JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – State-regulated group insurance policies will be required to provide coverage for children with autism spectrum disorders under legislation approved by the Missouri General Assembly on Wednesday. Rep. Joe Smith, R-St. Charles County, supported HB1311 & 1341, which was approved in the House by a vote of 144-16.
The bill would require state-regulated health insurers, which make up approximately 40 percent of the market, to cover autism spectrum disorders. Included in that would be coverage for therapy known as “advanced behavioral analysis”, or ABA. ABA is widely regarded as the most effective method of treating autistic patients. The final version of the bill caps treatment for ABA at $40,000 annually for children up to the age of 18. The cap also includes a three-year Cost of Living Adjustment.
“This is a huge step forward for the many Missouri families struggling to provide care to their autistic children. These life-altering therapies can cost tens of thousands of dollars and many families simply cannot afford them. The bill we passed will give many families the health insurance coverage necessary to obtain these therapies and, as a result, dramatically improve the quality of life for children with autism,” said Smith.
Smith said the bill also includes protections for small businesses in the event their insurance premiums increase dramatically as a result of the legislation. HB 1311 & 1341 would provide an exemption to businesses with 50 or fewer employees that show the mandate increased their premiums by at least 2.5 percent compared to the previous year.
The Missouri Senate also approved HB 1311 & 1341 on Wednesday. The bill now moves to the governor’s desk to be signed into law. Once signed, the bill will take effect Jan.1, 2011.
12 May 2010
Rep. Joe Smith Supports Equalization of Access Missouri Scholarships
Jefferson City – The Missouri House of Represetatives gave final approval Wednesday to a bill that would change higher education scholarships for Missouri students. SB 733, handled in the House by Rep. Gayle Kingery R-Poplar Bluff, was passed by a vote of 149-5. Rep. Joe Smith, R-St. Charles, spoke in favor of the bill on the House floor.
“It’s been a really tough road to come up with some kind of compromise between all of the universities,” Rep. Smith said. “I think we did an outstanding job here.”
The bill would affect both the Access Missouri and Bright Flight scholarship programs. First, the bill deals with the discrepancy between scholarship money available to private and public school students through the Access Missouri program. Under current law, students who choose to attend private schools are eligible to receive $4,600 in Access Missouri scholarships, while those who attend public schools can only receive $2,150. SB 733 would provide any student attending a four-year higher education institution with a maximum of $2,850. These changes would go into effect during the 2014-2015 academic year.
SB 733 would also modify the Bright Flight scholarship program. Most significantly, SB 733 would ensure that the top three percent of Missouri ACT or SAT test-takers will receive $1,000 awards prior to any student in the top fourth or fifth percent receiving an award. If funding is sufficient after these scholarships are awarded, students ranking in the top fourth or fifth percent may receive $1,000 awards as well. In addition, the bill addresses students who elect to join the armed forces. These students who qualify for a Bright Flight scholarship may defer their award and receive it at a later date, as long as they return to full-time student status within six months of the end of their military service.
“It’s been a really tough road to come up with some kind of compromise between all of the universities,” Rep. Smith said. “I think we did an outstanding job here.”
The bill would affect both the Access Missouri and Bright Flight scholarship programs. First, the bill deals with the discrepancy between scholarship money available to private and public school students through the Access Missouri program. Under current law, students who choose to attend private schools are eligible to receive $4,600 in Access Missouri scholarships, while those who attend public schools can only receive $2,150. SB 733 would provide any student attending a four-year higher education institution with a maximum of $2,850. These changes would go into effect during the 2014-2015 academic year.
SB 733 would also modify the Bright Flight scholarship program. Most significantly, SB 733 would ensure that the top three percent of Missouri ACT or SAT test-takers will receive $1,000 awards prior to any student in the top fourth or fifth percent receiving an award. If funding is sufficient after these scholarships are awarded, students ranking in the top fourth or fifth percent may receive $1,000 awards as well. In addition, the bill addresses students who elect to join the armed forces. These students who qualify for a Bright Flight scholarship may defer their award and receive it at a later date, as long as they return to full-time student status within six months of the end of their military service.
Rep. Joe Smith Presents Fisher House with Resolution
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Rep. Joe Smith, R-St. Charles, presented representatives of the Fisher House with a resolution today at the Capitol, observing May 12 as “Fisher House Day.” The Fisher House offers free lodging to the families of patients seeking treatment at the St. Louis VA Medical Center during their stay.
