Missives From Missouri: 95-HCR34

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Disclaimer: except when the post starts "MO Expat", all content published on Missives from Missouri is written and supplied by the noted legislator. Said missives will not necessarily reflect the views of Kyle Hill, the operator of Missives from Missouri, and as such the operator does not assume responsibility for its content. More information

Showing posts with label 95-HCR34. Show all posts

22 June 2010

Gatschenberger: An invitation to 3.5 Million of Your Unclaimed Property and the next Town Hall Meeting

Help me return $3.5 MILLION to you!

A computer search indicates our State Treasurer is currently holding more than $3.5 MILLION, belonging to approximately 38,270 citizens who live in my district. To file a claim, or check to see if they have your Unclaimed Property, you may visit www.ShowMeMoney.com or write to the State Treasurer at P.O. Box 1004, Jefferson City, MO 65102-1004. This property, and another $70 to $80 million a year, is turned over to the State Treasurer from banks, government agencies and insurance companies from accounts that have been inactive an whose owner could not be contacted for five or more years.

Please be my guest!

What: Town Hall Meeting
When: Thursday, June 24^th – 7:00 pm
Where: Wentzville City Hall – 310 W Pearce Blvd
Why: Information on what the University of Missouri Extension Office can do for you as an individual… or as a small business. Scott Killpack from the University of Missouri Extension Office in St. Charles County will explain what is available and how you can take advantage of their services. For example… did you know they can help you with your yard problems? Your health & nutrition questions? Your small business ideas? Your needs as a dislocated worker? Your family financial maze?

Also, James Gremaud from the Missouri Department of Transportation will be on hand to give you an update of MoDot projects in the 13^th District and get your thoughts on Truck Lanes.

You won't want to miss this very important information session… so please mark your calendars now!

More than 70 people attended my last Town Hall Meeting in Wentzville

For questions on the content of this meeting you may contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-3572 or e-mail me at Chuck{dot}Gatschenberger{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov

Please note: My Capitol Office will be closed starting Friday, July 2^nd until Tuesday July 7^th… for staff vacation.

Job Creation Information

GM plant in Wentzville to build vans powered by alternative fuel

Production line answers demand, official says

By Joe Scott
Tuesday, May 25, 2010 3:11 AM CDT
[Link to Original Story]

General Motors' Wentzville assembly plant will begin producing compressed natural gas- and liquefied petroleum gas-powered cargo vans for 2011. The alternative fuel options will be offered on Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans for fleet and commercial customers later this year.

"It won't have an impact on hiring or additional jobs, but it will allow us to get penetration into an additional market," said Bob Wheeler, a spokesman for the plant. "The demand is increasing enough to add this product to our portfolio. We've had fleet and commercial users asking about this." Production of CNG- and LPG-powered versions of the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans probably will begin in September, Wheeler said. About 85 percent of the vehicles made at the Wentzville plant are sold for fleet or commercial use. Alternative fuels have become more attractive for fleet and commercial users as gasoline prices increase, Wheeler said.

Wentzville Community Development Director Bob Swank said even if the plant doesn't add jobs, a new product line should further stabilize the workforce. "It's bringing back this product to the Wentzville area," Swank said. "The more environmentally conscious people get and the less we want to rely on oil, the more the LPG and CNG market grows."

Brian Small, general manager of GM's fleet and commercial operations, said in a news release that GM officials listened to fleet customers and dealers about offering options to help achieve business objectives. "The industry commitment to expand the CNG and LPG infrastructure in key fleet markets was an enabler to allowing us to introduce these options now," Small said.

Swank said the city of Wentzville will offer a CNG fueling station on East Pearce Boulevard at Business Highway 61 near Pete's Drive-In for public use. The fueling station was put on hold after GM discontinued production of CNG-powered vehicles at the Wentzville plant several years ago, he said. "It will be one of three CNG fueling stations in Missouri," Swank said. "Fleet and commercial users can pull right off Highway 61 and refuel."

GM's announcement on the new Wentzville plant production line followed news the car manufacturer had a first-quarter profit of $865 million and is expanding manufacturing in North America. Before its bankruptcy, GM lost $6 billion in the first quarter of 2009.

MasterCard plans new research labs in O'Fallon

By Joe Scott
Tuesday, May 4, 2010 3:10 AM CDT
[Link to Original Story]

MasterCard Worldwide's O'Fallon location will be one of four sites to host a new research and development initiative.

The credit card company will invest "tens of millions per year" on people and resources through the company's new research arm, called MasterCard Labs, according to Bank Systems and Technology, a banking industry publication.

