Carter: Supporting funds for Amachi, Committee Actions

At Right: Representative Chris Carter at the Sheltered Workshop in St. Louis

Recently funding for the Amachi/Boys and Girls Club Program was brought up in the Public Safety and Corrections Appropriations Committee I on which I sit.  This mentoring program focuses on one of the most at-risk group of young people in our state; children with an incarcerated parent or parents. 

This year, with budget constraints squeezing funds from even the most worthy of causes, it may seem odd that a youth mentoring program would receive this sort of attention from a committee focusing on funding the state's efforts to fight crime and promote public safety.

These are your tax dollars and I feel an obligation to inform you on how they are being spent, and to do my best to see that we in Jefferson City appropriate your tax dollars wisely.  To that end, I believe funding Amachi is an important investment in our future.  Seventy percent of children who grow up with an incarcerated parent will become incarcerated themselves.  Besides improving the wellbeing of many at-risk youth, Amachi helps reduce crime by supporting people who are very likely to commit crime without the positive influence a mentor provides. 

While old sayings do not fit every situation, it is certainly true that in terms of crime, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  If we can reach at-risk youth before they commit crimes instead apprehending them as offenders later on, we save the state costs in courts and in prisons.  More important then the costs, though, is preventing these youth from perpetuating a sad cycle of neglect and crime in their own lives and with their own children.

For some of you it may not be your family specifically that is torn apart by crime but we have a shared burden to see that everyone's tomorrow can be brighter than today.  Like President Obama has said, "It is that fundamental belief- that I am my brother's keeper, I am my sister's keeper- that makes this country work."  It is absolutely critical that we use the resources we have at our disposal to fight crime and build better, safer communities.  That is exactly what the people at Amachi are doing, and that is why I fought successfully to see that they continue to receive funding for the excellent job they are doing.

FLOOR ACTIVITY

All activity as of February 22, 2010

# House Bills Filed - 1,052
# of HBs Referred to Committee -340
# HBs Reported Do Pass - 37
# HBs Reported Do Pass Consent - 20
# HBs Perfected -8
# HBs Third Read - 8
# HBs Reported Do Pass in the Senate - 1
# HBs Third Read in the Senate - 0

COMMITTEE ACTION

During the last three weeks, House Committees have been busy holding public hearings and passing legislation on to the House Floor.  Following is a summary of some of this legislation.

• The House Special Standing Committee on Health Insurance voted do pass HB1311 and HB1341, which requires health carriers issuing or renewing a health benefit plan to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
  
• The House Special Standing Committee on General Laws voted do pass HJR48, HJR50, and HJR57, which propose a constitutional amendment prohibiting any person, employer, or health care provider from being compelled to participate in any health care system.
  
• The House Committee on Elections voted do pass HB1497, which requires special elections to fill vacancies in the offices of Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, and United States Senator.
  
• The House Committee on Healthcare Transformation held a public hearing for HB 1548, which would establish the High School Sports Brain Injury Prevention Act, which requires school boards to work with the Missouri State High School Activities Association to develop guidelines regarding head injuries.
  
• The House Committee on Elections held a hearing for HB 1966, which would allow for an advance voting period for an election in which any statewide office is on the ballot. The committee also heard testimony on HJR 64, which proposes a constitutional amendment
  changing the laws regarding voter identification.
  
• The House Committee on Public Safety held a public hearing on HB 1205, which would prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving motor vehicle on any highway in this state.  The Committee also held a hearing on HB 1472, which adds 1-Pentyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indole to the list of Schedule I controlled substances.
  
• The House Committee on Crime Prevention held a public hearing for HB 1695, which would change the laws regarding driving while intoxicated.  The Committee also heard testimony on HB 1695 and HB 1742, which change the laws regarding driving while intoxicated.
  
• The House Special Committee on Urban Issues voted do pass on HB 1519, which changes the laws regarding the crime of assault ofa law enforcement or corrections officer, emergency personnel, or highway worker by adding transit operators and employees of mass transit systems
  
• The House Committee on Energy and the Environment heard testimony on HCR 46, which urges the Environmental Protection Agency to rescind its formal endangerment finding on greenhouse gases and urges Missouri's congressional delegation to vote against H.R. 2454 known as Cap and Trade.
  
• The House Special Committee on Children and Families held a public hearing for HB 2000 and HB 1327, which change the laws regarding the consent requirements for obtaining an abortion and creates the crime of coercing an abortion.
  
• The House Committee on Corrections and Public Institutions held a public hearing for HB 1644, which specifies that use of force by a parent or other caregiver of a minor or compentent person; a teacher; certain operators of vehicles; or a physician is justifiable if the person is acting in self defense.

Roorda: Autism Bill Advances, Tax Break for Manufacturers, Phone Access Fees

Like scientist in search of a new discovery, members of the Missouri House are in search of something large, yet elusive.  Something that seems complicated, but yet might be simple.  Baffling, but something that perhaps makes perfect sense.

