While it is true that most times all politics are local, sometimes an issue in one state garners the attention of the entire country. Such has been the case of Caylee Anthony’s disappearance and death and the subsequent acquittal of her mother, Casey Anthony. Media coverage of the trial has sparked discussion and emotions from coast to coast.
My office has been deluged with correspondence related to this issue. In speaking with other legislators, I find the same thing has been happening in their offices. This is an event which has captured the attention of Americans from all walks of life.
The letters, calls, and emails I have received range from outrage over the acquittal to concern that such a situation could occur here in Missouri. We have been proactive in our state in taking steps to keep something similar from happening. It is illegal to abandon a corpse in Missouri and entities such as schools and hospitals are mandated to report the death of a child. In addition, there is also a law which sets up a child death review board in certain situations.
This is not to say we can’t, and possibly should, do more. The legislature is currently not in session and will not reconvene until January. As such, legislation cannot be introduced or passed until that time. However, I have initiated contact with those on the front lines of investigating and prosecuting the deaths of children to get their ideas of what steps we should possibly be taking.
Although we may never know exactly what happened to Caylee, we do know her mother did not report her missing, even after weeks of not seeing her. This alone destroys valuable evidence and hinders any investigation. Making it a felony to not report a missing child within a certain period of time could give another tool to law enforcement and prosecutors.
There can never be a replacement for a loving family to watch over and protect children. I certainly do not want our society become more of a nanny state than it is already. We do however, need mechanisms in place to punish, and hopefully deter, behavior which leads to children, or anyone for that matter, being harmed or, in the case of Caylee, murdered.
I appreciate everyone who has made the effort to contact my office. Seeing so many people take the time to become involved in an issue in which they believe confirms my faith in the people of this great state.
18 July 2011
Stouffer: Presidential Preference in Missouri
A move to change the date of Missouri’s presidential primary is the latest victim of the veto pen.
In vetoing Senate Bill 282, the governor has refused to switch the date of the state’s presidential primary from February to March. This change is not important to the daily lives of Missourians, but will have some impact on next year’s presidential election. Both parties’ national committees have agreed to new rules for 2012, and SB 282 would have put Missouri in compliance with these new guidelines. Now that the measure will not be allowed to become law, our state’s delegates to both national conventions will be docked. This means the major candidates may have decide to pass on campaigning in Missouri.
Vetoing this bill disrupts the process of nominating candidates. Unfortunately, the governor’s failure to lead on this issue could cost our influence in next year’s important election. Senate Bill 282 was heard in committee early on during session and was debated on the Senate floor on more than one occasion. It did not “slip through the cracks” or receive a vote in the middle of the night. There was nothing secret about the provisions of this bill. Until the legislation was vetoed, we were unaware of any concerns.
Not moving the primary will mean folks in Missouri will not have the same influence in selecting the next president as folks will have in every other state in the Union.
The governor, citing his reason for vetoing this bill, claims that calling for a special election — in the event of a vacancy of a statewide elected office — would cost money. In the bill, the governor was given the ability to set the date of a special election, which means it could be held at the same time as an election date that has already been established — which would save money.
Lawmakers have the ability to override this veto and others during its annual veto session in September. It is disappointing this legislation could not have been perfected with timely input from all interested parties during the regular session. I pray the Legislature can work to undo this, and save our presidential primary.
For a full list of bills that have signed or vetoed by the governor, please click here.
In vetoing Senate Bill 282, the governor has refused to switch the date of the state’s presidential primary from February to March. This change is not important to the daily lives of Missourians, but will have some impact on next year’s presidential election. Both parties’ national committees have agreed to new rules for 2012, and SB 282 would have put Missouri in compliance with these new guidelines. Now that the measure will not be allowed to become law, our state’s delegates to both national conventions will be docked. This means the major candidates may have decide to pass on campaigning in Missouri.
Vetoing this bill disrupts the process of nominating candidates. Unfortunately, the governor’s failure to lead on this issue could cost our influence in next year’s important election. Senate Bill 282 was heard in committee early on during session and was debated on the Senate floor on more than one occasion. It did not “slip through the cracks” or receive a vote in the middle of the night. There was nothing secret about the provisions of this bill. Until the legislation was vetoed, we were unaware of any concerns.
Not moving the primary will mean folks in Missouri will not have the same influence in selecting the next president as folks will have in every other state in the Union.
The governor, citing his reason for vetoing this bill, claims that calling for a special election — in the event of a vacancy of a statewide elected office — would cost money. In the bill, the governor was given the ability to set the date of a special election, which means it could be held at the same time as an election date that has already been established — which would save money.
Lawmakers have the ability to override this veto and others during its annual veto session in September. It is disappointing this legislation could not have been perfected with timely input from all interested parties during the regular session. I pray the Legislature can work to undo this, and save our presidential primary.
For a full list of bills that have signed or vetoed by the governor, please click here.
Lant: Successful County Fair, Property Rights Forum, Inundated With Requests For Caylee's Law
We started this week out with a round table discussion at Anderson with the Ozark Property Rights Group. This group is dedicated to ensuring that legislators are aware of the encroachment of government, from local to Federal, on the rights of private property ownership. Senator Goodman, Representative Reiboldt and I were in attendance and it didn't take long for our education to begin. I truly enjoy these meetings as the members of the group are very well informed on the subjects at hand. They don't want smooth rhetoric from us, but instead they expect honest answers, even if it's "I don't know". Trust me, if you don't know, you very quickly will ! Among other things, they asked each of us what our agendas for the next session were going to be. My major emphasis is going to be to acquire as much knowledge about economic and work force development as I possibly can. Every issue that comes before us can be tied back to job development. If we have a healthy economic climate, taxes increase and the State is able to fund all kinds of programs that have suffered cuts in recent years. Most of our economic woes can be blamed on Washington, but there are a lot of things we can do on a State and local level to help ourselves. It's time for us to quit finger pointing and start doing the right thing!
Our Newton County Fair has to be counted as a great success. Not having adequate time to rebuild the Commercial Barn that was destroyed by the snow storm, tents were erected and although there were a few gripes about the heat, the displays were great and the hardy souls that braved the heat for hours on end to man the booths were to be commended. I do have to mention that the Republican Party Booth was right next to The Conservation Department booth. You guessed it, they had a snake in a cage and I couldn't find Jane for three days! The animals were great as usual. They had new poultry pens and there were some chickens and turkeys that looked way too pretty to eat. My hat's off to all the exhibitors. You could tell how proud some of those kids were the instant you saw the big grins when they showed you their ribbons. My cousins from Southern Indiana were here for a few days and they couldn't quit talking about how great our fair was. They are so busy growing crops back there that there are very few cattle or goats or horses. They also were amazed at the "Fancy Rabbits". I guess some folks are more easily impressed than others.
