Davis: First Consent Bills Advance, Midwest Pipeline Through Missouri

One of Missouri’s native sons—the most famous, perhaps—once said, “Sometimes I wonder whether the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on or by imbeciles who really mean it.” Besides giving us some of the greatest written works of all time, Mark Twain certainly had an ability to put a humorous twist on a government and a bureaucracy that has often been downright foolish in some of its operations for well over a century.

The media this past week was replete with news stories calling this week’s presidential primary a “waste of money” or a “beauty contest.” The media focused their outrage on the General Assembly for not acting to save the state $7 million by eliminating the nonbinding primary. However, what is not mentioned is the fact that we passed SB 282 last session. This legislation would have tied the choosing of our delegates to the primary results by moving the election to March as the national parties wished. Unfortunately, the Governor vetoed this important piece of legislation. If the Governor had signed this into law, we wouldn’t have faced losing half of our delegates to the party conventions. Faced with this possibility, the state party decided to choose our delegates through the caucus process ensuring that all of them would be counted. Now, we will rely on the outcome of the party caucuses on March 17 to finish the job. Until that time, it would be good if the media pointed its finger at who really cost the state its presidential primary and the money for the “beauty contest.”

Floor Action This Week

HB 1219, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Elmer (R-141), changes the laws regarding unlawful discriminatory employment practices as they relate to the Missouri Human Rights Act and establishes the Whistleblower Protection Act. This bill corrects inequities that have arisen in our system due to several recent Court decisions over the past several years. The legislation would return Missouri law to the position it used to occupy as a mirror to the federal civil rights law. The proposed legislation would re-establish a level playing field for all employers and employees, allowing employers to properly deal with problem employees while still providing employees the protections they deserve. In this difficult economic environment, where employers are faced with increasing burdens in the areas of taxation, regulation and litigation, we should do all we can to ensure that our small business owners have a level playing field in our State so they can operate in a stable and certain business environment.

HB 1036, sponsored by Rep. Tony Dugger (R-144) repeals the provision that require a political party’s emblem to be printed on an election ballot above the party caption.

HB 1039, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95) allows a retiree of the Missouri Local Government Employees’ Retirement System to have health insurance or long-term care insurance premiums deducted from his or her retirement allowance.

HB 1099, sponsored by Rep. Paul Fitzwater (R-152) designates March 26th of each year as “Veterans of Operation Iraq/Enduring Freedom Day.”

HB 1100, sponsored by Rep. Paul Fitzwater (R-152) designates March 30th of each year as Vietnam Veterans Day.”

HB 1105, sponsored by Rep. David Day (R-148) allows the Adjutant General to waive the maximum age requirement for a member of the state militia.

Additional Items of Interest

Midwest Oil Pipeline


Following President Obama’s rejection of the Keystone XL pipeline, plans for a new Midwestern oil pipeline are being considered along an existing pipeline route, which could make winning approval easier. The proposed pipeline has potential for thousands of construction jobs.

Plans by Enbridge, Inc. to build a 600-mile pipeline from Flanagan, Ill., to Cushing, Okla., would run along an existing pipeline route running diagonally from northeast to west-central Missouri

The company is still soliciting commitments from oil shippers but hopes to begin construction in the middle of 2013 and complete work on the $1.9 billion project a year later.

The pipeline, which also would cut across southeast Kansas, would link to an Enbridge pipeline from Canada to Chicago that carries Canadian crude. The pipeline would cross through 11 Missouri counties. Estimates are that the project could employ 3,400 construction workers for the pipeline and an additional 300 to 400 people for related facilities, such as pump stations. Follow its progress at www.enbridge.com/flanagansouthpipeline

Thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative in Jefferson City. If you have any questions, please feel free to give me a call or better yet, come by the capitol and visit for a while.

Newman: Two Discriminatory Bills Pass House, Third On Its Way, Progressives Introduce Job Creation Counter

Sad to say but I’m not proud of the actions of the Missouri House this past week.

We passed out both of the Discrimination bills…to date (HB1219 and HB1104), as the Democratic caucus refers to them. Yesterday, our entire Democratic Caucus stood strong with 4 hours of rigorous intense arguments to protect Missouri workers and voters. My Democrat colleagues argued loud and passionately, some standing at the mikes for over an hour to be recognized - in efforts to remind the body of potential serious civil rights rollbacks and the consequences.

Arguments made in favor of these were misleading and inaccurate which I believe does not serve well those who trust in us. I was reminded of the quote yesterday…”You are entitled to your own opinion, but not to your own facts”.

HOUSE AGAIN PASSES UNCONSTITIONAL VOTER SUPPRESSION BILL

In what has become an annual ritual, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives passed legislation Thursday that would require voters to show government-issued photo identification at the polls as a condition of ballot even though the Missouri Supreme Court in 2006 ruled that such a requirement violates the voting rights provision of the state constitution.

The bill, HB 1104, was sent to the Senate on a straight party-line vote of 101-54, with Republicans in support and Democrats opposed, after Republicans cut off debate.

As I have been promising you, I argued loud on the floor against voter suppression based on non-existent voter impersonation fraud. I said:

“There is a tidal wave of assault on the right to vote nationwide – last year 34 state legislatures considered limiting voting rights. When voting rights are attacked, they are done to facilitate attacks on other rights: workers, basic women’s rights and labor rights which we’re seeing done here today. This voting rights assault threatens to undermine political participation by blocking access to people of color, the poor, the elderly and the young. Why? Because they simply don’t “vote right”.

MEDIA LINKS HERE AND HERE.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, an estimated 250,000 legally registered Missouri voters don’t have a government-issued photo ID.

Many of those people, through no fault of their own, are unable to obtain a photo ID because the supporting documentation needed to get one, such as a birth certificate, can’t be located by state and county officials because the documents were lost or destroyed or, in the case of many elderly voters, never existed because of record-keeping standards decades ago were spotty in some areas of the state. Many too would have the hardship – time and expense - of locating these required documents with seals including marriage licenses (for those who have changed last names) if they are out-of-state or even out-of-country.

Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, vetoed a similar bill in 2011 and likely would do so again. The General Assembly last year approved a proposed constitutional amendment that would give lawmakers the authority to impose a photo voter ID requirement, but it doesn’t go on the statewide ballot until November. Until and unless Missouri voters ratify the amendment, a photo voter ID requirement remains unconstitutional and unenforceable in Missouri.

HOUSE AND SENATE EACH PASS DISCRIMINATION BILLS

The Senate and House of Representatives have traded legislation to make it easier for employers to escape legal responsibility for engaging in workplace discrimination. The Senate passed its discrimination bill, SB 592, on Feb. 8, while the House followed suit and approved its version, HB 1219, on Feb. 9. The bills now switch chambers.

Both bills would substantially raise the legal bar for bringing claims of unlawful workplace discrimination based on race, gender, age disability or religion. For cases that still manage to make to court, the bills would severely limit the amount of damages victims could recover. Weakening Missouri’s workplace discrimination laws is a top priority for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the state’s other major business groups.

The Senate bill passed on a straight party-line vote of 25-8, with Republicans in support and Democrats opposed. In the House, Republicans had to cut off debate in order to bring the bill to a vote. The bill passed 89-68, with a handful of Republicans joining unanimous Democrats in opposition. Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, vetoed similar legislation last year and has indicated his intent to do so again this year.

And a quote from Majority Floor Leader Rep. Tim Jones –“Missouri court decisions in the last decade have swung the pendulum too far in favor of employees”.

AND YET ONE MORE DISCRIMINATION BILL ON IT’S WAY

HB1541, sponsored by Majority Floor Leader Rep. Tim Jones was heard this week in the House Healthcare Policy Committee which I sat in during a break in my Appropriations Hearings.

