Neth: Back At Home With The Kids,

The first week after the completion of the regular session has passed and I'm still adjusting to being home during the week - playing with the kids, cooking dinner and the normal weekly responsibilities. I have to admit that it has been difficult to adjust to the new schedule, but I am glad to be back around my family and friends.

I am gearing up to do a lot of constituent outreach this summer and my schedule is filling up with meetings, events, legislative updates, and all sorts of other activities in the community. Some meetings will be reviews of the legislative session and others will address priorities for the coming year. I am also researching and discussing my future legislation with stakeholders both here at home and across the state. It will take a lot of work and input from citizens, like you, to determine what legislation I should file this coming December.

The best part of being back in town is the ability to be an integral part of my community on a regular basis. I enjoy seeing old friends and meeting new people. I plan to make this a priority in summer and fall. If you would like me to attend an event of yours, please let me know and I will do all I can to be there.

Due to the fact that the legislature has adjourned for the summer, my office will not be doing a weekly email report. At a minimum, I will get out something on a monthly basis and if needed, maybe every few weeks. If you are on a more specific contact list, you may get some additional information in the form of news releases.

I do not want to miss the opportunity to thank everyone who has connected with me this first year as your State Representative. I know we may not agree on everything, but more than anything, I want to keep the communication open and ensure mutual respect for all. I am looking forward to the future progress we can make together.

Finally, I want to thank my family who has put up with my absence for the long five and a half months. It is not easy for anyone to be away for extended periods. As a father and husband, there are a lot of additional demands that this role puts on my wife and kids. I want to give a big thank you to my wife, my kids, my parents, my neighbors (who kept an eye on things), and everyone who prayed for me these past five months.

Have a great Summer!
Myron

SAVE THE DATE!!!

Town Hall Meeting - Legislative Wrap Up
June 2, 7:30-8:45 pm
Liberty Community Center - Red Room

I will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting where I will discuss the 2011 legislative session. You will have the opportunity to give me feedback, ask questions, and voice your concerns. I hope you will be able to make it and look forward to seeing you there.

So the news mentioned a lot of legislation this year, but what was actually acomplished?

There were 1060 Bills filed in the House this year. This is down from past years. 102 of these Bills were Truly Agreed to and Finally Passed (TAFP). To view the summaries of all TAFP legislation, please follow this link.

This list is comprehensive and includes Senate Bills as well as House Bills. Once finally passed, the legislation is sent to the governor and he has until August 28, to veto any legislation with which he does not agree. Any bill he refuses or fails to sign by that date automatically becomes law on August 28, 2011. You can check to see if the Governor has signed a specific piece of legislation going the the bill tracking on the House website. You can also use this tool to determine if the legisltation that affects you was actually passed at all.

In the coming weeks, I will be picking out some of the legislation we passed that I feel is noteworthy. I will be sending out more detailed thoughts on each throughout the summer. If you want me to comment on a particular bill, please let me know.

Questions or Comments?

While the legislative session may have ended on May 13, my legislative office is still open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to address any state related conserns or issues you might have. My contact information is listed below.

Missouri State Representative
Myron Neth (34th District)
201 W. Capitol Ave
Jefferson City, MO 64068

Office: 573.751.1218
Fax: 573.522.0434
Email: myron{dot}neth{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov

Community Calendar

June 2 - Town Hall Meeting With Myron Neth at the Liberty Community Center - Red Room at 7:30 pm.

June 4 - Liberty Arts Squared Art Festival

June 9 - Mid-Continent Library Stable T. Farms Petting Zoo (virtual)

June 10 - Mid-Continent Library Pet Training: Paws, Claws, Feathers and Fins

June 4 - Downtown Liberty Arts Festival

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

Allen: District Notice

Greetings,

Next week, the Missouri House and Senate Apportionment Commissions will be holding three hearings around the state to take public input on legislative redistricting and what the districts will look like for the next decade. If you are interested in this process and would like to attend the hearings or offer input by testifying, the committee will be meeting in St. Louis on Wednesday, May 25th. The full schedule and details are below:

Monday, May 23rd--SPRINGFIELD: Plaster Student Union Ballroom East, Missouri State University, 901 S. National Ave.
Senate Commission: 9am
House Commission: 1pm

Tuesday, May 24th--KANSAS CITY: Auditorium, University Center, University of Missouri – Kansas City, 5000 Holmes
House Commission: 9am
Senate Commission: 1pm

Wednesday, May 25th--ST. LOUIS: Millennium Student Center, University of Missouri -- St. Louis, 1 University Blvd.
House Commission: 9am
Senate Commission: 1pm

Kraus: Watching Your Money

When I see wasteful spending of your tax dollars, your money, I am going to try to fix it.

That is why, during the last week of session, I worked hard to pass Senate Bill 270. The key provision of the bill would have eliminates the February and June election days from the state calendar. Currently, there are five election days in a given year, during February, April, June, August, and November. I chose to remove February and June because they are usually not used unless a political subdivision wants to raise taxes or issue bonds. I also selected these two months because in each case there is another election date within about 60 days.

It costs tax dollars to hold an election – your money. It is wasteful spending to hold two elections within 60 days of each other. For example, a political subdivision recently ran a tax increase in February then had an election to elect political board members in April, about 60 days later. Why not run both issues on the same ballot? It would save taxpayers’ dollars that could be used on better things.

Senate Bill 270 passed both the House and the Senate, but in different versions that had to be reconciled in a conference committee. I successfully shepherded the bill through the conference committee with both dates removed, and the conference committee report was brought to the Senate floor for a vote. However, the conference committee recommendation fell just short of passing the Senate with 16 “yes” and 17 “no” votes.

Despite the loss on SB 270, I am happy to report that we were able to remove the June election date through another elections bill, SB 282, which is on its way to the governor’s desk.

I also sponsored SB 324, which would have required that only one license plate be issued for all motor vehicles instead of the current two plates. Again, this bill would have saved taxpayer money, estimated to be over a million dollars per year. However, it was opposed by the Missouri Highway Patrol and never made it out of committee.

Finally this session, I also sponsored SB 74, which would require drug testing for work-eligible TANF applicants and recipients based upon reasonable cause. I see this as an issue of wasting taxpayer dollars when state assistance goes to people who are going to turn around and use the money to buy drugs. Although SB 74 was combined with another bill, HB 73, the House bill was Truly Agreed to and Finally Passed, sending it on the governor for his signature.

As your taxpayer watchdog, I will continue to look for wasteful spending of your tax dollars and attempt to alleviate it.

District Activities

During the interim, I welcome the opportunity to spend more time meeting with constituents in the district. On Friday, I look forward to attending the Independence Chamber of Commerce meeting to discuss legislation from the 2011 session. Later, I will be at the John Knox Village to speak with residents there.

Rupp: Legislative Recap of the First Regular Session of the 96th General Assembly

Op. note: House Bill 213 is misidentified as House Bill 161. HB161 pertains to a polity's ability to levy certain hotel taxes.