“The Fisher House provides an invaluable service to military families during trying times.” Rep. Smith said. “For the families that wish to be by their loved ones bedside, it is very important to have a place to stay, and to be with other families going through the same difficulties. The Fisher House provides an atmosphere for families to provide support to one another, and that’s a great thing.”
The Fisher House is funded through donations and there is no charge for families to stay at a facility. The organization estimates the St. Louis Fisher House with provide 73,000 nights of free lodging to family members of hospitalized veterans and military members in its first 10 years.
“The Fisher House provides an invaluable service to military families during trying times.” Rep. Smith said. “For the families that wish to be by their loved ones bedside, it is very important to have a place to stay, and to be with other families going through the same difficulties. The Fisher House provides an atmosphere for families to provide support to one another, and that’s a great thing.”
The Fisher House is funded through donations and there is no charge for families to stay at a facility. The organization estimates the St. Louis Fisher House with provide 73,000 nights of free lodging to family members of hospitalized veterans and military members in its first 10 years.
Roorda: Autism Insurance Legislation Truly Agreed and Finally Passed
The Missouri House of Representatives passes House Bill 1311 & 1341, the Autism Insurance Coverage Bill. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Jay Nixon who has pledged to sign the bill into law. Watch for this week's newsletter for more details on this landmark legislation to extend coverage to children with Autism.
Tim Jones: “Health Care Freedom Act” Passed by General Assembly
JEFFERSON CITY—A hard-fought victory for individual choice in health care was earned late yesterday afternoon when the House took the final bold step for the General Assembly and “truly agreed and finally passed” the Missouri “Health Care Freedom Act,” a measure sponsored by Rep. Tim Jones (R-Eureka) in response to the recent passage of the federal health control bill commonly referred to by the media as “ObamaCare.”
The act was attached to a comprehensive insurance bill, House Bill 1764, and prohibits any federal law from interfering with an individual’s health care freedom and liberties—if approved by Missouri voters. According to the bill, the Health Care Freedom Act will be placed before voters on the August 2010 ballot, and if approved, no federal law can force a patient, employer, or health care provider to participate in any government or privately run health care system.
“This legislation simply protects the rights of Missourians to choose their own health care products and services without fear of facing fines or imprisonment,” Rep. Jones said. “It does not reject any federal health care option, nor take away an individual’s choice to participate in the federal health care plan. The measure expands options, not limits them. I am proud to lead Missouri’s push-back on this intrusive, costly mandate from Washington, D.C, and eager for Missourians’ voices, which have for so long been denied, to finally be heard at the voting booth.”
Rep. Jones also says that the bill will protect small businesses from burdensome requirements.
“In this economy, we cannot push ineffective, wildly expensive mandates on our businesses and then expect economic growth,” Rep. Jones said. “This unprecedented order from the government placed upon individuals and businesses to buy certain products and services must be stopped.”
After passing the House by a vote of 108-47, HB 1764 now moves directly to the Office of the Secretary of State due to the referendum contained in the measure. The Health Care Freedom Act is being emulated in 42 other states.
The act was attached to a comprehensive insurance bill, House Bill 1764, and prohibits any federal law from interfering with an individual’s health care freedom and liberties—if approved by Missouri voters. According to the bill, the Health Care Freedom Act will be placed before voters on the August 2010 ballot, and if approved, no federal law can force a patient, employer, or health care provider to participate in any government or privately run health care system.
“This legislation simply protects the rights of Missourians to choose their own health care products and services without fear of facing fines or imprisonment,” Rep. Jones said. “It does not reject any federal health care option, nor take away an individual’s choice to participate in the federal health care plan. The measure expands options, not limits them. I am proud to lead Missouri’s push-back on this intrusive, costly mandate from Washington, D.C, and eager for Missourians’ voices, which have for so long been denied, to finally be heard at the voting booth.”
Rep. Jones also says that the bill will protect small businesses from burdensome requirements.
“In this economy, we cannot push ineffective, wildly expensive mandates on our businesses and then expect economic growth,” Rep. Jones said. “This unprecedented order from the government placed upon individuals and businesses to buy certain products and services must be stopped.”
After passing the House by a vote of 108-47, HB 1764 now moves directly to the Office of the Secretary of State due to the referendum contained in the measure. The Health Care Freedom Act is being emulated in 42 other states.