This bill specifies that any medical professional, including an individual who may be asked to participate in any way in a medical service, or health care institution where medical services are provided, has the right not to participate in and cannot be required to participate in a medical service, including any phase of patient medical care, treatment, or procedures, that violate his or her conscience including his or her religious, moral, or ethical principles. In addition no medical progression or healthcare institution can be civilly, criminally, or administratively liable for declining to participate in any medical service that violates his or her conscience.

As you can imagine, this proposed legislation is far reaching and could cover a multitude of medical situations where we rely on medical professionals to be ethical.

I thank Dr. Ira Kodner of Washington University, nationally known medical ethics specialist and Dr. Ed Weisbart, retired chief medical officer of Express Scripts for testifying against HB1541 Wednesday in Jefferson City. I truly appreciate that they (accompanied by Ira's wife Barbara) were willing to make the trek from St. Louis to the state Capitol on a work day. They both gave compelling and even chilling arguments why Rep. Jones bill would be detrimental to Missourians who depend on physicians and medical entities to provide care.

You should be watching this legislation (as I will) as it is predicted to move quickly through the House. Did I mention Rep. Jones is the Majority Floor Leader who determines which bills we hear and is slated to become the Speaker of the House in 2013?

AND CHECK OUT THIS NEW SITE – MOGOPJOBCOUNTER.COM

Progress Missouri this week announced the launch of MOGOPJobCounter.com, a new high-tech website to monitor the success of our legislative leaders in passing legislation to create more good-paying jobs for Missourians and advance our economic recovery.

At MOGOPJobCounter.com, concerned citizens, advocates and media can find an exhaustive list of legislation passed by the General Assembly to address the number one issue for Missouri families. The website also includes an advanced, dynamic counter to provide an up-to-the minute summary of how many jobs the Republican leadership is creating.

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.

Korman: Voter ID Passes House, Senate Introduces Tolled I-70 Proposal

Welcome to the Missouri 99^th District’s report on activities of the sixth week of the Session. There was again activity in Appropriations Committees as we heard from the Departments of Natural Resources, Conservation, and Economic Development. Next week in the Appropriations Committees we will begin what is referred to as “mark-up of the bills”. This process involves making changes to departmental budgets presented to Legislators by the Governor.

House Bill 1280, the bill I am sponsoring, establishes a peer review process for services provided design professionals, was passed by the Professional Registration and Licensing Committee this week. I look forward to it continuing to move through the legislative process.

The Missouri House passed House Bill (HB) 1104, PHOTO IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR VOTERS, as part of our Blueprint for Missouri. HB 1104 takes steps to protect the integrity of our elections by requiring voters to prove their identity. This ensures that each eligible person can vote without having their voice diluted by lawbreakers.

Also, passed this week was House Bill 1219, UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATORY EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES that would bring current illegal state unemployment practices in line with current federal discrimination law.

Sens. Mike Kehoe, R-Jefferson City, John Lamping, R-Ladue, and Ryan McKenna, D-Crystal City, began the much needed conversation about ways to address Missouri’s long-term need for transportation infrastructure funding by introducing Senate Bill (SB) 752. SB 752 would authorize the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission to enter into a public-private partnership to finance, reconstruct, and operate I-70. I feel this proposed bill has many problems and is the wrong approach to the I-70 issue. Locally there will be an upcoming Transportation Forum, details forthcoming. This will be an excellent place to express your thoughts.

Next week appears to be as busy as this week as committees are in full swing and debate continues on the House Floor. A House Joint Resolution relating to Veterans will make its way to the Floor. HJR 45 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring the State Lottery Commission to develop and sell a Veterans Lottery Ticket to support the Veterans Commission Capital Improvement Trust Fund.

Neth: Lots Of Visitors, Meetings, Floor Action To Start February

Op, note: House Bill 1104 is misidentified as House Bill 1140. HB1140 requires the Office of Administration to include certain school, municipal and county records on the Missouri Accountability Portal.

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A very busy week. Lots more floor action and lots of meetings and visitors.

On any given day, I have meetings pre-scheduled on my calendar. Of course there is the normal session time each day, but we never know how long it might go so that can throw off the schedule. In addition, there are people and groups that come by my office to discuss issues hoping to catch me in my office or be available. I certainly do my best to meet with everyone I can, but there does come a point at times.

For example, on Tuesday, I had meetings go throughout the lunch hour. It got to about 2:30, people were still coming by and I finally had to tell my assistant to close my door, hold anyone off for at least 15 minutes and I hit the snacks I have in my office. Certainly no complaints- just a snapshot of a little life in the Capitol.

Have a great weekend!

Myron

Update on Legislation

Student lead effort

This week I filed HJR 75 that would allow 17 year old citizens to vote in certain elections if they will be 18 at the the time of the election. This effort was initiated by the AP Government classes at Libety High School and Liberty North High School taught by Kurt Gates. In a prior Capitol Report I went into detail on the effort.

The students have been active in contacting my colleagues in support of this issue and were able to get several co-sponsors for it. At this point, I am asking for a hearing in the Elections Committee (which I am on). I hope to confirm in the next week or so if I will be able to get a hearing and hope to get some of the students to Jefferson City to testify on behalf of the bill.

I have discussed the bill with the Elections Committee chairman and expect to have a hearing on the bill in the next few weeks. We hope to get a few students to come to Jefferson City to testify on its behalf.

Visitors to the Capitol

Lori Streu and her sons Nathan and Garrett came to the Capitol for a visit and tour. Their main purpose was to meet a requirement for Nathans for Boy Scouts. They spend some time in the Chamber seeing the action of the House and then taking a tour of the building. An interesting thing to note is that Lori's grandfather was a legislator in Nebraska.

Marvin Weishaar and Steve Potter stopped by on behalf of Mid Continent Public Library.

This Week in Committee

Elections Committee:

HB 1340 (Hearing): This Bill addresses the issue of vacancies in the offices of County Clerk, Collector, and Assessor and how those offices may be filled. This bill also addresses vacancies with the county Auditor which has been an issue in Clay County before.

HCS HB 1059: Changes the required percentage necessary to initiate a recount of the votes cast in an election. Voted Do Pass Consent (10-0)

HCS HB 1106: Changes the laws regarding county collectors and collector-treasurers. Voted Do Pass Consent (9-1)

HCS HB 1457: Requires a candidate for county treasurer to file a signed affidavit stating that the candidate meets the minimum bond requirements for the office of county treasurer. Voted Do Pass Consent (9-0)

HCS HB 1442: Fills a vacancy in the office of United States Senator, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, or State Treasurer by appointment by the Governor with the rule that the person appointed cannot run for that office at the next election. Voted Do Pass (7-3)

HCS HJR 41: Proposes a constitutional amendment modifying term limits. It would allow someone to serve in the General Assembly for a total of 16 years total in any combination of the House and the Senate. Currently it is limited to 8 years in one and 8 in the other. Still a total of 16 years potentially. (9-1)

Elementary and Secondary Education

HCS HB 1228: Specifies that a student at certain institutions of higher education has the right to record public classroom lectures for his or her personal use. Voted Do Pass (14-4)

Emerging Issues in Animal Agriculture

HCS HB 1444: Prohibits the sterilization, adoption, euthanasia, or other disposal of animals seized or removed from an owner until final disposition of the charges against the owner. Voted Do pass, with amendments.

HCS HJR 61: Proposes a constitutional amendment affirming the right of persons to raise livestock in a humane manner without the state imposing an undue economic burden on their owners. Voted Do Pass (12-0) with amendments

This Week on the House Floor

The following bills were passed out of the House:

HCS HB 1140: Changes the laws regarding elections by requiring a voter to provide photo identification. Passed out of the House.