---

The First Regular Session of the 96^th General Assembly finished on a hectic, yet productive note at 6 p.m. last Friday, May 13. In total, the Legislature passed 46 Senate bills and 101 House bills. I’m really proud of the work that my colleagues and I were able to accomplish throughout the last five months, and I’m glad that numerous measures are now awaiting the governor’s signature.

Two of my top priorities throughout session were passing our state’s operating budget, and congressional redistricting. All 13 budget bills were passed by the Legislature, creating an operating budget of $23.2 billion. HB 193 was passed as well, which consolidated Missouri’s nine congressional districts into eight, based on the 2010 Census results. I serve as chair of the Senate Select Committee on Redistricting, and vice-chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and kept very busy with these two matters of importance. However, the hard work has definitely paid off, and now Missourians have congressional districts that fairly represent them, and a dependable state operating budget.

Some other top priority measures passed in the Missouri Legislature, including:

• Measures that, upon voter approval, would require citizens to produce photo identification to vote (SB 3 and SJR 2).
• SB 19, which has been signed by the governor, will gradually phase out the corporate franchise tax over five years.
• SB 54, which will protect our children from sexual predators in schools.
• Measures that will prevent late-term abortions and protect viable fetuses of 20 weeks or more (SB 65 and HB 161).
• HB 73, which would require certain applicants for and recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program benefits to be tested for illegal drug use.
• HB 294, which would lower the age requirement for a concealed carry permit from 23 to 21 years of age.
• HB 412, which would continue the Missouri Rx program, which helps pay the prescription drug costs of low-income seniors and disabled citizens covered by Medicare.

In addition to these beneficial measures passed by the Legislature, Missourians are already hearing good news on the job front. According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, for the first time in two years, our state’s unemployment rate fell below 9 percent, to 8.9 percent. I know this percentage drop may not seem like much, but it represents thousands of Missourians who have found jobs. Last April, citizens were able to obtain 2,500 jobs in our state, with significant growth seen in the construction, manufacturing, and retail industries. I know many Missourians are still dealing with financial hardship, but the future is looking promising for our great state.

For now, I will be home with my family in Wentzville, but I will remain busy drafting legislation for the next legislative session, and I will be working with my constituents in District 2 to make our community an even better place to live. I encourage you to visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/rupp to keep up with district and Senate news. As always, please feel free to e-mail me or call my office toll-free at (866) 271-2844 if I can be of any assistance.

Denison: Conceal and Carry, Missouri RX Extension, Road Work Update

“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” – Yogi Berra

Conceal and Carry (HB 294)

One piece of legislation that passed in the final moments of the 2011 legislative session will expand gun rights for Missourians. The bill approved by both the House and Senate will lower the age requirement to carry a concealed gun from 23 to 21.

Missouri put the age requirement of 23 into effect when the original concealed carry law was implemented in 2003. According to the National Rifle Association, that requirement is the highest among states that allow residents to carry a concealed weapon. Most states have an age requirement of 21, while some allow citizens as young as 18 to carry a concealed weapon. If the governor signs the bill we passed this year into law, Missouri will join the majority of other states with the reasonable age requirement of 21. It’s an age when Missourians have earned almost every other right they will obtain. It only makes sense to allow mature, responsible citizens to also have the right to carry a concealed weapon. It has been proven safe and effective in other states. I am certain it will be the same here in Missouri.

To help ensure the safe use of these weapons, the bill also increases the training requirements for an individual seeking a concealed gun permit. Under current law a permit applicant must shoot a total of 50 rounds with any handgun. The change put in place with the bill we passed will require an applicant to gain experience shooting 50 rounds each with a revolver and a semiautomatic pistol.

MO RX Extension (HB 412)

Another bill passed during the final week of the legislative session will help not only disabled Missourians but also low-income seniors. The bill approved by the House and Senate will extend the highly successful Missouri Rx Plan. For those who don’t know about the Missouri Rx plan, it’s a program that helps bridge the gap for approximately 226,000 low-income seniors and disabled residents so they can afford their prescription medications. It’s a plan the House fought fiercely to maintain. The Senate originally planned to cut the approximately $20 million in funding for the plan, but House leaders were adamant that the funding stay in the final budget. I’m proud to say the House position won out in the end.

We built on that success by passing this piece of legislation that extends the program for another three years. It was set to expire this August but now it will continue on until 2014. That’s good news for the many Missourians who rely on the program to offset the high cost of their prescription medications. The program has been a great success in helping seniors and disabled residents to obtain the medications they need to improve their quality of life and now it will continue that success for another three years.

Springfield News

MoDOT, Springfield, District 8 -- The closing of the bridge over Pearson Creek on Greene County Route YY east of Springfield has been rescheduled for Tuesday, May 31, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

The bridge over Pearson Creek will be replaced. The project is scheduled to be completed in 49 days, with the opening planned for July 18.

The bridge project is part of MoDOT's Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement program that will replace or repair 802 bridges across Missouri by the end of 2013.

Preparing for Route YY Closing

A detour for the Route YY/Pearson Creek project will be signed along Routes 125, Routes OO/744 and Route 65.

State highway traffic normally is not detoured onto county-maintained roads. However, local drivers familiar with the area will be able to use nearby county roads for a shorter route around the closed bridge.

MoDOT and contractors have alerted law enforcement, fire and ambulance agencies so they can plan how to respond to emergency calls with the bridge closed. The school district and post office also have been notified so they can adjust bus routes and mail carrier routes if necessary.

The existing Route YY bridge over Pearson Creek, about two miles east of Springfield, was built in 1954.

The existing bridge will be replaced by a new pre-cast concrete box-beam structure. The new bridge will be 77 feet long and 30 feet wide with two-12 foot wide driving lanes.

The prime contractor on the Route YY/Pearson Creek bridge is KTU Constructors, a group of bridge design and construction companies. The group is replacing 554 bridges of the 802-bridge total in the Safe & Sound program for $487 million.

Kiewit Western Co., a KTU Constructors partner, will build the Route YY bridge over Pearson Creek.

As part of the Safe & Sound program, the road is closed where each bridge is being replaced or repaired. Closing the road enables workers to do the bridge project quicker, safer and cheaper.

Information on the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program statewide can be found on MoDOT's web site -- www.modot.org.

For information on 29 bridges being replaced in 11 counties in the Springfield region in 2011, check www.modot.org/springfield.

Capitol Office

I look forward to hearing from you. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Best wishes.

Lichenegger: The Grand Paper Toss

With the traditional Grand Paper Toss the 2011 legislative session finally is over. I wish there had been more legislation passed to boost Missouri’s economy, particularly during a time where employment growth is next to nil and some state residents –especially in Southeast Missouri- have lost their homes and farmland to flooding- so much more could have been done to promote the fiscal well-being of our state.

