that solicit by mail.

These tips and many more can be found at, http://www.divinecaroline.com/22355/28177-fifty-green-tips-earth-day/2

Stouffer: Education First in a Balanced Budget

We are entering the home stretch of the 2011 legislative session, with several bills left to tackle and a budget to send to the governor.

The best part about the Fiscal Year 2012 budget for Missouri is that it will be balanced without raising taxes. Education remains our top priority, and we will continue to fund it at this year’s levels, plus it will add funding to school transportation and higher education. The Missouri Senate added $20 million for K-12 transportation, which means nearly $120 million will go toward transportation for school districts.

The 2012 fiscal year will start on July 1, 2011. The $23.2 billion budget represents a $6 million reduction from what the governor presented to the Legislature back in January. Once again, we have had to make very tough decisions. The state is required to have a balanced budget every year, unlike the federal government. We do not spend any money we do not have. When we heard late last year we could expect a $500 million deficit, we went to work finding ways to save in some areas and make all of state government function better.

Our work is not finished, though. We are already hearing that Fiscal Year 2013 could prove to be more challenging, depending on the economy for the next year. We could see anywhere from a $200 million to a $700 million shortfall for the fiscal year that will start in 2012. We knew, when the recession started, that this would be a long journey. We are prepared for what is to come. Smart budgeting has kept Missouri above where most states are financially, and this trend will continue.

Fortunately, revenues are up in Missouri, but now is not the time to start creating new programs and making promises that cannot be kept. Our policy of budgeting conservatively proves to be a successful method, and it will remain this way. My hope is to see continued economic growth combine with the pro-jobs agenda of the Missouri General Assembly to make the state an economic powerhouse and lead the country in the years to come.

Neth: Two Breakthroughs This Week, Wife's Birthday, Figure Out The Acronyms!

We are down to the two week point. This week, we were off on Monday for an Easter break so the week went by very quickly. I was happy to have my daughter come down on Wednesday evening and spend the day at work with me on Thursday for "take your child to work day".

Although short, this was a relatively productive week. The biggest thing we accomplished was approving the new Congressional redistricting map. The governor will have to sign or veto by May 12. If he vetoes, the state legislature will have the opportunity to override it on May 13, our last legislative day.

There has been some limited committee action where we spent some time reviewing Senate bills sent to the House. We have limited time to discuss legislation on the floor in front of the entire house so towards the end, we have to start combining bills by adding amendments. What happens with many of the Senate bills is that we look for House bills that fit into the description and statute and amend them on to the existing bill. Sometimes this is done constructively to help move existing House bills. However, it is also done at times to kill Senate bills by putting on House bills that we know will get voted down on the floor. Now I know what you are saying - why do we play these games? For the most part I agree. However, it can be done for very good reasons. When there is legislation that is moving through in which you wish to stop- maybe because it is bad for your district or you feel it is bad for the state, this is a viable tactic. So I caution people not to be too judgmental on some of the tactics used in the legislative process. Depending on your point of view on the issue, you might approve of such tactics.

On a family note, it was my wife's birthday on Wednesday - I was not there - not good. I made sure the kids gave her my present that morning and made a phone call to wish her Happy Birthday. We have a big Saturday planned with family over in the afternoon, then we are going to the Princess Diana exhibit at Union Station and celebrating with friends and family afterwards. The Royal wedding in 1980 was a big memory for us, so to have the Royal Wedding this year along with the exhibit was a bit fortuitous. This year, her birthday has a "Princess Party" theme. Ok, cheesy, but fun.

Have a great weekend.
Myron

Legislative Jargon

After you are in the Capitol for a while you learn that it has a language all its own. I still don't know it all, but I am to the point where I can navigate it pretty well. So in that spirit I am offering a challenge question this week. Following is be a string of initials and numbers - Tell me what it means or stands for: CCS SS SCS HCS HB 193. Send me what you think is means/says and I will recognize the first few people who do so in next week's report along with the answer.

Floor Action

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

This legislation has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor's desk for consideration. For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

SS SCS HCS HB 45 was truly agreed to and finally passed by a vote of 127 to 24. This bill changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act and provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive for 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. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses.

Congressional Redistricting Update

Most importantly this week, the House and the Senate finally agreed to a compromise map [HB193] that completes the constitutional duty of the State Legislature in drafting eight new Congressional Districts for our State. As many of you are aware, it is the duty of the General Assembly to complete the task of Congressional Redistricting, every ten years, following the national census. After weeks of stalemate and tense negotiations, a valuable compromise was finally reached and both Chambers passed a final proposed map with overwhelming majorities in support. The bill is now headed to the Governor's desk for approval. It is our request to the Governor that he immediately signs the map and heeds the work that the Legislature did, and does not force this issue to go to the Courts to be decided by judges. This is a serious matter that affects every single person in the State.

The Missouri Solution: Reaching a Complete Compromise Regarding Proposition B

The Missouri House led the way in approving a final piece of legislation that has resolved the Proposition B issue for nearly all of the stakeholders involved. After weeks of negotiations, we successfully passed a compromise that every Missouri based group signed off on, SB 161. The groups representing animal rights, animal agriculture, dog breeders, the Governor's office and agencies and many others, finally all came together on a good, solid, constitutionally defensible piece of legislation that is fair to all. The consensus from both sides of the issue was that leaving the fix to Prop B alone (SB 113) would result in a solution that did not satisfy the majority of those involved. That is why we continued to work towards the ultimate compromise, known as The Missouri Solution, contained in SB 161. Every Missouri based group, on all sides of this issue, came together, signed an open, mutual letter urging the General Assembly to take this final action. I was very happy to be a part of this solution which finally puts this issue to rest for the Session.

Survey Results

As those of you in District 34 know, I sent out a survey in January. I wrote an article that appears in the Liberty Tribune last week regarding those results. Click here to see the article.

Community Calendar

April 30- Clay County Has Talent 2011
Come to Clay County Has Talent 2011 on Saturday, April 30, 7:00 p.m. at John Gano Chapel on the William Jewell College campus. This is their annual fund-raising event, and all proceeds will help Rebuilding Together to improve substandard housing in Clay County. Performers of all ages (Elementary to Adult) will showcase their talents in and provide an evening full of great entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online at www.claycountyhastalent.com or at any Reece and Nichols Real Estate office in Clay County. Note- Myron will be singing a couple of numbers prior to the show.

May 7 - Liberty Historic Walking Tour: Three Downtown Churches

May 7 - Farmers Market: Opening Day!

Visit the Jesse James Bank Museum Monday - Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

It is an honor and privilege to serve the people of the 34th District and the State of Missouri. Let me know how I can better represent you.

Dempsey: Missouri Senate Passes Tax Credit Reform Bill Saving Over $1 Billion

For the past several years, one particular issue in Jefferson City has repeatedly escaped resolution. Many hours of work in Legislative committees and debate on the floor of the House and Senate had produced no real breakthrough. But this week revealed the hint of a silver lining as the Senate passed a landmark piece of legislation that appears to address the concerns of all involved.

The underlying issue is that of economic development and tax credits. For years, the Legislature has divided into two camps – the one side believing that the state earns a good return on tax credits and that they promote economic growth. The other side maintains that tax credits are inefficient and that they ultimately decrease state tax revenue.

By way of background, a tax credit is a reduction in state tax liability. These credits are granted by the State of Missouri when a person or corporation engages in certain activities (hiring new workers, expanding their business, giving to certain non-profit organizations, etc.). Often they are targeted at certain industries the state is trying to attract.

Over time, the amount of tax credits being given out had grown to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars the state was forgoing in tax revenue. With the recent slump in the economy, all sorts of programs and departments were forced to tighten their belts and the eyes of the Legislature once again turned to our policy on tax credits.