HB 1219: The would change Missouri law regarding discrimination law and whistleblower protection.

HB 1311: Authorizes a state and local sales and use tax exemption on items related to data storage centers and server farm facilities

Comments on Legislation

I supported HB 1140, voter photo ID and HB 1311 related to Data Centers. The former is supported by a large part of my district and I support personally. The latter is a huge deal for our area given the large amount of underground space available. This is not a give away in my opinion. It has strict limits and requirements for any businesses that would use the program to locate in Missouri.

As I did last year as well, I voted against HB 1219, which related to employment discrimination and whistleblower protection. In my opinion it watered down our discrimination laws and would water down the right to trial by jury. In terms of Whistleblower protection it lessened it by making the it a high bar of proof for anyone who might potentially need that protection. I and 12 other members of the majority voted against our fellow caucus members on this. Not an easy thing to do, but an important line to hold.

Denison: Bills Passed Supporting High-Tech Businesses, Voter ID, Veterans Recognition

“He has a right to criticize, who has a heart to help”. –Abraham Lincoln

Measure to Attract High-Tech Businesses Receives House Approval (HB 1311)

One piece of legislation approved this week in the House is meant to attract high-tech companies to place their data storage centers here in Missouri. This is a booming industry that generates in the neighborhood of $27 billion nationwide. It’s one we want to encourage to come to Missouri because it brings with it jobs that provide good salaries and exceptional benefits. The bill we passed this week would allow companies that operate data centers to be exempt from sales taxes for equipment purchases and utilities. The bill would require a company to make an investment of at least $5 million over a three-year period in order to qualify for the exemption. It’s a plan we hope will provide an additional incentive for businesses to take a closer look at Missouri as a destination. The end result would be more jobs and more revenue to help stimulate our economy.

House Approves Voter ID Measure (HB 1104)

During a week when many Missourians went to the polls to cast their votes, the House passed a bill meant to protect the sanctity of the elections process. The bill would require any Missourian that goes to the polling place to prove they are who they say they are by showing a form of photo identification. It’s a system we hope will prevent voter identity fraud from occurring here in Missouri. And we know fraud occurs here in our state as we have seen where one county in Missouri has 125 percent of its population registered to vote. When you have more voters registered than actual residents, it’s obvious some form of fraud is being perpetrated. By requiring anyone who comes to the polling place to show a photo ID, we can ensure each and every vote that is cast is done so by the actual registered voter. And while some have said this may make it more difficult for some Missourians who don’t currently have photo identification, it’s important to point out that the bill includes several provisions to allow citizens to obtain an ID from the state for free and for older Missourians, who may not have a birth certificate or other documentation necessary to obtain an ID, to vote by provisional ballot. It’s a system in place in the state of Indiana where voter turnout has actually increased since it was enacted. We’re confident the state of Missouri will see the same kind of success if it’s put in place here.

Honoring Our Veterans (HB 1099 and HB 1100)

I was proud to vote for two bills this week designed to pay tribute to the heroic individuals who have sacrificed so much in an effort to help preserve our freedoms. The first bill would designate March 26 of each year as "Veterans of Operation Iraq / Enduring Freedom Day". We have seen so many of our citizens leave the comforts of home and family to serve our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan. As they return home, it is vital that we express our gratitude and appreciation for all they have done. Creating a day in their honor is one way we can show how grateful we are for all they have done. It’s with that same goal in mind that we approved another bill that designates March 30 of each year as "Vietnam Veterans Day" in recognition of the courage and patriotism of those who served during the Vietnam Conflict. It’s important that we acknowledge the sacrifices of the veterans of this war as so many of them were not treated with admiration or respect when they returned home from Vietnam almost four decades ago. By creating a day in their honor we can’t erase the past, but we can say thank you to these patriotic souls for all they have done for our nation. It’s something we should do for all of our veterans, not just on special days of remembrance, but each and every day of the year.

Potential Good News for Higher Education Funding

In a previous report I mentioned the governor’s proposed 12.5 percent cut in funding to our system of higher education. I also mentioned the proposal is not one that House members find acceptable. While we’re committed to finding ways to limit the funding cut to our public colleges and universities, the reality of the budget situation makes it quite a challenge. However, good news came this week as the Missouri Attorney General announced his support for a settlement with one of the nation’s five largest mortgage lenders. The settlement could bring in as much as $40 million for the state in the 2013 budget year. The governor has already proposed putting that money toward higher education. It’s something we in the House will look at very carefully in the coming weeks. First and foremost, we need to make certain that these revenues will in fact be available for the next fiscal year. It’s impossible to balance a budget on money that may or may not be there. But it is good news that additional funds may be available to help reduce any funding cut our colleges and universities may have to endure this year. Also good news is the fact the settlement will potentially result in more than a hundred million dollars being returned directly to mortgage holders in Missouri. It’s something I will follow closely so that I can share additional details with you as they become available.

House Website Improved to Provide New Window into the Legislative Process

Anyone interested in following along with the actions of the Missouri House will now have an unprecedented level of access. The official website of the House now provides information on amendments offered to bills and allows site visitors to see which amendments have been added or defeated during discussion on the House floor. In the past, there was no way to know what kinds of changes lawmakers were proposing to bills or how the bill was changed during the debate process. Now, visitors can see the details of each and every amendment offered on the House floor. It’s a change that provides a new level of transparency for the legislative process and one I hope leads to even more government accountability.

To learn more about the new amendment tracking system, please visit: house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/info/AmendHowTo.htm

Visitors

There were several visitors to the Capitol this week. On Tuesday, February 7^th, Pauline Nugent, Missouri State University, visited my office and discussed funding for higher education.

Also, February 7^th, was Missouri Library Legislative Day, and members of The Missouri Library Association from Springfield; Regina Greer Cooper, Jim Schmidt, Kathleen O’Dell, Renee Brumett, Kelley Johnson, Stephanie Smallwood; and Valerie Richardson, Poplar Bluff, visited my office.

Springfield-Greene County Libraries Visitors, Rep. Denison

On Wednesday, February 8^th, representatives from Missouri State University and the Missouri Association of Nurse Anesthetists, Kristen MacDonald, Judd Winter, Chris Carpenter, Chris Hummel, and Ann Lewis, were at the Capitol to visit legislators and talk about pending legislation regarding chronic pain management.

Nurse Anesthetists, Rep. Denison, Rep. Burlison

On February 8^th, dental hygienists from Ozarks Technical Community College, Jessica Rimel, and Maddison Strasheim; and UMKC dental hygienist Ali Kessler, were at the Capitol to visit legislators and to discuss dental access.

Dental Hygienists, Rep. Denison

On February 8^th, Susan Henderson, MS, Autism Center Director, Burrell Autism Center, and Allyson Ashley, LCSW, ACSW, Vice President Operations, Burrell Behavioral Health, Springfield, were at the Capitol and stopped by my office.

Burrell Behavioral Health Representatives, Rep. Denison, Rep. Burlison

On February 8^th, there were several visitors from Springfield at the Capitol with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to discuss interests of those in the district affected by MS, and they provided information to my office about the programs and services offered throughout Missouri. The visitors were, Mary Heiney, Jason Mysch, Debbie Mellentine, Don Garrett, and Buck Van Hooser.

On February 8^th, the 2012 Missouri Arts Awards were presented during a ceremony in the Rotunda of the State Capitol. Leah Jenkins, Springfield Regional Arts Council, Melissa S. Scott, Glenda Winkle-Morrow, Caitlin Golike, Cassie Walton, Jeana Varney, Merry Yeager, Stephanie Weddell, all from Springfield, and Alex Dulle, Jefferson City, stopped by my office while at the Capitol for the awards presentation.