11 May 2010
Cunningham: “Health Care Freedom Act” Goes To Voters
JEFFERSON CITY—Missouri voters will decide if they want federal law to force them to buy health insurance, as Sen. Jane Cunningham’s (R-Chesterfield) “Health Care Freedom Act” has now passed the House and goes to the Secretary of State to be placed on the August ballot.
The act was attached to a comprehensive insurance bill, House Bill 1764. The Health Care Freedom Act will appear before voters on the August 2010 ballot, and if approved, no federal law could force a patient, employer, or health care provider to participate in any government or privately run health care system designed by the state or federal government.
“This is a great day for democracy because this issue will now be put before the voters. This legislation simply protects the rights of Missourians to choose their own health care products and services without fear of facing fines or imprisonment,” Sen. Cunningham said. “It doesn’t reject any federal health care option, nor take away an individual’s choice to participate in the federal health care plan. The measure expands options, not limits them. I’m proud to lead Missouri’s push-back on this intrusive, costly mandate from Washington, D.C. A democracy is founded upon the will of the people, so unlike what occurred in DC we’re going to let the people decide this issue.”
Senator Cunningham also says that the bill will protect small businesses from job killing taxes at a time when they need help the most.
“In this economy, we cannot push ineffective, wildly exorbitantly mandates on our businesses and then expect economic growth,” Sen. Cunningham said. “This unprecedented order from the government placed upon individuals and businesses to buy certain products and services must be stopped.”
The Health Care Freedom Act had 20 Senate co-sponsors and is emulated in 42 other states.
The act was attached to a comprehensive insurance bill, House Bill 1764. The Health Care Freedom Act will appear before voters on the August 2010 ballot, and if approved, no federal law could force a patient, employer, or health care provider to participate in any government or privately run health care system designed by the state or federal government.
“This is a great day for democracy because this issue will now be put before the voters. This legislation simply protects the rights of Missourians to choose their own health care products and services without fear of facing fines or imprisonment,” Sen. Cunningham said. “It doesn’t reject any federal health care option, nor take away an individual’s choice to participate in the federal health care plan. The measure expands options, not limits them. I’m proud to lead Missouri’s push-back on this intrusive, costly mandate from Washington, D.C. A democracy is founded upon the will of the people, so unlike what occurred in DC we’re going to let the people decide this issue.”
Senator Cunningham also says that the bill will protect small businesses from job killing taxes at a time when they need help the most.
“In this economy, we cannot push ineffective, wildly exorbitantly mandates on our businesses and then expect economic growth,” Sen. Cunningham said. “This unprecedented order from the government placed upon individuals and businesses to buy certain products and services must be stopped.”
The Health Care Freedom Act had 20 Senate co-sponsors and is emulated in 42 other states.
Nance: co-sponsored legislation gets boost from Governor Nixon at Ford Assembly Plant
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Jerry Nolte and co-sponsored by Bob Nance got a boost Tuesday from Governor Jay Nixon, who spoke in support of the Manufacturing Jobs Act at the Ford assembly plant in Claycomo. HB 1675, which creates the Manufacturing Jobs Act, would allow qualified manufacturers and their suppliers to retain a percentage of their withholding taxes when creating or retaining certain jobs.
“I appreciate the efforts by the Governor to get this bill passed. This bill will help retain and create jobs in our districts without using tax credits” said Nance.
HB 1675 would allow qualified manufacturers in Missouri to keep 50 percent of their withholding tax from retained jobs for 10 years. To qualify, a manufacturer has to earn at least 10 percent of their revenues from products exported outside the United States or 20 percent of revenues on products exported outside Missouri, make at least a $100,000 capital investment per full-time employee, and manufacture a new product. In addition, any supplier with more than 10 percent of their revenues coming from a qualified manufacturer would be able to retain 100 percent of their withholding tax on newly created jobs for three years, as long as they create at least five qualifying new jobs. The bill also includes taxpayer protections in the event the manufacturer or supplier fails to meet the requirements of the act.
The legislation is not about picking winners and losers, but instead is meant to be another tool in Missouri’s economic development toolbox that will allow the state to attract and retain manufacturers. “Without this legislation, Missouri could not compete against other states who offer incentives to attract major manufacturers like Ford” said Nance.
The bill would help retain the more than 3,700 jobs currently provided by the Ford Motor Company factory in Claycomo, but the legislation is designed to help medium and small businesses as well.