The bill that was hammered out this week [SB390] after several hours of constructive debate represents a compromise that all parties can live with. It eliminates or reduces certain tax credits that were producing little or no revenue. It also gave the Legislature more control over the amount of certain tax credits the state was offering by forcing them through the regular appropriations process that schools and other state agencies have to go through each year. The bill also created certain new incentives, such as one targeted at making Lambert Airport (and the greater metro area) a hub for international trade. If a proposed new air hub project comes to pass, the state will still gain a projected $1.5 billion in net savings under the compromise legislation over the next 15 years. No state tax credits will be awarded if the air hub is not realized.

I am pleased with the work of the Senate this week. This legislation will help streamline the state’s economic development programs and make them more efficient. After final Senate approval, the bill will be sent to the House for its consideration.

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

Hoskins: Update on Three Sponsored Bills

Only two more weeks are left of this legislative session. This has been an exceptionally productive week, in my estimation. One of my bills was heard in committee (HB 203), another passed the Senate with no amendments (HB 204) and is headed to the governor for his consideration, and yet a third bill (HB 45) is headed to the governor’s desk for signature. I have had a very good week.

Legislative Update

House Bill 203 - HB 203 was heard in the Committee on Crime Prevention and Public Safety. I originally introduced this bill last year and am hopeful it will gain more ground this session. The purpose of the bill is to provide certified professional therapy dogs, which are primarily used in schools with students, with the same privileges as other service animals. This bill originated from discussions with Keri Collett, a teacher at Holden who lives at Warrensburg. Certified Professional Therapy dogs and their handlers go through rigorous training and are highly effective as a method to calm students and help them feel more comfortable in the school setting. For example when a student has trouble reading, they might read to a therapy dog feeling less intimidated than they might with a teacher.

As Ms. Collett explained to me, Leno is her responsibility so she takes him home with her every night. Taking care of Leno is part of Ms. Collett’s job as a public school teacher. If she stops to get gas or run other errands, she cannot legally take Leno inside the business. Leno must stay behind in the car, not necessarily a good situation. HB 203 would afford certified professional therapy dogs like Leno to be able to be in public settings which would allow him to continually engage in socialization opportunities important in his job as a therapy dog. There are three certified professional therapy dogs in the Holden schools. There are also three certified professional therapy dogs in the Jefferson City Public Schools. Their handlers testified at the hearing with the dogs at their sides. One dog works with an elementary speech pathologist, one with an elementary counselor, and the third with an assistant middle school principal. They all testified how the dogs have been positive influences in their schools. The middle school is seeing an increase in attendance since Scout has become a regular part of the school. Coincidental? I really doubt it.

House Bill 204 - I just heard yesterday as I was leaving Jefferson City to head back to Johnson County that the Senate had passed HB 204 with no amendments. Thank you to Senator Bill Stouffer for his handling of my bill in the Senate. HB 204 is the bill I sponsored that increases flexibility for the renewal of a Missouri driver’s license for active duty military, their families, and recent retirees. This is another bill that came about from conversation with a constituent. This one was a soldier whose license expired while in Afghanistan. When he returned stateside, he was assigned to Fort Riley, Kansas. When he was stopped by law enforcement, his expired license caused further complication of the situation.

It all worked out but I believe we should be supportive of our military. This is an easy way to simplify that part of military life and make the driver’s license renewal process just a bit less complex. Now HB 204 is ready for Governor Nixon’s signature.

House Bill 45 - I am proud and delighted to report that another of my bills has passed both chambers of the General Assembly this week and is headed to the governor’s desk.

HB 45 extended provisions of the Big Government Get Off My Back Act which provides tax relief for certain small businesses (50 or fewer employees). It is definitely a bill to help our Main Street businesses. By creating new jobs, companies with fewer than 50 employees can be granted an income tax deduction for tax years 2011 through 2014 as long as the new job pays at least the average annual county wage. To be a full-time job, the employee must work at least an average of 35 hours per week for a 52-week period. The business will be allowed a deduction of $10,000 for each new full-time job created or $20,000 per new full-time job if the business offers health insurance for new employees and pays at least 50% of the premiums of all full-time employees who opt into the plan. HB 45 was soundly approved by the House in a bipartisan effort by a final vote of 127-24. Senator Pearce did a great job handling my bill in the Senate where it passed 34-0.

One of my primary responsibilities here in Jefferson City is to support small business in a way to help them create employment opportunities for Missourians. After all, small business provides most of Missouri’s employment opportunities. As a small business owner, I am extremely proud that this bill is ready for the governor’s signature to make it law. This is a red letter day for me and for Missourians.

Congressional Redistricting

I’ve covered this topic in several previous Capitol Reports so I hope this is the final report to you about Congressional redistricting. The House and Senate have now come to a consensus on the final map. Johnson County is located safely in the center of the 4^th Congressional district so none of the proposed maps have directly impacted Johnson County. For some other counties, there has been great conflict about how the lines would be drawn. I believe both the House and Senate redistricting committees did the best job they could in creating the redistricting map. This was a very difficult task, as the deviation of people between districts can only be 1 person and we went from nine Congressional districts to eight Congressional districts.

Many different maps were proposed by members of the redistricting committees. Besides Missouri losing a vote in the Electoral College, the importance of Congressional redistricting can have a significant impact on the availability of federal funding for our state. All over Johnson County, we are reminded everyday of the importance of federal defense funding to our communities. We also need to remember the impacts of other federal funding including education and transportation. I am in support of the map submitted to Governor Nixon and hopeful he will accept it.

Proposition B

Legislation making modifications and providing funding to Proposition B has now been approved and sent to the governor. I am confident that these actions will correct those loose ends that were left hanging as Proposition B was written. I must vehemently remind you that none of the legislation we have approved will repeal Proposition B. I know there are some in the 121^st District who wanted no modifications made to Proposition B or wanted to reject the compromise worked out between animal advocates and farmers/pet breeders, so I have tried to do my best to explain why I supported the legislation to make the regulations relating to dog breeders better. None of us wants any animal to be abused. This will go forward to prevent inappropriate treatment to dogs and provide funding for its implementation.

Visitors to the Capitol

Recent visitors that stopped by my office included Jessica Rhodes with UCM’s THRIVE program. This is a group of young adults with developmental or physical disabilities. They came to Jefferson City on Amtrak and spent the afternoon touring the Capitol. Also visiting the Capitol this week were area teachers who are members of NEA. As a strong education advocate, I always welcome educators to the Capitol. Whenever you’re in the Capitol, I hope you’ll stop by to say hello, too.

Ways to Keep in Contact

I consider communication with my constituents a high priority. My weekly Monday morning chat at 8:45 a.m. with Woody at KOKO Radio on AM 1450 is one of the best ways I’ve found for you to literally “hear” from me. Tune in every Monday morning at 8:45 to hear the latest concerning District 121.

Please share this report with anyone you feel would be interested in this information. As the Legislature will not be in session, it will be two weeks before my next Capitol Report. It is genuinely a privilege to serve as your state representative.

Denison: Redistricting Progress, The Missouri Solution, Pro-Business Bills Move Forward

“Those who know and love you shall rise to your example and be inspired.” – Unknown

Congressional Redistricting Map (HB 193)

A few weeks ago I mentioned the effort to draw the boundaries for the eight congressional districts Missouri will have moving forward. At the time, the redistricting bill had just moved out of the House and to the Senate. Since that report, we’ve seen intense negotiations that have been focused on certain areas of the map. This week, after long hours of discussion, a compromise was finally reached and approved by both chambers of the legislature.

The final bill eliminates one of our nine congressional districts based on population data received with the 2010 Census. While Missouri’s population grew over the last 10 years, the growth did not keep up with the rest of the nation. The result is the loss of a congressional seat and specifically one in the St. Louis area where many residents have left the urban areas for the suburbs.