Members of the appropriations committess, and the House budget committee, are rolling up their sleeves, burning the midnight oil, squinting as they search line-by-line through stacks of budget balance sheets for programs and services that can be done without, is under-utilized, or could be down-sized.  We need to find at least $300 million dollars, and probably more, to make the state's books balance.  And it certainly isn't easy.

When you have the people that I have had come into my office...folks in wheel chairs, people who have lost their sight, senior citizens, teachers and 4H...saying  "please don't cut us", you realize that these are our neighbors we are hurting when we make these cuts.  It is a painful process.  Nobody likes to do this, but the state budget begins in the House, and it's on our shoulders.

Of course the budget process in the House is just one step on the long road to balancing the budget, as the proposal must then go to the Senate and then to an inevitable conference committee before it is passed into law and sent to the governor.  But even in a tight budget year, rest assured that the long and deliberate process will yield a fiscally-responsible budget that will allocate the resources at our disposal to the areas of greatest need.

Sincerely,
Jeff Roorda
House Minority Whip
Missouri House of Representatives

Four Weeks and 10 Bills Later, House Debates Autism Measure

House Speaker Had Promised Autism Bill Would Be The First Debated in 2010

The Missouri House of Representatives today for the first time debated legislation that would require insurance companies to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autistic children. House Speaker Ron Richard, R-Joplin, had promised the bill would be the first piece of legislation debated on the House floor during the 2010 legislative session; instead it was the 11^th.

"Although parents with autistic children no doubt wish Speaker Richard had kept his promise, House Democrats are pleased to finally be debating the autism insurance bill," said House Minority Leader Paul LeVota, D-Independence. "It's too bad we had to wait a month and spend hours debating nonbinding resolutions, but at least we are finally working on this issue."

During a Dec. 3 conference call with reporters, Richard promised the autism bill would be the first measure debated by the House this year, a pledged reported by numerous news organizations, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in a Dec. 4 story.

Instead of the autism bill, HB 1311, the first legislation the House debated this year was a nonbinding resolution to Missouri's congressional delegation on Jan. 19. That bill was taken up four weeks to the day prior to HB 1311.

House Endorses Tax Break For Manufacturers

The House of Representatives voted 134-17 on Feb. 18 in favor tax breaks for companies that upgrade existing manufacturing facilities in Missouri. The bill, HB 1675, would cost the state up to $35 million a year in lost revenue.

The bill's primary purpose is to head off the potential closure of the Ford Motor Co.'s assembly plant in Claycomo, which employs 3,700 people. But other Missouri manufacturing companies could also take advantage of the tax breaks.

To read more click here.

House Approves Reducing Phone Access Fees

The House of Representatives voted 111-40 on Feb. 18 in favor of a bill that would gradually reduce the fees local phone companies charge each other for connecting intrastate phone calls. Missouri's intrastate access fees, which typically are passed on to customers, currently are among the highest in the country. The bill, HB 1750, potentially could lower phone rates in some areas while increasing them in others.

To read AP story click here.

House Gives Final Approval to Special Elections Bill

Last Monday, the Missouri House of Representatives gave final approval to legislation that would require special elections to fill vacancies for the U.S. Senate and most statewide elected offices. The House approved HB 1497, sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith, R-Salem, by a vote of 900in

The bill would require special elections to fill vacancies in the offices of lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state auditor, state treasurer and United States Senator. Under current law, the governor appoints a replacement if a statewide office becomes vacant. HB 1497 would allow the governor to appoint a temporary replacement for U.S. Senate, auditor or attorney general until a special election could be held. The bill would allow the governor to manage the offices of secretary of state or treasurer until a special election.

Speaking in opposition to the bill was Rep. Jeff Roorda, D-Barnhart, who questioned the motivation for the change. "All we've done this session is one grand distraction after another. This is so blatantly political, this bill... to change the way we appoint offices because there's a Democrat in the governor's mansion," said Roorda.

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

To read more about this legislation click here.

Ruestman: Special Elections and Tax Relief

One of the fundamental principles our country and state were founded on is the idea of free and open elections of representatives and other officials.  However, our state's system of filling vacancies has a loophole in it.  Currently, if certain positions are vacated, the governor can appoint a replacement.

This system was, no doubt, put in place to provide efficiency.  The problem, we've learned in recent years, is the ease at which such power can be used for personal or corrupt purposes.  As Governor Blagojevich of Illinois taught us, it is far too easy to use appointments to return favors or even sell for bribes.  No state is immune to such under-the-table dealings.

Missouri House Bill 1497, which we sent to the Senate on Monday, seeks to correct this issue.  It provides for a special election in the event that the offices of United States Senator, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor or State Treasurer are vacated.  Of course, if the Governor's office is vacated the Lieutenant Governor would fill that role.  The bill also lays out a process to perform the duties of those offices until an election happens.