This legislation passed the Senate committee on April 15 and was assigned to the Governmental Accountability and Fiscal Oversight Committee where it awaits a vote before going to the floor of the Senate for discussion.
“I appreciate the efforts by the Governor to get this bill passed. This bill will help retain and create jobs in our districts without using tax credits” said Nance.
HB 1675 would allow qualified manufacturers in Missouri to keep 50 percent of their withholding tax from retained jobs for 10 years. To qualify, a manufacturer has to earn at least 10 percent of their revenues from products exported outside the United States or 20 percent of revenues on products exported outside Missouri, make at least a $100,000 capital investment per full-time employee, and manufacture a new product. In addition, any supplier with more than 10 percent of their revenues coming from a qualified manufacturer would be able to retain 100 percent of their withholding tax on newly created jobs for three years, as long as they create at least five qualifying new jobs. The bill also includes taxpayer protections in the event the manufacturer or supplier fails to meet the requirements of the act.
The legislation is not about picking winners and losers, but instead is meant to be another tool in Missouri’s economic development toolbox that will allow the state to attract and retain manufacturers. “Without this legislation, Missouri could not compete against other states who offer incentives to attract major manufacturers like Ford” said Nance.
The bill would help retain the more than 3,700 jobs currently provided by the Ford Motor Company factory in Claycomo, but the legislation is designed to help medium and small businesses as well.
This legislation passed the Senate committee on April 15 and was assigned to the Governmental Accountability and Fiscal Oversight Committee where it awaits a vote before going to the floor of the Senate for discussion.
Kraus: Honoring Our Public Safety Officers
Last Saturday, the Lee’s Summit Jack Ray Post for Veterans of Foreign Wars invited me to speak at their ceremony honoring outstanding public safety officers. While I take my duties here as a representative very seriously, my work pales in contrast to those who daily risk their lives to protect our citizens, and I was extremely honored to be a part of this event.
We once lived in a country where a locked door was rarely necessary and folks shared an open-door policy with neighbors. Unfortunately, the world has changed. We have seen violence in families and in our communities becoming more commonplace. The effect of this deterioration - with a rising number of juvenile justice problems, drug trafficking, and a host of other problems - is invading even the smallest of communities in our state.
It also means that our citizens are faced with ever growing concerns for their safety. The public safety community continues to face ever increasing hardships in a job that has always faced incredible challenges. But some things have not changed. The people still depend on our public safety officers for safety and security----perhaps now more than ever. The dedication of these officers in the face of their many challenges is the stuff of which heroes are made.
In recognition of their outstanding services, the VFW honored the following individuals as 2010 Public Safety Honorees:
Please know that we are aware of the enormous contributions public safety officers make to the health and well-being of our communities.
Last week brought another school from District 48, Hazel Grove Elementary, to visit Jefferson City and learn more about state government and Missouri’s history. I enjoyed visiting with all of the fourth graders and their teachers, and hope they were able to take home some valuable lessons and experiences from their day at the Capitol.
Host Families for foreign exchange students are needed for next year in the Raytown, Lee’s Summit, Lone Jack and surrounding areas. Many students are waiting for a family to welcome them into their home so that they can spend the school year in a local high school. All it takes is a room for the student to sleep in, a place to study and a place at your dinner table. If you are interested in being a Host Family, contact Liz Carver PAX/FLEX Coordinator at 816-228-8587 or carver_elizabeth{at}yahoo{dot}com
Once a year, MoDOT formally sets out a five-year construction program to let you know what you're getting for your money. The draft 2011-2015 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program lists transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies for July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2015. It totals $5.7 billion. A formal comment period now is under way. This is a chance to share your thoughts about the kind of transportation system you want in Missouri.
The proposed program is available for public review and comment beginning May 5 and ending June 4. You can submit your comments at Thoughts or call toll-free 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).
With the beginning of the 2010 Legislative Session, the Capitol Report will be issued about once a week. During this time, if you have an event that you would like me to attend or speak at, please contact my office at 1 (573) 751-1459 or e-mail at will{dot}kraus{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.
We once lived in a country where a locked door was rarely necessary and folks shared an open-door policy with neighbors. Unfortunately, the world has changed. We have seen violence in families and in our communities becoming more commonplace. The effect of this deterioration - with a rising number of juvenile justice problems, drug trafficking, and a host of other problems - is invading even the smallest of communities in our state.