On a brighter note, religious freedom gained ground in the passage of HJR 2. This legislation proposes a constitutional amendment guaranteeing a citizen's right to pray and worship on public property. The bill’s sponsor, Representative Mike McGhee, worked for five years to see this religious liberty bill become a reality. Personal religious freedoms will be strengthened once the voters approve it as an amendment to the Missouri Constitution in the November 2012 general election. However, Governor Nixon could decide instead to place the measure on the August primary election ballot.

“One of my proudest accomplishments this year was the passing of House Joint Resolution 2.” McGhee said. “The Senate has long been the stopping grounds for the prayer bill. However, in an amazing turn of events, this was the first year that the Missouri Senate passed the bill unanimously with a vote of 34-0!”

The official ballot title of the amendment proposed will be as follows:
"Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to ensure: That the right of Missouri citizens to express their religious beliefs shall not be infringed; that school children have the right to pray and acknowledge God voluntarily in their schools; and that all public schools shall display the Bill of Rights of the United States Constitution.".

“Students would be assured the right to pray and acknowledge God on a voluntary basis in public schools so long as their religious expression is not disruptive and conforms to the parameters placed on any other free speech in similar circumstances,” Representative McGhee asserts. “Students would also be guaranteed the right to share their religious beliefs in written or oral school assignments free from any recrimination based on the religious content of their work.”

Last night, May 18, I attended the evening MODOT meeting held at the Perryville Park Center. This was an informative meeting, and I think they are making some wise, well-thought-out decisions. It is always hard to loose things in your districts. My district is closing one maintenance shed in Perry County, which I'm not happy about but, if we are truly serious about spending less money, then hard choices have to be made. MODOT is scaling down state-wide from 10 to 7 districts. This will mean significant changes will occur. MODOT is also making changes in Jefferson City. This is a good sign particularly since as citizens we need to know that the MODOT officials making these changes are not staffing state jobs at the expense of local ones. I also want my constituents to know that no jobs in the area of local maintenance personnel will be lost.

Speaking of MODOT, link here to find surplus items for sale: MODOT Surplus Auctions
And for nation-wide items scope out this site, Gov Deals, where you can find all sorts of equipment and items for sale from governmental entities!

STATE –WIDE NEWS

A major change in a specific Medicaid service for those seniors and adults with disabilities is scheduled to take place May 19. The change applies to those who are Medicaid beneficiaries that need and choose services of the Home and Community Based Services Program (HCBS) as an alternative to facility placement. Some examples of these services include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, housekeeping, etc. The DSDS which functions within the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has contracted with SynCare, LLC to assume some responsibilities for the HCBS Program.

If you are a Medicaid recipient of the above mentioned specific services (HCBS), you may have already received a letter in the mail from the Division of Senior and Disability Services (DSDS) regarding this change.

Constituent Corner

I wish to express my heartiest congratulations to all the Saxony Lutheran, Jackson, Oak Ridge and Perryville High School grads. May all your hard work and aspirations produce for you a “dream-come-true” future filled with excitement and success.

Three ways to contact me:

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

Dempsey: Missouri Senate Completes Successful Legislative Session

Last Friday marked the end of the 2011 regular session of the Legislature in Jefferson City. Looking back over the past five months, I am pleased to report that by the time the final gavel fell, the Senate had accomplished many of our objectives.

One of the main achievements of this session was the passage of a $23 billion state budget. Not only was this budget passed on time and without increasing taxes, it also reflected the Legislature’s strong commitment to education – even in a historically poor economic environment. The same could not be said for some of our sister states who found it necessary to balance their budgets on the backs of their citizens by raising taxes. For example, both Illinois and Connecticut have raised taxes this year.

From the outset, it was our priority to improve Missouri’s economic climate and help create jobs for our citizens. The Senate moved with purpose and speed to pass legislation to do just that by our spring break in mid-April.

One such measure was a bill [SB19] to eliminate regressive double taxation on businesses that will help create much-needed jobs. This bill has been signed by the governor and will soon begin to take effect.

Two other proposals we acted on promptly this session were bills to curb lawsuit abuses against Missouri employers and legislation to protect employees from being sued by their coworkers. Unfortunately, in spite of our work on these measures, they will not ultimately become law this year. The first bill [SB188] was vetoed by the governor and the other [SB8] did not receive a final vote by the Missouri House of Representatives. While these outcomes were disappointing, I am hopeful these subjects can be revisited in the near future.

On the positive side, we were able to hammer out a compromise bill [HB163] that will help restore Missouri’s unemployment fund to solvency. This move will reduce the inevitable pressure by some to increase the fees on Missouri employers, large and small.

We were also able to pass bills [SB3] to shore up the integrity of our elections by requiring voters to show a photo ID – a measure [SJR2] that will be put before voters at the ballot box next year. As part of this effort, we also changed the law to make it more convenient for voters who need to vote prior to Election Day.

In addition, bills were sent to the governor’s desk to prevent late-term abortions in Missouri [HB213], require welfare recipients to be tested for drug use [HB73], and crack down on those who engage in the forced trafficking of other human beings [HB214].

This is only a sampling of the important Legislative proposals that were approved by the House and Senate over the past few months. Space does not permit a more thorough discussion, but I will continue to share highlights of the 2011 session in future columns.

I always appreciate hearing from you. If you have any questions about these or any other issues, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Engler: Final Gavel Falls on 2011 Legislative Session

The 2011 legislative session is officially over. Unless the governor decides to call back the Legislature for a special session, Senate and House members will not return to the Capitol as a group until veto session in September. In the following weeks, the main focus will be the actions of the governor, who must veto or sign the legislation passed by the General Assembly before the constitutional July 14^th deadline. Any legislation that he does not sign or veto will go into law on its effective date.

The Legislature gave final approval to 147 bills this session: 46 Senate bills and 101 House bills. These bills include omnibus transportation (HB 439) and crime (HB 111) legislation, as well as legislation dealing with voter ID (SB 3 and SJR 2), lowering the age for concealed carry permits (HB 294), and phasing out the corporate franchise tax (SB 19). A full list of legislation that has been approved by both the House and Senate is available here. You can also view the governor’s actions on these bills here.

Of the legislation I proposed this year, I am proud that several key measures were passed by the General Assembly and now await action from the governor. This includes Senate Bills 282 and 226, which I discussed in my column last week. Other legislation that I proposed that was sent to the governor includes:

• Senate Bill 96, which conveys state property, including several properties in St. Francois County. This bill contains an emergency clause and will go into effect with the governor’s signature.
• Senate Bill 97, which conveys property located at the Southeast Missouri Mental Health Center to the city of Farmington and the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.
• Senate Bill 117, which addresses an issue in Iron County. It allows the county hospital to ask the voters to approve a sales tax to pay down debt acquired in the hospital’s first years. This is essential to the viability of the county and the hospital, which is why I support letting this issue go to the people for a vote.
• House Bill 552, which I handled in the Senate, would establish rules governing the standard of care for pharmacies dispensing blood clotting therapies. The bill would also add blood clotting product-related services to those covered under MO HealthNet.