Legislative Update

My bill, House Bill 1350, to reform property taxes is stalled once again.  This bill would cap the yearly assessment to property.  Because my bill freezes property taxes at the agreed assessed rates until the resale of the property, the only loss is in tax increases!  It seems unfair to expect those who worked hard to own their own property to be taxed more and more every year.  The Oversight Committee of the General Assembly made a determination of how much the bill will cost based on what different taxing entities tell them.  Figures from school districts, counties and other special districts, have estimated that YOUR property taxes will continue to increase statewide up to an additional $328 billion by the year 2013!  This appalls me.  Money these taxing entities want, but have never collected, is not a loss.  My bill creates no real loss.  In the meantime, many people who are now struggling to make their house payments are facing continually rising property taxes.  Where does it end?  When does the government realize that to allow citizens to keep the money they earn is the road to success!

I am fighting an uphill battle, but it is important this issue is pushed to the forefront of public commentary in our state.  Please let all of your elected officials know how you feel about this issue.  Economic growth for individual citizens is what our country needs, not continued growth of government that must be always funded by the wage earner.  Elected officials must understand that it is not the time in history to continue to TAKE from its citizens.  It is the time to make it as easy as possible for them to be rewarded for their labors!

Gatschenberger: Welfare Drug Tests, Wentzville Town Hall Meeting, Special Elections

Drug Tests for Welfare Recipients

These days we are hearing a lot about both government and individuals being "responsible". Our State government is monitored for the amount of money it spends and what it spends it on.  We rightfully expect our government to be "responsible" with our money.  I believe that should also apply to those receiving our tax dollars through government assistance programs.

I am sponsoring a bill that would require drug testing for those who apply for, and are on, temporary assistance for needy families (TANF) — (formerly referred to as welfare). House Bill 1289 states if a welfare applicant or recipient tests positive for drug use, he or she will be ineligible for the benefits for three years, when a second review would be held. If a parent is deemed ineligible for welfare, benefits for his or her child would not be affected. The program would be developed by the Missouri Department of Social Services.

Drug testing happens throughout the real world. Most employers use it. For instance, Wal-Mart drug tests people before hiring them. Over-the-road truck drivers are required to take drug tests at random. Athletes also have to take random drug tests. In this case, we are talking about people who either are on or want to be on public assistance. Why would it be okay for somebody on public assistance to be abusing illegal drugs? It should not be. House Bill 1289 simply requires the same standards to be used for welfare participants as are applied to most every other aspect of our lives.

If you think I am picking on a certain percentage of our population, I'm not. HB 1289 has a clear goal: to help those whom the tax payers of Missouri are helping, to help themselves. Drug testing will move our welfare population toward a healthier and less costly lifestyle, encouraging their independence.  As I stated earlier, funding for eligible children would continue. There is no need to punish children for something that is not their fault.

There are other House and Senate bills that are similar to this proposal. Whether or not the bills are combined into some sort of compromise remains to be seen. There is still much left to be done on this bill for passage out of committee, onto the House floor and eventually to the Missouri Senate. I truly believe, in this time of economic uncertainty, we have a duty and an obligation to the taxpayers of this state to show we are spending their money wisely. Letting folks get away with abusing illegal drugs while they are receiving government money is not acceptable. Pray for our legislators to give this issue the attention it deserves as we continue in this legislative session.

You're Invited!  Town Hall Meeting

Please be my guest at my next Town Hall Meeting… March 25, 2010 at the Wentzville City Hall, 310 W. Pearce Blvd… at 7:00 pm.  Attendees of my last Town Hall Meeting requested a return visit of speakers for and against Missouri Fair Tax… so they will be there and so will Representatives from CLAIM – Missouri's State Health Insurance Assistance Program… covering Medicare issues, Missouri Rx (helping seniors and persons with disabilities on fixed incomes save up to 50% on your drugs) and the Missouri SMP (empowering Seniors to prevent healthcare fraud).  If you have any Medicare issues you need help with… these people will be happy to meet with you individually after their presentation.

Special Elections

In legislative action this week, the House voted on HB 1497, which would require special elections to fill vacancies in the offices of Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, and United States Senator. Currently, a vacancy in the Office of United States Senator and most statewide offices, except for the Office of the Governor, are filled by gubernatorial appointment. The Lieutenant Governor becomes Governor if that office becomes open. These offices seldom come open between elections. Even so, we would never want Missouri to follow in the way of Illinois' Governor Blagojevich when he attempted to sell his state's U.S. Senate seat. This bill reinforces that officeholders are named by the will of the people. I voted for this bill, which passed overwhelmingly.