Elected officials all over the country have been inundated with "auto messages" concerning the Casey Anthony trial. It seems that a web site is encouraging legislators to enact laws making it a felony not to notify law enforcement officials of a child's disappearance within 24 hours. There are already five senior members of the House planning to pre-file bills as well as the committee chairman. It's very likely that his will be the bill presented on the floor but we need to be very careful here. When we seek to establish a severe penalty for "not doing something", we are getting into dangerous territory. A good example of that would be Obama's plan to penalize us if we don't buy government insurance. It's going to be interesting to see how this all plays out.
We've got two days in Jeff City coming up. I have been asked to set up an interim work group meeting with the Division of Social Services, Division of Mental Health and the Division of Health and Senior Services. We will have an informal meeting with each director for the purpose of information gathering. It is our hope that we, as freshmen, will be better equipped when we start appropriations hearings if we better understand the workings of each of these departments. I'll report on the meetings next week. Until then, I am and remain, in your service.
Our Newton County Fair has to be counted as a great success. Not having adequate time to rebuild the Commercial Barn that was destroyed by the snow storm, tents were erected and although there were a few gripes about the heat, the displays were great and the hardy souls that braved the heat for hours on end to man the booths were to be commended. I do have to mention that the Republican Party Booth was right next to The Conservation Department booth. You guessed it, they had a snake in a cage and I couldn't find Jane for three days! The animals were great as usual. They had new poultry pens and there were some chickens and turkeys that looked way too pretty to eat. My hat's off to all the exhibitors. You could tell how proud some of those kids were the instant you saw the big grins when they showed you their ribbons. My cousins from Southern Indiana were here for a few days and they couldn't quit talking about how great our fair was. They are so busy growing crops back there that there are very few cattle or goats or horses. They also were amazed at the "Fancy Rabbits". I guess some folks are more easily impressed than others.
Elected officials all over the country have been inundated with "auto messages" concerning the Casey Anthony trial. It seems that a web site is encouraging legislators to enact laws making it a felony not to notify law enforcement officials of a child's disappearance within 24 hours. There are already five senior members of the House planning to pre-file bills as well as the committee chairman. It's very likely that his will be the bill presented on the floor but we need to be very careful here. When we seek to establish a severe penalty for "not doing something", we are getting into dangerous territory. A good example of that would be Obama's plan to penalize us if we don't buy government insurance. It's going to be interesting to see how this all plays out.
We've got two days in Jeff City coming up. I have been asked to set up an interim work group meeting with the Division of Social Services, Division of Mental Health and the Division of Health and Senior Services. We will have an informal meeting with each director for the purpose of information gathering. It is our hope that we, as freshmen, will be better equipped when we start appropriations hearings if we better understand the workings of each of these departments. I'll report on the meetings next week. Until then, I am and remain, in your service.
15 July 2011
Mayer: Legislation Protecting Student Athletes Enacted Into Law
Measure Addressing Brain Injuries Handled by Senate Leader
JEFFERSON CITY – Young athletes will now have better protections from life-altering brain injuries with the recent signing of House Bill 300, ushered through the upper chamber of the Legislature by Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter.
“Studies have shown that certain brain injuries are the result of young athletes continuing to play a sport after they have suffered a concussion,” said Sen. Mayer. “This vital legislation provides much-needed restrictions on those athletes who have suffered a head injury during a sporting event and important information for players, parents and coaches regarding this serious issue.”
Under the legislation, known as the “Interscholastic Youth Sports Injury Prevention Act,” student athletes suspected of sustaining a concussion or brain injury must stop play for at least 24 hours and cannot return to the activity without written permission from a medical professional trained in the evaluation and management of concussions. Also, a student athlete’s guardian would be required to sign a concussion and brain injury information sheet prior to his or her participation in any practice or competition.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1.6 to 3.8 million sport-related concussions occur annually in the United States. Of all the serious head injuries reported, 18.2 percent of those were sports-related concussions. In high school athletics, approximately 8.9 percent of all injuries were concussions.
House Bill 300 also requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to work with school boards, the Missouri State High School Activities Association, and an organization that provides support services for brain injuries to implement educational information for youth athletes on the risks of concussions and other brain injuries. These groups must develop guidelines and forms to help educate coaches, student athletes, and their guardians regarding the nature and risks of concussion and other brain injuries by the end of this year. In addition, the materials must include information on what happens to an athlete if he or she continues to play after a concussion.
“Former linebacker for the 1999 World Champion St. Louis Rams and current Lincoln University Head Football Coach Mike Jones testified in support of this legislation during its hearing back in May,” said Sen. Mayer. “Experienced athletes and medical professionals shared the dangers of traumatic head injuries, including concussions. It’s important that we educate and protect student athletes from the risks of devastating head injuries. With this legislation’s enactment into law, our coaches, athletes and guardians will know the symptoms of a concussion and be able to stop further harm to these young Missourians before it’s too late.”
The Interscholastic Youth Sports Injury Prevention Act will take effect Aug. 28. To see a complete list of bills handled by Sen. Mayer, visit www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.
JEFFERSON CITY – Young athletes will now have better protections from life-altering brain injuries with the recent signing of House Bill 300, ushered through the upper chamber of the Legislature by Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter.
“Studies have shown that certain brain injuries are the result of young athletes continuing to play a sport after they have suffered a concussion,” said Sen. Mayer. “This vital legislation provides much-needed restrictions on those athletes who have suffered a head injury during a sporting event and important information for players, parents and coaches regarding this serious issue.”
Under the legislation, known as the “Interscholastic Youth Sports Injury Prevention Act,” student athletes suspected of sustaining a concussion or brain injury must stop play for at least 24 hours and cannot return to the activity without written permission from a medical professional trained in the evaluation and management of concussions. Also, a student athlete’s guardian would be required to sign a concussion and brain injury information sheet prior to his or her participation in any practice or competition.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1.6 to 3.8 million sport-related concussions occur annually in the United States. Of all the serious head injuries reported, 18.2 percent of those were sports-related concussions. In high school athletics, approximately 8.9 percent of all injuries were concussions.
