Missouri lawmakers have a simple mission for 2011: put people back to work.
When the First Regular Session of the 96th General Assembly begins in January, a lot of folks will be watching to see what moves the Legislature will make in terms of job creation. We have to improve employers’ ability to hire and retain employees, and secure certainty in take-home pay of every working family in Missouri.
We have to help rural Missouri families survive by helping employers keep and create better paying jobs with benefits. How do we do this? We need to cap the corporate franchise tax, restore balance to Missouri’s Human Rights Act, and ensure employee choice when leaving or joining a union.
The corporate franchise tax is double taxation and hurts businesses. Business owners should not have to pay a tax just to be in business. Currently, the largest franchise taxpayer in Missouri has to pay approximately $1.9 million a year. This stifles investment, both in expansion and hiring. Kansas is phasing out its corporate franchise tax. Starting in 2011, it will be gone altogether.
Despite the tremendous efforts the General Assembly has made, in regard to tort reform, more needs to be done. The state’s “Human Rights Act” needs to be brought in line with what federal law states. Jury trials versus trials heard by judges, company versus individual liability, and damage caps need to be taken into consideration when rewriting this act. This will cut back on money spent for lawsuits and attorney fees.
Another priority this year will be to get a handle on the budget. We will not have federal stimulus money shoved down our throat this coming year. This is a good thing, because it will mean the Legislature will have to take charge and cut the budget the right way. At the top of this list: DO NOT raise taxes. The General Assembly has not raised taxes in a number of years, and it has helped us to stay above water when other states are scrambling to make ends meet.
We have to do more with less in government. Hard-working families throughout rural Missouri are doing this, so why not state government? We started this last year and will continue the trend until we start to see a real recovery, not just in Missouri, but throughout the country.
The Legislature also needs to continue its commitment to education. We have to maintain K-12 school funding at its current level, continue to make college more affordable, remove government red tape and ensure every student continues to get a world-class education.
The work will be hard, but the rewards for Missourians will be great. I pray that the Missouri General Assembly will work FOR the people and continue to keep rural Missouri growing and prosperous in the coming year.
30 December 2010
Davis: Farewell Address
Next week I will be ending over 16 years of elected public service to move into another arena of public service. We all are called to public service whether we are elected or not. Every time you pick up a piece of litter, put away a shopping cart, raise your children to be good citizens or keep your marriage vows, you are providing a public service. The future of our civilization and our civility depends on this.
A highly respected and brave congressman once said, “"Special interests have replaced the concernthat the founders had for general welfare. Vote-trading is seen as good politics. The errand-boy mentality is ordinary; the defender of liberty is seen as bizarre. It's difficult for one who loves true liberty and utterly detests the power of the state to come to Washington for a period of time and not leave a true cynic.”
Likewise, I frequently fight the feelings of cynicism when I observe the number of legislators who start off well and then become absorbed into the bureaucratic cesspool by giving up their principles within a few years.
It reminds me of the song, “The Rhinestone Cowboy”---“I’ve been walking these streets so long, singing the same old song, I know every crack in these dirty sidewalks of Broadway. Where profit’s the name of the game and nice guys get washed away like the snow in the rain. There’s been a load of compromising on the road to my horizon…” Thankfully, I have a clean conscience when it comes to standing up for our principles. As I walk out of the Capitol for the last time I know that my priorities have never changed---honoring God and honoring my constituents.
This came at a tremendous personal cost, but it was worth what I paid for it many times over. I value my integrity, and I have the satisfaction of knowing I get to take my integrity with me when I leave. Not everybody can say that.
The price tag? It meant national attention -far more than most of my colleagues- even those in leadership positions. Those who live in my district may not realize that people in Kansas City, Springfield, Joplin, Columbia, New York, California and those who watch MSNBC and Steven Colbert may know more about me than you do. I became the target of several left wing blogs and frequently segments of my Capitol Reports would be quoted within hours of being e-mailed. People in other states would write me who read about what I am saying and accomplishing in Missouri.
The goal of the left wing bloggers is to shame and humiliate those who speak up for common sense America. It is possible that they are so surrounded by socialists that it shocks them to hear someone explain free-market ideology. More likely, they think making a martyr out of an honest mother of seven, grass-roots supported American will intimidate others from daring to state the obvious out of fear of the backlash. It may have worked were it not for the fact that I am defined by my Maker, not what the left-wing blogs say.
I must admit that seeing people try to tarnish my reputation was not pleasant, but it didn’t snuff out my freedom of speech or my efforts to help educate and possibly embolden others. The trailblazers who spoke the truth before me helped to develop my backbone as well. Courage and bravery are honored virtues in America.
I know that Missouri is in better shape because I was in the Capitol for eight years. My Capitol Reports chronicled my battles to stand up for our 10th amendment rights, remove abortion providers from the sex education classes in the public schools, free the midwives, fight against bigger government and promote legislation to strengthen families. The rest of my life I will have the satisfaction of knowing I made a difference by being there these last eight years.
Yet, there is nothing I did that cannot be undone by others who come behind me. Therefore, I urge you to be vigilant to support only those who side with the principles of liberty. Talk is cheap and during election seasons, you will hear whatever is on the menu of political correctness.
Did you ever play Red Rover? The hard chargers who break through the line get to take another player back to their side. They slowly build their team until there is no one left on the other side. That game provides philosophical lessons for us as well. We need to win people over to our side or we will lose them to the other side. The side who holds together wins. For those who are hiding in the shadows behind the bushes, I urge you to come out and see how good it feels to stand up tall and enjoy the sunlight. We need more brave hearts if we are going to see the real change necessary to get our country back on track. We owe it to our philosophical, moral and spiritual heritage to continue standing up for the truth.
In my last Capitol Report to you as your Representative, I urge you to join me in serving as a conscience for our homes, churches, communities and for our state. Don’t ever be afraid to speak up for what is right. I did, and I am still standing as an example that tenacity and perseverance win in the end. There is a God who sees everything and will judge us at the end of our lives for every thought, word, deed and vote.