STAY IN TOUCH

As always, please let me know your thoughts about these or other matters of concern by calling my office at: (573) 751-3572 or by emailing me at chuck{dot}gatschenberger{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov

FUN FACTS

Missouri based Hallmark Cards (Kansas City) is the source of 152 Million Greeting cards exchanged on Valentines Day… that's a lot of hearts!

More than 1300 letters from Harry to Bess Truman survive in the Truman Library Collections.

Walter Cronkite of St. Joseph Missouri was married to his wife Betsy for 65 years.

Kraus: Your Support Needed for Job Olympics

On Feb. 25, I will be lending a hand to help the area Job Olympics program, which will be holding a fund-raiser at Culver's Restaurant in Lee's Summit.  Along with special needs students, teachers and staff from several school districts, I will be greeting people and delivering trays to patrons of the restaurant from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.  Please come out and support this event!

During those hours, ten percent of all proceeds from the sale of meals will be donated to the Job Olympics program.  This fund raiser provides money to stage the Job Olympics competition at Unity Village on April 16, which helps special needs students from Lee's Summit, Blue Springs, and Belton school districts to find self-supporting work.  Over 25 area employers visit that event as the students showcase their skills in a variety of fields and compete for awards.  Their talents are wide-ranging, covering such tasks as child care, computer skills and food service.

The Job Olympics give special needs students an opportunity to showcase their capabilities and receive some well-deserved recognition for their efforts.  We all have a great time and the students enjoy it.  Most important, the competition can lead to work where the students can support themselves and lead a more independent life.

The fund-raiser at Culver's will raise money to purchase materials and stage the Olympics.  I encourage area residents to come out, enjoy a meal, and support a very worthwhile cause.  The backing given by Matt Mitchell and the folks at Culver's keeps this program viable and is much appreciated.  In addition, all of the employers who support it are crucial to its success, and I am grateful for their interest in this program.  This fundraiser will be held at the Culver's on 1701 North East Douglas Street in Lee's Summit.

This program originated with Kelly Twenter, Lee's Summit R-7 School District life skills teacher, and has expanded to include students from the Blue Springs and Belton school districts.  It is truly a special occasion for everyone involved.

House Approves Special Elections Bill

In January, we witnessed the vote heard around the world as Scott Brown was elected U.S. Senator, by a special election, to fill the seat vacated by Sen. Ted Kennedy.  That special election in Massachusetts gave the people an opportunity to speak, in a resounding voice, that they wanted a different direction.  Particularly given the knowledge that we now have of that election, I believe it prudent to have direct representation from the people to fill a vacant seat when an elected official cannot complete a term of office.  Under current Missouri law, the governor appoints a replacement if a statewide office becomes vacant.

To that end, we in the Missouri House of Representatives passed legislation that would require special elections to fill vacancies for the U.S. Senate and most executive offices.  The bill, HB 1497, would require special elections to fill vacancies in the offices of lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state auditor, state treasurer and United States Senator.  HB 1497 would allow the governor to appoint a temporary replacement for U.S. Senate, auditor or attorney general until a special election could be held.  It would allow the governor to manage the offices of secretary of state or treasurer until a special election.

This bill also removes the potential for corruption, such as selling a Senate seat, as has been alleged in neighboring Illinois.  The responsibility will be on the shoulders of Missourians to choose the individual that they want to represent them, and that is where it should be.

House Passes Federal Balanced Budget Resolution

Last week, we in the House approved a resolution that calls for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to require a federal balanced budget.  The House approved HCR 34 & 35 by a vote of 121-28.  The proposal is in response to widespread alarm that federal spending is so out of control and the national debt so large that it poses a threat to the future of our country and therefore to Missourians.  A number of states have passed similar resolutions.

All citizens should be concerned upon learning that the U.S. debt ceiling was recently raised to 14.3 trillion dollars.  The interest payments alone on such a debt can become a crippling component of our national budget.  In addition to economic repercussions, the government can use its deficit spending to expand its own authority, creating a self-perpetuating and ever enlarging sphere of power.

Here in Missouri, the state constitution requires a balanced budget.  While it forces some hard and uncomfortable choices at times, the requirement has led to more sustainable finances.  We in Missouri know how to balance a budget; the federal government would do well to learn this skill.

During the debate, an amendment was added to clarify that the resolution does not call for a constitutional convention. HCR 34 & 35 now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Nance: Welfare Drug Testing, Statewide Special Elections, Balancing the Federal Budget

“Man is not free unless government is limited.” –Ronald Reagan

Mandatory Drug Testing For Welfare Recipients

It is important that we help our state’s most needy citizens. Most of these citizens are responsible, hard-working members of society, just trying to keep their heads above water. However, there are a small number of those who take advantage of the system. I believe in order to receive assistance from the state you must test drug-free.

This week, the House voted to third read and pass HB1377, which might require drug testing for those applying for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as well as drug testing for those who are currently receiving TANF through the Department of Social Services. An individual would be tested if, based upon a screening, there was a suspicion of use.