Throughout the interim, please feel free to contact my office if you need any assistance with a service of state government or have any questions about legislation we have passed.

Neth: You're Invited! Town Hall Forum

Please mark your calendar and plan to attend the
TOWN HALL FORUM - End of Session Wrap Up
Hosted By: State Representative Myron Neth

Liberty Community Center - Red Room
Thursday, June 2, at 7:30 pm
Open to the Public

Representative Neth will give an overview of the session and will take questions from the public. This will be an excellent opportunity to learn about what your state government did or did not get accomplished this year. A constituent case worker will be available for any issues or problems with state government you may have.

Torpey: Partial List of Truly Agreed Bills

At left: My wife Julie and sons, Hayden and Dawson, were able to join me for the end of my first session in the Missouri House.

A Special Note

It’s hard to believe that session has already come to an end. After hitting the ground running as a freshman legislator, I have come to realize that time in Jefferson City seems to run on a completely different schedule. It seems as though we put in endless hours on the floor, while only churning out a few pieces of passed legislation. As I continue my time in the House next session, I truly hope that we can continue to pass meaningful legislation for the state of Missouri and the great people who reside here.

With tremendous bipartisan effort and countless hours of debate and conference meetings, we were able to garner huge support for the FY 2012 Balanced Budget, with no tax increases, and pass Redistricting in historic fashion. I am so proud off all the efforts put forth to make this year’s session a success. Both sides of the aisle worked diligently to make this happen and all deserve credit. Missourians should be proud of the leadership displayed to the entire state by our elected legislators.

2011 Legislative Session continues

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

At right: It is a longstanding tradition for legislators to throw all of their papers in the air once session has ended on our final day.

• HB 73, which would require certain applicants for and recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program benefits to be tested for illegal drug use and the benefit card to include a photo of the recipient or payee.
• HB 213, which would specify that no late-term abortion of a viable unborn child can be performed or induced except in certain specified situations.
• HB 214, which would change the laws regarding human trafficking, creating harsher penalties for offenders.
• HB 641, which would change the laws regarding controlled substances.
• HJR 2, which proposes a constitutional amendment guaranteeing a citizen’s right to pray and worship on public property and reaffirming a citizen’s right to choose any or no religion.
• HB 294, which would change the laws regarding firearms, ammunition, and concealed carry endorsements.
• SB 3, which would establish photo identification requirements for voting and requirements for advance voting.
• SJR 2, which would allow enabling legislation for advance voting and photographic identification for voting.
• SB 54, which would create the Amy Hestir Student Protection Act and establish the Task Force on the Prevention of Sexual Abuse of Children.
• HB 89, which would change the laws regarding deposits into the State Park Earnings Fund, notice requirements of the Clean Water Commission, and certain water pollution control fees.
• HB 458, which would establish the Missouri Farmland Trust Act to receive donated land to preserve it as farmland and provide beginning farmers an opportunity to farm through low and variable cost leases on the land.
• HB 101, which would allow any winery, distillery, manufacturer, wholesaler, or brewer or designated employee, to provide beverage samples on certain licensed retail premises for tasting purposes.
• HB 151, which would authorize an individual or corporation to designate all or a portion of his or her income tax refund to the Organ Donor Program or to send a separate check with the payment of his or her taxes.
• HB 412, which would define “legend drug” as it relates to regulating wholesale drug distributors.
• HB 223, which would establish the Nursing Education Incentive Program and authorize a nonrenewable advanced placement grant to certain recipients of financial aid under the A+ Schools or Access Missouri programs.
• HB 300, which would establish the Interscholastic Youth Sports Brain Injury Prevention Act which requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to develop guidelines on the risk of concussion and brain injury.
• HB 344, which would establish the Farm-to-Table Advisory Board to increase awareness of local agriculture and promote the incorporation of locally grown agricultural products into school and state institution cafeterias.
• HB 431, which would change the laws regarding foster care and adoption and establish the Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board and a task force on foster care recruitment, licensing, and retention.
• HB 555, which would change the laws regarding individuals with disabilities.
• HB 1008, which would allow the Highways and Transportation Commission to enter into infrastructure improvement agreements to reimburse funds advanced for the benefit of a county, political subdivision, or private entity.
• SB 118, which would modify provisions relating to loans available for sprinkler system requirements in long-term care facilities.
• SB 187, which would modify the laws regarding nuisances and junkyards.
• SB 320, which would modify provisions relating to domestic violence.
• SB 282, which would move the presidential primary from February to March.
• SB 62, which would allow providers to include any retrieval fee for outsourced records storage service in the fee for release of medical records.
• HB 45, changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act which provides an income tax deduction for certain small businesses that create new full-time jobs.

This is a highlight of bills TAFP, not a complete list. For a complete list of bills passed by the House, visit the Missouri House of Representatives, information page by clicking here.

Actions This Session: By the numbers

# House Bills Filed: 1,060
# House Bills Reported Do Pass: 214
# House Bills Reported Do Pass with Consent: 100
# House Bills Perfected: 207
# House Bills Third Read: 111
# House Bills Reported Do Pass in the Senate: 161
# House Bills Third Read in the Senate: 72
# House Bills Truly Agreed and Finally Passed 102

Word of the Week

Special Session: A convening of the Legislature called by the Governor or a majority of the members of the Legislative Assembly, at a time other than during a regular session. Typically, special sessions of the Legislature are called for the purpose of addressing a specific state problem or issue. The Missouri House of Representatives will be meeting for a special session in September, also known as Veto Session.

In Other News

At right: We were sad to say goodbye to my 2011 legislative intern, Stephanie. We wish her much luck in the future as she plans to study abroad in the Netherlands.

Although I will be in district nearly all of the summer months, you are more than welcome to visit my office in Jefferson City. My legislative aide, Amanda, will be in town to aid you in tours, scheduling, and so on. Please feel free to call my office to schedule a visit or if you have any questions.

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.

Serving you as always,
Noel Torpey

Mayer: Town Hall Tour in 25th Senatorial District Scheduled

JEFFERSON CITY – Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, will soon begin holding town hall meetings across the 25^th Senatorial District to take citizens’ questions and discuss the General Assembly’s accomplishments during the 2011 legislative session.

“I hope people will come out and meet me during these meetings, which will provide beneficial information to Missourians about the laws passed by their elected officials in Jefferson City this year,” said Sen. Mayer. “I will also be available to answer questions about your state government and take your recommendations on how we can better serve you in the State Capitol.”

For more information on the town hall meetings listed below, please contact Sen. Mayer’s Capitol office at (573) 751-3859.

Thursday, May 19 Portageville Police Department 201 E. Main St. 10:00 a.m. New Madrid Community Building 1199 Mill St. 1:00 p.m. Dexter Chamber of Commerce 515-B W. Market St. 4:30 p.m.