The legislation that restructures Missouri’s congressional districts now moves to the governor’s desk for his signature. The governor has been silent on the issue to this point but there is some speculation that he will veto the bill. If he does, we will likely attempt to override his veto in the coming weeks.

To final map approved by the House and Senate is available at the official Missouri House of Representatives website at the following link: http://house.mo.gov/largemap.aspx?map=3

Proposition B Compromise (SB 161)

Two other pieces of legislation on the governor’s desk were signed into law this week. One [SB113] was sent to the governor a few weeks ago after we passed legislation to make fixes to certain troublesome parts of Proposition B. The other was passed this week and immediately signed by the governor as part of a compromise between agriculture groups and animal welfare organizations.

I detailed many of the changes in the original legislation to fix Proposition B in a report a few weeks ago. The compromise bill approved this week strengthens the language in the previous bill to help preserve the health and wellbeing of the animals while still allowing breeders to stay in business. Some of the changes that are now law include removing the limit of 50 breeding dogs per business, strengthening the requirements for annual, hands-on veterinary examinations, and phasing in requirements for larger cages and increased access to the outdoors for animals.

This compromise is one that has been agreed to by our state agriculture department, members of the agriculture community and the leading animal rights advocates. We think it represents good, common sense reform that will allow good breeders to run their businesses while protecting animals from bad breeders who may do them harm. I think that is what voters hoped for when they passed Proposition B and now, with these changes, I think we have achieved that goal.

Big Government Get Off My Back Act (HB 45)

Another bill on its way to the governor’s desk for approval is one I mentioned in a report early on in the legislative session. This week the Senate finally sent back to us a slightly-revised version of the “Big Government Get Off My Back Act” that was passed by the House in January.

If signed into law by the governor, the act will limit federal mandates on small business owners in the Show Me State. In addition, the bill would increase the size definition of small businesses and require that any federal mandates on these businesses be approved by the General Assembly. With both of these provisions, we hope to allow businesses to operate without fear of new regulations or mandates that will negatively impact how they do business. We think it’s a key component to our efforts to revitalize our economy.

Another portion of the bill further helps small businesses by providing tax deductions small employers who create new full-time jobs with annual salaries that meet the country average wage. Under the bill, a small business would be able to deduct ten thousand dollars for each full-time job created or twenty thousand dollars per new job if the employer offers health insurance for the new employees and pays at least half of the premiums for such insurance.

If signed by the governor, the provisions of the bill will go into effect August 28.

Franchise Tax Phase-Out (SB 19)

A bill signed into law this week will phase out a tax that applies to more than 3,000 businesses currently operating in Missouri.

The bill will gradually eliminate Missouri’s franchise tax on company assets such as buildings and inventory. The franchise tax has been in existence since 1917. While the legislature has reduced the tax over the years, leading business organizations have proposed doing away with the tax entirely as part of the “Fix the Six” legislative package. The bill we approved will reduce the tax each year until it is phased out entirely in 2016.

Missouri is one of only a few states that have both a corporate income tax and a corporate franchise tax. By eliminating what is, in effect, double taxation, we can put Missouri on a level playing field with other states that are competing to attract new businesses and jobs.

Protecting the Right to Bear Arms (HJR 27)

Also approved by the House this week is a proposed constitutional amendment that would reaffirm the Second Amendment rights of Missouri citizens. You may have seen in the news last year when the legislature in California approved a law that put new requirements on the sale and purchase of handgun ammunition. While the regulations were struck down by the courts earlier this year, it was a reminder to us all that our Second Amendment rights must be safeguarded.

The legislation we passed this week would put before voters a proposed constitutional amendment that would specify that the right of every citizen to possess, purchase, reload, or manufacture ammunition and any other parts or articles essential to the proper functioning of arms must not be infringed. With this, we believe we can protect the ammunition rights of Missourians on the same level that we protect the right to own firearms.

The legislation is now in the Senate. If approved there it would appear on the November 2012 ballot for voter approval.

Visitors

On Wednesday, April 27, 2011, former State Representative, Dr. Roy W. Holand, and his grandson, Matthew Jared, visited the Capitol. House Speaker Steven Tilley appointed Matthew to serve as Honorary Page for the Day.


Pictured: Representative Denison, Daryl Denison, Matthew Jared, Dr. Roy W. Holand

On Thursday, April 28, 2011, the family of the late Lloyd Presley, founder of Presleys’ Jubilee, Branson, were introduced on the House Floor, and Mr. Lloyd Presley was recognized as an Outstanding Missourian.


Pictured: The Presley family at the Dias, and standing are Greene County legislators: Representative Sara Lampe, Representative Shane Schoeller, Representative Don Phillips, Representative Charlie Denison. Representative Denison introduced the family, and he honored Lloyd Presley with memories of the late Mr. Presley, and a recording of Paul Harvey – The Rest of the Story was played in the House Chamber for all to hear.


Pictured, First Row: Deanna Drennon, Lloyds daughter; Pat Presley, Gary’s wife; Raeanne Presley, Steve’s wife; Steve Presley
Second Row: Representative Denison; David Drennon, Deanna’s husband; Gary Presley

I was also pleased to have 4^th Grade students from Sequiota Elementary School visit the Capitol along with their parents on Thursday, April 28^th. The students were introduced on the House Floor, and they toured the Capitol. While in Jefferson City, they also attended “Civil War Archives Alive,” a performance at the Secretary of State’s office and they toured the Supreme Court.


Pictured: Representative Denison, 4^th Grade Students

I look forward to hearing from you, and if you will be in Jefferson City, please stop by my office. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Best wishes.

Korman: Big Government Getting Off Our Backs

What an absolutely beautiful day as I write this week’s Capitol Report. The sunshine feels good but the recent rains is causing havoc in the southern part of our State and to many farmers across the state wanting to get crops in.

Again this week we maintained our focus on creating jobs by getting rid of some of the business taxes and fees that hurt entrepreneurs. House Bill 45 (Hoskins-District 121) was truly agreed and finally passed this week. This bill will extend the prohibition on new taxes and fees on small businesses for five years. Often, small start-up companies operate on a razor’s edge, a few dollars here or there determines whether people get paid at the end of the month. Anything we can do to help these individuals get off the ground helps Missouri.

With the nicer weather we are seeing more schools come to visit us at the Capitol. On April 19^th St. Ignatius Loyola School from Marthasville visited. Jonesburg Elementary fourth graders and parents along with their teachers Mrs. Dvorak and Mr. Klaffer visited this week.

Today I was invited to Youth In Need in Montgomery City along with Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer.

Please feel free to stop by or contact your 99^th District office at:

201 W Capitol Ave., Office 114C
Jefferson City, MO 65101
573-751-2689
Bart{dot}Korman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov

Berry: Redistricting Map Completed, Floor Week In Review

THIS WEEK….

Wow what a week!

We are quickly heading to the end of session and everyone is pushing to get as much done before the end as possible. The number of bills that were third read and passed reflects that hectic pace.

The most important business that we completed this week was redistricting. Many of you have contacted me with concerns about the map. Everyone in the 35^th District will still be in Congressman Graves district.

Missouri’s Constitution requires that districts be drawn so as to be “contiguous and compact.” This means they have to be mostly contained within the same spot on the map. The map shouldn’t look like spider webs, snakes, or blobs; this is referred to as gerrymandering.

Our approach was to look at the standing districts, and to maintain district lines as closely as possible to what currently exists, while having to adjust for population shift within our state.

The end result is what we think is a fair way to make the adjustments that are required because of our loss of a Congressional district. Every district's population increased significantly. The proposed map meets the requirements of the Missouri Constitution and splits only a few counties into different Congressional districts.

For a look at our map, you can visit:
http://stlbeacon.org/images/stories/news_issues/missouri/grandcompromisemo550.jpg

Please remember that each one of the eight districts have to have exactly the same population as the rest. One district can be minus 1 person compared to the rest that is how tight the variation is. That is why when you look at the map you do see some areas that meander around a bit.