Applicants and recipients who test positive for the use of an illegal substance will be referred to a treatment program for substance abuse. If the individual completes the treatment program in a reasonable amount of time and tests negative for drug use, they can regain eligibility for welfare benefits.

However, if the individual fails to complete the program or after completing the program still continues to test positive in subsequent drug tests, the Department of Social Services can, after a departmental administrative hearing, declare the individual ineligible for TANF benefits for one year. TANF could still be used for family needs through a third party.

Also tied into this bill is a requirement that all elected officials for state offices must take a drug test before assuming office and then take a test every two years. The costs of such testing shall be paid by such official.

Special Elections for Statewide Office

The House passed HB 1497 this week that will require the governor to call a special election for any vacancy that occurs in a statewide office. Currently, the governor appoints the successor for the remaining balance of the term. All political power originates from the people.

Telling Congress to Balance the Federal Budget

The federal government is not constitutionally required to pass annual balanced budgets like 49 out of the 50 states; this process has continued to spiral out of control.

The federal debt now exceeds 12 trillion dollars and Congress has shown no interest in putting a stop to this dangerous trend. That is why the Missouri House passed Budget Chairmen Allen Icet's House Resolution 34 which urges the United States Congress to submit a balanced budget amendment to the states for ratification. We must stop this trend of out-of-control deficit spending that passes the cost of our projects and programs on to our children and grandchildren. With this resolution, the Missouri House calls on Congress to put a stop to the fiscal irresponsibility and urges them to pass a balanced budget amendment.

Tom Crenshaw visited the capitol to discuss funding for mental health.

In the District

I observed the Excelsior Springs Robotics team’s Mystery Machine on February 6th during their open house.

I participated in career days at the Lawson Middle School on Friday, February 12th.

Five scouts from the Harris family met me on the 13th for a class on the “Bill of Rights”.

On Sunday, I was speaker at the First United Methodist Church celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts.

Congratulations to Excelsior Springs School District on their recognition as a “Distinction in Performance District”.

Schupp: Committee Notes, Freshmen Dems' Learning Sessions, Special Elections for State Office Vacancies

It is easy to stay busy at the Capitol.  Most of my meetings start at 8:00 AM and I usually get back to my apartment between 11:00 P.M. and midnight.  Time goes by quickly.  This past week, my travel buddy, Rep. Kirkton and I took the train to Jefferson City.  It is a wonderful way to travel.  It means a lot to have the ability to read or rest for those couple of hours each way.  Living within walking distance of the Capitol means there is really no need for a car.  It has worked out to be a terrific arrangement for me this year.

We will be focused on budget this week since the budget chair has given us a committee deadline of Feb. 18th to get our work done in our appropriations committees.  Having received the budget mark up booklets at the end of this week means a lot of us will be studying over the weekend.  I will be in Kansas City with Mark, helping move my father-in-law into a new place.  The drive time home will be a good time to continue budget review.

It was an honor to meet with members of the Hispanic Chamber and join in on a small group discussion about issues facing the Hispanic Community.  I thank Jorge Riopedre for the opportunity to be involved.

Thank you for your confidence and this opportunity to serve.  It is an honor to work for you and our state.

Truly,

Jill

Of Note…

From my Committees


Rep. Schupp (middle), alongside Rep. Mary Still (left) and Rep. Sue Schoemehl (right), questioning a witness during the House Higher Education committee meeting this Tuesday.

Higher Education

The Higher Education Committee heard testimony on House Bill 1473 that lowers the grade point average required for renewing an Access Missouri Scholarship from 2.5 (C+) to 2.0 (C) for the first two years of the program.  Initially, I was opposed to this seemingly "dumbing down" of the GPA requirement, but testimony provided insights I hadn't considered.  First of all, this program is about access to college.  Student recipients are getting these dollars based on need, not because of merit.  State merit scholarships, by the way, also require a 2.5 GPA.  We want our students to be able to attend and successfully graduate from college.  Many of these recipients are the first generation in their families to go to college.  Freshmen come in learning to make decisions, juggle schedules and use their time without necessarily living under the watchful eye of their families.  Some have to work in addition to learning in this new environment.  A "C" average for the first two years of college is not unreasonable, and to take away the Access Missouri Scholarship would absolutely mean that many of these students who could go on to succeed and earn a degree would lose their opportunity because college simply would not be affordable without this aid.  This is not Lake Wobegone, "…where are the children are above average."