On Thursday, February 9^th, Buck and Pat Keagy, and Lisa Bakerink with the Bill Rosten Native Butterfly House, Springfield, were in Jefferson City for a public hearing for House Bill 1266. Buck and Lisa testified at the public hearing in support of HB 1266 that would designate the Regal Fritillary as the official state butterfly.

Rep. Denison, Buck Keagy

Rep. Denison, Lisa Bakerink

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.

Dempsey: Citizens from St. Charles County Advocate at the State Capitol

One aspect of my job I particularly enjoy is meeting with constituents who stop by in the District or my Capitol office to discuss issues that are important to them. Since the legislative session began in January, I’ve had the opportunity to visit with many individuals and groups with a wide range of concerns and interests, including realtors, firefighters, anesthetists, dental hygienists, students and business and civic leaders from my District.

Earlier this week I had the opportunity to meet with constituents from People First of St. Charles County and learned about many of the exciting projects this organization is doing to promote self-advocacy, training, quality of life and equal rights for people with developmental disabilities.

This group brought to my attention an important Clean Up Your Language Campaign they are pursuing with the support of the local Developmental Disabilities Resource Board (DDRB) and the St. Charles County Coalition. Together, these organizations are working to focus attention on People First Language and inclusion for people with disabilities so they can live the life they want in the community.

The greatest obstacle facing individuals with disabilities is often old and inaccurate descriptors that perpetuate negative stereotypes and reinforce attitudinal barriers. As part of their Clean Up Your Language Campaign, People First of St. Charles County members are speaking to local municipalities and schools, fire and police stations and libraries to encourage speaking in a way that puts the person before the disability and describes what a person has, not what a person is. One example of People First Language is to say “person with a disability” instead of “disabled” or “handicapped.” This group of constituents also shared information on proposed legislation they are supporting on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

Under our form of government, every Missourian has the right and opportunity to voice their views with their elected representatives. I know I appreciate the time my constituents take out of their busy lives to try and make a difference. I also value their input and draw many of my legislative proposals from our important discussions. As a matter of fact, just recently I filed Senate Bill 648, which would expand the list of qualified persons who may accompany temporary instruction driving permit holders who are under 16, at the suggestion of one of my constituents.

As always, I appreciate hearing from you and welcome your calls, emails, visits and letters. If you have any questions about issues or any legislation pending before the Missouri Senate, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Lichtenegger: Three Military-Related Measures Clear House

The following three bills, all military in nature, passed out of the House and reported to the Senate this past week:

• HB 1100 designates an annual March 30 date as Vietnam Veterans Day in recognition of the courage and patriotism of those who served during the Vietnam conflict.
  
• HB 1105 allows the Adjutant General to waive the maximum age requirement for a member of the state militia on a case-by-case basis.
  
• HB 1099 is also a designation bill, establishing March 26 of each year as Veterans of Operation Iraq / Enduring Freedom Day. Missourians are and will be encouraged to observe the day with events honoring and remembering those who served their country during those operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
  

Last week I reported a summary of HB 1104, the voter ID bill, and this week I’ll state the reasons supporters give for its passage. Those are:

• HB 1104 protects the integrity and principles of our electoral process by ensuring that only eligible persons are voting.
• HB 1104 ensures that legitimate votes are counted and carry the weight they should by reducing the number of fraudulent votes cast.
• Voting is the lifeblood of democracy, and HB 1104 keeps legitimate votes from being diluted by those who are willing to break the law.
• The charges of suppression are overblown because HB 1104 allows citizens to get photo identification for free from the state or their local license bureau.

There has been a flood of comments regarding the February 7 non-binding primary. I always encourage my constituents to exercise their rights as American citizens to vote, even under these circumstances. House Republican Leadership offered the below explanation as to why this primary took place when it did.

The media this past week was replete with news stories calling this week’s presidential primary a “waste of money” or a “beauty contest.” The media focused their outrage on the General Assembly for not acting to save the state $7 million by eliminating the nonbinding primary.

However, what is not mentioned is the fact that we passed SB 282 last session. This legislation would have tied the choosing of our delegates to the primary results by moving the election to March as the national parties wished.

Unfortunately, the Governor vetoed this important piece of legislation. If the Governor had signed this into law, we wouldn’t have faced losing half of our delegates to the party conventions. Faced with this possibility, the state party decided to choose our delegates through the caucus process ensuring that all of them would be counted.

Now, we will rely on the outcome of the party caucuses on March 17 to finish the job. Until that time, it would be good if the media pointed its finger at who really cost the state its presidential primary and the money for the “beauty contest.”

STATE-WIDE NEWS released to the public regarding Missouri’s consideration for a waiver from the federal No Child Left Behind / U.S. Department of Education program.

Missouri education officials are moving closer to submitting a voluntary waiver application to the U.S. Department of Education which, if approved, would provide state and local education leaders with flexibility in meeting requirements of No Child Left Behind.

An approved waiver would allow states to exchange certain federal NCLB requirements for comprehensive state-developed plans designed to improve educational outcomes for all students. Waivers approved in the first and second rounds could go into effect as early as the 2012-13 school year.

Read more about the waiver and what it will mean for Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) fulfilling the federal requirements.

Constituent Corner

I was delighted to meet with several constituents who visited the Capitol this past week:

• Bill Bess and Kathy Bess Holloway with the Missouri Beer Wholesalers from Cape Girardeau and Jackson.
  
• A group from the Southeast Missouri (SEMO) Food Bank is due special congratulations as recent recipients of a Missouri Foundation for Health (MFH) grant. The SEMO Food Bank serves a 16-county area with emergency food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters and much more.
  
• And in the photo [at left] (left to right) are Representative Wayne Wallingford, Jan McSerron and Sondra O’Laughlin. The two Southeast Missouri constituents are with the Long Term Care Ombudsman program. This program provides vital services and support to individuals and their families. It advocates for the rights of long-term care residents regarding their care and treatment; offers information on issues assists with choosing a facility; works to prevent elder abuse and neglect and much more.
  

MoDOT Southeast District News

A new property on Route 74 in Cape Girardeau County has been added to the Realty to Roads website. The asking price is currently $65,000. For details, please visit: Realty to Roads.

Berry: Protecting Integrity of Missouri's Elections

It is our duty here in the House to protect the integrity of our elections and the principles on which they are based. This week, we took a step toward this goal by passing HB 1104 as part of our Blueprint for Missouri. Although some thing that voter fraud is not an issue, flagrant examples of voter fraud have been recognized and are real. And they could certainly affect the outcome of a close election. HB 1104 takes steps to protect the integrity of our elections by requiring voters to prove their identity. This ensures that each eligible person can vote without having their voice taken away by those who vote illegally. Critics of the bill argue that requiring voters to show a photo ID will suppress elderly, minority and poor citizens, keeping them from the polls. In an effort to alleviate these concerns, HB 1104 allows all citizens without the proper photo identification to obtain one free of charge from the state or their local license bureau. It is our goal in the House to make our policies work better by protecting the core of our democracy. We will continue working hard to ensure that all eligible citizens can vote. It is the right thing to do. I hope the Governor does not veto the bill this year.

HB 1329 authorizes the Director of the Department of Revenue to issue a Permit to allow the temporary operation of a motor vehicle or trailer by a buyer and changes the laws regarding motor vehicle registration. This is a good government change to existing law to increase efficiencies in the system.

HB 1311 authorizes a state and local sales and use tax exemption on items related to data storage centers ans several farm facilities.

HB 1219 changes the laws regarding unlawful discriminatory employment practices as they relate to the Missouri Human Rights Act and establishes the Whistleblower Protection Act. This bill corrects inequities that have arisen in our system due to several recent Court decisions over the past several years.