Several of my constituents have told me how sorry they are I am not moving to the senate. I am satisfied because I know I am needed elsewhere. I plan on serving in the senate in the future. For now, I am not really going away -I’m just reloading!
It always means so much to me to receive an e-mail from you, however my state account is about to be removed as a working address. It has been a pleasure serving you and hope you will feel free to contact me anytime at my new e-mail address: GOPChief{at}gmail{dot}com. God bless you all!
A highly respected and brave congressman once said, “"Special interests have replaced the concern
Likewise, I frequently fight the feelings of cynicism when I observe the number of legislators who start off well and then become absorbed into the bureaucratic cesspool by giving up their principles within a few years.
It reminds me of the song, “The Rhinestone Cowboy”---“I’ve been walking these streets so long, singing the same old song, I know every crack in these dirty sidewalks of Broadway. Where profit’s the name of the game and nice guys get washed away like the snow in the rain. There’s been a load of compromising on the road to my horizon…” Thankfully, I have a clean conscience when it comes to standing up for our principles. As I walk out of the Capitol for the last time I know that my priorities have never changed---honoring God and honoring my constituents.
This came at a tremendous personal cost, but it was worth what I paid for it many times over. I value my integrity, and I have the satisfaction of knowing I get to take my integrity with me when I leave. Not everybody can say that.
The price tag? It meant national attention -far more than most of my colleagues- even those in leadership positions. Those who live in my district may not realize that people in Kansas City, Springfield, Joplin, Columbia, New York, California and those who watch MSNBC and Steven Colbert may know more about me than you do. I became the target of several left wing blogs and frequently segments of my Capitol Reports would be quoted within hours of being e-mailed. People in other states would write me who read about what I am saying and accomplishing in Missouri.
The goal of the left wing bloggers is to shame and humiliate those who speak up for common sense America. It is possible that they are so surrounded by socialists that it shocks them to hear someone explain free-market ideology. More likely, they think making a martyr out of an honest mother of seven, grass-roots supported American will intimidate others from daring to state the obvious out of fear of the backlash. It may have worked were it not for the fact that I am defined by my Maker, not what the left-wing blogs say.
I must admit that seeing people try to tarnish my reputation was not pleasant, but it didn’t snuff out my freedom of speech or my efforts to help educate and possibly embolden others. The trailblazers who spoke the truth before me helped to develop my backbone as well. Courage and bravery are honored virtues in America.
I know that Missouri is in better shape because I was in the Capitol for eight years. My Capitol Reports chronicled my battles to stand up for our 10th amendment rights, remove abortion providers from the sex education classes in the public schools, free the midwives, fight against bigger government and promote legislation to strengthen families. The rest of my life I will have the satisfaction of knowing I made a difference by being there these last eight years.
Yet, there is nothing I did that cannot be undone by others who come behind me. Therefore, I urge you to be vigilant to support only those who side with the principles of liberty. Talk is cheap and during election seasons, you will hear whatever is on the menu of political correctness.
Did you ever play Red Rover? The hard chargers who break through the line get to take another player back to their side. They slowly build their team until there is no one left on the other side. That game provides philosophical lessons for us as well. We need to win people over to our side or we will lose them to the other side. The side who holds together wins. For those who are hiding in the shadows behind the bushes, I urge you to come out and see how good it feels to stand up tall and enjoy the sunlight. We need more brave hearts if we are going to see the real change necessary to get our country back on track. We owe it to our philosophical, moral and spiritual heritage to continue standing up for the truth.
In my last Capitol Report to you as your Representative, I urge you to join me in serving as a conscience for our homes, churches, communities and for our state. Don’t ever be afraid to speak up for what is right. I did, and I am still standing as an example that tenacity and perseverance win in the end. There is a God who sees everything and will judge us at the end of our lives for every thought, word, deed and vote.
Several of my constituents have told me how sorry they are I am not moving to the senate. I am satisfied because I know I am needed elsewhere. I plan on serving in the senate in the future. For now, I am not really going away -I’m just reloading!
It always means so much to me to receive an e-mail from you, however my state account is about to be removed as a working address. It has been a pleasure serving you and hope you will feel free to contact me anytime at my new e-mail address: GOPChief{at}gmail{dot}com. God bless you all!
A Little Bit of Humor
28 December 2010
Rupp: Have a Safe and Happy New Year
The year 2010 is about to come to a close and we can all start with a fresh slate for 2011. New Year’s is a time for family and friends to have fun and enjoy each other’s company. Traveling on New Year’s, however, can be dangerous when drivers are not being responsible. By simply following these tips, Missourians across the state will be able to bring in 2011 safely.
Being a parent myself, a top concern is always the safety of our children while traveling on our roadways. The best precaution drivers can take is to wear their seat belts. In the past three years, 600 drivers (under 21 years old) died in traffic accidents in Missouri, and of those drivers, 78 percent were not buckled up. It is also easy for young people to become distracted while on the road. Please refrain from texting and talking on the phone, rummaging through CDs, and other preoccupying tasks.
Another concern regarding travel during the holiday season is winter weather. Driving in snow and ice can be scary and unsafe, and it is important to take the proper precautions before battling Jack Frost. During your trip:
Please remember to travel safe, and I hope you and your family have a Happy New Year and a very blessed 2011. For more information about safe traveling, please visit www.modot.mo.gov.
If you have any questions regarding this matter or any other issues within state government, please visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/rupp. You can also e-mail me or call my office toll-free at (866) 271-2844.
Being a parent myself, a top concern is always the safety of our children while traveling on our roadways. The best precaution drivers can take is to wear their seat belts. In the past three years, 600 drivers (under 21 years old) died in traffic accidents in Missouri, and of those drivers, 78 percent were not buckled up. It is also easy for young people to become distracted while on the road. Please refrain from texting and talking on the phone, rummaging through CDs, and other preoccupying tasks.