For a look at our map, you can visit:
http://monewshorizonblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Screen-shot-2011-03-31-at-7.10.58-AM.png

Third Reading & Final House Passage

The following bills were given final approval by the House and sent to the Senate for further consideration.
I supported all of the legislation below. For more information regarding any specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality. The added membership will provide greater opportunity for meaningful work to be accomplished for the children of Missouri.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis. By changing the method the actuaries use to calculate the amount of annual contribution required from the city from the current fixed initial liability method to the entry age normal funding method, St. Louis City will save money.

HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 136 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding economic development. By offering tax incentives for the development and expansion of technology business facilities, data storage centers, and server farm facilities, we will improve the job outlook for Missourians.

HCS HBs 600, 337, and 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), was third read and passed. These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HCS HB 161, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 127 to 24. This would authorize Pettis County, upon local voter approval, to change its transient guest tax from $2 per room, per night to up to 5% and increases the number of members on the Pettis County Tourism Commission. Local control for local decisions is the purpose of this enabling legislation.

HCS HB 523, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 139 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association Act, insurance coverage for portable electronics, and residential and home warranty service contracts.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts. The purpose is to provide options to students and help improve school district performance. We have finally moved forward in a positive, proactive, substantive way to truly place parents in charge of their children’s education, to advance serious education reforms and to address the true problems facing public education in a positive way.

HCS HB 773, sponsored by Rep. Don Gosen (R-84), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding the regulation of surplus lines insurance to comply with the federal Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010.

HCS HB 787, sponsored by Rep. Don Wells (R-147), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding early distributions from certain annuities or retirement plans, the Missouri Higher Education Saving Program and residential mortgage loan brokers.

HCS SB 161, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), was third read and passed. The current regulations allow for loans to be generated for the purchase or improvement of agricultural property. This legislation would allow for the generation of loans for the purchase, expansion, or improvement of an actual agribusiness, not just agricultural property.

HCS SCS SB 366, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), was third read and passed by the vote of 146 to 6. This legislation creates cooperative associations and modifies the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations.

HCS HB 552, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed. This legislation facilitates the establishment of rules governing the standard of care for pharmacies dispensing blood clotting therapies. This standard is already being met by specialty pharmacies and the legislation has the purpose of making these standards law.

HCS HB 597, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Private Landowner Protection Act which allows for the creation and enforcement of conservation easements to protect the environment and preserve certain historical or cultural property. The landowner and the grantee of the easement would be required to enter into a contract.

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

This legislation has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for consideration. For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

SS SCS HCS HB 45, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Denny Hoskins (R-121), was truly agreed to and finally passed by a vote of 127 to 24. This bill changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act and provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive for 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. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses.

Bill Information

If you would like to track legislation you may log on to www.house.mo.gov and select “Bill Information” and then select “Bill Tracking”. You may search by topic or bill number. If you want to track the bills that I have either sponsored or co-sponsored, just enter my last name and you will be able to look at each of those also.

Co-sponsored Bills

HB73; HB146; HB199; HB200; HB209; HB247; HB280; HB284; HB340; HB352; HB364; HB423; HB437; HB467; HB468; HB470; HB511; HB528; HB580; HB629; HB639; HB648; HB658; HB736; HB748; HB749; HB755; HB760; HB772; HB774; HB778; HB786; HB789; HB795; HB799; HB874; HB875; HB888; HB901; HB924; HB940; HB957; HB980; HB1008; HCR9; HCR30; HCR33; HCR46; HCR47; HCR48; HCR52; HJR26; HJR27; HJR31; HJR33

As always if you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact my office at (573) 751 – 2238 or by email at TJ{dot}Berry{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

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

Torpey: Charter Schools measure advances, Redistricting

A Special Note

On Wednesday, I was graciously assigned a Coro-Fellow Student to shadow me throughout the day. The Fellows Program in Public Affairs is an intensive nine-month, post-graduate program. The program is experience-based and the Fellows spend most of their time working and learning full time at field placements in a nonprofit organization, local government agency, organized labor, electoral politics and business. My shadow for the day was Mary Gleich, an extremely bright and intelligent young woman who our office loved having around! Mary graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota with degrees in Human Services and Political Science in May 2010. Her experiences and her upbringing as a child of teachers, has committed Mary to working for quality education. While Mary was at the Capitol, we were lucky enough to hear a bill on charter schools and join Missouri NEA for lunch a few blocks away.

2011 Legislative Session continues

Passes through the House this week:

• HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Jones (063), will change the laws regarding charter schools and establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission. Charter schools are public schools that take public money, but are not subject to the same regulations as other schools in the state. In exchange for this public money, they must accept students that choose to attend them, and they must meet certain performance standards. If they don't meet these standards, they lose this funding. There are several successful charter schools in the St. Louis area, and we want to expand the ability for individuals to start them. One type of these proposals is to allow universities, like MU or SLU to sponsor a charter school. Another is to let non-profit or charitable organizations start charter schools. However, while new Charter schools may offer good alternatives we also need to make sure they are accountable. Additionally, if we give money to a charter school, and they don't meet the performance requirements, this bill will allow us to revoke their status as a charter school. Additionally, local school boards must authorize the creation of any new Charter Schools. This bill passed the House by a vote of 86-70, with myself voting in favor.
• SB 161, sponsored by Senator Munzlinger, addresses the issues around Proposition B and the modifications recently passed by the House and Senate. This measure would actually make it harder to operate a puppy mill in our state. This bill, unlike the United States Humane Society's proposition (Prop B), increases the cost of obtaining a dog breeder's license in Missouri, and uses that money to increase inspections. It is my belief that bad people will always do bad things. The current "puppy mills" in Missouri are already operating in violation of our laws. Missouri's "Operation Bark Alert" has been catching hundreds of illegal breeders and rescuing thousands of dogs since its creation. This bill passed with a vote of 108-42, myself voting in favor. Yesterday, Governor Nixon gladly signed this bill, creating great compromise between everyone involved.
  
  **If you suspect someone is operating an illegal puppy mill and want to help us shut them down, PLEASE report them to state officials with "Operation Bark Alert" at: http://mda.mo.gov/animals/ACFA/barkalert/reportbreeder.php **
  
• HB 193, sponsored by Rep. Diehl, changes the composition of Congressional districts based on the 2010 census. In other words, this bill is this suggested Congressional Redistricting Map. A last minute effort was made with both the House and Senate coming together to create a new Congressional Map for Missouri. Eight out of nine members of the US House have agreed to this map and are in favor of it, including Congressman Cleaver of the 5th District and Congressman Graves of the 6th District (Congressman Carnahan did not agree to any of the suggested maps drawn). The map now makes its way to Governor Nixon to be signed into law. If the governor decides to veto this bill/map, the House and Senate have one last effort to find the numbers to over-ride the veto on the very last day of session (May 13). If the numbers are not found to be able to over-ride the veto, the map will not go into effect and redistricting will be sent to the courts. This bill passed with a vote of 97-55 in the House, and 27-7 in the Senate. I voted in favor of this measure.
• SB 366, sponsored by Senator Goodman, will create Missouri cooperative associations and will modify the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations. Right now, if a business is in another state and they want to move their registration to Missouri, it's not a clear or easy process. This bill seeks to clarify the ways that businesses can operate, to streamline the process for a corporation to transition to a Missouri corporation. The easier it is for foreign corporations to locate here, the more likely they will, and bring new jobs with them. Additionally, right now, if a foreign corporation is a "Cooperative Association" they cannot even register in our state. Our addition of this corporate form to Missouri will allow these businesses to form, and will also allow Missouri citizens who want to start a new business under this form to do so. This bill passed overwhelmingly, with myself voting in favor.