The O'Fallon site serves as the company's Global Technology and Operations headquarters. Other sites to receive the labs are in Singapore, Dublin and Purchase, N.Y., the company's global headquarters.

"With the launch of MasterCard Labs, MasterCard will create a robust global virtual team to execute our vision for the future of payments," Rob Reeg, president of Global Technology and Operations for MasterCard Worldwide, said in a statement released to the Journal Thursday.

"The team will include creative development engineers and programmers who know how to turn an idea into something that can be quickly and effectively brought to market and scaled to meet the diverse needs of cardholders around the globe," Reeg said.

Reeg said MasterCard will build the new team using a mix of internal resources, vendors and new hires. He said he couldn't provide specifics on timing or number of new hires in the St. Louis area, but the new positions would be posted online as needed. The company also announced Garry Lyons would oversee MasterCard Labs.

House and Senate Accomplishments, 2010 Legislative Session

Budget: Protecting Missourians, No New Taxes

Together with the Senate, we shaved a total of $484 million from the Governor's proposed budget, making the tough decisions necessary to keep Missouri afloat in our harsh economy.

While neighboring states are sinking further into economic crisis, raising taxes and having a difficult time paying their bills, Missouri has remained steadfast in our fiscally conservative practice.

Not only were we able to pass a balanced budget, we made the tough decisions necessary to avoid raising taxes on Missouri families. Thirteen budget bills totaling $23.1 billion for the fiscal year beginning July 1 were agreed upon by both chambers and will be sent to the Governor for final approval.

I am pleased to report that we voted to maintain the school funding formula at its current levels. In addition, Missouri's K-12 schools will receive the same level of funding in the 2011 Fiscal Year as they did this year.

The largest savings, anticipated to be millions, came from looking at state departments and identifying how they may run more efficiently by eliminating more than 1,000 government jobs, including taxpayer-funded lobbyists and items like equipment, travel and expenses.

I am extremely proud that we completed the budget more than one week in advance of the deadline set by the state constitution.

Because we continued down a fiscally-conservative path while balancing our state's budget, we are able to keep Missouri in a leadership position when it comes to being financially stable.

Protecting the Lives of the Unborn

Both Chambers passed SB793, seeking to protect the lives of the unborn. This act modifies the informed consent requirements for an abortion by adding new requirements to be obtained at least twenty-four hours prior to an abortion by adding the following provisions:

The physician who is to perform or induce the abortion or a qualified professional must present the pregnant woman with various new printed materials (to be developed by the Department of Health and Senior Services by November 30, 2010) detailing the risks of an abortion and the physiological characteristics of an unborn child at two-week gestational increments;
The woman must also be provided with the gestational age of the unborn child at the time the abortion is to be performed and must be given an opportunity to view an active ultrasound of the unborn child and hear the heartbeat of the unborn child;
Prior to an abortion being performed past twenty-two weeks gestational age, the woman must be provided information regarding the possibility of the abortion causing pain to the unborn child.
The abortion cannot be performed until the woman certifies in writing on a checklist form that she has been presented all the required information and that she has been given the opportunity to view an ultrasound, and to choose to have an anesthetic or analgesic administered to the unborn child.

Health Care Freedom Act: Opting Out of the Federal Plan

Missouri citizens are outraged with the health care legislation that President Obama, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid have pushed through Congress. I want my constituents to know that in the General Assembly, we share your outrage and we passed a bill that seeks to protect you and your family from these harmful federal mandates.

When the United States House of Representatives passed their health care bill, yielding over two thousand pages, they immediately took away our basic rights. Congress and the President have ignored the cry of the American people and they pushed their own agenda – leaving our citizens to pick up the expensive tab.

There is a fine line when it comes to government mandates, and Congress and the President have crossed that line. Even though no Republicans in the House voted for the bill, the Democrat majority found the votes they needed for it to pass.

The federal health care bill costs approximately $940 billion, which is concerning as we face such a serious economic depression, not to mention our national debt which has shot up into the trillions. Someone has to pick up the tab, and that someone is you and me. We will be taxed through penalties if we refuse to buy health care and adhere to federal guidelines.

I have no direct influence over the actions of our President and Congress, but I do have a say when it comes to what we do in the Missouri House of Representatives to protect citizens from federal health care mandates. Why should the government dictate what you must and must not do – especially when it comes to your own health care insurance?

On the first day of this year's session, we introduced the Health Care Freedom Act on the floor of the House and approved it for final passage in early March. Now that's it has passed the Senate, it [HB1764] will go to the ballot in August for a vote of YOU, the people.