Monday, May 23 Malden Chamber of Commerce 607 N. Douglas 10:00 a.m. Kiwanis (American Steakhouse) in Dexter 1422 W. Business Hwy. 60 12:00 p.m. First Methodists Church Hospitality Room in Kennett 300 College 2:30 p.m. Caruthersville Community Center 1101 Carlton 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 24 Caring Communities Building in Doniphan 209 Highway St. 10:00 a.m. TRCC in Poplar Bluff 2080 Three Rivers Blvd. 1:30 p.m. Piedmont Chamber of Commerce 215 S. Main 4:30 p.m.

Nolte: Kansas City, Missouri, Selected for Google Fiber Launch

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – State Rep. Jerry Nolte, R-Gladstone, joined Mayor Sly James in the announcement today that Kansas City, Missouri has been selected as one of the first locations for Google’s new fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) service. Kansas City was selected from among nearly 1,100 communities that submitted applications for the service. Nolte said Kansas City was selected because Google sees the location as an opportunity to build efficiently, make an impact on the community and work collaboratively with local stakeholders.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the Kansas City metropolitan area and something I am extremely excited about,” said Nolte. “To be selected from among the many applicants is a great accomplishment for Kansas City and a great indicator of the potential we have as a city. Google is making a significant investment in our community that will greatly improve our Internet capabilities. In turn I am hopeful it will lead to additional economic growth and job creation as new businesses and entrepreneurs relocate here.”

Nolte said Google plans to break ground by the end of the year and plans to begin offering the service in 2012. The plan must still be approved by the city council.

Nolte said the Google Fiber service will provide communities with access more than 100 times faster than what most Americans have today.

Hoskins: Session Involved More Discussions, Snow

The 2011 legislative session came to a close last Friday. It seems like January was just a few days ago. I seem to recall a whole lot of snow before we’ve finally gotten to enjoy peonies, irises, and green grass. What a winter we’ve had!

This makes my third legislative session and with each session, I learn more and more. This session has been a little different than the first two in that as a body, we were working on legislation earlier in the session than has previously been the case. We were debating legislation sooner and in much greater detail.

In the near future, I plan to report in some detail the high points of this session. Another important thing that made this session more involved for me has been my responsibility as chairman of the committee for Appropriations – Transportation and Economic Development. I had a good mix of membership on this committee allowing us to get our work done efficiently in preparation to refer the budgets for the agencies we heard for the Budget Committee

Visitors to the Capitol

The Holden 4^th grade toured the Capitol, the Mansion, the Supreme Court, and the Highway Patrol this week. I think it was kind of surprising to them to see so much happening and the bells ringing so often while they were here. Every time there’s a vote in the House, a bell rings that sounds like a school bell so we know to cast a vote. There are always a large number of roll call votes in the final days of the session meaning there was bell after bell. I suspect those bells made the students feel like they were still in school.

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. It is genuinely a privilege to serve as your state representative.

Tilley: An Ecclesiastical Recap Of The Session

There is a time for everything, and a season for everything as the saying goes and this past legislative session definitely seemed like a new season. I am proud of the progress and changes we were able to make on behalf of Missouri families and the citizens of this state. It is hard to believe, but just five and a half months ago we started our weekly journey to the state capitol through the snow and cold weather.

Today however, spring is here and as a new season shares its rejuvenation we in the general assembly feel there is a lot of rejuvenation in store for our state. When we began session, we started with our pledge to live within our means, keep taxes low, and balance our state budget. We have successfully completed all of those things changed the culture in Jefferson City as well. We started sooner than ever before, gave the minority party more power and a greater voice, and ushered in a new era of greater responsibility among elected officials.

Throughout this session our top priority was creating jobs for Missouri and we successfully passed measures that would reduce regulations and cut down on frivolous lawsuits for small businesses and family farms. We even cut taxes for some small businesses.

We also continued to fight for Missouri taxpayers by requiring drug test for welfare recipients so we know our tax dollars are used to provide a hand up and not a hand out. In addition, we went after the worst of the worst and toughened penalties on those who attempt to use human trafficking as profiteering venture. Finally, we took a strong stand for the unborn and defined what a viable life in Missouri actually is.

I was also proud we were able to champion a number of responsibility measures by ensuring that Missourians must use a photo ID when they vote, so our elections will be free of fraud.

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

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

Korman: Final Week In Session Similar To Finals Week At College

The final week was a whirlwind of activity, thus the delay in the weekly Capitol Report. It felt a little like finals week in college with time running short and many bills to pass (papers to finish), but crunch time came with plenty of items finally agreed to and sent to the Governor’s desk for approval.

I’ll mention a couple in this week’s report and cover a few more in next week’s report. Working with the Senate, we Truly Agreed and Finally Passed House Bill 73 which would require certain applicants for and recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program benefits to be tested for illegal drug use and the benefit card to include a photo of the recipient or payee.

We also passed a constitutionally sound late term abortion bill with HB 213 which would specify that no abortion of a viable unborn child can be performed or induced except in certain specified situations.

Another bill I would like to touch on is HB 344 which would establish the Farm-to-Table Advisory Board to increase awareness of local agriculture and promote the incorporation of locally grown agricultural products into school and state institution cafeterias.

Two issues that would have been nice to accomplish would have been the Nuclear Early Site Permit legislation and the Aerotropolis legislation; each of these had resistance to some of the details that couldn’t get worked out in time before Session ended Friday.

I’ll send out a more in depth report this summer with a wrap-up of session highlights.

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

Working for you,
Bart Korman

Mayer: Session Scorecard and Upcoming Town Hall Meetings

Op. note: Senate Bill 161 is incorrectly referred to in this missive as House Bill 161.

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As the 2011 Legislative Session came to a close Friday evening, it was clear we advanced a number of key. This was possible because senators worked together to find common sense solutions to the problems that face the people of Missouri.

We began this session with two goals – passing a balanced budget Missouri taxpayers could sustain without a tax increase and putting people back to work. The Senate worked together to pass a balanced budget on-time that protects taxpayers, passed several job creation initiatives, restored funding for K-12 busing and higher education, and crafted a new congressional district map that is fair and equitable.

As the final gavel fell, lawmakers had sent three bills to the governor aimed at assisting businesses in their ability to hire more employees.

The first, Senate Bill 19, has already been signed by the governor. The new law first freezes and then phases out Missouri’s corporate franchise tax over a five-year period. The bill takes effect Aug. 28. By phasing out this double taxation on employers, we eliminate a disincentive that penalized companies for investing more in our state. I was glad the governor joined us in our effort to allow companies to invest in hiring new employees instead of growing government through higher taxes.

Last month, we also passed and the governor signed into law a bill that extended unemployment benefits for more than 10,000 Missouri families who had reached, and those nearing, the 79-week cut-off. House Bill 163 also included a reduction to Missouri’s share of initial unemployment benefits from 26 weeks to 20 weeks. The federal government has spent Missouri businesses into an almost $1 billion debt when it comes to unemployment benefits. With this change, we reduced the future burden on businesses to offset the additional federal taxes that will be placed on Missouri businesses to pay off that debt. But more importantly, this will encourage businesses to hire and expand, creating new jobs.