For more information on current legislation in the Missouri House of Representatives, please contact our office or visit the House website.

Committees

Fiscal Review met Tuesday and today to hold executive session.

• HCS HB 600, 337, 413, sponsored by Rep. Schad, is an omnibus bill over the topic of public safety. This passed committee with a vote of 8-0.
• HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Frederick, will change various provisions regarding the licensure and inspection of hospitals. This bill passed committee with a vote of 6-3, with myself voting in favor.
• HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Silvey, would authorize local government technology business facility projects and would create state and local sales and use tax exemptions for data storage center projects. This bill passed out of committee with a vote of 8-0.
• SB 3, sponsored by Rep. Stouffer, would establish photo identification requirements for voting. This bill passed with a vote of 9-2, with myself voting in favor. SB 3 will only be made into law if the vote of the people passes SJR 2.
• SJR 2, sponsored by Rep. Stouffer, would allow enabling legislation for photographic identification for voting. This bill passed by a vote of 8-3, with myself voting in favor.
• HJR 27, sponsored by Rep. Brattin, proposes a constitutional amendment specifying that the right of every citizen to possess, purchase ammunition, and any parts or articles for the proper functioning of arms must not be infringed. This bill passed out of committee with a vote of 8-3, with myself voting in favor.
• HJR 16, sponsored by Rep. Dugger, proposes a constitutional amendment increasing the signature requirement for all initiative and referendum petitions. This bill passed by a vote of 9-1, with myself voting in favor.

Downsizing State Government met today upon adjournment to hold public hearings and executive session on two bills.

• SJR 10, sponsored by Senator Lembke, would lower the number of State Representatives from 163 to 103. This bill failed to pass committee, with myself voting in favor.
• SCS SB 323, sponsored by Senator Schaefer, will require the State Auditor to conduct a one-time comparative audit of selected state agencies. This bill passed out of committee, with myself voting in favor.

For more information on these bills, or any that have been filed in the Missouri House of Representatives, please visit the House Bill information page by clicking here.

Word of the Week

An Omnibus Bill is a single document that is accepted in a single vote by the legislature, but packages together several measures into one.

In Other News

As we draw closer to the end of session, I want to remind you to feel free to contact my office with any questions or concerns, even after we have officially adjourned on May 13.

Lampe: Floor Speech Opposing Charter School Expansion, Missouri Rx Reauthorization

Greetings!

You all may not want to read this speech I made this week during debate on the House Floor, but for those of you who do, here it is!

“Every year in this building, there is an orchestrated effort for school reform in Missouri. However, I believe that the answer for school improvement lies not in an experimental model, but within our own accredited schools.

“The House passed HB 473, which advocates the expansion of Charter Schools as a mechanism for school improvement, on Wednesday. Although I do have great concern for the status of "Unaccredited" public school districts, I did not vote in favor of this legislation as it was presented. Out of the 522 Missouri school districts, 511 are getting the job done and teaching our children in a way in which we can all be proud. The best solution can be found within the outstanding leadership and teaching in our "Accredited" and "Accredited with Distinction" schools.

“This legislation poses many questions. Most importantly, I ask if the Charter School reform measure actually improves education in Missouri. I agree with some of the rhetoric surrounding this bill, that alternatives are needed for some students to ensure their learning and to help them graduate. But many districts are doing this now without this bill through alternative education programs. I agree that Charters could exist as an alternative within public schools, but only with the money for Charters flowing through and governed by the locally elected school board. This bill does not ensure that for all Charters.

“This bill ultimately possesses two distinct parts--parts that should have been voted on separately. The first component involves accountability for existing Charters and new Charters. I support these accountability provisions because they are needed to clean up the charters in operation today. However, I do not agree with the second, expansion component of this bill. Expansion simply diverts state school funds to non public groups who claim they can better educate our children than the 511 school districts who are doing it right! Why expand a model that has not proven itself to be more successful than our current public schools?

“My assessment of this bill raises these concerns:

• Over 50% of the current Charter Schools are performing below the state average on MAP tests.
  
• Only 17% of Charters reported gains that were significantly better than traditional public schools while 37% of Charters showed gains significantly worse than traditional public schools.
  
• Charters do not accept every student, unlike public schools.
  
• Any non-profit doing only some business in Missouri can sponsor a Charter, and skim money from the school district just to be called a sponsor.
  
• Failing Charters will continue. This bill will not close a failing Charter until their contract is due for renewal, which could be several years.
  
• The creation of the Charter School Commission where members are appointed by the Governor is nothing more than a duplication of the State Board of Education.
  
• Scarce state resources of public schools will be diverted from your local school districts to Charters, bringing fewer dollars to the established school district.
  
• Private schools could simply change their mission and become Charters, again diverting state resources to a "newCharter" which was once the "oldPrivate" school.
  
• Expanding Charters does nothing to help "Unaccredited" schools get better, and the voters in a district will not be able to have a say i how their local and state aid is calculated.
  
• Charters have become the surrogate for vouchers in the school reform movement.
  
• This bill is the privatization of our public schools.
  

“I have great concern for the schools and students of Missouri now that this legislation has passed the House. I do not believe we should take funding away from traditional public schools and give it to an unproven Charter method.”

Missouri Rx Extension Press Release

House Democrats say extending the Missouri Rx prescription drug program for senior citizens and the disabled and providing funding for it in the upcoming state budget must be a top priority for the General Assembly during the remaining weeks of the 2011 legislative session. More than 200,000 Missouri's participate in Missouri Rx, which will cease to exist on Aug. 28 without legislative action.

The House of Representatives on Tuesday sent House Bill 579, which would extend Missouri Rx to 2016, to the Senate. The House version of the fiscal year 2012 state budget includes $19.6 million to fund the program for a full year, but the Senate versions provides just $5.78 million - enough to fund it until its scheduled expiration on Aug. 28.

House and Senate negotiators currently are working out the final version of the state budget, which must pass both chambers no later than May 6. Legislation extending Missouri Rx must be sent to the governor before the legislative session ends on May 13.

Lawmakers originally enacted Missouri Rx during a 2001 special legislative session. House Minority Leader Mike Talboy, D-Kansas City, warned that a summer special session to extend the program is likely if the Senate doesn't pass HB 579 or some similar bill during the regular session.

"This program is far too important to be allowed to quietly expire," Talboy said. "There is still time for the Senate act without forcing a special session, and it should do so without delay."

Department of Social Services' Missouri Rx Letter

“Members of the Missouri State Senate,

“On the behalf of Missouri senior citizens and those living with disabilities, I urge you to reauthorize the Missouri Rx program, which is a lifeline to nearly 226,000 Missourians who struggle to afford their basic medication.

“Missouri Rx was put into place just six years ago, in an effort to help our senior citizens with the out-of-the-pocket expenses associated with the federal overhaul of Medicare. Since its inception, Missouri Rx has received bipartisan support as members of the General Assembly stood together on common ground to provide for the common good.

“Across our sate over 125,000 seniors benefit from the assistance this program provides. Additionally, 101,000 Missourians with disabilities are able to afford the greater care they need thanks to this program. These Missourians are mothers, fathers, sons and daughters. We cannot turn our back on them any more than we could turn our back on each other.

“Because we are all called upon to be careful stewards of every taxpayer dollar, it's important to note the substantial savings this program generates for the state and our constituents.

“Senior citizens and Missourians with disabilities see a direct benefit from the Missouri Rx program in their pocketbook. Without the Missouri Rx program, nearly 226,000 seniors and people with disabilities will see their co-pays for needed drug therapies increase, doubling their out-of-the-pocket expenses, and impairing their ability to make ends meet.