The Health Care Freedom Act would give individuals and employers the opportunity to pay directly for lawful health care services without being subject to federal penalties and states that the purchase or sale of health care insurance in private health care systems cannot be prohibited by law or rule.

A majority of states in the country have filed legislation to oppose the federal health care legislation, and we are hopeful that you will join us in this fight. States should retain the power to regulate health care and allow their citizens the freedom to choose between health care options in the open market.

To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

You are a hard-working Missouri taxpayer. You have bills, expenses and every day items that run up costs. You know what it means to sit down and balance your budget so you can keep your family on track. In state government, we do the same thing. Every year, we go through the budget line by line and make the tough decisions necessary to balance our budget. It's not easy, but it's the right thing to do.

Our federal government is a completely different story. It's almost as if a balanced budget is a foreign concept to them. This year, the national budget was out of balance by over 40%.

We are in the midst of what economists are calling "The Great Recession" and spending our way to prosperity isn't the answer – but wise fiscal planning and responsible use of your tax dollars is the answer.

Both chambers passed House Concurrent Resolution 34 and 35 sponsored by our Budget Chairman, Allen Icet and Representative Chris Kelly, asking Congress to balance the national budget.

The HCR 34 & 35 comes as an official message from the Missouri General Assembly, and if adopted by Congress, it has a chance of becoming an amendment to the United States Constitution. An official change will depend on ratification by ¾'s of our nation's states.

With a budget that is over 40% out of balance, and a recent vote to raise the debt ceiling by 1.9 trillion dollars, we need to bring our elected officials in Washington DC back to reality.

Congress needs to stop spending and start standing up for the future of America. You, as constituents, can help. If you agree with our resolution to require the national government to balance the budget, contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and let them know you support us in this effort.

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

You made it over the hump! June 21^st… the first day of Summer Solstice: the longest day of the year!

If you can stay awake that long… cast your eyes heavenward… there will be a Partial Lunar Eclipse on the 26^th!

It's getting noisier out there… with cricket frog breeding at its peak and dog-day cicadas singing away… joining the fireworks melee for Independence Day!

14 May 2010

Joe Smith: 11 End-Of-Session Updates

MoDOT has multiple night-time closures on I-70 in St. Charles County

http://www.modot.org/stlouis/news_and_information/District6News.shtml?action=displaySSI&newsId=54064

ST. LOUIS – The Missouri Department of Transportation will have a number of night closures on Interstate 70 in St. Charles County the week of May 16 – May 22 for road and bridge work.

Additionally, the westbound I-70 exit ramp to Fifth Street will be restricted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. All work is weather dependent. Night work includes:

Westbound I-70 at Route K, Sunday through Thursday, starting at 8 p.m. Crews will close one lane at 8 p.m. and a second lane after 10 p.m.
Eastbound I-70 exit ramp to eastbound Route 370, Sunday through Thursday, starting at 8 p.m. Crews will close one lane at 8 p.m. and a second lane after 10 p.m.
Westbound I-70 at Cave Springs, Sunday through Thursday, starting at 8 p.m. Crews will close one lane at 8 p.m. and a second lane after 10 p.m.
Westbound I-70 at Route 79, Sunday and Monday, starting at 8 p.m. Crews will close one lane at 8 p.m. and a second lane after 10 p.m.
The eastbound I-70 exit and entrance ramps at Cave Springs will close at 10 p.m. Monday
Eastbound I-70 at Route 79, Tuesday through Thursday, starting at 8 p.m. Crews will close one lane at 8 p.m. and a second lane after 10 p.m.
Westbound I-70 exit and entrance ramps at Mid Rivers Mall Drive will be closed at 10 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday.
The eastbound I-70 exit ramp at Mid Rivers Mall Drive and the northbound Mid Rivers Mall Drive entrance ramp to westbound I-70 will be closed at 10 p.m. Wednesday.

All lanes and ramps will be open by 5 a.m. the morning following the closure.

The 2010 Legislative Session Comes to An End

Jefferson City, MO – Missouri House Republicans concluded a successful final week of the 2010 legislative session. House Speaker Ron Richard, R-Joplin, praised his colleagues for working diligently to secure passage of several key bills, including difficult budget cuts, provisions that seek to protect the sanctity of life and blocking efforts to increase taxes on Missouri citizens.

“I am extremely proud of House Republicans,” said Speaker Richard. “Missouri families have counted on our leadership through one of the most devastating economies in decades. While states around us are quickly sinking, we balanced the budget without raising taxes. Representatives in the Missouri House have made a positive difference in our state’s history during this very difficult time.”