Bill Information

If you want to track legislation you may log on to www.house.mo.gov and select "Bill Information" and then select "Bill Tracking". You maw 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.

Tax Information

The tax deadline is soon approaching; make sure you take advantage of the opportunity to file your taxes for free. Taxpayers making $57,000 or less can visit http://www.irs.gov/efile/ to prepare and E-file federal tax returns, for FREE, through a landmark partnership between the IRS and tax software providers.

Unclaimed Property

For the fifth year in a row gift cards and certificates were the most asked for gift for the holidays. In Missouri even an expired gift card or certificate is never really expires, by law any remaining value is required to be turned over to the Missouri State Treasurers Office after five years.

Visiting the Capitol

I also had the pleasure to meet with several area seniors that were visiting the capitol on transportation Day. They traveled by OATS bus and were able to share how important that OATS transportation is to them. I always enjoy when constituents visit the capitol and want to thank all who make the trip. If you ever find yourself in Jefferson City, please feel free to visit.

I am honored to serve as your Representative in the Missouri House of Representatives. If, at any time, you have questions, concerns or ideas to improve our state government and the quality of life for our citizens, please feel free to contact me at 573-751-2238 or tj{dot}berry{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

Engler: A Waste of Taxpayer Dollars

Last year, I fully supported the bill moving Missouri’s primary to early February. By switching to an earlier date, we could have given Missourians a greater say in selecting the presidential candidate. The national political parties, however, try to keep a specific order of states’ primaries and caucuses, and our date change threw a wrench in their plans. We were informed if we didn’t move our primary, we risked losing delegates.

Before the Legislature could act, the state Republican Party chose to switch to a caucus system in March to select the presidential candidate, rendering our new, early primary pointless. I filed a bill to cancel the primary since it would not choose Missouri's presidential candidate, and we risked spending $7 million on an election that no longer mattered. For reasons that are dubious, in my opinion, the bill died in the Senate.

On Tuesday, Missouri citizens cast their votes in a primary election that was little more than a state funded political poll. At a time when we’re cutting funds from higher education, laying off 3,000 state workers and implementing drastic cost-saving measures throughout departments, we spent $7 million on a primary election that accomplished absolutely nothing. Voters must have felt similarly, because only around 8 percent of the population took part in the election. Broken down, that’s about $25 spent per vote.

I am disgusted by this entire situation. When it became apparent the primary wasn’t going to have any say in selecting the presidential candidate, we should have passed legislation to cancel it. Keeping the primary was one of the dumbest things I’ve seen the Legislature do.

This week the Missouri Senate gave final approval to Senate Bill 592, which would modify state law relating to the Missouri Human Rights Act and employment discrimination. The bill will now go to the House for approval. We’ve continued to work on this legislation, and a new willingness to compromise has given its passage more promise. If we can continue to find middle ground, I’m hopeful we can get this bill to the governor’s desk.

We’re often accused of monkeying around in the Capitol, but that charge took on new meaning this week. The Senate Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee considered Senate Bill 666 on Wednesday. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Joe Keaveny, D-St. Louis, would require a permit issued by the Missouri Department of Agriculture to own a large, non-human primate, and establishes other guidelines dictating who can own one of these animals.

I was honestly surprised by the number of exotic animal owners not only in my district, but across the state. However, ownership of these animals should have reasonable regulations. If one were to get loose, it could pose a significant danger to the public. The committee engaged in some interesting discussion about the bill and its merits, and thankfully, no one went ape.

The Jobs, Economic Development and Local Government Committee held a hearing on Senate Bill 736 this week, which will help St. Francois County make the move to a first class county. I was happy to have the Presiding Commissioner of St. Francois County, Dr. David Cramp, come to Jefferson City and testify on behalf of the bill. This would be a big stride forward for St. Francois County and I’m honored to be a part of it.

The Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee held a hearing Monday on Senate Bill 689. The legislation, which I’m sponsoring, would add undue influence—using authority over an elderly or disabled person to take unfair advantage of that person—to the types of acts that constitute a crime of financial exploitation. I hope the bill makes it through the committee and is ultimately passed by the General Assembly. We have a duty to protect the most vulnerable people in our state, and this bill would go far in prosecuting those who abuse the elderly and disabled.

Dugger: Legislature Did Its Role Trying To Make Presidential Primary Count

"We the people" are the driver, the government is the car. And we decide where it should go, and by what route, and how fast. Almost all the world's constitutions are documents in which governments tell the people what their privileges are. Our Constitution is a document in which "We the people" tell the government what it is allowed to do. "We the people" are free. –Ronald Reagan

It was yet another busy week at the Missouri State Capitol, but before I discuss this week’s happenings I wanted to take the time to address a concern that has been raised by many across the state. The media, this past week, was replete with news stories calling Tuesday’s presidential primary a “waste of money” or a “beauty contest.” Many of the stories pointed the blame at the General Assembly, not the Governor, for not acting to save the state seven million dollars by eliminating the nonbinding primary.

However, what was absent from these news stories was the fact that the legislature did in fact act to move the primary date, and thus make the results meaningful. Last year, I personally filed legislation, House Bill 503, which would have removed the statute requiring a presidential primary to be held in February. Doing so would have moved Missouri’s presidential primary to March. This change would have adhered to the guidelines set by the national parties for when Missouri should hold its primary, and thus would have made the results binding for the distribution of delegates.

HB 503 did not make it through the legislative process, but similar language was included in Senate Bill 282. SB 282 made it to the Governor’s desk but unfortunately was vetoed. If the Governor had signed the bill into law, we would not have faced losing half of our delegates to the national party conventions. With this possibility looming, the state Republican party decided to choose our delegates through the caucus process ensuring that all of them would be counted.

As it stands, Missouri will rely on the results of party caucuses held March 17th to determine the distribution of delegates. Until that time, it would be nice if the media pointed its finger at who really cost the state its presidential primary and the money for the “beauty contest.”

In other election news, the Missouri House third read and passed House Bill 1104. HB 1104, which will now go before the Senate for debate, changes the laws regarding elections by requiring a voter to provide photo identification prior to voting. To me this is common sense approach to ensure the integrity of Missouri’s election process from voter fraud. Some states, which have photo ID requirements, have actually seen an increase in voter turnout. Perhaps it is the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your “legitimate” vote will not be cancelled out someone cheating the system.

Critics of the bill argue that requiring voters to show a photo ID will suppress elderly, minority and poor citizens, keeping them from the polls. They say that these groups are less likely to have photo identification, and it is more difficult for them to obtain it.

In an effort to alleviate these concerns, HB 1104 allows all citizens without the proper photo identification to obtain one free of charge from the state or their local license bureau. However, if the voter cannot afford to pay for the documentation required to obtain an ID, they can still vote by casting a provisional ballot.

Not only is it important that we protect voting, the foundation of our democracy, with elections legislation, but we also must protect the foundation of our economy and society; agriculture. This week the House Committee on Agricultural Policy passed out HCS HJR 41 which proposes a constitutional amendment affirming the right of Missourians to raise livestock in a humane manner without the state imposing an undue economic burden on their owners.

Meanwhile, the House Committee on Transportation advanced House Bill 1107. House Bill 1107 designates Highway 5 between the cities of Ava and Mansfield as the “Missouri Fox Trotting Highway.” Ava is known as the heart of Fox Trotting Country, and also serves as the home of the headquarters of the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association. I am honored to be carrying this piece of legislation which will instill much deserved recognition on the important role that the Missouri Fox Trotter has played in the development of Missouri, especially the Ozark region.

For more information about the pieces of legislation mentioned above or about any others that have been introduced, please visit the House of Representatives website, www.house.mo.gov. As always, it is an honor to serve you in the Missouri House of Representatives.