Appropriations for Public Safety and Corrections

The committee met for five hours to take a cursory glance at the hundreds of pages of budget descriptions from each department.  Through meetings with other ranking members organized by Rep. Sara Lampe, our Ranking Member of Budget, we reviewed the mark up process that will be used this year to make recommendations for movement of dollars within each of our committee areas.  This is a different process than last year, and will likely be more transparent.  Within each of our appropriations committees, we will have to offer decreasing amendments in order add increasing amendments, so within each department there will not be any net budget increases.  We are only allowed to move or manipulate the budgets within Public Safety and Corrections...we cannot look to other areas of the budget for increases or decreases.  Changes across budget areas can happen within the Budget Committee or on the House Floor.  Our Committee Liaison, Mr. Joe Roberts, has been generous with his time and met with some of us twice to address questions, help us understand how to look for areas where changes might be made, and prepare for the budget meetings.

Children and Families

This week, The Special Standing Committee on Children and Families heard testimony on two bills.  HB (House bill) 1365 was described by its sponsor as a bill that ensures that pharmacies are not required to stock abortafacients, but that is not what the bill states.  Currently, no pharmacy, or any business for that matter, is required to stock and sell a particular item.  What this bill does is incorrectly and inadvertantly lumps contraceptives in with abortafacients and allows the legislature to override the powers of the judiciary by exempting pharmacies from liability should a particular customer have a grievance.  I will be offering amendments to correct the inaccuracies and allow an agrieved consumer the opportunity to be heard.

We also heard House Bill 1546 that ask the woman choosing abortion to provide personal information about her decision in order for records to be kept as to why this choice was made.  The information will not be statistically significant, since women who choose to provide this information are a self-selected group.  The language is somewhat unclear in that the word "required" is used even though this participation is voluntary.  The bigger question is about the real purpose of the bill.  What problem does it seek to resolve?  If we find that unintended pregnancies are the result of lack of information about family planning and contraception, will we expand programs to help provide that information and access?  If we find that women are not choosing abortion due to coercion, will we quit hearing that type of legislation? If we find that women believe they cannot afford to have another child, will we help with family assistance and support for that woman and her family? Is this simply another attempt to intimidate women who are making a very difficult decision?

Freshmen Dems’ Learning Sessions

This week, we found our time well spent yet again as two highly informative learning sessions took place to help us make thoughtful and well informed  decisions when addressing future legislative issues.

Sallie Hemenway, from the Department of Economic Development (DED), talked to us about tax credits.  There were a lot of questions as legislators work to ensure they understand how the various credits work and what they do.  The focus of the discussion was on proposed legislation that would subject tax credits to the appropriations process.  DED has not taken a position on this legislation to date.  There were so many questions as we went through the topic (everyone felt they could have listened and learned from Sallie for hours, but we only had one scheduled,) that the question itself was only addressed in this way:  Subjecting tax credits to the appropriations process will change the time line for the developer(s) of the project.  The legislative body will have to determine whether that is something it feels is beneficial to impose.

Our second session for the day (we are fortunate to have a group of people who want to learn, and those who are willing to help us do so) included Dr. Jon Hagler, Director of Agriculture, and Davis Minton, Department Director of Natural Resources.  Our discussion and questions focused on CAFOS( Confined Animal Feeding Operations), local versus state control and information about "puppy mills."  Animal welfare groups and animal lovers in our district have been especially concerned about puppy mills in the state.  Under Dr. Hagler's leadership, a new program, Operation Bark Alert has been implemented.  It is the belief of the department that the big offenders and news headliners exposing  horrible breeding practices and accommodations under which man's best friends live  in Missouri are created by the unlicensed breeders.  Resources for the department are scarce.  It will require additional personnel (currently there are 11 inspectors for the entire state) to continue to inspect the licensed breeders, pounds and facilities and to seek out the unlicensed breeders and shut them down.  To learn more about the department's activities and innovations, you can "google" the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

Next week the caucus will hear from Jason Hall of the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC), and Dr. Anthony Harris from the University of Missouri, about Missouri's advancement and opportunities in the biotechnology and plant, animal and life sciences fields, and Cynthia Kramer, executive director of SCOPE (Science and Citizens Operating for Purpose and Exploration.)

In the News...

Governor Nixon appointed Major Ronald Replogle as superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol on February 8.  He is a 26-year patrol veteran and currently is commander of its Criminal Investigation Bureau.

Congratulations to Major Replogle.

House Bill 1497 was approved by the house this week. It requires the governor to call a special election to fill a vacancy to the offices of lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, state treasurer or state auditor. This would take away the governor's ability to appoint someone for the remainder of the term.  It has fiscal implications and time ramifications.  This bill will, for example, take the power away from the Governor to appoint a replacement should Secretary of State Robin Carnahan win in her bid for election to the U.S. Senate.

The House gave final approval for HB 1377, which requires that TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) recipients be screened and required to take a drug test. If found to be using an unprescribed drug, the $58/month received in benefits will be taken away for one year.  The people who receive TANF benefits are mostly (78%) women with an average in the range of 2-3 children.  This group is in the process of looking for work.  Should the State find them to be drug users, it does nothing to help them overcome drug addiction.  It is punitive, and places this poverty-stricken family in an even more tenuous situation by taking away dollars that could be going for rent and utilities.  This year's form of the bill also requires drug testing for state elected officials and judges.  What is lacking in that regard, is the same kind of punitive response to a positive drug-use finding than TANF recipients receive.