House Budget Chairman, Representative Allen Icet, R – Wildwood, echoed the Speaker’s remarks and praised steps taken to balance the budget, despite rapidly declining state revenues.

“While many states across the nation are struggling to survive in our devastating economy, we made the tough decisions necessary to keep Missouri financially stabilized. It wasn’t an easy process, but we fulfilled our responsibility to the people of Missouri and created a bright future for our children and grandchildren,” said Representative Icet.

This session, the House passed several strong resolutions aimed at sending a clear message from the Missouri House to Washington DC politicians opposing Cap and Trade, Obamacare and Washington DC overreaching state sovereignty freedoms as stated in the 10th Amendment of the United States Constitution.

“Missourians sent us a clear message that they were sick and tired of big government mandates sent down to us from President Obama and Congress,” said Speaker Pro Tem Bryan Pratt, R – Blue Springs. “This session, we stood with Missouri citizens and passed a handful of resolutions that seek to liberate our people from the hands of the federal government and restore our freedom.”

Reforming ethics was announced as a priority for the Speaker and House members in January. The House passed the strongest ethics reform bill in the country last week, but the legislation was compromised in the Senate before the final bill passed today. The final bill included several strong House provisions, including anti-bribery language and the disclosure of campaign contributions.

“There were several provisions in the original House ethics reform bill that we would have liked to see in the final product, but we are very pleased with the bill that was agreed upon today,” said Majority Floor Leader Steven Tilley, R – Perryville. “When Missouri citizens elect us to office, they depend on us to operate with integrity and moral responsibility – and that is exactly what this legislation will help to ensure.”

Finally, the House took a large step to protect the sanctity of life through the passage of SB793.

“We are strongly urging the Governor to voice his position whether or not he will stand with us protecting the lives of the unborn by signing this bill,” said Speaker Pro Tem Bryan Pratt. “If the Governor chooses to sign SB793 into law, pregnant women seeking an abortion must be given the opportunity to view an ultra-sound and hear the heartbeat of their unborn child – hopefully choosing life,” said Speaker Pro Tem Bryan Pratt.

Budget: Protecting Missourians, No New Taxes

Together with the Senate, we shaved a total of $484 million from the Governor’s proposed budget, making the tough decisions necessary to keep Missouri afloat in our harsh economy.

While neighboring states are sinking further into economic crisis, raising taxes and having a difficult time paying their bills, Missouri has remained steadfast in our fiscally conservative practice.

Not only were we able to pass a balanced budget, we made the tough decisions necessary to avoid raising taxes on Missouri families. Thirteen budget bills totaling $23.1 billion for the fiscal year beginning July 1 were agreed upon by both chambers and will be sent to the Governor for final approval. I am pleased to report that we voted to maintain the school funding formula at its current levels. In addition, Missouri’s K-12 schools will receive the same level of funding in the 2011 Fiscal Year as they did this year. We also approved $37.5 million for the Career Ladder program that pays teachers for extra work such as afterschool tutoring. The funding would pay teachers for work that has already been completed during the 2010 Fiscal Year. The largest savings, anticipated to be millions, came from looking at state departments and identifying how they may run more efficiently by eliminating more than 1,000 government jobs, including taxpayer-funded lobbyists and items like equipment, travel and expenses.

We completed the budget more than one week in advance of the deadline set by the state constitution, which is something I haven’t seen since I entered the legislature. I am extremely proud of the work of our budget chairman, Representative Allen Icet, R – Wildwood, and his budget committee for their longstanding dedication to this process.

Because we continued down a fiscally-conservative path while balancing our state’s budget, we are able to keep Missouri in a leadership position when it comes to being financially stable.

Protecting the Lives of the Unborn

The physician who is to perform or induce the abortion or a qualified professional must present the pregnant woman with various new printed materials (to be developed by the Department of Health and Senior Services by November 30, 2010) detailing the risks of an abortion and the physiological characteristics of an unborn child at two-week gestational increments;
The woman must also be provided with the gestational age of the unborn child at the time the abortion is to be performed and must be given an opportunity to view an active ultrasound of the unborn child and hear the heartbeat of the unborn child;
Prior to an abortion being performed past twenty-two weeks gestational age, the woman must be provided information regarding the possibility of the abortion causing pain to the unborn child.
The abortion cannot be performed until the woman certifies in writing on a checklist form that she has been presented all the required information and that she has been given the opportunity to view an ultrasound, and to choose to have an anesthetic or analgesic administered to the unborn child.