It also means that our citizens are faced with ever growing concerns for their safety. The public safety community continues to face ever increasing hardships in a job that has always faced incredible challenges. But some things have not changed. The people still depend on our public safety officers for safety and security----perhaps now more than ever. The dedication of these officers in the face of their many challenges is the stuff of which heroes are made.
In recognition of their outstanding services, the VFW honored the following individuals as 2010 Public Safety Honorees:
- Shawn Burgess, who was selected as Fire Fighter of the Year for 2009, has battled major blazes, helped to birth babies, and once battled a fire during weather so cold that it left him covered in ice -challenges that our firefighters face to extinguish flames and rescue those in peril.
- Scott Goodman with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has served in many positions such as on the Emergency Response Team, Field Training Office, Firearms Instructor and Detective. Goodman is also a member of the United States military’s Individual Ready Reserve, serves as a Petty Officer Second class and earned a number of medals while on active duty.
- Jeff Palecek was honored for his work as a full-time police officer with the Grain Valley Police Department. He has served in many positions such as firearms instructor, field training supervisor, and citizens academy instructor, and he has been involved in all areas of department operations.
- Josh Patterson, who was named as the 2009 Officer of the Year by the Lee’s Summit Police Department, is a nine-year veteran of the department. Patterson has been assigned training duties to help his fellow officers, served as a firearm instructor, coordinated special duty assignments, and served as a member of the Emergency Services Squad.
- Ryan A. Wood was recognized for his work with the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Wood has demonstrated a solid cross section of arrests, services and investigations in fulfilling his duties as a public servant.
Please know that we are aware of the enormous contributions public safety officers make to the health and well-being of our communities.
Hazel Grove Elementary School Visits the Capitol
Last week brought another school from District 48, Hazel Grove Elementary, to visit Jefferson City and learn more about state government and Missouri’s history. I enjoyed visiting with all of the fourth graders and their teachers, and hope they were able to take home some valuable lessons and experiences from their day at the Capitol.
Host Families Needed
Host Families for foreign exchange students are needed for next year in the Raytown, Lee’s Summit, Lone Jack and surrounding areas. Many students are waiting for a family to welcome them into their home so that they can spend the school year in a local high school. All it takes is a room for the student to sleep in, a place to study and a place at your dinner table. If you are interested in being a Host Family, contact Liz Carver PAX/FLEX Coordinator at 816-228-8587 or carver_elizabeth{at}yahoo{dot}com
MoDOT Asking for Your Thoughts
Once a year, MoDOT formally sets out a five-year construction program to let you know what you're getting for your money. The draft 2011-2015 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program lists transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies for July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2015. It totals $5.7 billion. A formal comment period now is under way. This is a chance to share your thoughts about the kind of transportation system you want in Missouri.
The proposed program is available for public review and comment beginning May 5 and ending June 4. You can submit your comments at Thoughts or call toll-free 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).
With the beginning of the 2010 Legislative Session, the Capitol Report will be issued about once a week. During this time, if you have an event that you would like me to attend or speak at, please contact my office at 1 (573) 751-1459 or e-mail at will{dot}kraus{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.
Schupp: Love A Parade?
Volunteer with Rep. Schupp at the Creve Coeur Days Parade
Hi, Family & Friends,
We will be participating in the Creve Coeur Days Annual parade on Sunday, May 16. We will be driving or walking alongside 2-3 convertibles (one of them Dad's...he will drive; and one of the C.T. Sharp's, he will drive.) We will make room in the cars for those unable to walk the route.
We need to have the cars at Pulaski Bank...12300 Olive in Creve Coeur at noon on Sunday, May 16. We will decorate them there...no tape or sticky stuff, so don't worry about that.
The parade starts at 1:00 PM sharp and moves west on Olive to Mason. The first hundred (ever the optimist!) people participating with us will be given a Jill Schupp for State Rep t shirt to wear and keep. We are also going to make water bottles available to our entourage at the Parade starting point.
Please let me or LaDonna Appelbaum (contact information below) know if you can participate!
(314) 520-3094 or lappelbaum{at}orthomotion{dot}biz
Please join us and get your friends to join us. Let's make it a fun day!! Thanks so much, Jill
Hi, Family & Friends,
We will be participating in the Creve Coeur Days Annual parade on Sunday, May 16. We will be driving or walking alongside 2-3 convertibles (one of them Dad's...he will drive; and one of the C.T. Sharp's, he will drive.) We will make room in the cars for those unable to walk the route.