Lampe: Encouraged By Partial Restoration of Higher Ed Funds

To say I'm encouraged would be an understatement. Governor Nixon gave Missourians great news for higher education this week. The Governor's budget recommendation has been amended to put $40 million back into the General Revenue fund for Missouri's public colleges and universities. The money being added to the General Revenue is a result of a proposed settlement awarding Missouri more than $140 million due to unlawful mortgage bank practices that led to the housing crisis. However, the cuts to higher education is still over 7% which will surely result in a loss of jobs and a reduction of service.

Governor Nixon met with Missouri colleges and universities on Thursday to inform them on the amendment of the recommended budget. Governor Nixon would like to see the money put back into scholarship programs for higher education including A+, Bright Flight, and Access Missouri. As ranking member of the House Budget Committee, I assure you I am looking under every rock to find revenue.

Elementary and Secondary Education Committee

The Elementary and Secondary Education Committee heard testimony on three bills this week: House Bill 1157, Teacher Contract Renewals, House Bill 1387, Public School Calendar and House Bill 1228, Charter Schools.

The Charter Schools Bill was voted upon on Wednesday and passed out of committee by a vote of 17-6. If you would like to learn more about HB 1228, click here.

On the Floor this Week

It was a passionate and emotional week of debate on the Floor. House Bill 1219, Discriminatory Employment Practices, was passed by the House on Thursday. This legislation changes the laws regarding unlawful discriminatory employment practices under the Missouri Human Rights Law. You can read more about this bill and its involvement in the house and senate here.

The other bill debated, House Bill 1104, Voter Identification Requirements, would require voters to produce government-issued photo identification at their polling place in order to cast a regular ballot. The House also passed this legislation on Thursday. Click here for more information on this legislation.

Former Student Spotlight

Emma Wilson attends Missouri State University, where she studies history and geography. She is featured on KSMU, Ozarks Public Radio, as a part of the "Sense of Place" series.

Emma recently had a story about the Ava Drug soda fountain. Click here if you would like to read Emma's latest work with KSMU.

Emma is also a park ranger at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.

Jeff City Journal Interview

It was an honor to have the opportunity to talk to Missy Shelton of the Jeff City Journal. Budget Chairman Representative Silvey and I discussed the state budget shortfall. The conversation focused on higher education funding and tax credits. These are very important issues to both Chairman Silvey and myself. Click here if you would like to view the entire interview.

Women's Legislator Scholarship

Women Legislators of Missouri will sponsor a scholarship award for graduating high school senior women in our state. We will be awarding nine $500 scholarships to young women graduating in 2012. One recipient will be chosen from each of the nine Missouri U. S. Congressional Districts.

The applications must be received by noon, April 20, 2012. The application will focus on leadership and community service of the student. Another component of the application is a 500 word essay answering the question, "If you were elected Governor of the great state of Missouri, what would you hope to accomplish and why?" More information on this scholarship can be found here. The application for this scholarship can be found here. Please consider applying for the Women's Legislator scholarship and please pass this news on to anyone who may be interested.

Kelley: Rhode Island's Democrats Enacted Voter ID Requirement, Why Not Missouri's?

Let me start this week’s Capitol Review with a story that has so far escaped national attention. This story is about a state—led by a governor known for controversial positions, and backed by an overwhelmingly partisan legislature. This state recently passed a bill to require photo identification before allowing its citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Critics from the Democratic Party dismissed it as “out-of-touch,” “discriminatory,” and a step back. Democratic stalwarts such as Bill Clinton alluded to laws like this being a return to the days of Jim Crow. Even the chair of the Democratic National Committee, Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, proclaimed on national television, “I don't regret calling attention to the efforts in a number of states with Republican-dominated legislatures . . . to restrict access to the ballot box for all kinds of voters, but particularly young voters, African Americans and Hispanic Americans.”

So what far right-wing Republican state passed such a backwards law designed to discriminate against minorities and the poor? Rhode Island—led by liberal governor Lincoln Chafee and an overwhelming Democratic General Assembly. Yes, even in one of the bluest states in the nation, with a House of Representatives composed of 65 Democrats, 9 Republicans and 1 Libertarian, and with a Senate composed of 29 Democrats, 8 Republicans, and 1 Independent, the Assembly found it fit to pass a voter ID law. This was not by a threadbare majority, either—the Rhode Island House passed the measure by a vote of 54-21, and the Rhode Island Senate passed it by an astounding 34-3.

This raises the question: if it can be done in Rhode Island, why not Missouri?

That is why the House tackled a voter identification bill this week. HB 1104, sponsored by Shane Schoeller, mandates that any person who wishes to vote must simply show a valid photo identification before they are able to vote. If the voter does not have valid identification, they are allowed to cast a provisional ballot, which will then be counted if they return to their local election authority within three days to present the appropriate identification. Those who cannot afford to pay the cost associated with obtaining valid identification are able to sign an affidavit to receive a ballot. Further, any and all costs incurred by a local election authority in implementing the photo identification requirement will be incurred by the state of Missouri. In short, HB 1104 is a common-sense piece of legislation that protects our most sacred and fundamental right as citizens of a representative republic.

It is easy to turn up stories of voter fraud across the United States. And these are not new—as a historical sidenote, many scholars suggest that there is evidence to speculate that John F. Kennedy led our Nation into his “New Frontier” with help from voter fraud in Chicago and Texas. More recent stories about ACORN’s responsibility for 400,000 faulty voter registrations nationwide in 2008, 5,000 non-citizens voting in the 2010 Colorado Senate race, and a 2008 report in Wisconsin that spoke of organized attempts to cheat at the ballot box give more reason to be on alert. And the Republican National Committee, in an effort to ensure these cases do not go unnoticed, conducted research that found that 46 out of our 50 states had documented, confirmed instances of voter fraud.

Opponents of HB 1104 and similar pieces of legislation from past sessions of the General Assembly have always been quick to pronounce that such isn’t the case in Missouri. But contrary to their talking points, the possibility for voter fraud is also present in the Show-Me State. MissouriWatchdog.org reported in 2010 that there are 15 counties in Missouri where the number of registered voters exceeded the eligible voting population—including Reynolds County, which had an astonishing 125% voter registration. Back in 2004, the Kansas City Star reported that Missouri had an astounding 98% voter registration, and in 2005, a federal court found that 37 Missouri jurisdictions had more registered voters than eligible voters.

Does this conclusively prove that voter fraud is occurring? No. But, when there are such obvious flaws in the system that there are more registered voters than eligible voters, something has to be done. Just because the cliché to “give 110% percent” has become conventional wisdom doesn’t mean we need to abide by that philosophy when it comes to voter registration.

And, for all the talks from opponents that this legislation would disenfranchise voters, the facts are coming in from states like Georgia, which saw African-American turnout rise from 42% in 2006 to over 50% in 2010—after Georgia passed a voter identification bill similar to HB 1104. Similar stories arose in Indiana and Mississippi. And why wouldn’t they? After all, according to a Rasmussen poll, 69% of Americans support the common-sense requirement of showing photo identification before being allowed to vote. Opponents of the bill should realize something: when you get to 69% support on a particular piece of legislation, it’s no longer a preference of the voters—it’s a mandate, and it’s a dereliction of our duty as representatives of the people if we don’t abide by their wishes for nothing more than partisan political purposes.

The Missouri House passed House Bill 1104 this week by perfecting, printing and third reading it. It will now move on to the Missouri Senate, but if it’s anything like last year, it will pass out and head to Governor Nixon’s desk only to receive a VETO. I do have to wonder why Governor Nixon doesn’t like this simple piece of legislation that seems to be of good common sense to this Legislator.