Health Care Freedom Act: Opting Out of the Federal Plan

Missouri citizens are outraged with the health care legislation that President Obama, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid have pushed through Congress. I want my constituents to know that in the General Assembly, we share your outrage and we passed a bill that seeks to protect you and your family from these harmful federal mandates. When the United States House of Representatives passed their health care bill, yielding over two thousand pages, they immediately took away our basic rights. Congress and the President have ignored the cry of the American people and they pushed their own agenda – leaving our citizens to pick up the expensive tab.

There is a fine line when it comes to government mandates, and Congress and the President have crossed that line. Even though no Republicans in the House voted for the bill, the Democrat majority found the votes they needed for it to pass. The federal health care bill costs approximately $940 billion, which is concerning as we face such a serious economic depression, not to mention our national debt which has shot up into the trillions. Someone has to pick up the tab, and that someone is you and me. We will be taxed through penalties if we refuse to buy health care and adhere to federal guidelines.

I have no direct influence over the actions of our President and Congress, but I do have a say when it comes to what we do in the Missouri House of Representatives to protect citizens from federal health care mandates. Why should the government dictate what you must and must not do – especially when it comes to your own health care insurance? On the first day of this year’s session, we introduced the Health Care Freedom Act on the floor of the House and approved it for final passage in early March. Now that’s it has passed the Senate, it will go to the ballot in August for a vote of YOU, the people. The Health Care Freedom Act [HB1764] would give individuals and employers the opportunity to pay directly for lawful health care services without being subject to federal penalties and states that the purchase or sale of health care insurance in private health care systems cannot be prohibited by law or rule.

A majority of states in the country have filed legislation to oppose the federal health care legislation, and we are hopeful that you will join us in this fight. States should retain the power to regulate health care and allow their citizens the freedom to choose between health care options in the open market.

To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

You are a hard-working Missouri taxpayer. You have bills, expenses and every day items that run up costs. You know what it means to sit down and balance your budget so you can keep your family on track. In state government, we do the same thing. Every year, we go through the budget line by line and make the tough decisions necessary to balance our budget. It’s not easy, but it’s the right thing to do.

Our federal government is a completely different story. It’s almost as if a balanced budget is a foreign concept to them. This year, the national budget was out of balance by over 40%. We are in the midst of what economists are calling “The Great Recession” and spending our way to prosperity isn’t the answer – but wise fiscal planning and responsible use of your tax dollars is the answer. Both chambers passed House Concurrent Resolution 34 and 35 sponsored by our Budget Chairman, Allen Icet and Representative Chris Kelly, asking Congress to balance the national budget. The HCR 34 & 35 comes as an official message from the Missouri General Assembly, and if adopted by Congress, it has a chance of becoming an amendment to the United States Constitution. An official change will depend on ratification by ¾’s of our nation’s states.

With a budget that is over 40% out of balance, and a recent vote to raise the debt ceiling by 1.9 trillion dollars, we need to bring our elected officials in Washington DC back to reality. Congress needs to stop spending and start standing up for the future of America. You, as constituents, can help. If you agree with our resolution to require the national government to balance the budget, contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and let them know you support us in this effort.

Urging Congress to Put a Stop to “Cap and Trade” Legislation

Cap-and-trade is a massive hidden energy tax being pushed by the President and Congress that will crush Missouri families, farmers, and businesses. In fact, the Wall Street Journal called it the “biggest tax in American history.” As energy rates rise, everyone who flips on a light switch or drives a car will be affected. This will act as a regressive tax, impacting those who spend larger portions of their incomes on energy and other necessities. If the bill passes, Cap Energy rates will rise exponentially. In fact, the Missouri Public Utility Alliance estimated that electric bills could increase by 82% by 2030— they stress that this is an optimistic estimate. Estimates vary, but one thing is clear: Cap and Trade will cost Missouri thousands of jobs and raise electricity rates on the average family hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

President Obama admitted that the legislation would cause electricity rates to “skyrocket.” ("When I was asked earlier about the issue of coal, you know, under my plan of a cap and trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket." Then Sen. Barack Obama, in an interview with San Francisco Chronicle Editorial Board, 1/17/08)

By supporting the cap-and-trade energy tax, Democrats have directly attacked Missouri’s two largest industries—agriculture and tourism—along with every business in the state. One version of the bill (H.R. 2454 in 2009) would have established a national building code for commercial and residential buildings, requiring a 30 percent reduction in energy use immediately after passage and an additional 50 percent reduction in energy use by 2014—meaning that bureaucrats in Washington will tell you how to build your house.