House Bill 300 also requires the Department of Health and Senior Services to work with school boards, the Missouri State High School Activities Association, and an organization that provides support services for brain injuries to implement educational information for youth athletes on the risks of concussions and other brain injuries. These groups must develop guidelines and forms to help educate coaches, student athletes, and their guardians regarding the nature and risks of concussion and other brain injuries by the end of this year. In addition, the materials must include information on what happens to an athlete if he or she continues to play after a concussion.
“Former linebacker for the 1999 World Champion St. Louis Rams and current Lincoln University Head Football Coach Mike Jones testified in support of this legislation during its hearing back in May,” said Sen. Mayer. “Experienced athletes and medical professionals shared the dangers of traumatic head injuries, including concussions. It’s important that we educate and protect student athletes from the risks of devastating head injuries. With this legislation’s enactment into law, our coaches, athletes and guardians will know the symptoms of a concussion and be able to stop further harm to these young Missourians before it’s too late.”
The Interscholastic Youth Sports Injury Prevention Act will take effect Aug. 28. To see a complete list of bills handled by Sen. Mayer, visit www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.
Mayer: Measure Preventing Late-Term Abortions Will Take Effect Aug. 28
Legislation Allowed to Become Law Pursuant to Article 3, Section 31
JEFFERSON CITY – Legislation carried through the General Assembly by Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter will ensure that babies capable of sustaining life outside the womb are not subject to late-term abortions. Senate Bill 65, sponsored by Sen. Mayer, and House Bill 213, handled by the Senate leader in the upper chamber, will change provisions relating to abortions in Missouri with respect to viability by preventing the abortion of unborn babies of the gestational age of 20 weeks or more who are determined by a physician to be viable outside of the mother’s womb.
“This legislation continues lawmakers’ work to protect those who have yet to have a voice,” said Sen. Mayer. “At 20 weeks, the mother is half-way through her pregnancy. Her baby’s organs are developing and moving to their proper places, the brain continues to form and grow, and the baby can even swallow. Some mothers can even begin to feel their baby’s movements and many parents around this time find out if they are having a girl or a boy. Protections found in this legislation needed to be put into place to prevent unnecessary and horrific ends to these lives.”
The legislation will, with the exception of a medical emergency, require the physician to determine the gestational age of the unborn child before performing an abortion. If the doctor determines the baby is 20 weeks or more, the physician would test for viability. If viable, no abortion could be performed unless it is necessary to preserve the life of the woman. If the unborn child is 20 weeks or more, not determined viable, and an abortion is performed, SB 65 and HB 213 requires the doctor to submit a report to the Department of Health and Senior Services.
Penalties for violating the provisions of this bill include a Class C felony, and a physician who pleads guilty to or is convicted of performing or inducting an abortion in violation of this act would be subject to having his or her license to practice medicine in Missouri suspended for three years. In addition, any hospital or ambulatory surgical center that knowingly violates this act will be subject to suspension or revocation of its license.
“Missouri law already requires mothers to receive information about alternatives to abortion,” said Sen. Mayer. “This legislation goes further by preventing late-term abortions in our state, allowing those babies capable of sustaining life outside the womb a chance to life. I’m proud of our work in the Legislature and I will continue to fight for those who need representation.”
To see a complete list of Sen. Mayer’s sponsored and co-sponsored legislation for the 2011 regular session, visit www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.
JEFFERSON CITY – Legislation carried through the General Assembly by Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter will ensure that babies capable of sustaining life outside the womb are not subject to late-term abortions. Senate Bill 65, sponsored by Sen. Mayer, and House Bill 213, handled by the Senate leader in the upper chamber, will change provisions relating to abortions in Missouri with respect to viability by preventing the abortion of unborn babies of the gestational age of 20 weeks or more who are determined by a physician to be viable outside of the mother’s womb.
“This legislation continues lawmakers’ work to protect those who have yet to have a voice,” said Sen. Mayer. “At 20 weeks, the mother is half-way through her pregnancy. Her baby’s organs are developing and moving to their proper places, the brain continues to form and grow, and the baby can even swallow. Some mothers can even begin to feel their baby’s movements and many parents around this time find out if they are having a girl or a boy. Protections found in this legislation needed to be put into place to prevent unnecessary and horrific ends to these lives.”
The legislation will, with the exception of a medical emergency, require the physician to determine the gestational age of the unborn child before performing an abortion. If the doctor determines the baby is 20 weeks or more, the physician would test for viability. If viable, no abortion could be performed unless it is necessary to preserve the life of the woman. If the unborn child is 20 weeks or more, not determined viable, and an abortion is performed, SB 65 and HB 213 requires the doctor to submit a report to the Department of Health and Senior Services.
Penalties for violating the provisions of this bill include a Class C felony, and a physician who pleads guilty to or is convicted of performing or inducting an abortion in violation of this act would be subject to having his or her license to practice medicine in Missouri suspended for three years. In addition, any hospital or ambulatory surgical center that knowingly violates this act will be subject to suspension or revocation of its license.
“Missouri law already requires mothers to receive information about alternatives to abortion,” said Sen. Mayer. “This legislation goes further by preventing late-term abortions in our state, allowing those babies capable of sustaining life outside the womb a chance to life. I’m proud of our work in the Legislature and I will continue to fight for those who need representation.”
To see a complete list of Sen. Mayer’s sponsored and co-sponsored legislation for the 2011 regular session, visit www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.
14 July 2011
Davis: Visit To Big Lake and Missouri "Ocean"
At left: Rush Limbaugh at our 4th of July Celebration. Like him or not, he was such an encouragement to the people in Joplin.“I don’t know why people say I’m not supposed to be doing what I’m doing. I’m just trying to do my job. I’m blessed, and I’m glad that I’m blessed.” –Albert Pujols
I just want to start this report with a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been praying and working hard for those in the cities of Joplin and Duquesne. Bill White’s and my districts have suffered great losses but it is amazing what has happened in the past month and a half. We have seen about half the debris removed from our area during this time. Businesses are rebuilding, homes are starting to be built or repaired, and the spirits of our citizens are so amazing.
No one has seen this amount of destruction and loss yet the great people of the 128th an 129th districts are such an encouragement to me. I have not seen a single person on the street corner waiting for FEMA to give them a hand out, they are simply doing what Missourians do best, work hard and help your neighbors. There are literally thousands of stories of survival that it simply thrills my soul to hear each one of them.At left: I-29 under water preventing northbound traffic from getting to Nebraska.