Please contact me with any suggestions that you may have for Missouri legislation. Also, if you should experience problems in contacting or resolving an issue with a Missouri state agency, please feel free to call my Capitol office at (573) 751-2165 or email at mike{dot}kelley{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov. Thank you for the honor to serve as your Representative in the Missouri House of Representatives. Until my next update, I am, and remain, in your service.

Rupp: Defending Religious Liberty and the Separation of Church and State in Missouri

This week, I was proud to introduce an initiative in the Missouri Senate that emphasizes my dedication to protecting Missourians’ principles and values. The separation of church and state was a founding principle in our country, due to the fear of an overreaching government interfering with the freedoms to worship as we as Americans wish. The freedom of religion is one of the greatest liberties in Missouri, and one that all Americans treasure. As a free and just nation, religious organizations should not be forced to participate in acts that violate their conscience, morals, or religious beliefs.

A successful outcome on defending this principle was handed down from the U.S. Supreme Court in January when the federal government attempted to interject itself into personal matters of churches, telling them who they can hire and fire as their pastors and church leadership. After losing in the Supreme Court, the Obama administration has unfortunately chosen to go down this path again.

My joint resolution (SJR 49) would, upon voter approval, issue a constitutional amendment stating that no law or regulation would be able to compel a health care provider or professional to provide coverage for abortion services, sterilization procedures and other medical treatments.

In addition, I am co-sponsoring a bill (SB 749) that would stress protection for religious freedoms. If a health care provider or professional is morally opposed to the procedures I listed above, he or she would not be forced to administer them and the person or entity would not be penalized for refusing to perform these services. The bill contains an emergency clause, meaning it would take effect immediately after the governor’s signature.

These measures are absolutely crucial to defend the people of Missouri. The federal government is set to require health care providers, even religious-based institutions that have long been exempt due to the separation of church and state, to pay for birth control and even perform abortion services. This is absolutely intolerable, and such an obligation completely steps upon our constitutional rights. Many people are angry about these federal regulations, and it’s my job to let their voices ring loud and clear at the Capitol.

In the Missouri Senate, I will stand firm and do all I can to protect our God-given rights and liberties from attack. By working together, we can preserve the principles of our country for ourselves, our families, and future generations. Thank you, and please feel free to contact me if you have any concerns or thoughts regarding these issues.

Kraus: Military-Friendly Legislation

As the vice chair of the Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission, one of my roles is to track and support legislation that reaches the commission’s goal of making Missouri more military-friendly. With the possibility of upcoming base closings nationwide, the better we treat local military bases and members, the more likely we are to avoid closures or cutbacks here in Missouri.

So far this year, I have filed two military- or veteran-related bills:

• Missouri has long had a militia, under the Missouri National Guard, to help with local matters if the guard is depleted by deployments. SB 715 allows the Missouri Adjutant General to waive the current age description if a professional (i.e., a doctor or an engineer) above the official age limit is needed to help in an emergency. SB 715 was requested by the Missouri National Guard.
  
• SB 768 would create a veterans’ treatment court similar to the already existing drug courts. Processing veterans who are not charged with a violent crime through a system that understands their specific needs will create a better environment for successful treatment and re-entry into society. This small step in supporting the men and women who sacrificed to protect our freedoms is a common-sense approach to caring for our military personnel.
  

My office is also tracking several other military or veteran bills filed in both the House and Senate. Two such bills were heard on the floor of the Senate this week:

• SB 564 allows members of the military who have completed certain motorcycle rider training programs in the military to have their motorcycle road skills test waived. The bill was passed in the Senate this week and is headed to the House for its consideration.
  
• SB 498 expands a current law related to charities so that veterans’ organizations can operate retail locations. Currently, cities could have laws prohibiting those locations. The bill was perfected in the Senate this week and will likely be passed next week.
  

In addition to those bills, I am looking at legislation that would make it easier for on-duty military personnel stationed overseas to vote by absentee ballot.

District Days

We continue to get RSVPs for our upcoming District Days events here in Jefferson City, but slots are still readily available. If you are still interested in coming to the State Capitol, seeing the Legislature in action, touring the Capitol, Supreme Court, and Governor’s Mansion, and getting some time with your state senator, please reply to this email and let us know. District Days are scheduled for both March 21 and March 27.

Tishaura Jones: Redistricting Cases Await Hearings, Governor's Appointment Barred From Board Of Curators

COGNRESSIONAL REDISTRICTING GOES BACK TO HIGH COURT

For the second time, Cole County Circuit Judge Dan Green on Feb. 3 upheld the validity of Missouri’s new congressional redistricting plan, prompting another appeal to the Missouri Supreme Court, which has already reversed Green once in the case. The high court has issued an order to expedite the proceedings.

Green originally dismissed the challenge in December, but the Supreme Court last month overturned that decision and remanded the case to Green for a trial on whether the redistricting plan, which the Republican-controlled General Assembly enacted in May over Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon’s veto, meets the Missouri Constitution’s requirement that districts are “as compact … as may be.” The court specifically instructed Green to pay particular attention to the oddly shaped Third and Fifth Districts. The new Third District stretches from the St. Louis suburbs to central Missouri, while the new Fifth District combines Kansas City and most of Jackson with three rural counties to the east.

In his latest ruling, however, Green made no specific findings regarding the Third or Fifth Districts and merely said the map as whole meets the constitutional compactness standard. Green’s failure to follow the Supreme Court’s directive is expected to be a key issue in the latest appeal. Candidate filing for the August congressional primaries is scheduled to begin on Feb. 28, but legislation has been filed in the Senate that would delay the start of candidate filing until March 27.

SENATE BLOCKS APPOINTMENT TO UM BOARD OF CURATORS

Craig Van Matre, the on-again-off-again member of the University of Missouri Board of Curators, is off the board for life after the Senate on Feb. 2 refused to allow a vote on his confirmation. Several Republican senators said they opposed the appointment because several years ago Van Matre, a Columbia attorney, wrote newspaper commentaries critical of GOP senators who were seeking to scuttle Missouri’s nonpartisan system for selecting state judges.

Gov. Jay Nixon originally nominated Van Matre, a Columbia attorney, to the governing board of the UM System in January 2011 but withdrew the nomination in May after the Republican-controlled Senate failed to act on it before the end of the 2011 legislative session. Nixon, a Democrat, reappointed Van Matre in June and because the Senate wasn’t in session, Van Matre was allowed to immediately take office under the state constitution. Nixon withdrew the appointment again in September when the Senate convened in special session and appointed him a third time once the session had ended.

With a Feb.3 deadline for action on the appointment, Nixon attempted to again withdraw the nomination after it was clear the Senate was going to block it, but the Senate wouldn’t allow him to do so. Under the Missouri Constitution, gubernatorial appointees who fail to receive Senate confirmation are ineligible to ever again be appointed to the same post.

HOUSE AND SENATE EACH PASS DISCRIMINATION BILLS

The Senate and House of Representatives have traded legislation to make it easier for employers to escape legal responsibility for engaging in workplace discrimination. The Senate passed its discrimination bill, SB 592, on Feb. 8, while the House followed suit and approved its version, HB 1219, on Feb. 9. The bills now switch chambers.

Both bills would substantially raised the legal bar for bringing claims of unlawful workplace discrimination based on race, gender, age disability or religion. For cases that still manage to make to court, the bills would severely limit the amount of damages victims could recover. Weakening Missouri’s workplace discrimination laws is a top priority for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the state’s other major business groups.

The Senate bill passed on a straight party-line vote of 25-8, with Republicans in support and Democrats opposed. In the House, Republicans had to cut off debate in order to bring the bill to a vote. The bill passed 89-68, with a handful of Republicans joining unanimous Democrats in opposition. Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, vetoed similar legislation last year and has indicated his intent to do so again this year.