Republicans in the Missouri House of Representatives recently took a stand against Cap and Trade, sending a clear message to President Obama and Congress. House Concurrent Resolution 46, sponsored by Representative Doug Funderburk, passed out of both Chambers. HCR 46 opposes the Cap and Trade bill – urging Congress to stop their progress on the legislation and urges the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to put an end to the pressure they put on Congress and the President. We are also asking that the EPA rescind the recent decision made regarding the formal endangerment finding on greenhouse gases, seeing as the evidence was deemed to be flawed by the scientific community. It is imperative that we allow proven scientific measures and technological advances to help guide us in our environmental decisions. Direction to the federal government from the EPA should not be the sole source – especially when they try to control legislative objectives coming out of Congress that have harmful effects on our state and our citizens.

Just like the auto bailouts, the so-called stimulus bill, and the proposed government takeover of health care, the government is using ‘global warming’ as an excuse to assert more control over private business, industry, and on families – and in the Missouri House of Representatives, we won’t stand for it.

Ensuring Prompt Payment to Health Providers

Health care reform is one of the most popular topics in the country. There are several views on what steps need to be taken to improve the health care industry, including making it more affordable, more accessible and more transparent. Because of the controversy surrounding the issue, very little has been done on a national level to improve the system. In the Missouri General Assembly, however, the wheels are turning and we are accomplishing the common-sense steps necessary to advance health care reform. Many health care providers in Missouri, which include hospitals, physicians, and so forth, have experienced financial difficulties because of the failure of health insurance companies to make payments for health care services in a reasonable time frame. The House saw this as a problem that needed to be remedied.

This session House and Senate members passed House Bill 1498 with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The bill sponsored by Representative Tim Jones, R—Eureka, requires health insurance companies to pay provider claims in a timely manner. Through this legislation, a health insurance company would no longer have the ability to delay payments to providers by suspending a claim through loopholes and special exceptions. Instead, the health insurance company would be allowed 45 days to process and pay or deny the provider’s claim. If the health insurance company needs additional information or has any questions regarding the claim, they must do so inside a specific time-window. Days in which the health insurance company is waiting for a response from the provider for that information would not count towards the window, however, If the health insurance company does not pay the provider within the specific timeframe, that company would incur a penalty. If the provider’s claim is denied, health insurance companies will be required to provide a specific reason for the denial.

Through HB1498, we are giving health care providers an opportunity to remain financially stable in their practice and give them the ability to rely on the prompt payment of their claims. This legislation has gained wide-spread support throughout the state and on both sides of the aisle.

Providing Aid to Children with Autism in Missouri

Autism is a terrible disease that affects children and families across Missouri and across our nation. Unfortunately, the treatment for this disorder generally comes out of the pockets of the parents – many of which cannot always afford proper treatment for their child.

Republicans in the House and Senate have worked passionately for the past two sessions to craft a solution to the growing epidemic of Autism Spectrum Disorders and the lack of insurance-covered treatment for these individuals. Even insurance companies voiced support for a bill that would require insurance coverage for this treatment.

Over the summer, the Speaker of the House, Ron Richard, assigned an Interim Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders chaired by Representative Dwight Scharnhorst. The Speaker tasked this committee to meet and work on a bi-partisan piece of legislation that gathered consensus between families with autism, autism advocate groups and insurance companies.

The work done by the committee was then passed to the Special Standing Committee on Health Insurance when session started. Chaired by Representative Kevin Wilson, this committee met constantly, working to further reach an agreement that would require insurance companies to cover the treatment of children with autism.

That work materialized into House Bill 1311, sponsored by Representative Dwight Scharnhorst. The bill passed through the House and Senate this session and includes the following:

This bill balances both sides of the issue: the costs that a requirement for insurance coverage incurs to businesses along with the growing need for coverage for children with autism.
Insurance companies would be required to cover children through 18 years of age and cover up to $40,000 in costs for treatment.
The bill also cracks down to protect families in regard to who treats their children. In order to treat children with autism, providers must be licensed and registered by the state of Missouri.
The bill has a provision protecting small businesses of 50 employees or less. If their rates raise more than 2% -- because of the autism coverage costs – that business can report that increase. If reported and deemed legitimate, these businesses will be granted the option of “dropping out” on the insurance requirement.

The passage of this bill was a great achievement for the General Assembly. The ability to aid children and families suffering from autism is something we are proud of and will continue work on. It is because of Speaker Ron Richard, Representatives Scharnhorst and Wilson and the work of our members on both sides of the aisle that this bill was passed.