I must say thank you to all the legislators that have come and helped in the cleanup process as well as their families, staffs and friends. Representative Tim Wesco from the 21st district in the Indiana House of Representatives came all the way to help with Paul Meinsen and the Capitol Commission Bible Study group.
The outpouring of support from the general assembly has been remarkable and I must say how much I appreciate all the caring shared with us.At right: Big Lake completely under water.
It has been a long hard process over the past 60 days but a very successful and profitable one. The superintendants from our area have done a remarkable job getting ready for school to start on August 17th. Joplin superintendant CJ Huff, the Joplin school board and administration staff have done a stellar job preparing for the new school year. With as many as 6 of our 11 schools totally destroyed, it has been a challenge organizing for the placement of each class but they have done it. Our several school districts will be having early enrolment in order to get an idea of what the class sizes will look like.
Residents of about 7000 homes have been displaced and we are not sure where all the students are. It will be a challenge to get everything organized but I have faith in our school leadership and I know all will be fine. Our local schools will have a drastic cut in funding over the next few years. With the 8000 structures destroyed and the property tax on most of those structures gone, Joplin schools will lose many millions of dollars in tax revenue. Also, with over 450 businesses destroyed, sales tax revenue will be much lower until we can get the businesses rebuilt. Property tax revenue loss, sales tax revenue loss and just the sheer cost of the cleanup will pose a challenge to our state. At right: Big Lake homes, all under water.
The Disaster Recovery Committee has met several times over the past month and we have learned so much. The tornadoes in Joplin, St. Louis and Sedalia as well as the floods in Sikeston and NW Missouri have pose a great challenge on the state but I have faith in our elected officials to be able to solve the challenged due to these disasters.
Bill White, Shane Schoeler, Mike Thompson and I got the opportunity to visit Mike’s district in northwest Missouri this past week. We flew in a Highway Patrol plane to see the damage from the air, the only real way to get a grasp of the scope of damage. It was heart wrenching. The Missouri River looks more like the Missouri Ocean. We then took a water patrol boat out into the river and got a close up look at the number of houses destroyed. Hundreds of homes destroyed and about a half million acres of Missouri’s best farm land under water. We were told that $253 million dollars in crops will not make it to market this year. That is devastating. While preparing to leave, Bill and I stopped at a gas station off of I-29 to get a drink. There was literally 1 jar of peanut butter on the shelf with no breads or other food. There are many businesses that will simply die because there are no customers. A local Subway and McDonalds right on I-29 simply do not have any passersby to buy their food. It will be next to impossible for them to stay in business for much longer.
It will be a long time before we are back to normal. But every day gets us closer to that normality. I hope my next capitol report will be more geared toward legislation and what we will be working on next year.
Please continue to pray for our state. We are Missourians and we are a strong people. We will make it through these tough times…..with the help of God, family and friends.
Dempsey: Lawmakers Assert Right of States to Control Wasteful Federal Spending
“The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.” –10th Amendment, U.S. Constitution
Part of the beauty of the American Constitution is its recognition that in order for freedom to flourish political power must be divided among many, not centralized in the hands of a few. It was this balancing of power among the independent branches (Legislative, Executive and Judicial) and between the state and the federal governments that perhaps most clearly reveals the genius of the founders.
As generations have passed, however, many in Washington have lost sight of the fact that the federal government was intended to have only limited power. The result has been out-of-control spending, record deficits and costly, intrusive mandates on American citizens such as the recent requirement to purchase health insurance. With Washington continuing to spend trillions of dollars we do not have, leaders in the 50 states are realizing the need to maintain the balance America’s founders intended.
With that goal in mind, we have taken action to rein in wasteful spending and assert the rights of the states to be full – not merely junior – partners in operating the government. Last year, the Legislature put on the ballot a proposal stating that no Missouri citizen would be required to buy health insurance (as mandated by the new federal law). The voters approved this measure by more than 70 percent.
This session, the General Assembly passed legislation [HB423] by an overwhelming and bipartisan vote that would authorize Missouri to enter into a compact with our sister states concerning the issue of health care. The importance of this particular approach is that under the U.S. Constitution, state compacts trump federal law. In other words, assuming the federal government gives approval to the compact, it would ensure that participating states have the ability to control health care issues within their own borders.
Finally, on a related note, there is a move in Congress to amend the U.S. Constitution to require the federal budget to be balanced – similar to what is already required by the Missouri Constitution. In order for this amendment to be effective, it would have to be ratified by three-fourths of the 50 states. Last week, in response to a Congressional request, I wrote to the sponsors of this legislation to assure them that if such an amendment is sent to the states for ratification, I will do what I can to see it approved by the Missouri Senate.
The framers of the U.S. Constitution knew that the best way to guarantee liberty for future generations was to divide power between the states and the federal government. The actions discussed above are important steps towards ensuring that this delicate balance is preserved.
I always appreciate hearing from you. If you have any questions about this or any other issues, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Part of the beauty of the American Constitution is its recognition that in order for freedom to flourish political power must be divided among many, not centralized in the hands of a few. It was this balancing of power among the independent branches (Legislative, Executive and Judicial) and between the state and the federal governments that perhaps most clearly reveals the genius of the founders.
As generations have passed, however, many in Washington have lost sight of the fact that the federal government was intended to have only limited power. The result has been out-of-control spending, record deficits and costly, intrusive mandates on American citizens such as the recent requirement to purchase health insurance. With Washington continuing to spend trillions of dollars we do not have, leaders in the 50 states are realizing the need to maintain the balance America’s founders intended.
With that goal in mind, we have taken action to rein in wasteful spending and assert the rights of the states to be full – not merely junior – partners in operating the government. Last year, the Legislature put on the ballot a proposal stating that no Missouri citizen would be required to buy health insurance (as mandated by the new federal law). The voters approved this measure by more than 70 percent.
This session, the General Assembly passed legislation [HB423] by an overwhelming and bipartisan vote that would authorize Missouri to enter into a compact with our sister states concerning the issue of health care. The importance of this particular approach is that under the U.S. Constitution, state compacts trump federal law. In other words, assuming the federal government gives approval to the compact, it would ensure that participating states have the ability to control health care issues within their own borders.