“Increasing out-of-the-pocket costs for those on fixed incomes leads to less compliance with drug therapies and increases the need for a higher level of care. Simply put, preventative care is cheaper than crisis care. By managing and treating chronic illnesses and disabilities, we prevent trips to the emergency rooms and loss of independence. As a private sector professional in the health care field for 35 years, I can attest to the countless dollars that could have been saved if people had resources they needed to successfully manage their conditions.

“Therefore, for the health of Missouri citizens and the health of our budget, I urge you to reauthorize this critical measure.

“Sincerely,
Ronald J. Levy
Director of the Missouri Department of Social Services”

Proposition B Compromise: SB161

Governor Nixon signed SB 161, known as the Proposition B compromise into law yesterday. SB 161 is considered to be the compromise between dog breeders and animal welfare groups. The compromise was signed by: Kathy Warnick of the Humane Society of Missouri; Karen Strange of the Missouri Federation of Animal Owners; Bob Baker of the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation; Barbara York of the Missouri Pet Breeders Association; Jon Hagler of the Missouri Department of Agriculture; and Don Nikodim, representing a group called Missouri Farmers Care. However, the Human Society of United States and the Missouri Farm Bureau did not signed the agreement and at this time do not support SB 161.

This issue is about more than puppies to me. It is about carrying out the will of the voters. Therefore, I voted against this legislation when it was heard in the House. The fine citizens of District 138 voted in favor of Proposition B, and I do not believe in overturning the will of the people.

Redistricting Update

Breaking a week-long stalemate, the Senate and House of Representatives on April 27 each granted final approval to a congressional redistricting bill and forwarded it to Gov. Jay Nixon. HB 193 passed 96-55 in the House and 27-7 in the Senate, with majority Republicans mostly in favor and minority Democrats mostly opposed. The two chambers had deadlocked over differing versions of the bill before finally agreeing on compromise. The final bill was then quickly passed with little discussion in the Senate and no debate even allowed in the House.

Missouri will lose a congressional seat in January 2013, dropping from nine to eight. HB 193 essentially would eliminate the district currently held by U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan, D-St. Louis, and create six safe Republican districts and two reliably Democratic districts. While the final Senate vote surpassed the 23 needed to override a potential veto, the House fell 13 votes short of the necessary 109-vote supermajority. However, the possibility still exists that the Republican-controlled House could muster sufficient votes for an override if Nixon should veto it.

Under the results of the 2010 U.S. Census, the greater St. Louis region still has sufficient population to retain three congressional districts. HB 193, however, provides for just two, with the rest of the region, including most of populous St. Charles and Jefferson counties, split among two rural-dominated districts. The district that currently includes Kansas City and most of Jackson County is extended eastward under the bill to take in three rural counties. The remainder of Jackson County is included in a rural district that stretches across the northern third of the state.

On the Floor this Week

The House passed a series of appropriations bills. HCS HB 17, 18, 21, and 22 allocate funds from the Department of Treasury to several state agencies and departments for capital improvement projects. Beneficiaries of this funding include Missouri State University who will use this money for the planning, design, construction, and renovations necessary to implement phase one of the facility's reutilization plan.

The House passed HRJ 27 this week. This bill upon voter approval would add a constitutional amendment to further clarify the right for every citizen to possess, purchase, reload, or manufacture ammunition and to possess, purchase, or manufacture mechanical parts or other articles essential to the proper functioning of arms.

The House passed the Senate committee substitute of HB 45 this week. This bill creates another tax credit for small businesses. This bill will change the current definition of a small business from 25 employees to 50 employees. It will also add a tax credit equal to 600 dollars for any "small business" that hires a new full time employee at 40,000 dollars or higher into a newly created position for at least 16 weeks.

House committee substitute for SB 366 was passed this week. This bill changes laws that pertain to business organizations converting into other entities such as becoming a corporation or non profit organization.

HCS HB 773 was passed by the House this week. This bill changes the laws regarding the regulation of surplus lines insurance to comply with the federal Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010 (NRRA) with the intent to bring uniformity to the licensing of surplus lines insurance.

HCS HJR 16 passed the House this week. Upon voter approval, this proposed constitutional amendment changes the number of voter signatures that are required to place an initiative petition or a referendum on a ballot. Currently, an initiative petition proposing an amendment to the Missouri Constitution must be signed by 8% of the legal voters in each of two-thirds of the Congressional districts. The resolution changes the requirement to 5.25% of the legal voters in each Congressional district. Currently, a referendum petition must be signed by 5% of the legal voters in each of two-thirds of the Congressional districts. The resolution changes the requirement to 3.25% of the legal voters in each Congressional district.

HCS HB 597 passed the House this week. This bill creates the Private Landowner Protection Act which allows for individuals to create easements to protect the environment or historical aspects of real property. An easement may be created, conveyed, recorded, assigned, released, modified, terminated, or otherwise altered or affected in the same manner as other easements; and a court may modify or terminate an easement based on the principles of law and equity.

The House also passed HB 339 this week. This bill removes the requirement from telecommunication companies to provide a landline to a land owner where they are the only provider close by. This can only been done if; (1) an alternative service provider is allowed to be installed, (2) the land owner accepts or agrees to accept incentives from an alternative service provider. Other requirements of the wavier of obligation by a telecommunication company are outlined in the bill.

Please Share Your Ideas

One of my top priorities this session is coming up with ideas to get Missourians back to work. I am interested in hearing ideas from you on how to create jobs to strengthen Missouri's economic base.

As always, thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Sincerely,
Sara Lampe

Rupp: Severe Weather and Flooding Strike Missouri

Last week on Good Friday, a devastating storm that spawned a series of tornadoes made its way through Missouri and into St. Charles County and St. Louis County. Missouri towns receiving significant damage include New Melle, Bridgeton, Ferguson, and Maryland Heights. More than 200 homes were completely destroyed, and Ameren Missouri reported that more than 47,000 power outages occurred. While the storm has caused overwhelming destruction, I am thankful that no one was seriously injured or killed. That is an absolute miracle, and I am glad that Missourians took all the weather precautions necessary to keep themselves and their families safe.

I am also thankful for the good Samaritans who have gone out of their way to assist storm victims. Hundreds of people have come out to the damaged towns to help victims with everything from recovering belongings from their homes, to handing out meals and clothing. Their kindness is a true example of how Missourians pull together to help each other.

Aside from the tornados that hit Missouri, citizens throughout the state have been dealing with massive flooding as a result of this month’s intense storms. It was predicted earlier this week that the Mississippi River could rise 6 to 10 feet above flood level. This is a very serious situation, and it is important to have a plan in case you and your family are caught in a flood. To protect yourself and your loved ones from flood dangers, please abide by the following tips, provided by FEMA:

During a Flood

• Listen to the radio or television for information.
• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

After a Flood

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

Thank you for taking the time to read this legislative column, and please continue to keep the storm and flood victims in your thoughts and prayers. To find out more about what you can do to help, please visit the St. Louis Area Chapter of the American Red Cross website at www.redcrossstl.org, or call the St. Charles County service center at (636) 397-1074.

As always, if you have any inquiries regarding this issue or any other matter within state government, please visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/rupp. Here, you can also subscribe to my RSS feed on the main page of my website; it will keep you up to date on all my columns, press releases, and multimedia postings. Always feel free to e-mail me or call my office toll-free at (866) 271-2844.

Kraus: Congressional Redistricting

Every 10 years, the state Legislature is charged with reapportionment, or redistricting, of congressional districts in Missouri. This year’s task was made much more difficult with the loss of one of Missouri’s nine congressional districts. Last night, the General Assembly approved a new map and sent it to the governor for his signature or veto.

Because there has been a lot of discussion regarding redistricting, and in particular about Jackson County, I wanted to use this week’s Capitol Report to explain the process a little further and address some justified concerns regarding the map.