Strengthening DWI Laws

According to studies, about three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related accident at some time in their lives. Many times, these accidents result in serious injuries and even death. In Missouri, we made it a priority to strengthen the existing drunk driving laws, taking a further step to help safeguard our citizens. (SS SCS HCS HB 1695, 1742 & 1674)

Some of the main provisions in this bill are as follows:

It will increase the minimum jail time for DWI offenders who have had previous DWI offenses from 5 days to 10 days and increase the minimum jail time for a repeat offender to 30 days.
Removes the requirement that no chemical test will be given when a holder of a driver's license refuses to submit to a chemical test at the request of law enforcement.
The bill requires drivers with blood-alcohol levels of at least 0.15 percent to spend 48 hours in jail, and those with at least 0.2 percent to spend at least five days in jail, unless they complete the requirements of a DWI court or docket.
Moves DWI cases to state courts to handle any case involving a defendant with at least two alcohol-related contacts with authorities. State courts, in comparison to municipal courts, have more severe penalties for drunk-drivers.
It will require all municipal judges to complete courses on state drunken driving laws and direct their courts to report all DWI case dispositions to a central databank, holding them more accountable to the process.

Ensuring Ethical Behavior in Publicly Elected Offices

Regardless of whether we are Republican, Democrat or Independent, we can all agree on one thing: Maintaining our integrity as public servants should be something we strive to maintain as we work to better the lives of Missourians across our state. The men and women who have voted us in to office expect us to be honest and work ethically as we pursue legislation that will benefit Missouri families – including the decisions we make in our personal lives, and they deserve nothing less.

This session, the House and Senate agreed to an ethics bill with the following provisions:

Bidding Process: The Commissioner of Administration shall give priority to Missouri resident corporations, Missouri minority businesses, disabled veteran businesses, and cost savings measures such as data repositories and "Go Green" programs in its competitive bid processes. The act requires all bids administered by the office of administration to be subject to a competitive bid process.
Bribery by the Governor’s Office: Last session, two House members swore by signed affidavits that they were bribed by the Governor’s office. In exchange for a vote on an issue important to Governor Nixon, his staff promised the members a job in return for a favorable vote. Through the ethics bill, the Governor’s bribery tactics will be 100% illegal.
Ethics Commission: Currently, within 120 days of receipt of a complaint, the special investigator submits a report to the commission. This act changes that threshold to 90 days. In addition, all reporting to the Missouri Ethics Commission must be done electronically.
Contributions During Session: If an elected official receives a contribution of $500 or more during legislative session, that contribution must be reported within 48 hours. In addition, there will be increased penalties for late contribution reports whether during or not during legislative session.
Ballot Removal: If a candidate is removed from the ballot for any reason, he or she may not be re-added to the ballot by the Party Committee or anyone else for any reason.

Tim Jones: An Extremely Challenging and Successful Session

Storm clouds marched relentlessly across the plains at week's beginning hurling tornadic thunderbolts of wind and fury and washing a deluge of rain across the Midwest; by week's end, the calm cool sunny days of May glistened and shone on the pools and fountains surrounding the Capitol as a weary peace settled gently with a sigh after what was at times a tumultuous and passionate Session…

"Any law which violates the inalienable rights of man is essentially unjust and tyrannical; it is not a law at all."
--Maximilien Robespierre

An Extremely Challenging & Extremely Successful Session…

We had an extremely successful Session in your House of Representatives this year, passing common sense and principled legislation in line with our constitutional duty to you, the People of the State of Missouri. Over the next few weeks, I will provide you with an in depth look at the challenges we faced this Session and the legislation we passed to solve the issues facing our State and your families. It is the highest privilege and honor to serve you in the House of Representatives and I thank you all for your consummate help and support!

The State Budget: Protecting Missourians, No New Taxes

Together with the Senate, we shaved a total of $484 million from the Governor's proposed budget, making the tough decisions necessary to keep Missouri afloat in our harsh economy. While neighboring states are sinking further into economic crisis, raising taxes and having a difficult time paying their bills, Missouri has remained steadfast in our fiscally conservative practice.

Not only were we able to pass a balanced budget, we made the tough decisions necessary to avoid raising taxes on Missouri families. Thirteen budget bills totaling $23.1 billion for the fiscal year beginning July 1 were agreed upon by both chambers and will be sent to the Governor for final approval.

I am pleased to report that we voted to maintain the school funding formula at its current levels. In addition, Missouri's K-12 schools will receive the same level of funding in the 2011 Fiscal Year as they did this year. We also approved $37.5 million for the Career Ladder program that pays teachers for extra work such as afterschool tutoring. The funding would pay teachers for work that has already been completed during the 2010 Fiscal Year.