Another concern regarding travel during the holiday season is winter weather. Driving in snow and ice can be scary and unsafe, and it is important to take the proper precautions before battling Jack Frost. During your trip:
- Obey the posted speed limits and don’t try to speed.
- Adjust your speed to accommodate driving conditions.
- Give the snowplows plenty of room and don't try to pass them.
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Watch for other vehicles having problems with road conditions.
- Keep your mirrors, windows, and lights clean for improved visibility.
- Don't pass other vehicles on or near bridges — bridges tend to get very icy.
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full.
- If you don't feel comfortable driving, park at the first safe place.
Please remember to travel safe, and I hope you and your family have a Happy New Year and a very blessed 2011. For more information about safe traveling, please visit www.modot.mo.gov.
If you have any questions regarding this matter or any other issues within state government, please visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/rupp. You can also e-mail me or call my office toll-free at (866) 271-2844.
27 December 2010
Tim Jones: Reflections and Preparations, Belated Christmas Wishes
Whether you receive this on, around or after Christmas and the holiday 2010 season, I do hope you enjoy!
“Among the natural rights of the colonists are these: First a right to life, secondly to liberty, and thirdly to property; together with the right to defend them in the best manner they can.” –Samuel Adams
“That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.” –Linus Van Pelt
In reviewing my Capitol Report I prepared on Christmas Eve of 2009, I was bemused to find that although 2010 was a tumultuous, historical year with more highs and lows and peaks and valleys than I can recount here (or that you want to spend time reading!), many of the issues and topics of a year ago remain the same.
For instance, even though our Nation continues to be challenged by one of the most difficult economic periods in our history, the 111th U.S. Congress, now in full “lame duck” mode, continues to wreak its havoc upon our country as it limps towards its eventual end. A great many of these folks will simply return home and will not be making the round trip to Washington, D.C. in January because the American people told them so in November. Those same American people made a historic change at the ballot box and ordered that an entire new field of true public servants take the reins of what will be the 112th Congress. Records were set from coast to coast and from state to state as we witnessed the largest Republican comeback since the 1930s. And this theme was true not only on the federal level but also in our State Legislatures and Governor’s Mansions. The people spoke loudly and clearly, rejecting the destructive policies of Washington, D.C. and choosing the common sense, limited government driven principles of freedom and liberty such as we have chosen to follow here in our Missouri State government over the past eight plus years.
Instead of focusing on the serious issues of jobs and the economy, the lame duck 111th instead chose to waste time trying to pass yet another pork laden stimulus bill (was that Porkulus III or IV, I have lost count) courtesy of Senator Reid (which failed), debating a destructive illegal immigration policy bill (which failed), and reversing course on a military policy that President Clinton himself championed not two decades prior (without debating the substance of DADT, are there not more pressing, more important issues that Congress should be focused on right now with unemployment remaining near 10%, with two wars in foreign lands and should we not have had a much longer debate on a major new treaty with Mother Russia?). Although this Congress did wisely provide at least some security to our nation’s families and small businesses by extending the tax policy we have been ruled under for the past nearly eight years, they also decided, in typical DC fashion, to load up a wise bill with a great deal of unwise spending increases, earmarks and yet another extension of unemployment benefits so we can further encourage people to stay at home and not search for jobs. Finally, our Senate decided to, for the very first time in our nation’s history; pass a monumental new major treaty with Russia over the objections of many learned brilliant political, military and historical minds during a lame duck session. Being an English & Russian Studies double major back in my university days (my choice I guess was to either become an editor at Rossetta Stone or go to law school…the rest is history!), I like to think I know a thing or two about the Big Bear in the East and as I continue to study this massive and impressive former superpower who continues to be a powerful and potentially dangerous force in our world. To quote Dick Morris, “having suppressed democracy, wiped out free speech, taken over the media, nationalized their oil and energy industry, invaded Georgia, enabled the Iranian nuclear program, and tried to establish a natural gas monopoly in Europe, what else does Putin need to do before [Congress] realizes that appeasement will not work?”
Russia remains a force to be reckoned with and Russian leaders continue to be very ambitious, nationalistic, dictatorial and unilateral in their approach with the West. The 111th Congress has bowed before the Bear and placed our national security at grave risk.
But enough of that! As we prepare for a New Year, I want to propose that there is a coming sunrise over the next hill as the 112th Congress begins to make its charge upon Washington and as our largest Republican majority ever returns to your State House and Senate in Jefferson City. Over the past many years here in Missouri, we have made wise use of your tax dollars and passed common sense legislation that has given Missouri small businesses the help and tools they need to grow and hire, that has improved our healthcare industry on the state level (the opposite of ObamaCare), that has balanced our State’s budget for eight years without any tax increases, that has protected life and your Second Amendment freedoms and that has sought to shield our State’s sovereignty from an out of control, out of touch, nearly bankrupt federal government.
My promise to you, as your incoming Missouri House Majority Leader, is to continue to promote and advance solid, common sense, principled public policy that promotes a limited government that remains accountable to the people, that carefully guards and wisely spends every single tax dollar that you pay, that continues to stand guard before the sovereignty of our State, that seeks to protect all of your freedoms and liberties and the lives of all citizens, the elderly and the unborn, and that once and for all is dedicated to reforming our troubled education system so that every child, no matter where they live, has the opportunity to a proper public education, which has become the civil rights battle of our generation.
I leave you with words of encouragement borne out of a vision for a greater tomorrow. We are a nation of industrious, hard working individuals and strong families who know how to confront crisis and conquer challenges. Through all our wars, economic strife and social unrest, we have endured and been made the stronger for it. And our Nation will continue not only to survive but to prosper. So during this very special time, as we celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, the New Year and the other high holy days and holidays that these months bring, enjoy them and celebrate them with your family and loved ones like never before. Hug your children, rejoice with your parents and grandparents like never before, worship in your Churches, Synagogues and other holy places with renewed spirit and prepare your body, heart, mind and soul for what is assuredly to be a very interesting and exciting 2011. In the meantime, I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous and Happy New Year!