First, according to the Missouri Constitution, it is the Legislature’s responsibility to draw the congressional district maps. Just like any other bill, we must reach agreement of a majority of our members. All members in the body take this responsibility very seriously. As your elected officials, only we can listen to your voices and make our decisions based on those inputs. However, if we fail to come to an agreement on a map, the task goes to the courts. The courts have no such obligation to you, nor any accountability to you. That is, in my opinion, an unacceptable option.

We also have an even higher hurdle on redistricting this year. Since we had to eliminate a district, the very real possibility exists that the governor will completely disagree with our choices and veto the map. To override that veto and keep the matter out of the courts, we will need an even higher number of votes - 109 votes in the House and 23 in the Senate. To reach those numbers, the map had to appeal to a wide range of legislators.

We heard from many 8^th District constituents on this issue, and the responses were actually mixed. Many residents felt that Jackson County should be self-contained in one district. However, at all three of my spring break town halls (held in Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs and Independence) an overwhelming majority of residents wanted to maintain some form of the current split of the county.

For those who are not aware, Jackson County has been split since before most people can remember. The 6^th District has been in Jackson County for 20 or 30 years. Having the county split - and having a rural representative - is not new to the county. Many of my constituents strongly support that scenario.

Despite that viewpoint, I voted “no” on the original map that was presented in the Senate due to what I thought was an imperfect split of the county. I hoped that by registering my opposition we might see an alternative split in a conference committee map. However, after weeks of negotiations, the compromise map reflected very little change in Jackson County.

At that point, knowing that the democratic process had been followed and knowing that I did not want to tempt a court decision, I voted for the compromise map. I simply cannot allow judges to draw the map. The map as passed does, in my mind, meet all constitutional requirements and would survive a court challenge.

Like most issues, the redistricting issue is not a black and white one. I have looked at it from every perspective and I am convinced that I voted fairly and in the best interests of District 8.

Welcome Visitors

This has been a busy week as many school groups made their annual trip to the Capitol to learn about state government. Four schools from Blue Springs, Voy Spears, Cordill-Mason, and James Walker elementary schools and Plaza Heights Christian Academy, brought their fourth grade students down. Sunset Valley Elementary, from Lee’s Summit, also came down. Liz Carver from Raytown brought a group of foreign exchange students to the Capitol. I was glad to have the opportunity to visit with all of them.

In addition, Dr. Jim Finley from the Blue Springs School District came down and visited with me and several other lawmakers. It was a pleasure visiting with him. I also appreciated visiting with Beto Lopez about Jackson County issues.

District Activities

This Friday, I’ll be visiting William Bryant Elementary School in Blue Springs to speak with its fourth grade students about state government. I will also be holding a roundtable discussion on business to keep abreast of what is necessary to maintain a positive business climate in Missouri. If you are a business and would like to attend future roundtable events, please provide me with your e-mail and business address.

Nance: "April Is The Cruellest Month"

“April is the cruelest month.” –T. S. Eliot

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by the flooding and tornados that have hit not only Missouri, but Alabama and other southern states.”

House Action

SB 68 authorizes the issuance of subpoenas for the production of records by the General Assembly and establishes new congressional districts.

HB 708 would change the laws regarding violations of the public policy of Missouri when decisions are based on foreign law or legal code. (102-51)

HB 656 would change the laws regarding unsecured loans of $500 or less, commonly known as payday loans. (96-58)

HCR 42 would urge the United States Congress to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gas emissions or to take action on climate change.

HB 473 would change the laws regarding charter schools and establish the Missouri Charter Public School Commission.

HB 579 passed and it addresses inspections of hospital, recovering records, and newborn screenings. (151-0)

SB 113 did make the Governor’s desk. The Governor had to decide which 50 % of the voters he would anger, and thus decided to get several state-based agriculture and animal welfare groups together for what he calls the “Missouri Solution”. The Missouri Humane Society agreed to the solution, but HSUS refuses to accept the Governor’s offer. With little time left in session, the House had to get to work on the proposal quickly. The solution passed (108-42)

HB 193 on redistricting was passed out of the House with 96 votes after a conference with the Senate. The bill left Ray, Saline, and Lafayette counties in the 5th District. The bill will go to the Governor’s desk.

HB 773 dealing with certain insurance products passed on Thursday. The passage of the bill will guarantee $12 million of funding will stay in the state.

HB 525 clarified that electronics coverage is an insurance product.

Visitors

Hardin-Central 4^th graders with Claudia Spooner and Nancy Herring visited the Capitol on Wednesday. (at left)

Lichtenegger: Healthcare Measures Advance, Scholarship Opportunity

The following list represents a few of the most recent House legislative activities:

(Remember when reading the full House bill text only the print in bold font changes current Missouri statutes.)

• HB 193 is the bill that draws the new Congressional district lines. On Wednesday, April 27, House members Truly Agreed and Finally Passed and sent it to Governor Nixon to sign. The following link is to the House website where you can listen to debate and view the final redistricting map: House audio debate & New Congressional District Map.
  
• HB 609, the Show-Me Health Insurance Exchange Act, is a pro-active way in which the State of Missouri can secure its health insurance exchange if Obama’s Federal Health Care is not found to be unconstitutional. If this bill -as currently written- becomes law, no Missourian will be required to purchase their health insurance through the exchange.
  
  The intent of the exchange is to reduce the number of uninsured; provide a transparent marketplace; increase competition in the health insurance market; increase portability of health insurance coverage; reduce health care costs; provide consumer education; and assist individuals with access to programs, tax credits, and cost-sharing reductions.
  
  (Contact my assistant at denia{dot}fields{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov for additional information on the affects of this bill.)
  
• HB 658 is the bill that requires a physician's prescription to obtain methamphetamine precursor drugs such as pseudoephedrine –found in certain allergy medications. The bill’s provisions are to be known as the Meth Lab Elimination Act. If you currently take an off-the-shelf (OTC) cold or allergy drug, you will not be affected by this legislation. Many constituents are receiving auto-calls that are misleading the public into believing many OTC drugs are included. You can view all House actions on this bill through this link: Legislative Actions on HB 658.
  
• HB 656 is the Payday Loan bill which among other provisions requires a licensed lender to conspicuously post in the lobby of its office in at least 14-point bold type the fee in terms of dollars charged per $100 loaned in addition to the currently required maximum annual percentage rate. It also allows a borrower to enter into an extended payment plan once in any 12-month period. Interest cannot accrue and the amount can be paid in full at any time without penalty. If the borrower fails to pay the amount owed when due, the lender can accelerate the unpaid loan balance. No other payday loan can be entered into until the extended payment plan is paid in full.
  

Constituent Corner

SOUTHEAST MO ROAD CLOSURES

Residents in Southeast Missouri are keenly aware of the flooding. To receive timely updates from MO DOT on road closures call: 1-888-ASK MODOT (243-6636) or link to this MO DOT webpage: MO DOT map.

ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL JUNIORS AND SENIORS

You have an opportunity to win a $3,000 college scholarship and an all-expenses-paid trip accompanied by their State Representative to The National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) Annual Conference, August 11-15, 2011, at The Marriott in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The Bill of Rights Essay Contest for college-bound female high school juniors and seniors is entitled The Impact of the First Amendment on Women Leaders and Social Media. The seven contest winners will each be mentored by, and speak to hundreds of women lawmakers from across the United States.

If you know a high school student who would benefit from this contest please contact my assistant, Denia, at denia{dot}fields{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov or call 573-751-6662 for an application.

Don’t wait! Entries must be received or postmarked no later than June 3, 2011, after which an NFWL selection committee will judge each essay and determine the seven winners. The judges will primarily weigh the factors of storytelling, understanding of the Bill of Rights, and original insight.

For information about the: NFWL

Three ways to contact me:

• 201 West Capitol Avenue, Room 409B, Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806;
• 573-751-6662; or
• donna.lichtenegger@house.mo.gov

Tilley: House Agrees on Budget, Redistricting

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – This week was very busy for the Missouri House, as we continued negotiating on the state budget and passed a new Congressional apportionment plan.