We need to have the cars at Pulaski Bank...12300 Olive in Creve Coeur at noon on Sunday, May 16. We will decorate them there...no tape or sticky stuff, so don't worry about that.
The parade starts at 1:00 PM sharp and moves west on Olive to Mason. The first hundred (ever the optimist!) people participating with us will be given a Jill Schupp for State Rep t shirt to wear and keep. We are also going to make water bottles available to our entourage at the Parade starting point.
Please let me or LaDonna Appelbaum (contact information below) know if you can participate!
(314) 520-3094 or lappelbaum{at}orthomotion{dot}biz
Please join us and get your friends to join us. Let's make it a fun day!! Thanks so much, Jill
Schaefer: Updates on Bills Concerning Access Missouri Scholarships, Tobacco Settlement Agreement, K2 Ban
With the end of session quickly approaching, and the budget complete, the legislators have spent the last week discussing many important items on the Senate floor.
On Monday (5-3), Senate Bill 733 was debated on the floor. This legislation, sponsored by Sen. David Pearce, has similar provisions to my bill, Senate Bill 784, which deals with the Access Missouri Scholarship Program. This bill would equalize the state scholarships granted to Missouri students for both public and private universities. The bill is now in conference committee, and I, along with Sens. Pearce, Rupp, Days, and Shoemyer, will discuss the bill sometime this week.
Senate Bill 884, regarding the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, was also discussed last week. On Tuesday(5-4), the bill was passed in the Senate, and was sent to the House for similar consideration on Wednesday. It was referred to the House Special Standing Committee on General Laws and was heard on Monday, May 10.
House Bill 1472, sponsored by Rep. Franz, was passed in the Senate on Wednesday (5-5). This bill is similar to legislation that I am sponsoring — Senate Bill 887, regarding spice cannabinoids, commonly referred to as "K2". While the original bill made the possession of K2 a felony, an amendment was added to the bill that changed it to a misdemeanor.
The bill was reported back to the House with the amendment, and will be discussed this week. The bill will either be passed as it is with the new language by the House or go to a conference committee consisting of members from both chambers. If approved, the bill will then go to the governor to be signed.
Thank you for your continued interest in the issues that affect the citizens of Boone and Randolph counties. If you have any questions or concerns involving state government, please contact my office.
On Monday (5-3), Senate Bill 733 was debated on the floor. This legislation, sponsored by Sen. David Pearce, has similar provisions to my bill, Senate Bill 784, which deals with the Access Missouri Scholarship Program. This bill would equalize the state scholarships granted to Missouri students for both public and private universities. The bill is now in conference committee, and I, along with Sens. Pearce, Rupp, Days, and Shoemyer, will discuss the bill sometime this week.
Senate Bill 884, regarding the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, was also discussed last week. On Tuesday(5-4), the bill was passed in the Senate, and was sent to the House for similar consideration on Wednesday. It was referred to the House Special Standing Committee on General Laws and was heard on Monday, May 10.House Bill 1472, sponsored by Rep. Franz, was passed in the Senate on Wednesday (5-5). This bill is similar to legislation that I am sponsoring — Senate Bill 887, regarding spice cannabinoids, commonly referred to as "K2". While the original bill made the possession of K2 a felony, an amendment was added to the bill that changed it to a misdemeanor.
The bill was reported back to the House with the amendment, and will be discussed this week. The bill will either be passed as it is with the new language by the House or go to a conference committee consisting of members from both chambers. If approved, the bill will then go to the governor to be signed.
Thank you for your continued interest in the issues that affect the citizens of Boone and Randolph counties. If you have any questions or concerns involving state government, please contact my office.
10 May 2010
Keaveny: Volunteers Needed For Free Health Fair
If you're looking for a way to give back to the community, please consider my free health care event that is rapidly coming together for this July.
We've booked at least 40 different health and wellness organizations to provide free screenings, supportive advice and free health information and materials, but there is still time to add your health care services if you are interested.
Now we are also looking for volunteers, as we need as much help as possible with setting up and "running the show." In addition to the great experience and community benefit, this is a perfect resume builder for students who plan to pursue a health related career or anyone who wants to give back to their neighbors and friends.