Daughter Katie continues to impress and make her Mom and Dad extremely proud. This week, while at the local craft store, Katie saw a little kit with which she could make her own wooden ornaments. Katie asked Suzanne if she could buy the little kit and make ornaments for some of her little friends. After crafting these little treasures, Katie wanted to personally deliver them, which she did, walking determinedly up to each door, ringing the bell and with a huge smile on her face and merry glint in her eyes, presenting her gifts to each of her friends in turn. If a five year old can learn and then live the “reason for the season” then surely all of us can! I cannot tell you how proud Suzanne and I are of our charitable little girl. How tremendous, how wondrous! We expect that Abby will follow suit and these two little girls have truly made the world a better place…
Many of you are very familiar with two of my favorite Christmas Season literary pieces so without further ado, I share them with you as my gift and present to you and yours!
"......That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."
"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?
"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
"115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."
VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.
No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.
Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service,
Christmas 2010
“Among the natural rights of the colonists are these: First a right to life, secondly to liberty, and thirdly to property; together with the right to defend them in the best manner they can.” –Samuel Adams
“That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.” –Linus Van Pelt
Reflection & Preparation
In reviewing my Capitol Report I prepared on Christmas Eve of 2009, I was bemused to find that although 2010 was a tumultuous, historical year with more highs and lows and peaks and valleys than I can recount here (or that you want to spend time reading!), many of the issues and topics of a year ago remain the same.
For instance, even though our Nation continues to be challenged by one of the most difficult economic periods in our history, the 111th U.S. Congress, now in full “lame duck” mode, continues to wreak its havoc upon our country as it limps towards its eventual end. A great many of these folks will simply return home and will not be making the round trip to Washington, D.C. in January because the American people told them so in November. Those same American people made a historic change at the ballot box and ordered that an entire new field of true public servants take the reins of what will be the 112th Congress. Records were set from coast to coast and from state to state as we witnessed the largest Republican comeback since the 1930s. And this theme was true not only on the federal level but also in our State Legislatures and Governor’s Mansions. The people spoke loudly and clearly, rejecting the destructive policies of Washington, D.C. and choosing the common sense, limited government driven principles of freedom and liberty such as we have chosen to follow here in our Missouri State government over the past eight plus years.
Instead of focusing on the serious issues of jobs and the economy, the lame duck 111th instead chose to waste time trying to pass yet another pork laden stimulus bill (was that Porkulus III or IV, I have lost count) courtesy of Senator Reid (which failed), debating a destructive illegal immigration policy bill (which failed), and reversing course on a military policy that President Clinton himself championed not two decades prior (without debating the substance of DADT, are there not more pressing, more important issues that Congress should be focused on right now with unemployment remaining near 10%, with two wars in foreign lands and should we not have had a much longer debate on a major new treaty with Mother Russia?). Although this Congress did wisely provide at least some security to our nation’s families and small businesses by extending the tax policy we have been ruled under for the past nearly eight years, they also decided, in typical DC fashion, to load up a wise bill with a great deal of unwise spending increases, earmarks and yet another extension of unemployment benefits so we can further encourage people to stay at home and not search for jobs. Finally, our Senate decided to, for the very first time in our nation’s history; pass a monumental new major treaty with Russia over the objections of many learned brilliant political, military and historical minds during a lame duck session. Being an English & Russian Studies double major back in my university days (my choice I guess was to either become an editor at Rossetta Stone or go to law school…the rest is history!), I like to think I know a thing or two about the Big Bear in the East and as I continue to study this massive and impressive former superpower who continues to be a powerful and potentially dangerous force in our world. To quote Dick Morris, “having suppressed democracy, wiped out free speech, taken over the media, nationalized their oil and energy industry, invaded Georgia, enabled the Iranian nuclear program, and tried to establish a natural gas monopoly in Europe, what else does Putin need to do before [Congress] realizes that appeasement will not work?”
Russia remains a force to be reckoned with and Russian leaders continue to be very ambitious, nationalistic, dictatorial and unilateral in their approach with the West. The 111th Congress has bowed before the Bear and placed our national security at grave risk.
But enough of that! As we prepare for a New Year, I want to propose that there is a coming sunrise over the next hill as the 112th Congress begins to make its charge upon Washington and as our largest Republican majority ever returns to your State House and Senate in Jefferson City. Over the past many years here in Missouri, we have made wise use of your tax dollars and passed common sense legislation that has given Missouri small businesses the help and tools they need to grow and hire, that has improved our healthcare industry on the state level (the opposite of ObamaCare), that has balanced our State’s budget for eight years without any tax increases, that has protected life and your Second Amendment freedoms and that has sought to shield our State’s sovereignty from an out of control, out of touch, nearly bankrupt federal government.
My promise to you, as your incoming Missouri House Majority Leader, is to continue to promote and advance solid, common sense, principled public policy that promotes a limited government that remains accountable to the people, that carefully guards and wisely spends every single tax dollar that you pay, that continues to stand guard before the sovereignty of our State, that seeks to protect all of your freedoms and liberties and the lives of all citizens, the elderly and the unborn, and that once and for all is dedicated to reforming our troubled education system so that every child, no matter where they live, has the opportunity to a proper public education, which has become the civil rights battle of our generation.
I leave you with words of encouragement borne out of a vision for a greater tomorrow. We are a nation of industrious, hard working individuals and strong families who know how to confront crisis and conquer challenges. Through all our wars, economic strife and social unrest, we have endured and been made the stronger for it. And our Nation will continue not only to survive but to prosper. So during this very special time, as we celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, the New Year and the other high holy days and holidays that these months bring, enjoy them and celebrate them with your family and loved ones like never before. Hug your children, rejoice with your parents and grandparents like never before, worship in your Churches, Synagogues and other holy places with renewed spirit and prepare your body, heart, mind and soul for what is assuredly to be a very interesting and exciting 2011. In the meantime, I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous and Happy New Year!