Finally, on a related note, there is a move in Congress to amend the U.S. Constitution to require the federal budget to be balanced – similar to what is already required by the Missouri Constitution. In order for this amendment to be effective, it would have to be ratified by three-fourths of the 50 states. Last week, in response to a Congressional request, I wrote to the sponsors of this legislation to assure them that if such an amendment is sent to the states for ratification, I will do what I can to see it approved by the Missouri Senate.
The framers of the U.S. Constitution knew that the best way to guarantee liberty for future generations was to divide power between the states and the federal government. The actions discussed above are important steps towards ensuring that this delicate balance is preserved.
I always appreciate hearing from you. If you have any questions about this or any other issues, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Berry: MOBIO Tours
At right:
4-H Missouri Citizenship In Action (MCIA) Debate on house floor.
This week I have been touring with Missouri Biotechnology Association BIO Benchmarking (MOBIO) throughout Missouri, it is becoming clearer to me why Missouri has not had the job growth that we should have. We have not nurtured the opportunities that are available to us and have instead become the creators for entrepreneurs for other states. We have created the minds and the technology that comes with new innovative businesses, but we have not created the opportunities for growth. Many states have not laid the ground work that we have to create these technological opportunities, yet they end up getting the tax paying revenue businesses that are being started in Missouri.
It is mandatory that we turn this around not only for the Missourians who are out of work today, but for the future workers of Missouri, our children and grandchildren.
The MOBIO - Statewide Tour started in Kansas City, then Warrensburg and eventually ending in St. Louis. Some of the highlights of the tour were visiting the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, MRIGlobal, MU Life Science Incubator, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, Monsanto Company, Pfizer Inc., Gallus BioPharmaceuticals, Washington University in St. Louis – School of Engineering, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center and CORTEX.
All Missouri legislators were invited to attend this non- taxpayer funded fact finding tour. I was accompanied by 17 other House and Senate members on this eye opening experience and am hopeful that we will be able to convince the other members of the Missouri House and Senate of ways that we can bring more revenue into our state. This will allow the state of Missouri to fund the needs of our veterans, seniors, kids, Missouri owned businesses and make repairs to our highways as well as provide new construction for ones that are needed.
MCIA had around 50 bright young people from all parts of Missouri here at the capitol to learn about our state government.
While the students were here they learned about the Judicial process, the Media, the Legislative process and Public Interest/ Lobbying. They were here for 4 days and created mock laws from beginning to the end of the legislative process. The photo above was taken during House floor debates.
I hope you are all having a very blessed summer, and I am proud to serve the people of Clay County.
4-H Missouri Citizenship In Action (MCIA) Debate on house floor.This Week
This week I have been touring with Missouri Biotechnology Association BIO Benchmarking (MOBIO) throughout Missouri, it is becoming clearer to me why Missouri has not had the job growth that we should have. We have not nurtured the opportunities that are available to us and have instead become the creators for entrepreneurs for other states. We have created the minds and the technology that comes with new innovative businesses, but we have not created the opportunities for growth. Many states have not laid the ground work that we have to create these technological opportunities, yet they end up getting the tax paying revenue businesses that are being started in Missouri.
It is mandatory that we turn this around not only for the Missourians who are out of work today, but for the future workers of Missouri, our children and grandchildren.
The MOBIO - Statewide Tour started in Kansas City, then Warrensburg and eventually ending in St. Louis. Some of the highlights of the tour were visiting the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, MRIGlobal, MU Life Science Incubator, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, Monsanto Company, Pfizer Inc., Gallus BioPharmaceuticals, Washington University in St. Louis – School of Engineering, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center and CORTEX.
All Missouri legislators were invited to attend this non- taxpayer funded fact finding tour. I was accompanied by 17 other House and Senate members on this eye opening experience and am hopeful that we will be able to convince the other members of the Missouri House and Senate of ways that we can bring more revenue into our state. This will allow the state of Missouri to fund the needs of our veterans, seniors, kids, Missouri owned businesses and make repairs to our highways as well as provide new construction for ones that are needed.
July 1, 2011
MCIA had around 50 bright young people from all parts of Missouri here at the capitol to learn about our state government.
While the students were here they learned about the Judicial process, the Media, the Legislative process and Public Interest/ Lobbying. They were here for 4 days and created mock laws from beginning to the end of the legislative process. The photo above was taken during House floor debates.
I hope you are all having a very blessed summer, and I am proud to serve the people of Clay County.
Lichtenegger: Knowing Your Missouri State Departments: Department of Natural Resources
One of my many duties as a State Representative is to help my constituents with issues whose solution comes via a Missouri State Department. For example, if you are being harassed by telemarketers when you’ve already signed up to be on the “No Calls” list, or say you’re having an issue with your electric company that you’ve tried unsuccessfully to resolve. These are the types of issues my office can help you with when you call or email me.
However, having general information available on hand regarding services and resources from various state departments also can be quite useful.
Therefore I am producing a Capitol Report series called Knowing Your Missouri State Departments. It will contain such information as department divisions; contact number for specific information, complaints or resources; services, publications and links; and general description of each divisions’ offerings.
My objective is to benefit you via familiarity with each department’s general set up. Please remember this will be general information; you still need to call my office if you have a specific unresolved need or issue. For example, a constituent called the office after several unsuccessful attempts to file his unemployment claim electronically. He made several calls to the Employment Security office, still without needed results. Not long after we took his information, we were able to resolve the issue and by the end of the day he was signed up to receive the much need funds.
I will begin the series today with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources since it is the season of outdoor activities in and around our state parks. This three-part presentation will be divided into section 1.1 = An overview of the Department and its website; 1.2 = State Parks & Historic Sites; and 1.3 = Helps & Resources.
You should be able to single-left-click the flow chart below and copy-paste it into a word-processor page such as MS Word or Works so that you can enlarge it to a readable size. As you can see from this organizational flow chart DNR has five main divisions four of which fall into one of these three categories: Energy, Land and Water.
The bottom section of the DNR Home webpage [http://www.dnr.mo.gov has links to each of these main divisions along with topic-links such as Drinking Water and Historic Preservation.
The other sections of the DNR website include the topmost area (left below) where you can link to get information such as find a state park near you, file for a needed permit and view job opportunities with DNR. The mid-section (right below) is ever-changing with recent news such as river flooding in the state and blogs (write-ins) about MO environmental and geological notes.
During one of these “too-hot-to-be-outdoors” days, stay inside and get to know the DNR website! Next week the Capitol Report will explore State Parks and Historic Sites through the DNR State Parks Division.