Tim Jones: Job Creation Taskforce Meets, Special Elections for Statewide Office, Telling Congress to Balance the Federal Budget

At right: Rep. Jones presents a bill relating to the financial & banking industry in the General Laws Committee.

Winter storms continued to roll across the plains and sweep through the Midwest before repeatedly pounding the mid-Atlantic and Northeast states as we all braved the highways and country roads on our return to a snowbound Jefferson City.  Conversely, debate and discussion continued to heat up within the halls of the Capitol as we considered several very necessary and very timely good government principles this week in passing legislation calling upon our federal government to pass a balanced budget amendment, in requiring welfare recipients to be drug tested and in offering our citizens the right to vote to elect any vacancies amongst our state wide office holders.  Looming large over all these topics is the continued debate over the most appropriate way to balance our state's budget during these difficult economic times…

"The policy of the American government is to leave their citizens free, neither restraining nor aiding them in their pursuits." –Thomas Jefferson

Job Creation Taskforce Meets

House Republicans remain committed to ensuring there are high-paying, quality jobs available for every Missourian who wants one.  On Tuesday, the Speaker's Job Retention and Economic Growth Task Force met for the second time.  The panel includes approximately 25 people, experts in their respective fields, who have worked in Missouri economic development for years.  Their goal is to find ways the House can help make Missouri competitive on the national level for everything from manufacturing and major industry to small business.  Members were able to evaluate incentive packages that other states have successfully used to attract thousands of jobs.  The goal of House Republicans is to identify areas where the state could be more efficient and effective at putting Missourians to work.  We strongly believe in a robust free market where business thrives.  There is no better way to bolster Missouri's economy than through the efforts of personal initiative.

Special Elections for Statewide Office

Nothing is more important than the will of the people.  As elected officials, we serve for their well being.  This is why the House passed HB 1497 this week that will require the Governor to call a special election for any vacancy that occurs in a statewide office.  Currently, the Governor appoints the successor for the remaining balance of the term. We all saw what happened in Illinois when Governor Blagojevich attempted to sell a US Senate Seat to the highest bidder.  In the Missouri House we will not allow this to happen.  All political power originates from the people. Why should any particular governor's voice on who should be our State Treasurer or Secretary of State be more important than the voice of the people of Missouri at the ballot box?  It is not and that is why I supported HB 1497 and participated in a positive way during the debate on this measure on the House Floor.

Telling Congress to Balance the Federal Budget

For too long, Congress has continued to add billions, now trillions, of dollars annually to our federal debt.  Because the federal government is not constitutionally required to pass annual balanced budgets, like 49 out of the 50 states, this process has continued to spiral out of control.  The federal debt now exceeds 12 trillion dollars and Congress has shown no interest in putting a stop to this dangerous trend.  That is why the House Republicans passed Budget Chairmen Allen Icet's House Resolution 34 [HCR34] which urges the United States Congress to submit a balanced budget amendment to the states for ratification.  We must stop this trend of out-of-control deficit spending that passes the cost of our projects and programs on to our children and grandchildren.  With this resolution, the Missouri House calls on Congress to put a stop to the fiscal irresponsibility and urges them to finally pass a balanced budget amendment.

Few things frustrate the American people more than the out-of-control Congressional spending that has continued for decades.  Our families recognize that we must make enough money to cover our expenses and when times get tough, we must make tough decisions. But unfortunately, Congress has failed to recognize these common-sense values.

This week, Senator McCaskill criticized Missouri's General Assembly and Governor for utilizing the federal stimulus funds to plug major budget gaps that she forced on Missouri over a year ago.

Speaker Ron Richard responded, "Last year, we wanted to send the federal bailout funds back to Washington, DC – but that was not acceptable to Senator McCaskill.  Then, we wanted to send the bailout dollars back to Missouri taxpayers in the form of a tax rebate – that was not acceptable to Senator McCaskill either.  Since the bailout dollars have been received, Missouri has lost an additional 62,600 jobs and the unemployment rate sits at 9.6%.  Senator McCaskill's federal bailout has not worked.  I urge you to stop spending and start following the fiscally conservative lead that Missouri Republicans in the House of Representatives have practiced for nearly a decade."

Currently, our federal government has racked up an estimated 100 trillion dollars in unfunded liabilities that our nation's children and grandchildren will be left to pay.  Unfortunately, just this week, President Obama submitted his budget recommendations to Congress which included 3.8 trillion dollars in spending; 1.6 trillion of which we cannot afford and will be piled on top of the more than 12 trillion dollars of national debt that we already have.