Personal News & Notes
Daughter Katie continues to impress and make her Mom and Dad extremely proud. This week, while at the local craft store, Katie saw a little kit with which she could make her own wooden ornaments. Katie asked Suzanne if she could buy the little kit and make ornaments for some of her little friends. After crafting these little treasures, Katie wanted to personally deliver them, which she did, walking determinedly up to each door, ringing the bell and with a huge smile on her face and merry glint in her eyes, presenting her gifts to each of her friends in turn. If a five year old can learn and then live the “reason for the season” then surely all of us can! I cannot tell you how proud Suzanne and I are of our charitable little girl. How tremendous, how wondrous! We expect that Abby will follow suit and these two little girls have truly made the world a better place…
Two Simple Stories that Remind Us of the Reason for the Season
Many of you are very familiar with two of my favorite Christmas Season literary pieces so without further ado, I share them with you as my gift and present to you and yours!
From Linus to Charlie Brown
“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men.” (Luke 2: 8-14)"......That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."
And from the Editor of the New York Sun (1897) to Virginia
"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old."Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?
"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
"115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."
VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.
No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.
Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service,
26 December 2010
Holsman Selected To Chair Joint Committee on Urban Agriculture
At right: Holsman tours Growing Power in MilwaukeeJefferson City, MO - The Missouri General Assembly's newly established Joint Committee on Urban Agriculture held its first organizational meeting on Thursday afternoon. On the agenda for the committee's inaugural meeting was election of a chairperson and vice-chair, as well as the approval of a slate of nominees to serve on a technical advisory subcommittee. When it came time to select a committee chair, Representative Tom Loehner (R-Koeltztown) nominated Representative Jason Holsman (D-Kansas City).
In making his nomination speech, Loehner stated that Holsman's initiative in getting the committee formed made him a good candidate for the position. Representative Loehner also believed that the committee chair should come from an urban area.
Loehner's motion was seconded by Representative Billy Pat Wright (R-Dexter). The motion passed unanimously.
"I appreciate the responsibility vested in me through this committee chairmanship," said Holsman after the meeting, "A sustainable local food system will be an important aspect of our growing society as we change both what and how we eat. The average family in Kansas City will sit down for dinner and consume food that was grown with heavy pesticides, preserved, pre-packaged and shipped thousands of miles from both domestic and international souirces."
Holsman went on to say that every year the United States imports almost 800 million dollars in processed fruits and vegetables from China. That money can be redirected to help create agriculture jobs in areas of the urban core suffering from high unemployment.
"Locally grown food not only decreases transportation costs and related greenhouse emissions, but also provides access to healthier foods for children and seniors who live in the food deserts of the inner city." Holsman said. "Urban Agriculture has the potential to supply a reliably sustainable source of nutrition in the event of an interruption in supply due to drought, disease or disaster."
In other committee business, State Senator Jim Lembke (R-St. Louis) was selected as the Vice-Chairman. The committee approved a slate of nominees recommended by Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Dr. Jon Hagler to serve on a technical advisory subcommittee to the Joint Committee.
"I'm incredibly optimistic about the results of this committee and look forward to playing a positive role in shaping the future of agriculture in Missouri and across the nation," said Holsman.
The Joint Committee on Urban Agriculture, House Bill 1848, was designed to create a report to serve as a blueprint for state government activities relating to agriculture in metropolitan areas.
24 December 2010
Holsman: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Dear Friends and Family,
We have been very blessed this year, my wife and kids are healthy and happy and for that I am truly grateful. I deeply appreciate the support and words of encouragement you have provided through out the year. I have enjoyed writing this newsletter and representing you in Jefferson City is a humbling occupation.
Everyone knows the economic challenges we have faced the past two years and the looming budget cuts this coming session. The housing market is still soft and unemployment remains high, but we do have reason to be optimistic. Sales are up across the country and Missouri has had 9 straight months of job growth. I ask you to join me in using the power of positive thinking to help build confidence for the new year.
The year ends with welcomed new responsibilities and many opportunities for hard work. Tonight, on Christmas Eve, none of that matters much. My thoughts are with our armed service men and women stationed halfway across the globe in foreign lands most assuredly missing their loved ones. Here at home there are many families living in Kansas City who are struggling to make ends meet and tomorrow morning will serve as a reminder that love is still more powerful than material possessions. The true meaning of Christmas resides in the heart of mankind and no amount of distance or poverty can extinguish its spirit.
On a personal note, I would like to sincerely thank my legislative assistant Chase Waggoner for his three years of loyal service to the 45th district. Chase will be moving to another Representative closer to his home at the start of the next session. Please help me welcome my new assistant Ryan Burke who has some big shoes to fill and all the talent to do it.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Below you will find the cartoon that I attach every year in hopes to remind each of us the simple beauty for the celebration.
Have a safe and happy holiday! Peace and prosperity for the new year!
Jason
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
Lights, please.
"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward man.'"
Peace on Earth Good Will Toward Man
Merry Christmas!!
We have been very blessed this year, my wife and kids are healthy and happy and for that I am truly grateful. I deeply appreciate the support and words of encouragement you have provided through out the year. I have enjoyed writing this newsletter and representing you in Jefferson City is a humbling occupation.
Everyone knows the economic challenges we have faced the past two years and the looming budget cuts this coming session. The housing market is still soft and unemployment remains high, but we do have reason to be optimistic. Sales are up across the country and Missouri has had 9 straight months of job growth. I ask you to join me in using the power of positive thinking to help build confidence for the new year.