Our third measure, Senate Bill 188, was unfortunately vetoed by the governor. The bill would change state laws to mirror federal employment laws when it comes to discrimination. We want Missouri employees to be protected from employers who break the law. The best way to do this is by having our inharmonious state laws changed to mirror the provisions set out in the historic Civil Rights Act. The bill would give employers and employees certainty across the board when it comes to their day in court. We will most likely move to override the governor’s veto in the annual veto session held in September.

As I noted last week, we also advanced 13 budget bills totaling $23.2 billion for the fiscal year beginning July 1.

Other bills to advance this session include:

• A ballot question and enabling legislation to let voters decide if Missourians should be required to show photo identification at the polls (SJR2 and SB3);
• “The Missouri Solution” representing a compromise to last year’s Prop B requirements for Missouri dog breeders. The governor signed both SB113 & 95 and HB161 last month.
• Lawmakers passed and the governor signed SB187 ending nuisance lawsuit abuses against Missouri farm families.
• Two identical bills, HB213 and SB65 (that I sponsored), would prevent late-term abortions.
• HB641 outlaws “bath salts,” a synthetic drug that mimics the effects of cocaine, and other controlled substances know as K3 that mimic marijuana.
• HB73 requires drug testing for TANF recipients, with those testing positive to complete a drug treatment program and not test positive again in order to regain their benefits.
• And HB412 extends the sunset on the Missouri Prescription Drug Program that assists more than 225,000 Missouri low-income seniors and the disabled in purchasing drugs under the Medicare Part D program. Full funding, or $19.6 million, was included in the budget.

I will be holding town hall meetings across the 25^th Senatorial District in the coming weeks. At these meetings I will be available to answer questions about our session’s successes and look forward to your input on how we can better serve you in Jefferson City. I hope to see you at one of the town hall meetings listed below. Please contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-3859 for more information.

Thursday, may 19 Portageville Police Department 201 E. Main St. 10:00 a.m. New Madrid Community Building 1199 Mill St. 1:00 p.m. Dexter Chamber of Commerce 515-B W. Market St. 4:30 p.m.

Monday, may 23 Malden Chamber of Commerce 607 N. Douglas 10:00 a.m. Kiwanis (American Steakhouse) in Dexter 1422 W. Business Hwy. 60 12:00 p.m. First Methodist Church Hospitality Room in Kennett 300 College 2:30 p.m. Caruthersville Community Center 1101 Carlton 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 24 Caring Communities Building in Doniphan 209 Highway St. 10:00 a.m. TRCC in Poplar Bluff 2080 Three Rivers Blvd. 1:30 p.m. Piedmont Chamber of Commerce 215 S. Main 4:30 p.m.

I will continue to keep you apprised of issues important to the people of the 25^th Senatorial District and all Missourians. Please feel free to contact me throughout the year with any comments or questions using the information listed below and on my website at www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.

Holsman: Town Hall Announcement, End of Session Report

Join Me for a Community Discussion

WHO:
Missouri citizens willing to give up an hour on a Wednesday night to discuss the completed Missouri Legislative Session

WHAT:
Town Hall Meeting

WHEN:
Wednesday, May 25th 2011
6:00 - 7:00 PM

WHERE:
Center Middle School
326 E 103rd
Kansas City MO

WHY:
End of Session Report
2012 Budget Update
45th House Redistricting Map
South Kansas City Police Report
Local School District Updates

If you have any questions, please contact my legislative assistant in our Capitol office at (573) 751-6607.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in Jefferson City.

Warmest regards,
Jason R. Holsman

Staff Change

I wanted to thank my Legislative Assistant Ryan Burke for all his hard work this past session. Starting June 1st Ryan will be taking a full time position in Kansas City. Good luck Ryan!

Taking over the legislative assistant responsibilities is Dan Bryar. The next legislative update will feature a proper introduction along with updated contact information.

End of Session Quick Summary - Courteous of Stl Beacon

Gov. Nixon congratulates Rep. Holsman on passing HB 1848 -creating the Joint Committee on Urban Agriculture in 2010. The committee was reauthorized this session in SB356 until 2013.

It will take a few weeks to go through everything that was passed this session. Missouri House Publications Staff will produce a detailed report sometime in June. Once we have had a chance to go through all of the truly agreed legislation then we will send out an official "End of Session Report". In the meantime, here is a very well done snap shot with corresponding links. Thank you Jason Rosenbaum.

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Legislative Score Card

By Jason Rosenbaum, special to the Beacon
Legislative scorecard: Bills that passed, bills that failed
Updated 10:25 am Sat., 5.14.11

As the Missouri legislative session wound to an end, pending bills faced a last-minute reprieve or final death. Here's a partial list of some of the major issues that the General Assembly acted on, or deferred.

Among the bills that failed to pass

• Site permit legislation that could lead to the construction of a second nuclear power plant in Callaway County. (Read the Beacon's story: Bill allowing Ameren to recoup costs for site permit appears dead this session) - the Renewable Energy Act also failed along with the Site permit language
• It came right down to the wire, but a bill to allow St. Louis to take local control of its police force failed. (Read the Beacon's story: Legislature fails to pass tax credits for Lambert development, denies local control of St. Louis police)
• Tax credits of $360 million to help Lambert airport develop its "big idea" to become a China Hub -- air freight center for Chinese goods and shipment of Midwestern goods to China.
• So-called 'right to work' legislation to bar union shops in which all workers at a business must pay dues if a majority have voted to be represented by a union. (Read the Beacon's story: Missouri Senate holds first 'right-to-work' debate)
• An expansion of charter schools and alterations to public school tenure.
• A prescription requirement for pseudoephedrine, an ingredient in cold medications that is commonly used to make meth.
• Requirements that initiative petitions contain more signatures, and come from more congressional districts, to get on proposed statutes or constitutional amendments on the ballot. (Read the Beacon's story: Senate kills effort to stiffen requirements for initiative petition.)
• Giving the city of St. Louis control over its police department. (A recent Beacon story: Missouri Senate appears ready to approve local control of St. Louis police
• Tax credits that would have supported a China hub at Lambert: China hub debate moves to Jefferson City