Requiring the federal government to balance its budget each year is long overdue.  For decades, efforts to pass a balanced budget have come up short.  I believe that to ensure a fiscally stable future, our federal government must begin to live within its means and it must start down that long road now and without further delay.

HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT UPDATE

I am the chief sponsor of HJR 57. As I have discussed, if it is passed and approved by the voters, it will secure the current rights and freedoms that Missouri citizens have to choose to participate in whatever health care system or care that they want.  Seventy five of my colleagues have co-sponsored this legislation and I am very grateful to them for their support.  You may view the legislation at this link:  http://house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills101/bills/HJR57.htm

I AM PLEASED TO REPORT THAT HJR 57 WAS VOTED "DO PASS" BY THE HOUSE GENERAL LAWS COMMITTEE THIS WEEK BY A BIPARTISAN VOTE OF 10 TO 4.  IT WILL NOW MOVE ON TO THE HOUSE RULES COMMITTEE WHERE IT WILL NEED APPROVAL BEFORE MOVING TO THE HOUSE FLOOR FOR FULL DEBATE.

Thank you all very much for your continued support of this very important resolution and I will continue to keep you posted on its progress.

SIX FLAGS ST. LOUIS IN EUREKA IS HIRING!!

I am very excited to report that Six Flags St. Louis, which is located in the heart of the 89^th District, is hiring more than 3,000 employees to fill positions for the 2010 season which begins on April 2^nd.  Six Flags will be hosting job fairs to fill these positions on February 20, 27; March 6, 13, 20 and April 3, 10 and 17.  For more information, please visit:  http://www.sixflags.com/stLouis/index.aspx

FAST FACTS

Scott Joplin, who lived in both St. Louis and Sedalia, was known as "The King of Ragtime".  He wrote the famous "Maple Leaf Rag" after a club in Sedalia.  Josephine Baker, a St. Louis native, was a civil rights activist who used her musical talents to help the African American community.

IRS Free File Program

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Tim's Legislative Platform for 2010

So far this year I have sponsored and filed thirteen individual pieces of legislation.  I have co-sponsored numerous other bills.  To review all of the bills that I have sponsored or co-sponsored, please follow this link:  http://www.house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills101/spon/spn089.htm

Over the past two weeks, another of my bills was heard in committee and several of my bills continue to move steadily through the legislative process.  I will continue to work hard to advance good government legislation that benefits all Missourians and will continue to keep you updated on the progress and status of the bills.

Personal News & Notes

I have returned to the very busy routine of extremely full weeks of practicing at my law firm, legislating and debating at the Capitol and of course spending as much quality time as possible with my wonderful family.  I must continue to thank my wife Suzanne and daughters Katie and Abby for all of their continued sacrifices.  Their support and encouragement sustain me in the long days and nights as Session begins to pick up steam.  This will be an exciting and busy year and I encourage all of you to participate in this excellent adventure and journey that we call democracy!

Feel Free to Contact Us!

If my extremely dedicated (and very busy!) Legislator Assistant, Jody Williams, or I can be of any assistance throughout the year, please do not hesitate to contact us at 573.751.0562 or by email at jody{dot}williams{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov or at tim{dot}jones{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.  And if your travels find you anywhere near the Capitol, please do stop by and visit us in Room 114.  Until our next report, I remain, in your service.

Joe Smith: State-Wide Vacancies Deserve a Vote of the People, not an Appointment from the Governor

As the people of Missouri, we elected our Senators, Representatives, Auditor, Lt. Governor and so forth. Election results are decided by the voting majority, and frankly, that’s the way it should be. We the people make appointments in state government.

Due to various reasons, there are times when those we elect can’t complete their term. There are times when impeachment occurs, which is very rare. Elected-officials can face tragedies or personal family matters that prevent them from fulfilling their time in office. When these rare instances occur and a state-wide seat is left vacant, our current law gives the governor the ability to appoint his or her choice for a replacement.

It doesn’t seem right for a state-wide office that Missouri citizens elect in the first place to be filled by the governor’s special appointment when these instances take place. I think if the seat becomes open, a special election should be held to fill that position by a vote of the people – not an appointment by the governor.

That is why Representative Jason Smith District 150 introduced a bill that puts the power back in the hands of the people. House Bill 1497 states that if there is a vacancy in a state-wide office, the governor can make a temporary appointment to the seat, but only until a special election can be held. When the election results are official, the governor’s temporary appointment will be replaced by the individual that Missourians elect to office. If there is an impeachment, the Governor will temporarily administer the duties of the office until the trial. If there is a conviction, the vote will be put in the hands of the people of Missouri.

We live in a country that gives us freedom, and those freedoms should be honored in state-government – especially when it comes to a decision on who will run our state-wide offices. I am happy to report that Representative Jason Smith’s HB1497 was brought to the floor and passed this week.

We are hopeful that it passes the Senate and is signed into law by the Governor.