The year ends with welcomed new responsibilities and many opportunities for hard work. Tonight, on Christmas Eve, none of that matters much. My thoughts are with our armed service men and women stationed halfway across the globe in foreign lands most assuredly missing their loved ones. Here at home there are many families living in Kansas City who are struggling to make ends meet and tomorrow morning will serve as a reminder that love is still more powerful than material possessions. The true meaning of Christmas resides in the heart of mankind and no amount of distance or poverty can extinguish its spirit.
On a personal note, I would like to sincerely thank my legislative assistant Chase Waggoner for his three years of loyal service to the 45th district. Chase will be moving to another Representative closer to his home at the start of the next session. Please help me welcome my new assistant Ryan Burke who has some big shoes to fill and all the talent to do it.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Below you will find the cartoon that I attach every year in hopes to remind each of us the simple beauty for the celebration.
Have a safe and happy holiday! Peace and prosperity for the new year!
Jason
Meaning of Christmas
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.
Lights, please.
"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward man.'"
Merry Christmas!!
23 December 2010
Rupp: Wishing You and Your Family a Happy Holiday Season
Everyone has their own traditions during the holiday season. Some send Christmas cards to their loved ones, decorate the Christmas tree with ornaments from years past, hang lights outside their house to proudly display their holiday cheer, share their wish lists with Santa in hopes of getting what they want this year, sit down with family and friends for a holiday feast, and buy gifts for those who bring out the Christmas spirit in them.
This time of year also provides citizens with a wonderful opportunity to help those who are less fortunate. Many of us have already shared the joy of Christmas by donating a toy for a needy child, giving items to a food drive or shelter, or sharing their time with an organization that needs a helping hand. There are numerous organizations located in the 2nd Senatorial District that still need your help this holiday season, and as we focus on 2011, the need for volunteers will continue as we ring in the new year.
In my community services directory located on my Senate website, I list several community and human services in Lincoln and St. Charles counties that help citizens throughout the year, including Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County, the Salvation Army locations in O’Fallon and St. Charles, and the United Way of Greater St. Louis. These and other organizations provide our community with much-needed services. Without their hard work, many citizens would not be given the blessings the rest of us have received this year.
Christmas is celebrated in many ways. However you decide to celebrate this holiday season, I hope you do so with the love and kindness shared through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This joy comes from our everlasting faith — faith in humanity and in Christ. As I share this special time with my family and watch the holiday spirit through my children’s eyes, I am reminded of how blessed I am to have such a loving family, a job that allows me to serve our state’s citizens, and a district filled with constituents who help me strive to make our state a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
If you have questions regarding any issues within state government, please visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/rupp. You can also e-mail me or call my office toll-free at (866) 271-2844
This time of year also provides citizens with a wonderful opportunity to help those who are less fortunate. Many of us have already shared the joy of Christmas by donating a toy for a needy child, giving items to a food drive or shelter, or sharing their time with an organization that needs a helping hand. There are numerous organizations located in the 2nd Senatorial District that still need your help this holiday season, and as we focus on 2011, the need for volunteers will continue as we ring in the new year.
In my community services directory located on my Senate website, I list several community and human services in Lincoln and St. Charles counties that help citizens throughout the year, including Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County, the Salvation Army locations in O’Fallon and St. Charles, and the United Way of Greater St. Louis. These and other organizations provide our community with much-needed services. Without their hard work, many citizens would not be given the blessings the rest of us have received this year.
Christmas is celebrated in many ways. However you decide to celebrate this holiday season, I hope you do so with the love and kindness shared through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This joy comes from our everlasting faith — faith in humanity and in Christ. As I share this special time with my family and watch the holiday spirit through my children’s eyes, I am reminded of how blessed I am to have such a loving family, a job that allows me to serve our state’s citizens, and a district filled with constituents who help me strive to make our state a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
If you have questions regarding any issues within state government, please visit my website at www.senate.mo.gov/rupp. You can also e-mail me or call my office toll-free at (866) 271-2844
Davis: Merry Christmas
This is a photo of the largest social welfare agency and crisis nursery ever created. It's called a family, and these are springing up all over the place. They perform a wide gamut of medical, educational, judicial and social services at no cost to the taxpayers! Most of their services are either donated free of charge or on a reciprocal trade agreement. They provide these services with the love, discernment, advice and efficiency for which government has no match.
Left: Our second son, Ben, is holding their 18 month old daughter with our daughter-in-law, Candice, holding their 5 day-old son. Our first son, John behind our daughter-in-law, Emily with their three month old baby girl.
Middle: My dad, Gordon, holding the hand of my mom, Marylin. Behind them, my brother, sister and brother-in-law with their two youngest children. In front of them, Ben and Candice's oldest daughter, our seventh child, Philip, and sixth child, Susanna.
Right: Our fourth child, Matthew, me and husband, Bernie. In front of us are our third child, Cathryn, and our fifth child, Amanda.
It's not easy getting seven children to come back home for a holiday, especially after they're married and have families of their own, but we have made it a shared family value and the fact that they want to come home for special events adds to everyone's joy.
When my son called and asked for backup support while his wife was in the hospital after their third child was born, I wanted to help in any way I could. There are other crisis nurseries in the St. Louis area that are available for parents to drop their children off when they need a break. This is an important safety valve, yet I wonder, "Where is the village? I.E. where are the grandparents, aunts, neighbors, church members?"
Every Father's Day we sell a plaque that says: "The greatest gift I ever had, came from God, I call him Dad." There is no greater gift we can give each other than the gift of a family. If you have one, include a single person into your tribe this year. If you are single, don't go it alone. There is a family who wants you to join them. Friends are the family we pick for ourselves. The human spirit was meant for companionship.
I love to hear what you think, so please let me know what you are doing to include others in your Christmas celebration. You can click here: Cynthia Davis
If you responded last week, you can ignore this. However, those of you who may not have seen this have two more opportunities. Due to term limits, I am getting ready to shut down our office at the Missouri Capitol. In keeping with the tradition of sending these out every Thursday, I have one more Capitol Reports left to send. I plan on continuing to communicate with all of you who have enjoyed my reports.