NIXON PARES BACK PROPOSED HIGHER ED FUNDING CUT

Gov. Jay Nixon on Feb. 7 amended his proposed higher education budget for the upcoming fiscal year to restore about $40 million in funding he had previously suggested cutting. The money would come from Missouri’s expected share from a pending settlement of a national fraud lawsuit against the nation’s largest mortgage lenders.

When he released his original budget proposal for the 2013 fiscal year, which begins July 1, Nixon called for cutting the state’s public colleges and universities by 12.5 percent, or $105.9 million. Under the amended proposal, higher education institutions would take a 7.8 percent cut, or $65.9 million. The governor, however, can only recommend spending levels, and it is up to the General Assembly to determine the actual budget.

STATE REVENUE COLLECTIONS UP SLIGHTLY FOR YEAR

Year-to-date net state general revenue collections were up 1.3 percent through the first seven months of the 2013 fiscal year compared to the same period in FY 2012, going from $4.10 billion last year to $4.15 billion this year. Net collections increased 2 percent in January 2012 compared to January 2011, going from $645.3 million to $658.5 million.

HOUSE AGAIN PASSES UNCONSTITIONAL PHOTO VOTER ID BILL

In what has become an annual ritual, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives on Feb. 9 passed legislation that would require voters to show government-issued photo identification at the polls as a condition of ballot even though the Missouri Supreme Court in 2006 ruled that such a requirement violates the voting rights provision of the state constitution. The bill, HB 1104, was sent to the Senate on a straight party-line vote of 101-54, with Republicans in support and Democrats opposed, after Republicans cut off debate.

Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, vetoed a similar bill in 2011 and likely would do so again. The General Assembly last year approved a proposed constitutional amendment that would give lawmakers the authority to impose a photo voter ID requirement, but it doesn’t go on the statewide ballot until November. Until and unless Missouri voters ratify the amendment, a photo voter ID requirement remains unconstitutional and unenforceable in Missouri.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, an estimated 250,000 legally registered Missouri voters don’t have a government-issued photo ID. Many those people, through no fault of their own, are unable to obtain a photo ID because the supporting documentation needed to get one, such as a birth certificate, can’t be located by state and county officials because the documents were lost or destroyed or, in the case of many elderly voters, never existed because of record-keeping standards decades ago were spotty in some areas of the state.

JUDGE SETS FEB. 14 FOR HOUSE REDISTRICTING DECISION

Cole County Circuit Judge Patricia Joyce has ordered all parties in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a new redistricting plan for the Missouri House of Representatives to submit written arguments by Feb. 10. She plans to issue a ruling on Feb. 14. A bipartisan group of plaintiffs, including one state representative from each party, is claiming the House redistricting plan drawn by a panel of six state appellate judges violates the Missouri Constitution’s requirement that districts be compact and contiguous.

Joyce cancelled a scheduled Feb. 3 hearing in the case after three Republican state representatives asked to intervene in support of the redistricting plan. In order to expedite the case, Joyce will try the matter based solely on written arguments. Whatever her decision, the case is expected to be appealed to the Missouri Supreme Court.

Tim Jones: Sales Tax Exemption For Data Storage Centers Considered, First Consent Bills Sail Through

At right: Discussing legislation with members on the House floor.

Gently warming air rolled slowly across the Great Plains this week until it was pushed away by the return of Old Man Winter’s icy numbing touch near week’s end. As we think more of our loved ones next week courtesy of the celebration of Valentine’s Day, I would like to remind you to keep those most precious to you close to your heart. I want to wish a Happy Valentine’s Day to my favorite Valentines: my beloved wife, Suzanne, and our beautiful daughters, Katie and Abby.

“Love is a promise, love is a souvenir, once given never forgotten, never let it disappear.”–John Lennon

Legislative Update

The following bills were Perfected and Third Read this week and head now across the Rotunda to the Senate for consideration:

HB 1329, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), authorizes the Director of the Department of Revenue to issue a permit to allow the temporary operation of a motor vehicle or trailer by a buyer and changes the laws regarding motor vehicle registration. This is a good government change to existing law to increase efficiencies in the system.

HB 1311, also sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), authorizes a state and local sales and use tax exemption on items related to data storage centers and several farm facilities. This bill is an important economic development tool to establish an environment to encourage these industries to come to Missouri and create jobs and expand existing operations here and add more employment positions.

HB 1219, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Elmer (R-141), changes the laws regarding unlawful discriminatory employment practices as they relate to the Missouri Human Rights Act and establishes the Whistleblower Protection Act. This bill corrects inequities that have arisen in our system due to several recent Court decisions over the past several years. The legislation would return Missouri law to the position it used to occupy as a mirror to the federal civil rights law. The proposed legislation would re-establish a level playing field for all employers and employees, allowing employers to properly deal with problem employees while still providing employees the protections they deserve. In this difficult economic environment, where employers are faced with increasing burdens in the areas of taxation, regulation and litigation, we should do all we can to ensure that our small business owners have a level playing field in our State so they can operate in a stable and certain business environment.

HB 1104, sponsored by Rep. Shane Schoeller (R-139), specifies that a person seeking to vote in a public election must show valid photo identification to election officials before they can receive a ballot and have it counted. This is a common sense piece of enabling legislation that will support and implement the constitutional ballot question that all Missourians will be able to vote upon this coming fall. In this day and age of excessive and rampant voter fraud and voter registration fraud, we should do all we can to protect one of our most sacred and fundamental rights, the right to vote.

Consent bills (zero fiscal note, no penalty provisions, non-controversial in nature) that were third read and passed on the House Floor this week:

HB 1036, sponsored by Rep. Tony Dugger (R-144) repeals the provision that require a political party’s emblem to be printed on an election ballot above the party caption.

HB 1039, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95) allows a retiree of the Missouri Local Government Employees’ Retirement System to have health insurance or long-term care insurance premiums deducted from his or her retirement allowance.

HB 1099, sponsored by Rep. Paul Fitzwater (R-152) designates March 26th of each year as “Veterans of Operation Iraq/Enduring Freedom Day.”

HB 1100, sponsored by Rep. Paul Fitzwater (R-152) designates March 30th of each year as Vietnam Veterans Day.”

HB 1105, sponsored by Rep. David Day (R-148) allows the Adjutant General to waive the maximum age requirement for a member of the state militia.

Local News and Events

Scholarship Opportunity for High School Senior Women

As in the past, members of the Women Legislators of Missouri will sponsor a scholarship award for graduating high school senior women in our state. They will be awarding nine $500 scholarships to 2012 graduating women. One recipient will be chosen from each of the nine Missouri U. S. Congressional Districts for a scholarship award. For more information and the application, please e-mail Denia Fields at denia{dot}fields{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

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.

Family Enrichment Resource Program

The Family Enrichment Resource Program is having their Second Annual Children’s Art Auction on Saturday, February 11th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Fox Run Carriage House in Eureka. All proceeds raised support families in Eureka. For more information, please visit http://www.familyresourceprogram.com or call 314-603-5767.

Upcoming Workshops

The St. Louis Arc Family Workshops are designed to provide in-depth information on topics related to supporting family members with developmental disabilities. The workshops are free and take place at the St. Louis Arc Family Center at 1177 N. Warson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63123. For more information, please visit www.slarc.org or contact Ann Mangelsdorf at amangelsdorf{at}slarc{dot}org or by telephone at 314-817-2275. You must be registered to attend. For a complete list of the workshops and support groups available through the St. Louis Arc, visit www.slarc.org.

Visiting the Capitol

I always enjoy it when constituents visit the Capitol, and this week I was thrilled to greet Wicky Sleight, Susan Brewer of Wildwood, Stacey Morse with the Chesterfield Arts, and Gary Holdefer from the St. Louis Public Library. 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.