Hoskins: Remember Dr. King, State Of The State Highlights

The Second Regular Session of the 96^th General Assembly is starting to pick up steam and I could not be more enthusiastic. As bills start to be constructed, I can assure you, I and my colleagues in the Missouri House of Representatives are completely focused on the task at hand; improving the economy of Missouri and creating quality jobs. I am again, honored, to be here at your State Capitol working hard to represent the 121st District.

Monday, January 16, 2012 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day

The Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday celebrates the life and legacy of a man who sowed the seeds of hope and healing in America. We commemorate the timeless values he taught us through his example. Values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility, and service, radiantly defined Dr. King’s character, empowered his leadership, and will forever stand as a shining example of what it means to be a great American. On this holiday, we commemorate the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness, and nonviolence that empowered his spirit.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012 - State of the State Address

A Joint Session in the Missouri House of Representatives Chamber hosted Governor Jay Nixon for his annual State of the State Address. During his speech, Governor Nixon highlighted the ability and success of Missouri State Republicans and Democrats to put partisan politics aside and concentrate on what is best for Missouri.

While, philosophically, there will always be areas of disagreement between Gov. Nixon and I, he demonstrated the ability to recognize some key values of governance which have led to the continued AAA credit rating for the State of Missouri; even though several surrounding states credit ratings have been downgraded. These key values of governance I agree with include:

1. Strict Fiscal Discipline
   1. Balancing our budget
   2. No tax increases
   3. Living within our means
2. Bipartisan Cooperation
   1. Quote from Gov. Nixon in his State of the State address, “Unlike Washington, we’ve worked together like adults.”
3. Creating Jobs
1. Quote from Gov. Nixon, “Unlike Washington, we’ve kept a laser-like focus on job creation.”

Through bipartisan cooperation among your elected officials here in the State of Missouri, we have made the tough decisions required to provide a clear and bright path for future growth in Missouri’s economy, future job creation, and a continued AAA credit rating for the State of Missouri. I look forward to continuing to provide this same type of disciplined, bipartisan, and responsible leadership in the Missouri House of Representatives.

While we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, there is more work to be done. During last year’s State of the State address, Gov. Nixon promised the creation of 20,000 new jobs, yet he fell short by 15,000 jobs. Governor Nixon also recently made his third different appointment in three years to the Missouri State Director of Economic Development position. His new appointee, Jason Hall, succeeds Director Kerr who succeeded Director Martinez. We need stability in the leadership position of Missouri’s Department of Economic Development any we need Governor Nixon to follow through on his promises of job creation.

I was also disappointed in the Governor’s recommendation to cut 12.5% of Higher Education funding from the budget. Rest assured, I realize how valuable the University of Central Missouri and surrounding community colleges are to the area and will work with my fellow members in the House Budget Committee to provide increased funding for Higher Education above the Governor’s recommended cut.

At a time when the economy is stagnant and the unemployment rate remains unacceptably high, Missourians deserve strong, disciplined, responsible leadership. The leadership in the Missouri House remains committed to creating a stable business climate which allows employers to grow, expand, and create good-paying jobs. We plan to continue working alongside our Governor to restore prosperity to the State of Missouri.

Future Reporting

Next week’s capitol report will highlight legislation I am filing and legislation presented, thus far, for debate on the floor of the Missouri House.

Visiting the Capitol

Thank you to all the Realtors whom took the time out from their busy schedules to visit me here at the Capitol. I hope you enjoyed your visit and look forward to meeting with you again. Anytime you find yourself near our Missouri State Capitol (201 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, MO 65101) please feel free to pay a visit. Our state boasts one of the most beautiful Capitol buildings in the nation and you are always welcome.

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. During session or interim, 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.