If you want to continue receiving news, analysis and humor, please click here:
If you want to stop receiving this information after December 31 please click here:
For those of you who like the newest technology, here is the link to "The Digital Nativity": Virtual Nativity
Don't miss this choir performance of the Hallelujah Chorus at a mall in the food court. They dressed up like regular shoppers and created a remarkable sensation. Here is the video: Food Court Chorus
I wish you a most blessed Christ-centered Christmas!
Left: Our second son, Ben, is holding their 18 month old daughter with our daughter-in-law, Candice, holding their 5 day-old son. Our first son, John behind our daughter-in-law, Emily with their three month old baby girl.
Middle: My dad, Gordon, holding the hand of my mom, Marylin. Behind them, my brother, sister and brother-in-law with their two youngest children. In front of them, Ben and Candice's oldest daughter, our seventh child, Philip, and sixth child, Susanna.
Right: Our fourth child, Matthew, me and husband, Bernie. In front of us are our third child, Cathryn, and our fifth child, Amanda.
It's not easy getting seven children to come back home for a holiday, especially after they're married and have families of their own, but we have made it a shared family value and the fact that they want to come home for special events adds to everyone's joy.
When my son called and asked for backup support while his wife was in the hospital after their third child was born, I wanted to help in any way I could. There are other crisis nurseries in the St. Louis area that are available for parents to drop their children off when they need a break. This is an important safety valve, yet I wonder, "Where is the village? I.E. where are the grandparents, aunts, neighbors, church members?"
Every Father's Day we sell a plaque that says: "The greatest gift I ever had, came from God, I call him Dad." There is no greater gift we can give each other than the gift of a family. If you have one, include a single person into your tribe this year. If you are single, don't go it alone. There is a family who wants you to join them. Friends are the family we pick for ourselves. The human spirit was meant for companionship.
I love to hear what you think, so please let me know what you are doing to include others in your Christmas celebration. You can click here: Cynthia Davis
Packing up the Office
If you responded last week, you can ignore this. However, those of you who may not have seen this have two more opportunities. Due to term limits, I am getting ready to shut down our office at the Missouri Capitol. In keeping with the tradition of sending these out every Thursday, I have one more Capitol Reports left to send. I plan on continuing to communicate with all of you who have enjoyed my reports.
If you want to continue receiving news, analysis and humor, please click here:
If you want to stop receiving this information after December 31 please click here:
A Little Bit of Christmas Humor
For those of you who like the newest technology, here is the link to "The Digital Nativity": Virtual Nativity
Don't miss this choir performance of the Hallelujah Chorus at a mall in the food court. They dressed up like regular shoppers and created a remarkable sensation. Here is the video: Food Court Chorus
Ridgeway: Christmas Greetings & Elk Update
Christmas Greetings & Elk Update
A couple weeks ago I wrote about a plan the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has for introducing elk into a three county area of our state. I appreciate the responses I have received on this issue, most of which were not in favor of the MDC moving forward with elk restoration in our state. It is continuing to garner attention and debate.
In my recent meeting with a representative from the Department of Conservation, I questioned the liability following vehicle collisions with elk. Would the MDC be held responsible for damage caused? The answer is no. It is my position that if the Department of Conservation is so determined to bring elk to Missouri in spite of intense opposition from many of the stakeholders, (not to mention taxpayers), they should be held responsible for the damage which will be caused.
This idea is not new but has never been enacted. A former colleague of mine when I served in the House of Representatives, Representative Dale Whiteside (R-Chillicothe) introduced legislation which would have made the Department of Conservation liable for up to $500 of the deductible in collisions between vehicles and deer.
During this time in Missouri political history, Republicans were in the minority and their legislation was rarely debated in the House. This issue drew the attention of lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and considerable time was spent on the bill. Although it did not pass, attention was focused on the potential for damage and danger. Imagine how much more damage can be caused by elk which are four times larger than white tail deer.
Although a bill has been drafted, it has not yet been introduced for the coming Session which will begin January 5th. Since it is still in the proposal stage, the Department of Conservation has not taken an official position, but Deputy Director Tim Ripperger has been quoted as saying the department typically opposes any attempts to hold them responsible for wildlife damage.
As I mentioned in my previous column, the budget of the Department of Conservation is subject to little, if any, oversight. Their dedicated source of funding has been ongoing since 1976 and is not subject to a sunset clause of any kind. Any changes in funding or accountability would have to be accomplished by a statewide vote of the citizenry. Decisions to spend tax dollars on projects such as elk restoration may hasten such a vote.
Merry Christmas from our home to yours!
As the season hovers near the shortest day of the year, Richard and I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. While I have to admit to getting caught up in the glitz and trappings of the season, it is my sincere hope we can all take time to remember the real reason we celebrate this occasion.
It is all about a baby boy, born of a virgin in a humble stable, who came to save mankind. There were no catalogs, no tinsel, and no brightly colored bows. While we spend days and even weeks agonizing over purchasing the perfect gift and how much to spend on said gift, the perfect gift was given to all of us over two thousand years ago. No receipt and no return needed. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
21 December 2010
Nance: Christmas Wishes
“Christmas reminds us we are not alone…
As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by December's bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same…” –Donald E. Westlake
“Let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all history, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world of the healing medicine of love which has transformed all manner of hearts for almost two thousand years... Underneath all the bulging bundles is this beating Christmas heart.” –George Mathew Adams
My family wishes you and yours a Merry Christmas and a New Year that is filled with happiness and prosperity. As we come to the end of another year, I am grateful for all my blessings, my family, friends, and the opportunity you have given me to serve.
To our troops and their families, thank you for your service to our country. Stay safe and hurry back home to us.
