Hoskins: Jet Fuel Tax Extended, Voter ID Advances, Veterans Committee Update

The heat kicked up this week at the Capitol and not just the weather either. As the 96^th General Assembly enters the 6^th week of our second regular session, the transient heat conduction between House Republicans and Democrats has never been greater as we work together to solve Missouri’s most pressing issues.

Representing Johnson County in the 121^st district is an absolute thrill, and I am honored to be working here at the Capitol on behalf of the hard-working citizens back home. Please feel free to visit me here at the Capitol, or contact me through Email or phone. I am working for you, and I care about how you feel.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

On Tuesday the House debated HB 1104; which changes the law regarding elections by requiring a voter to provide photo identification. The Bill specifies that a person seeking to vote in a public election must establish his or her qualifications as a United States citizen lawfully residing in this state by presenting a form of personal identification containing his or her photograph to election officials.

HB 1431, which I sponsored, was voted Do Pass out of the Transportation Committee. HB 1431, the Aviation Jet Fuel Tax bill, extends the expiration date of the provisions allowing aviation jet fuel tax to be averted and deposited into the Aviation Trust Fund. These funds are then used by the regional airports in our district in order to maintain their safe operation. If we were to allow this tax aversion provision to expire, small regional airports would find making the necessary maintenance and repairs impossible.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

On Wednesday, HB 1432 was referred to the Committee on Crime Prevention and Public Safety. The bill, which I sponsored, adds professional therapy dog to the definition of “service dog” as it relates to crimes against these animals or crimes impersonating a disabled person.

Veterans Committee – Week of February 6^th, 2012

As a member of the Veterans Committee, Chaired by Rep. David Day, I voted for the passage of the following pieces of legislation heard in Veterans Committee:

HCR 12 designates the Honor Flag as the State of Missouri’s emblem of service and sacrifice of service men and women that have given their lives in the line of duty.

HB 1128 authorizes the presentation of a Missouri National Guard Overseas Training Ribbon, a Missouri National Guard state partnership Program Ribbon, and the Order of the Minutemen Award.

HB 1347 gives a bidding preference in a state contract for products and services manufactured, produced, or assembled by certain veteran-owned businesses headquartered in Missouri.

HB 1517 authorizes the issuance of a military medal, and certificate to certain veterans who served in specific conflicts regardless of whether they are or ever have been Missouri residents.

They will now move on to the next step in the legislative process.

Important Tax Information

Taxpayers making $57,000 or less can visit www.irs.gov/efile to prepare and E-File federal tax returns for FREE, a landmark partnership between the IRS and tax software providers.

Girls Night Out – February 28, 2012

February 28^th, 2012 marks the third annual fundraiser for the Survival Adult Abuse Center, “Girls Night Out.” The event is from 6:00 pm to 8:30pm at the UCM Union Ballroom. The fundraiser will include vendors, a fashion show, food, and a silent auction. Funds from the event will go toward replacing bedroom furniture and bedding for the shelter. Tickets are $25.00 and are available at the Warrensburg Chamber of Commerce.

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.

Visiting the Capitol

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.

I would like to thank Steve Bush, OATS Midwest Area Manager, and Tracy Walkup, OATS Midwest Regional Director, Scott Sader, Johnson County Eastern District Commissioner, Destry Hough, Johnson County Western District Commissioner, and William Gabel, Johnson County Presiding Commissioner, for visiting last week. This week I would like to thank David Ewing, Kathy Ray-Smith, Karen Hicklin, Carol Smith, Scotty Walker, Janet West, Patricia Antrim, Linda Hoffman, Nicole Fanel, Christiana Rohdough, Arianne Keen, Lani Ward, Jim O’connor, EJ Hans, Gene Reed, Gary Grigsby, Doug Weiss, Sandy Jenkins, Roy Hoard, and Paul Bonhunk, for taking the time to stop by and visit with me here at your Capitol.

While my schedule does not always provide the opportunity to meet with everyone, I certainly appreciate you coming and hope you enjoyed visiting your Missouri Capitol.


Above is a picture of the Warrensburg Veterans Home New Chapel/Solarium Ribbon Cutting Event held on Thursday, February 2, 2012. Thank you to all who were able to attend and a special thanks to our Veterans for their service to our Country.

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.