However, having general information available on hand regarding services and resources from various state departments also can be quite useful.
Therefore I am producing a Capitol Report series called Knowing Your Missouri State Departments. It will contain such information as department divisions; contact number for specific information, complaints or resources; services, publications and links; and general description of each divisions’ offerings.
My objective is to benefit you via familiarity with each department’s general set up. Please remember this will be general information; you still need to call my office if you have a specific unresolved need or issue. For example, a constituent called the office after several unsuccessful attempts to file his unemployment claim electronically. He made several calls to the Employment Security office, still without needed results. Not long after we took his information, we were able to resolve the issue and by the end of the day he was signed up to receive the much need funds.
I will begin the series today with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources since it is the season of outdoor activities in and around our state parks. This three-part presentation will be divided into section 1.1 = An overview of the Department and its website; 1.2 = State Parks & Historic Sites; and 1.3 = Helps & Resources.
#1 Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
#1.1 Department OverviewYou should be able to single-left-click the flow chart below and copy-paste it into a word-processor page such as MS Word or Works so that you can enlarge it to a readable size. As you can see from this organizational flow chart DNR has five main divisions four of which fall into one of these three categories: Energy, Land and Water.
The bottom section of the DNR Home webpage [http://www.dnr.mo.gov has links to each of these main divisions along with topic-links such as Drinking Water and Historic Preservation.
The other sections of the DNR website include the topmost area (left below) where you can link to get information such as find a state park near you, file for a needed permit and view job opportunities with DNR. The mid-section (right below) is ever-changing with recent news such as river flooding in the state and blogs (write-ins) about MO environmental and geological notes.
During one of these “too-hot-to-be-outdoors” days, stay inside and get to know the DNR website! Next week the Capitol Report will explore State Parks and Historic Sites through the DNR State Parks Division.
Tim Jones: Environmental Omnibus Bill Signed Into Law
“It's not the heat, it's the humidity” – was the phrase most frequently recited as we recently celebrated Independence Day!
“I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.” – Abraham Lincoln
I want to take a moment to reflect on the reason why we continue to celebrate Independence Day every July of every year, the day that our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776, the United States of America was founded with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. With the creation of this important document, we claimed our independence from Britain and our great Republic was born. Fifty-six men, of various means and education, put their lives, happiness and worldly possessions on the line to provide future generations freedom by inscribing their names on a piece of parchment. These men had security in life with money and property, but they wanted more: freedom and liberty. They gave us a nation that believes in its citizens—a government of the people, by the people and for the people.
On July 4, 2011 the United States of America celebrated its 235th birthday—235 years of independence, liberty, freedom and the uninterrupted pursuit of happiness. Our forefathers gave more than time and hard work to the cause of independence. Many of these men sacrificed everything they had, including their lives. The British charged some with treason, others fought and died in the Revolutionary War, and many witnessed their homes and livelihoods taken and destroyed. Yet all stood proud and with determination pledged their devotion: “I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth all the means. This is our day of deliverance,” John Adams proclaimed.
We, as Americans, should never forget why we have our freedoms and how they were won. Today there are still those who are willing to give everything for their country. These brave service men and women remind us that the liberties we often take for granted are valuable and worth fighting to protect. We are not perfect, but we enjoy more freedoms than any other nation on the planet and our promise is perfect. The Fourth of July is just one day a year when we as a nation can stop and reflect on the free and independent life we all have and the struggles of those before us, among us, and in the future. Always remember to thank our Veterans, service members and their families--especially, we say a prayer and thank you to the families who know that yet another Independence Day was secured as their loved one gave the ultimate sacrifice.
SB 135 was signed into law on June 22, 2011 and was sponsored by Senator Kurt Schaefer. I was the handler for SB 135 in the House and chief sponsor of HB 192 which was the companion bill to SB 135. This multi-dimensional bill modifies several provisions pertaining to environmental issues. And unlike the federal government, which has been bent on destructive policies relating to environmental regulations over the past several years, this bill’s goals will be largely to reduce, decrease and eliminate unnecessary regulations and get government out of the way of businesses. The legislation will streamline processes and provide proper regulation, where needed. I am proud to say that all the industries affected by this legislation promoted it and supported it. The bill includes the following:
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Miss Skylar Maurath, a student at Eureka Elementary School for being selected as a State Finalist in the upcoming National American Miss Missouri Pageant and to acknowledge the positive role model she has provided through her hard work and devotion. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging the girls to set goals for the future. The pageant is based on inner beauty as well as poise, presentation and offers an “All American spirit of fun for family and friends.” I wish Skylar success in the upcoming pageant and in all her future endeavors. I feel very privileged to have Skylar living in the 89th District!
Thank you for reading this Interim Report. If you know anyone who would be interested in receiving this report, please 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. If you happen to see me in and around the District this summer, please feel free to introduce yourself and say hello! I have been very busy traveling all over the State and speaking to various groups about our many substantive and important legislative accomplishments. If you would like for me to speak to your group or community, please contact Jody at our office at 573.751.0562 and we will be happy to accommodate you.
Finally, if we can ever be of any assistance to you at your State Capitol during the coming months even while we are in the Interim Session, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 573.751.0562 or you can reach my primary assistant, Jody, at: jody{dot}williams{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov. If you ever find yourself in or around Jefferson City at any time during the year, please feel free to visit the Majority Leader’s Office in Room 302 and Jody will be happy to meet and greet you!
Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service,
“I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.” – Abraham Lincoln
I want to take a moment to reflect on the reason why we continue to celebrate Independence Day every July of every year, the day that our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776, the United States of America was founded with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. With the creation of this important document, we claimed our independence from Britain and our great Republic was born. Fifty-six men, of various means and education, put their lives, happiness and worldly possessions on the line to provide future generations freedom by inscribing their names on a piece of parchment. These men had security in life with money and property, but they wanted more: freedom and liberty. They gave us a nation that believes in its citizens—a government of the people, by the people and for the people.
On July 4, 2011 the United States of America celebrated its 235th birthday—235 years of independence, liberty, freedom and the uninterrupted pursuit of happiness. Our forefathers gave more than time and hard work to the cause of independence. Many of these men sacrificed everything they had, including their lives. The British charged some with treason, others fought and died in the Revolutionary War, and many witnessed their homes and livelihoods taken and destroyed. Yet all stood proud and with determination pledged their devotion: “I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth all the means. This is our day of deliverance,” John Adams proclaimed.