As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by December's bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same…” –Donald E. Westlake
“Let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all history, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world of the healing medicine of love which has transformed all manner of hearts for almost two thousand years... Underneath all the bulging bundles is this beating Christmas heart.” –George Mathew Adams
My family wishes you and yours a Merry Christmas and a New Year that is filled with happiness and prosperity. As we come to the end of another year, I am grateful for all my blessings, my family, friends, and the opportunity you have given me to serve.
To our troops and their families, thank you for your service to our country. Stay safe and hurry back home to us.
Kraus: Merry Christmas!
Season of Giving
This season, we hear more and more stories of children going hungry and families needing help. Even the Salvation Army, a hallmark of Christmas generosity, has reported that its red kettle collections are way down. With so many people in trouble, they have less to give to others, which means that those of us who are blessed with enough must step up in this season dedicated to giving.
Many organizations in our community do step up on a daily basis – always ready to exemplify the Christmas spirit of helping out those less fortunate. Throughout the year, my office hears from people who need help and don't know where to turn. I consider it a privilege to use the resources of my office to locate assistance for residents of Eastern Jackson County.
One of these resources is Hope Network, sponsored by the First Baptist Church in Raytown. Ever ready to help, the people at Hope Network will assist those in our community who need help with food, clothing, shelter, medical care, transportation and emergency assistance.
Another source of assistance is ReDiscover. Its mission is to deliver mental health and substance abuse services to help individuals and families achieve healthier and more productive lives. If you know someone whose holidays are marred with the hopelessness of substance abuse or mental problems, ReDiscover is located in Lee's Summit and Kansas City.
Another helpful resource for those who are hungry and who can't afford to purchase groceries is Harvesters: the Community Food Network. If you or someone you know is having trouble putting food on the table, this website, at Food Resources, offers you the ability to search a specific area – say, five miles from a specific zip code in Lee's Summit – to locate nearby food pantries. If you and your family have enough, please consider donating to a nearby food pantry to help replenish depleted supplies.
(You can click on the highlighted links above to find more information.)
Travel Safe!
Although the current weather forecast is not so good, we can still hope that this Christmas will be free from the ice pellets, snow and cold weather that marked both last week and our 2009 Christmas. Please be reminded that, in case of bad weather, you can always check the Missouri Department of Transportation's Traveler Information Map for current road conditions.
Will Kraus
17 December 2010
Stouffer: Taking a Real Look At Tax Credits
Missouri lawmakers have been talking about tax credits for several years now. Unfortunately, no real action has been taken towards reform.
While some conservatives believe tax credits are a way to stimulate economic growth with tax dollars that already belong to the people, others feel it is a big government approach to picking winners and losers in what should be a free market.
I received quite a bit of criticism for not supporting an expansion of tax credits for Ford Motor Company earlier this year. Ford did not even ask for the governor to seek the incentive, but Ford did support the idea. It passed in a special legislative session.
However, a new report issued by the governor’s Tax Credit Review Commission, may provide a framework for reform. The panel recommended cutting 28 tax credit programs, which would save the state approximately $220 million. The commission also recommended making improvements to another 32 programs. This may be a good start.
This new panel found tax credits have grown by 408 percent since 1998, from $107 million to $522 million. The amount is predicted to jump to $698 million during the current fiscal year, which will continue until July 1, 2011. Today, many folks are predicting a $700 million shortfall in our next fiscal year.
Unfortunately, these incentives are dispersed without any scrutiny, because tax credits are not generally part of the budgeting process. Over the last two years, any attempts that have been made to scale back spending on certain tax credit programs, or even cap the amount that can be spent for some, has been held up by lawmakers who do not want to see them taken away.
Tax credits were first used in the 1990s as a way to get around refunding tax overpayments through the Hancock Amendment. Many believe tax credits have become entitlements for special interests. These are folks who do not necessarily need your tax dollars handed to them; in addition, these handouts may cause folks to make investments the free market would not sustain.
We have new leadership coming into both Missouri’s Senate and House. Maybe 2011 will be the year that we take a serious look at tax credits. When the General Assembly starts to work on the fiscal year 2012 budget, maybe some of the money that goes toward tax credits will no longer be there and will, instead, be a part of the trimming that the Legislature needs to do to the entire state budget.
While some conservatives believe tax credits are a way to stimulate economic growth with tax dollars that already belong to the people, others feel it is a big government approach to picking winners and losers in what should be a free market.
I received quite a bit of criticism for not supporting an expansion of tax credits for Ford Motor Company earlier this year. Ford did not even ask for the governor to seek the incentive, but Ford did support the idea. It passed in a special legislative session.
However, a new report issued by the governor’s Tax Credit Review Commission, may provide a framework for reform. The panel recommended cutting 28 tax credit programs, which would save the state approximately $220 million. The commission also recommended making improvements to another 32 programs. This may be a good start.
This new panel found tax credits have grown by 408 percent since 1998, from $107 million to $522 million. The amount is predicted to jump to $698 million during the current fiscal year, which will continue until July 1, 2011. Today, many folks are predicting a $700 million shortfall in our next fiscal year.
Unfortunately, these incentives are dispersed without any scrutiny, because tax credits are not generally part of the budgeting process. Over the last two years, any attempts that have been made to scale back spending on certain tax credit programs, or even cap the amount that can be spent for some, has been held up by lawmakers who do not want to see them taken away.
Tax credits were first used in the 1990s as a way to get around refunding tax overpayments through the Hancock Amendment. Many believe tax credits have become entitlements for special interests. These are folks who do not necessarily need your tax dollars handed to them; in addition, these handouts may cause folks to make investments the free market would not sustain.
We have new leadership coming into both Missouri’s Senate and House. Maybe 2011 will be the year that we take a serious look at tax credits. When the General Assembly starts to work on the fiscal year 2012 budget, maybe some of the money that goes toward tax credits will no longer be there and will, instead, be a part of the trimming that the Legislature needs to do to the entire state budget.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