Among the measures that passed

• The state's roughly $23 billion budget, approved by the General Assembly and sent to Gov. Jay Nixon one day before the May 6 deadline. (Read the Beacon's story: Legislature outspends Nixon in new budget, cuts out mansion chef)
• Compromise legislation, already signed by Nixon into law, that changes the state's dog-breeding regulations and drop some of the more restrictive requirements approved by Missouri voters last fall with the passage of Proposition B. (Read the Beacon's story: Legislature passes bill weakening Prop B's limits on dog breeding; bill now goes to Nixon)
• A new map for the state's remaining eight congressional districts, which will go into effect with the 2012 election. The map eliminates one district -- that of U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan, D-St. Louis. Nixon vetoed the map, and the General Assembly swiftly overrode him. (Read the Beacon's stories: Missouri Legislature overrides governor's veto of redistricting map; Nixon explains why he vetoed congressional redistricting map; Proposed new legislative boundary lines touch off furor among many incumbents.)
• A gradual phase-out of the state's franchise tax, a levy on corporation assets.
• An extension to the MoRX program, which provides prescription drug coverage for people age 65 and over.
• Limits on so-called "nuisance lawsuits" filed against farming and livestock operations. Nixon vetoed the first version to get through the legislative but approved a compromise measure.
• A wide-ranging firearms bill that, among other things, lowers the age to procure a conceal and carry permit from 23 to 21. (Read the Beacon's story: House sends bill to governor lowering minimum concealed-carry age to 21)
• Moving the state's presidential primary from February to March. Such a move was done to avoid penalties imposed by both major parties. (Read the Beacon's story: Missouri moves 2012 presidential primary to March)
• Restrictions on abortions for pregnancies over 20 weeks of gestation. While Nixon has yet to take action on two identical bills, the legislation passed by veto-proof margins in both chambers. (Read the Beacon's story: With veto-proof majorities, legislature passes new abortion restrictions)
• Incentives to keep open the Doe Run smelter in Jefferson County.
• Drug testing for welfare recipients. Read the Beacon's story:General Assembly approves bill mandating drug-testing for welfare recipients
• Changes in the state's anti-discrimination and whistleblower laws, to make it harder for individuals to sue. Nixon already has vetoed the bill. (Read the Beacon's stories: Nixon vetoes Human Rights Act changes; Changing Missouri Human Rights Act: Reform or regression?; So-called Enterprise bill would weaken protections for whistleblowers)

Tishaura Jones: Productive Session Despite The Odds

Several health care measures Jones sponsored await governor’s signature

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The General Assembly has granted final approval to legislation sponsored by Assistant House Minority Leader Tishaura Jones, D-St. Louis, that is estimated to raise between $30,000 and $35,000 a year for the Breast Cancer Awareness Fund through the sale of a specialty Missouri license plate. Jones added the cancer awareness provision as an amendment to a larger bill on transportation issues, House Bill 430.

Under Jones’ provision, vehicle owners could obtain special Breast Cancer Awareness license plates for an additional $25 on top of regular vehicle license and registration fees. The proceeds from the plates would be used to provide breast and cervical cancer screenings for low-income women ages 40-49 through the Show Me Healthy Women Program as administered by the Missouri Department of Health.

“Breast and cervical cancer has impacted thousands of Missouri families and raising awareness is vital to prevention and early detection,” Jones said. “This legislation will allow Missourians to provide needed support for breast and cervical cancer awareness efforts.”

Misty Snodgrass of the American Cancer Society of Missouri said: "We applaud Rep. Jones efforts and leadership to ensure that the funds received from the breast cancer awareness plates will go towards life-saving cancer screenings."

On the last day of the 2011 legislative session, the General Assembly granted final approval to extending the Missouri Rx Plan, which was scheduled to expire on Aug. 28. About 226,000 low-income senior citizens and disabled Missourians would have lost their prescription drug benefits without passage of the renewal legislation. House Bill 412 will extend the Missouri Rx program until Aug. 28, 2014. Jones sponsored a version of the extension legislation.

“Saving the Missouri Rx Plan was among the top tasks facing the General Assembly this year,” Jones said. “I’m pleased we were finally able to get this accomplished and protect prescription drug benefits for nearly a quarter-million Missourians.”

Last but not least, Jones sponsored legislation, House Bill 197, to increase awareness of Umbilical Cord Blood donation by having the Department of Health place information on its website and encouraging physicians to give information about the options of public and private donation to their pregnant patients in their third trimester.

“I donated my son’s cord blood, and it gives me a sense of security knowing that it’s there if he should ever need it,” Jones said. “Also, it’s important that more women and families know of the life-saving benefits of cord blood storage and donation.”

All three bills are awaiting the governor’s signature to become law.

Lant: Lessons Learned Even On Final Day Of Session

Whew! The week is finally over and with it went the 2011 Legislative Session. The Session officially ended Friday the 13th. at 6:00 P.M. We had our final vote at 5:58 P.M. which I find, is not all that unusual. The last week turns into a frenzied activity of hearing bills, voting, sending bills back with amendments, getting back refused bills, assigning conference committees, voting once again and finally passing the bill (or not). Reality starts to sink in when you see a Legislator in his seventh year with a huge smile, bragging that he passed a bill that he has only been working on for six years! This has truly been a learning experience for me.

This has, however, been a monumental year for Missourians'. Our leadership team changed the culture of Jefferson City for the better by including the minority in every way. We appointed a number of Democrats to chair substantive committees. This instantly improved the tone between the parties and we were able to accomplish things a lot quicker and without nearly as much useless debate. The co-chairman of the Budget Committee was once the Budget Chair for the Democrats years ago before term limits and he brought invaluable insights to the process. We passed a balanced budget overwhelmingly and did not increase the tax burden on already economically strapped citizens. The most impressive thing I found in this budget was our ability to hold the funding for K-12 schools at 2011 levels while providing an increase for transportation.

We took steps to clean up election fraud by requiring a photo ID [SJR2] and required welfare recipients to submit to drug testing [HB73]. We increased transparency in healthcare costs to recipients and toughened penalties for human trafficking.

We overwhelmingly passed by 117 to 30 a right to life bill [HB213] that bans certain types of late term abortions and protected our seniors with an extension of the Missouri Rx plan for 200,000 older Missourians.

We were not afraid of the tough issues. We worked with every Missouri stakeholder and crafted a "fix" to Prop.B [SB161] EVERY Missouri animal rights group and EVERY Missouri agricultural and dog breeding group ALL supported the final legislative solution. The Governor signed this effort and dogs will be MUCH better protected, not just at licensed breeding facilities, but at all locations, while good, law abiding breeders will be allowed to stay in business.

We made Missouri history by overturning a veto by the Governor that would have put
Congressional redistricting in the hands of unelected judges instead of the representatives of the people. We now have a fair map [HB193] that is approved by all the Congressmen and Women as well as all the General Assembly.

On the jobs front, we passed numerous pieces of legislation designed to improve our ability to compete for jobs. Elimination of the Corporate Franchise Tax [SB19] was certainly a step in the right direction and HB45 provides additional incentives for employers to provide health benefits to new employees and to create new jobs. Some of the more aggressive reforms passed by the House didn't make it through the Senate, but we are already preparing for next Session.