We, as Americans, should never forget why we have our freedoms and how they were won. Today there are still those who are willing to give everything for their country. These brave service men and women remind us that the liberties we often take for granted are valuable and worth fighting to protect. We are not perfect, but we enjoy more freedoms than any other nation on the planet and our promise is perfect. The Fourth of July is just one day a year when we as a nation can stop and reflect on the free and independent life we all have and the struggles of those before us, among us, and in the future. Always remember to thank our Veterans, service members and their families--especially, we say a prayer and thank you to the families who know that yet another Independence Day was secured as their loved one gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Continued Update on Legislation Passed in the First Regular Legislative Session of 2011
SB 135—Modifying Provisions Pertaining to Environmental Issues Signed Into Law on June 22, 2011SB 135 was signed into law on June 22, 2011 and was sponsored by Senator Kurt Schaefer. I was the handler for SB 135 in the House and chief sponsor of HB 192 which was the companion bill to SB 135. This multi-dimensional bill modifies several provisions pertaining to environmental issues. And unlike the federal government, which has been bent on destructive policies relating to environmental regulations over the past several years, this bill’s goals will be largely to reduce, decrease and eliminate unnecessary regulations and get government out of the way of businesses. The legislation will streamline processes and provide proper regulation, where needed. I am proud to say that all the industries affected by this legislation promoted it and supported it. The bill includes the following:
- Extending the expiration date for fees assessed to lead-acid batteries, as well as assorted hazardous waste handlers, until December 31, 2013;
- Protecting monies in the State Park Earnings Fund from being transferred to the General Revenue Fund;
- Removing the ban on the use of expanded polypropylene coolers near certain state rivers;
- Allowing transfer of ownership of scrap tires to regulate proper disposal or recycling;
- Extending the statutes regarding environmental regulation of dry-cleaning facilities until August 28, 2017;
- Restricting modification of motor fuel vapor recovery fees by local governments or enforcement agencies;
- Regulating the repair or replacement of motor fuel volume measuring devices (gas pumps);
- Easing requirements for construction of water wells for charitable or benevolent organizations, other than schools or day-care facilities; and
- Providing requirements for training of individuals in the use of underground petroleum storage tanks.
News & Notes
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Miss Skylar Maurath, a student at Eureka Elementary School for being selected as a State Finalist in the upcoming National American Miss Missouri Pageant and to acknowledge the positive role model she has provided through her hard work and devotion. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging the girls to set goals for the future. The pageant is based on inner beauty as well as poise, presentation and offers an “All American spirit of fun for family and friends.” I wish Skylar success in the upcoming pageant and in all her future endeavors. I feel very privileged to have Skylar living in the 89th District!
Thank you for reading this Interim Report. If you know anyone who would be interested in receiving this report, please 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. If you happen to see me in and around the District this summer, please feel free to introduce yourself and say hello! I have been very busy traveling all over the State and speaking to various groups about our many substantive and important legislative accomplishments. If you would like for me to speak to your group or community, please contact Jody at our office at 573.751.0562 and we will be happy to accommodate you.
Finally, if we can ever be of any assistance to you at your State Capitol during the coming months even while we are in the Interim Session, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 573.751.0562 or you can reach my primary assistant, Jody, at: jody{dot}williams{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov. If you ever find yourself in or around Jefferson City at any time during the year, please feel free to visit the Majority Leader’s Office in Room 302 and Jody will be happy to meet and greet you!
Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service,
Nance: Grandkids Visit, Caylee's Law, TANF Drug Testing Becomes Law
Pictured at right
are Elizabeth and Jacob Nance, grandchildren visiting from Phoenix. I was able to give them a tour of the Capitol Building last week.
The recent Anthony trial in Florida has motivated many constituents to request a law be passed to require parents or caretakers to notify authorities within 24 hours of the disappearance of a child. Failure to do so would be a felony.
This was a rare case of an unusual parent, but it will get attention in the coming General Assembly. First, we must agree on an age level. Then we must decide who is considered in custody of the child at the time of disappearance. As in all other legislation, more questions will be raised and dealt with. I know legislation is being drawn up at this time.
Drug-testing legislation [HB73] was approved by the Legislature this session and signed into law without fanfare by Governor Nixon on Tuesday. The state Department of Social Services is to develop a program for screening applicants and recipients of the welfare program and then for testing those for whom there is reasonable cause to suspect illegal drug use.
People who refuse to be checked, and those who test positive and do not complete a substance abuse program will be ineligible for benefits through the welfare program for three years. While participating in a substance abuse program people could keep their benefits. If state benefits are cut off, children in that household could keep receiving them, with the state selecting a third party to receive them on their behalf. The drug-testing requirement applies to Missouri's welfare program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. This past May, there were 42,038 families consisting of 108,180 people that received benefits through the program.
The Gregg Williams Golf Foundation Tournament and events raised over $26,000 for local kids.
The Lawson Rotary Club raised funds for scholarships with a Tennis Ball Race and Bingo at the Lawson Picnic last week-end.
I spent four hours in Orrick Tuesday laying sand bags at the levy with other concerned citizens. Wednesday I had the opportunity to work with Orrick residents and about thirty model prisoners from Cameron (over 10,000 sand bags were filled). The inmates enjoyed helping. They worked hard and were happy about helping make a difference and just being able to work with the other volunteers. One inmate told me “we are the best of the best of the worst”. The local Lion's Club was the site of lunch and dinner for the volunteers.
The Ray County Fair gets in full swing next week. Farmer's Appreciation is Wednesday evening.
are Elizabeth and Jacob Nance, grandchildren visiting from Phoenix. I was able to give them a tour of the Capitol Building last week.The recent Anthony trial in Florida has motivated many constituents to request a law be passed to require parents or caretakers to notify authorities within 24 hours of the disappearance of a child. Failure to do so would be a felony.
This was a rare case of an unusual parent, but it will get attention in the coming General Assembly. First, we must agree on an age level. Then we must decide who is considered in custody of the child at the time of disappearance. As in all other legislation, more questions will be raised and dealt with. I know legislation is being drawn up at this time.
At the Capitol
Drug-testing legislation [HB73] was approved by the Legislature this session and signed into law without fanfare by Governor Nixon on Tuesday. The state Department of Social Services is to develop a program for screening applicants and recipients of the welfare program and then for testing those for whom there is reasonable cause to suspect illegal drug use.