“This session has been unique – with our current economic climate, it was challenging to craft a budget that would meet the state’s needs without raising taxes. Not only were we able to pass a budget without new job-killing taxes, but we were able to craft a plan in line with our session-long goal of creating new jobs for Missourians,” said Speaker Steven Tilley.

While Washington D.C. continues to tax and spend with no end in sight, Missouri was able to take a common-sense, family style approach, only spending the money that we actually have.

“It’s irresponsible to budget on the backs of our children, and we would never allow that to happen in the State of Missouri.”

In addition, despite some overblown controversy, the Senate and House agreed on a redistricting map [HB193] this week that will now move to the Governor’s desk.

“This has been a cooperative process all along, between the people of Missouri who testified at our local committee meetings, and the Senators and Representatives who served on the redistricting committee. Despite some minor differences, we all knew the goal was to craft a map that ensured all Missourian’s votes would be counted equally, and that they would have the opportunity to elect a candidate of their choice”, said Speaker Tilley.

As the budget and the congressional districts have both been passed out of the House and Senate, the spotlight is now on the Governor to see what, if anything, he will veto, and whether or not the House and Senate will be able to override a veto, should it come.

Tim Jones: Huge Victories On Congressional Redistricting, Budget

At right: With Phantoms of the Lego Team: Jordan Pack, Michael Colletti, Catherine Colletti and Jaime Pack, all from Wildwood.

As the rains continued their drenching torrent over the weekend and floodwaters rose, many of us across the State watched warily as creeks and rivers became engorged with rising floodwaters. Late week sunshine brought a welcome respite as the activity in the Capitol Dome increased to ever heightened levels of tension and concern. Huge victories emerged in Congressional Redistricting and the Budget as Session marched unerringly towards its final two weeks…

“Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty as a heritage of all men, in all lands, everywhere.” –Abraham Lincoln

Third Reading & Final House Passage

The following bills were given final approval by the House and sent to the Senate for further consideration.
I supported all of the legislation below. For more information regarding any specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality. The added membership will provide greater opportunity for meaningful work to be accomplished for the children of Missouri.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis. By changing the method the actuaries use to calculate the amount of annual contribution required from the city from the current fixed initial liability method to the entry age normal funding method, St. Louis City will save money.

HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 136 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding economic development. By offering tax incentives for the development and expansion of technology business facilities, data storage centers, and server farm facilities, we will improve the job outlook for Missourians.

HCS HBs 600, 337, and 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), was third read and passed. These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HCS HB 161, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 127 to 24. This would authorize Pettis County, upon local voter approval, to change its transient guest tax from $2 per room, per night to up to 5% and increases the number of members on the Pettis County Tourism Commission. Local control for local decisions is the purpose of this enabling legislation.

HCS HB 523, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 139 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association Act, insurance coverage for portable electronics, and residential and home warranty service contracts.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts. The purpose is to provide options to students and help improve school district performance. We have finally moved forward in a positive, proactive, substantive way to truly place parents in charge of their children’s education, to advance serious education reforms and to address the true problems facing public education in a positive way.

HCS HB 773, sponsored by Rep. Don Gosen (R-84), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding the regulation of surplus lines insurance to comply with the federal Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010.

HCS HB 787, sponsored by Rep. Don Wells (R-147), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding early distributions from certain annuities or retirement plans, the Missouri Higher Education Saving Program and residential mortgage loan brokers.

HCS SB 161, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), was third read and passed. The current regulations allow for loans to be generated for the purchase or improvement of agricultural property. This legislation would allow for the generation of loans for the purchase, expansion, or improvement of an actual agribusiness, not just agricultural property.

HCS SCS SB 366, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), was third read and passed by the vote of 146 to 6. This legislation creates cooperative associations and modifies the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations.

HCS HB 552, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed. This legislation facilitates the establishment of rules governing the standard of care for pharmacies dispensing blood clotting therapies. This standard is already being met by specialty pharmacies and the legislation has the purpose of making these standards law.

HCS HB 597, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Private Landowner Protection Act which allows for the creation and enforcement of conservation easements to protect the environment and preserve certain historical or cultural property. The landowner and the grantee of the easement would be required to enter into a contract.

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

This legislation has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for consideration. For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

SS SCS HCS HB 45, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Denny Hoskins (R-121), was truly agreed to and finally passed by a vote of 127 to 24. This bill changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act and provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive for 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. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses.

Congressional Redistricting Update

Most importantly this week, the House and the Senate finally agreed to a final compromise map to complete the constitutional duty of the State Legislature in drafting eight new Congressional Districts for our State. As many of you are aware, it is the duty of the General Assembly to complete the task of Congressional Redistricting, every ten years, following the national census. After weeks of stalemate and tense negotiations, a valuable compromise was finally reached and late last night, both Chambers passed a final proposed map with overwhelming majorities in support. The bill [HB193] is now headed to the Governor’s desk for approval. It is our request to the Governor that he immediately sign the map and heed the work that the Legislature did and not force this issue to go to the Courts and be decided by unelected judges. This is a serious matter that affects every single person in the State, hundreds of hours of time went into the process and the final product is a fair, compact, contiguous map that is good for all of the citizens of our State.

The Missouri Solution: Reaching a Complete Compromise Regarding Proposition B

Also yesterday, the Missouri House led the way in approving a final piece of legislation that has resolved the Proposition B issue for nearly all of the stakeholders involved. After weeks of negotiations, in which I participated and which were led by Representative Tom Loehner, we successfully passed SB 161 which EVERY MISSOURI GROUP involved in this debate signed off on. The groups representing animal rights, animal agriculture, dog breeders, the Governor’s office and agencies and many others, finally all came together on a good, solid, constitutionally defensible piece of legislation that is fair to all. The consensus from both sides of the issue was that leaving the fix to Prop B alone (SB 113) would result in a solution that did not satisfy the majority of those involved. That is why we continued to work towards the ultimate compromise, known as The Missouri Solution, contained in SB161. As I mentioned, every Missouri based group, on all sides of this issue, came together, signed an open, mutual letter urging the General Assembly to take this final action. I was very happy to be a part of this solution which finally puts this issue to rest for the Session. I want to thank all involved for all the hard work they did and for not resting until the best bill was passed, legislation good for the entire State of Missouri.

Michelle Moore Needs Your Help

Michelle Moore is a great friend and colleague back in the St. Louis region. We found out that she is projected to be on the kidney donor wait list for 3 years. Do you know someone who can help? Please visit http://www.atraditionallifelived.com and/or http://twitter.com/Michelle_Moore for more information. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING TESTED FOR DONATING YOUR KIDNEY TO MICHELLE, PLEASE CALL 314-362-5365 OR 800-633-9906 - OPTION 2 - BEFORE APRIL 25TH.

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! Stop by the Majority Leader’s Office in Room 302 and we will be happy to meet and greet you!

Personal News & Notes

If you know anyone who would be interested in receiving this Capitol Report, they can click the “Capitol Report Signup” button on my member home page at www.house.mo.gov and enter the appropriate information to receive the Capitol Report. As the days grow a great deal longer under the Capitol Dome, we want to encourage you to keep up with the flurry of legislative activity.

As the Session moves speedily towards its end, the days do continue to grow longer and are filled with ever increasing tension and stress. During these most trying days of Session, I remain ever thankful to my entire Capitol staff, Jody, Tom and Tad, for continuing to deal with me on a daily basis! I also am ever grateful to the folks who continue to patiently await my complete “return home” and who keep everything running smoothly in my absence, Suzanne, Katie and Abby at the homestead, and of course, my great partners and colleagues at my law firm of DosterUllom, LLC. Finally, if we can ever be of any assistance to you at your State 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.