In the coming weeks my reports will contain the reports on bills signed into law by the Governor. I am also planning to give you some insight on the inner workings of the Missouri Legislature as seen from the eyes of a Freshman. Jane and I plan to attend as many functions in the district as possible this summer and I look forward to seeing you then. Meanwhile, my L.A., Beverly, is in the Jefferson City office and I can be reached at (417) 437-8223, or by E-mail at lantsfeed{at}netins{dot}net Meanwhile, I am, and remain, in your service,
Bill Lant

Sater: Session Recap

This year’s session is now officially over, unless the Governor brings us back for a Special Session. He was a little disappointed that we did not pass an economic jobs bill. So was I, but the Senate and House could never come together. We will not come back unless there is an agreement made before we convene. It would be a waste of taxpayer money if all we did was come to Jefferson City, debate, and not get a bill finalized. However, we did pass a bill [SB19] to eliminate the Corporate Franchise Tax. This is a huge step for business development in Missouri and will ensure future job growth.

It was an interesting mix of legislation this year. We fixed Prop B. [SB161] If it hadn’t been fixed, thousands of jobs would have been lost in Missouri. The changes provide better protections for dogs while allowing good dog breeders to stay in business. Every Missouri animal rights group, every Missouri agricultural organization, and all dog breeding groups supported the final legislation.

Senate Joint Resolution 2 was passed and dealt with voter identification. We want everyone to have a right to vote, plus ensure that every voter casts only one vote. This bill will go before the people for a vote.

We passed a good right to life bill, HB 213. Any abortion procedure over 20 weeks after conception will be prohibited, there are also stipulations regarding a second physician and the viability of the child outside the womb. Ending the life of a child struggling to live is wrong.

Every 10 years the federal government does a census and it is the legislature’s duty to redraw the congressional districts. Since Missouri did not grow as much as other parts of the nation, we lost a congressional seat and now have only 8 seats. We passed the map [HB193] out of the Senate and House, but the Governor vetoed it. However, we had enough votes in the House, including 4 Democrats, to override the veto. This is a rare thing to accomplish and has not been done more than a few times in the last 30 years.

Cassville once again experienced some flooding because of over 10 inches of rain. It certainly could have been worse. The new bridges over Flat Creek kept the water flowing. But there was just too much water and it spread out even over parts of Main Street. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is waiving specific solid waste and air pollution regulations. This will give Barry County some flexibility in cleaning up. The waiver which includes Barry County will allow vegetative waste which normally is excluded from permitted sanitary landfills, to be taken to such landfills if the landfill agrees to accept the waste.

I will be talking about other legislation including some of my own in upcoming articles. If you have any questions about the legislation focused on in this Straighttalk or any other legislation, feel free to inquire and I will get back with you.

Sater: This Week In The Missouri House, Issue 18

FYI…DS

[Click here to read]

Davis: Progress In First Session

At left: Receiving the Freshman Legislator of the Year award for protecting Missouri Citizens Personal Freedoms from our Speaker, Steve Tilley

“I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living, it's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, and that enables you to laugh at life's realities.” –Dr. Seuss

As this session wound down to and end, I found myself reflecting on my first legislative session in the Missouri House. There have been some absolutely wonderful days and some tough strenuous ones. I have met some great people and make some lifelong friends. But when we came down to the last second, I realize how good of a year we had. We protected babies from partial birth abortions. We allowed our law abiding citizens to expand their 2nd amendment rights. We balanced the budget without raising taxes (something the federal government hasn’t been able to say, in years.) We provided funding for our seniors who need help purchasing the medication the truly need. And the list goes on for some of the good things we have done.

Unfortunately we were not able to get some other good things done. With the energy situation we are currently in, we were unable to start the permit process for the nuclear facility at the Calloway plant in Fulton, Mo. We worked really hard at getting the “Early Site Permit” through but the Senate messed this up really bad. The House passed the legislation 3 months ago but the Senate, in their typical slow fashion, was debating it up until the last 15 minutes of session. With our coal plants reaching “Old Age”, we need to do something quick. It will take from 6 to 10 years to build a new nuclear plant and if we don’t start soon, it may be too late for our energy needs will surpass our energy supply. We will then have to purchase energy from other states and that will be much more expensive. We will definitely work on this issue from day 1 next year. The Senate also failed to pass our “Economic Development” legislation the House passed earlier. Because of this, we will most assuredly have a special session this year. One good thing that the Senate delayed was the vote on the statewide pseudoephedrine ban. I originally co-sponsored the bill but as time went on and I got feedback from the citizens in my district and became more educated, I started working against this bill. We do have a problem with the meth labs in our state, let us shut them down and punish the criminals without punishing law abiding citizens who simply want to get the medication they need without drastically increasing the cost to do so. When I give the Senate a hard time, I want everyone to know that OUR Senator did an absolute wonderful job at representing our senatorial district. Senator Ron Richard has done a great job for Southwest Missouri.

The House Pledge

No tax increases, lived within our means, balanced our budget.

Show Me Solutions

We had an aggressive agenda to implement and initiate positive changes for Missouri.

• We cut down on unnecessary regulations on small business and family farms (HB45&SB187)
• We increased oversight and transparency of the budgeting process
• We toughened penalties for ruthless human traffickers (HB214)
• Increased transparency in our healthcare costs to consumers (SB62)
• AND finally increased accountability through drug testing welfare recipients (HB73&47)

Fix the 6

We did all these things, but kept job creation our top priority by working through the proposals put forward by Missouri business advocacy groups.

• The house passed a total of 5 of the 6 of their proposals (HB163,HB162,HB205,HB61,SB8)
• 1/3 of those proposals have already been signed into law by the Governor (HB163 & SB19)

Common Sense Reforms

Amazingly, we didn’t stop there and continued our work to find responsible, common sense solutions to key issues facing Missourians.

• We took an important step in trying to clean up election fraud by passing a measure to let Missourians require a photo ID (SJR2)
• We also removed the potential for impropriety through gubernatorial appointments by requiring statewide elections to fill vacancies instead of repeating a Blagojevich situation. (SB282)
• We passed a reasonable fix to Prop B that will improve the safety and enforceability of animals and bad actors, but also protect our agriculture industry. (SB113)
• We also added protections to students in the classroom by passing SB54
• We extended right to carry laws to 21 year olds and made it consistent with other states (HB294)
• Extended the MO Rx program for nearly 200,000 Missouri seniors (HB412)
• AND passed a fair redistricting map for our state for the next 10 years (HB193)

Changing the Culture of Jefferson City

We started session with a commitment to changing the culture of Jefferson City.

• Chairman and committees were named sooner than ever.
• A number of Democrats were named chairman of substantive committees
• We increased the power of the minority caucus.
• The tone was improved between the majority and minority
• AND the number of lobbyist expenses on our members has reduced significantly.

As we get the final results of the truly agreed and finally passed bills, I will post them in my next Capitol Report. I want to say thank you for all of you who have helped me and prayed for me over the past 5 months. As we enter the interim, I will be asking for all of your input on what we need to plan for next year. It has been a great year and I look forward to a much better year in 2012.