People who refuse to be checked, and those who test positive and do not complete a substance abuse program will be ineligible for benefits through the welfare program for three years. While participating in a substance abuse program people could keep their benefits. If state benefits are cut off, children in that household could keep receiving them, with the state selecting a third party to receive them on their behalf. The drug-testing requirement applies to Missouri's welfare program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. This past May, there were 42,038 families consisting of 108,180 people that received benefits through the program.
In the District
The Gregg Williams Golf Foundation Tournament and events raised over $26,000 for local kids.
The Lawson Rotary Club raised funds for scholarships with a Tennis Ball Race and Bingo at the Lawson Picnic last week-end.
I spent four hours in Orrick Tuesday laying sand bags at the levy with other concerned citizens. Wednesday I had the opportunity to work with Orrick residents and about thirty model prisoners from Cameron (over 10,000 sand bags were filled). The inmates enjoyed helping. They worked hard and were happy about helping make a difference and just being able to work with the other volunteers. One inmate told me “we are the best of the best of the worst”. The local Lion's Club was the site of lunch and dinner for the volunteers.
The Ray County Fair gets in full swing next week. Farmer's Appreciation is Wednesday evening.
Rupp: Proud to Help Pass Beneficial Laws
As a state lawmaker, there is no greater feeling of accomplishment or joy than sponsoring or handling a bill that will make a positive difference for the people in our state. I have served in the Legislature since 2002, when I was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, and the pride that I feel to serve our area has only grown with time.
Throughout the 2011 legislative session, I was (and still am) dedicated to several matters, including drawing new congressional lines to fairly represent Missouri citizens, fighting for the rights of people with disabilities, and protecting our citizens from motor vehicle warranty fraud, among many other issues. Now that the governor’s deadline to act upon legislation (July 14) has passed, it’s time to reflect on the beneficial measures enacted into law and to stand up for the measures we feel should have been signed.
I’m proud to say several measures I was responsible for have received the governor’s stamp of approval and will become Missouri law. One of those bills is SB 132, which will address fraudulent motor vehicle contracts and warranties, as well as vehicle licensing, the “free look” period, deceptive practices, the suspension and revocation of licenses, and the registry of motor vehicles. This act will protect Missourians against unregistered and misleading salesmen who try to sell consumers invalid motor vehicle warranties and convince them that their current warranties are no good. (Click here to read my press release regarding SB 132’s signature).
Other bills I co-sponsored and handled in the Missouri Senate that were signed by the governor include:
As chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Redistricting, another measure I handled, HB 193, was vetoed by the governor. However, in a positive turn of events, the Legislature secured the two-thirds majority vote needed to override the veto. A vote to overturn a veto isn’t common — the last time the Legislature successfully overrode a governor’s veto during regular session was in 1980 — so I am thrilled this act will go down in the history books as a matter that overcame odds and helped secure fair congressional districts in Missouri.
Despite the fact that I am pleased with the governor’s decisions regarding these bills, I am disappointed on his decision regarding some bills, and one in particular — SB 3. The bill was a straight-forward way to combat voter fraud in our state. Even though Missourians will still be able to cast their ballots regarding the issue of presenting a photo ID at the polls, many lawmakers were let down by the governor’s decision to veto the enacting legislation for the ballot measure. It is my hope that the Legislature will override the veto once our annual veto session begins in September, so guidelines can be in place for voter ID provisions in our state.
Again, I can’t begin to tell you how much of an honor it is to represent you and your family at our Capitol. Your well-being is my top priority, and I will continue to file legislation that will reflect the best interests of Missourians. Thank you and God Bless.
Throughout the 2011 legislative session, I was (and still am) dedicated to several matters, including drawing new congressional lines to fairly represent Missouri citizens, fighting for the rights of people with disabilities, and protecting our citizens from motor vehicle warranty fraud, among many other issues. Now that the governor’s deadline to act upon legislation (July 14) has passed, it’s time to reflect on the beneficial measures enacted into law and to stand up for the measures we feel should have been signed.
I’m proud to say several measures I was responsible for have received the governor’s stamp of approval and will become Missouri law. One of those bills is SB 132, which will address fraudulent motor vehicle contracts and warranties, as well as vehicle licensing, the “free look” period, deceptive practices, the suspension and revocation of licenses, and the registry of motor vehicles. This act will protect Missourians against unregistered and misleading salesmen who try to sell consumers invalid motor vehicle warranties and convince them that their current warranties are no good. (Click here to read my press release regarding SB 132’s signature).
Other bills I co-sponsored and handled in the Missouri Senate that were signed by the governor include:
- SB 108, which extends the expiration date concerning the installation of fire sprinklers in certain homes and buildings (not related to SB 118, which was vetoed by the governor).
- SB 320, which modifies provisions relating to domestic violence, which include child abuse, repeat offenders, and SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Examination) tests.
- HB 354, which exempts electric vehicles from Missouri’s motor vehicle emissions inspection program.
- HB 470, which stops churches from getting taxed if they had an entertainer perform at their congregation.
- HB 604, which prohibits a child from being taken from his or her parents, just because both parents are disabled.
- HB 648, which changes the laws regarding individuals with disabilities. The bill would change all references of “mentally retarded,” “mental retardation,” or “handicapped” in current state law to “intellectually disabled,” “intellectual disability,” or “disabled,” respectively. The bill would also protect the rights of parents with disabilities (similar to the provision found in HB 604).
As chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Redistricting, another measure I handled, HB 193, was vetoed by the governor. However, in a positive turn of events, the Legislature secured the two-thirds majority vote needed to override the veto. A vote to overturn a veto isn’t common — the last time the Legislature successfully overrode a governor’s veto during regular session was in 1980 — so I am thrilled this act will go down in the history books as a matter that overcame odds and helped secure fair congressional districts in Missouri.
Despite the fact that I am pleased with the governor’s decisions regarding these bills, I am disappointed on his decision regarding some bills, and one in particular — SB 3. The bill was a straight-forward way to combat voter fraud in our state. Even though Missourians will still be able to cast their ballots regarding the issue of presenting a photo ID at the polls, many lawmakers were let down by the governor’s decision to veto the enacting legislation for the ballot measure. It is my hope that the Legislature will override the veto once our annual veto session begins in September, so guidelines can be in place for voter ID provisions in our state.
Again, I can’t begin to tell you how much of an honor it is to represent you and your family at our Capitol. Your well-being is my top priority, and I will continue to file legislation that will reflect the best interests of Missourians. Thank you and God Bless.
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