Even if you can't volunteer, be sure to mark your calendar and tell everyone about the free testing and health information. Here are the details of the event:
When: Saturday, July 10, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Volunteer Shifts: 8:00 a.m. – 11 a.m., 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
(Snacks and beverages will be provided to anyone who can help.)
Where: Forest Park Community College
5600 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110
I've attached a flier that you can give to your friends and family. For any questions, you can contact Wilma in my office at (573) 751-3599 or email joe{dot}keaveny{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov
We've booked at least 40 different health and wellness organizations to provide free screenings, supportive advice and free health information and materials, but there is still time to add your health care services if you are interested.
Now we are also looking for volunteers, as we need as much help as possible with setting up and "running the show." In addition to the great experience and community benefit, this is a perfect resume builder for students who plan to pursue a health related career or anyone who wants to give back to their neighbors and friends.
Even if you can't volunteer, be sure to mark your calendar and tell everyone about the free testing and health information. Here are the details of the event:
When: Saturday, July 10, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Volunteer Shifts: 8:00 a.m. – 11 a.m., 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
(Snacks and beverages will be provided to anyone who can help.)
Where: Forest Park Community College
5600 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110
I've attached a flier that you can give to your friends and family. For any questions, you can contact Wilma in my office at (573) 751-3599 or email joe{dot}keaveny{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov
Ruestman: False Accusations Being Spread
Two weeks ago a Kansas City labor union went about the business to smear my name. They proceeded to mail cards to my constituents saying I supported hiring illegal immigrants to work in our schools. This is simply not true. Not only is this an outright lie, it couldn't be further from the truth.
My bill, House Bill 1960, known as "The School Construction Act" contains a clause allowing local school districts to opt out of paying prevailing wage. Labor unions oppose this legislation out of a fear of being unable to compete in a free market. I believe in a free enterprise and I represent citizens, conservatives and Tea Partiers who have always supported Capitalism. Arbitrarily inflating wages through the government is not capitalism. Instead, it stinks of socialism.
This labor union would like you to believe HB 1960 would lead to plague of illegal immigrants taking our jobs and working in our schools. There is absolutely no evidence of this. The idea that inflated wages saves us from illegal immigrants is outrageous. The fact remains: it is illegal to hire illegal aliens regardless of how much you pay them. This is a prime example of how members of the other party fail to use common sense when making policy. This proves how desperate unions and their cronies are to keep the law in their favor. It also shows the lengths they will go to deceive others.
In 2008, I cosponsored and voted for House Bill 1549 bringing about the strictest immigration policy Missouri has ever had. Details of this bill can be found at: http://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/bills/HB1549.HTM.
What the unions won't tell you is that HB1960 will save taxpayers money. It has been estimated that by opting out of prevailing wage school districts can save up to 25% on school construction, remodeling and maintenance.
If you have problems, questions or wish to express concern over an issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Legislator Assistant, Jonathan, at my Capitol office either by phone 573-751-9801 or by e-mail at Marilyn{dot}Ruestman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.
My bill, House Bill 1960, known as "The School Construction Act" contains a clause allowing local school districts to opt out of paying prevailing wage. Labor unions oppose this legislation out of a fear of being unable to compete in a free market. I believe in a free enterprise and I represent citizens, conservatives and Tea Partiers who have always supported Capitalism. Arbitrarily inflating wages through the government is not capitalism. Instead, it stinks of socialism.
This labor union would like you to believe HB 1960 would lead to plague of illegal immigrants taking our jobs and working in our schools. There is absolutely no evidence of this. The idea that inflated wages saves us from illegal immigrants is outrageous. The fact remains: it is illegal to hire illegal aliens regardless of how much you pay them. This is a prime example of how members of the other party fail to use common sense when making policy. This proves how desperate unions and their cronies are to keep the law in their favor. It also shows the lengths they will go to deceive others.
In 2008, I cosponsored and voted for House Bill 1549 bringing about the strictest immigration policy Missouri has ever had. Details of this bill can be found at: http://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/bills/HB1549.HTM.
What the unions won't tell you is that HB1960 will save taxpayers money. It has been estimated that by opting out of prevailing wage school districts can save up to 25% on school construction, remodeling and maintenance.
If you have problems, questions or wish to express concern over an issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Legislator Assistant, Jonathan, at my Capitol office either by phone 573-751-9801 or by e-mail at Marilyn{dot}Ruestman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.
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