The largest savings, anticipated to be millions, came from looking at state departments and identifying how they may run more efficiently by eliminating more than 1,000 government jobs, including taxpayer-funded lobbyists and items like equipment, travel and expenses.

We completed the budget more than one week in advance of the deadline set by the state constitution, which is something I have not seen since I entered the legislature. I am extremely proud of the work of our budget chairman, Representative Allen Icet, R – Wildwood, and his budget committee for their longstanding dedication to this process. Because we continued down a fiscally-conservative path while balancing our state's budget, we are able to keep Missouri in a leadership position when it comes to being financially stable.

Ensuring Prompt Payment to Health Providers

Health care reform is one of the most popular topics in the country. There are several views on what steps need to be taken to improve the health care industry, including making it more affordable, more accessible and more transparent. Because of the controversy surrounding the issue, very little has been done on a national level to improve the system. In the Missouri General Assembly, however, the wheels are turning and we are accomplishing the common-sense steps necessary to advance true, genuine health care reform.

Many health care providers in Missouri, which include hospitals, physicians, and so forth, have experienced financial difficulties because of the failure of health insurance companies to make payments for health care services in a reasonable time frame. The House saw this as a problem that needed to be remedied.

This session House and Senate members passed House Bill 1498, another bill that I sponsored, with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The bill requires health insurance companies to pay provider claims in a timely manner.

Through this legislation, a health insurance company would no longer have the ability to delay payments to providers by suspending a claim through loopholes and special exceptions. Instead, the health insurance company would be allowed 45 days to process and pay or deny the provider's claim.

If the health insurance company needs additional information or has any questions regarding the claim, they must do so inside a specific time-window. Days in which the health insurance company is waiting for a response from the provider for that information would not count towards the window, however. If the health insurance company does not pay the provider within the specific timeframe, that company would incur a penalty. If the provider's claim is denied, health insurance companies will be required to provide a specific reason for the denial.

Through HB1498, we are giving health care providers an opportunity to remain financially stable in their practice and give them the ability to rely on the prompt payment of their claims.

Protecting the Lives of the Unborn

Both Chambers passed SB793 to protect the lives of the unborn. This act modifies the informed consent requirements for an abortion by adding new requirements to be obtained at least twenty-four hours prior to an abortion by adding the following provisions:

The physician who is to perform or induce the abortion or a qualified professional must present the pregnant woman with various new printed materials (to be developed by the Department of Health and Senior Services by November 30, 2010) detailing the risks of an abortion and the physiological characteristics of an unborn child at two-week gestational increments;
Women must also be provided with the gestational age of the unborn child at the time the abortion is to be performed and must be given an opportunity to view an active ultrasound of the unborn child and hear the heartbeat of the unborn child.
Prior to an abortion being performed past twenty-two weeks gestational age, the mother must be provided information regarding the possibility of the abortion causing pain to the unborn child.

The abortion cannot be performed until the mother certifies in writing on a checklist form that she has been presented all the required information and that she has been given the opportunity to view an ultrasound, and to choose to have an anesthetic or analgesic administered to the unborn child.

Ensuring Ethical Behavior in Publicly Elected Offices

Regardless of whether we are Republican, Democrat or Independent, we can all agree on one thing: maintaining our integrity as public servants should be something we strive to maintain as we work to better the lives of Missourians across our state. The men and women who have voted us in to office expect us to be honest and work ethically as we pursue legislation that will benefit Missouri families – including the decisions we make in our personal lives, and they deserve nothing less.

This session, the House and Senate agreed to an ethics bill [SB844], that I carried in the House, with the following provisions:

Bribery by the Governor's Office: Last session, two House members swore by signed affidavits that they were bribed by the Governor's office. In exchange for a vote on an issue important to Governor Nixon, his staff promised the members a job in return for a favorable vote. Through the ethics bill, the Governor's bribery tactics will be 100% illegal.
Transparency in Appointments: When the Governor seeks to appoint someone to a powerful Board or Commission, the appointee must disclose to whom they have sent campaign contributions for the past several years. This will bring much more transparency and accountability to important state agencies.
Ethics Commission: Currently, within 120 days of receipt of a complaint, the special investigator submits a report to the commission. This act changes that threshold to 90 days. In addition, all reporting to the Missouri Ethics Commission must be done electronically.
Contributions During Session: If an elected official receives a contribution of $500 or more during legislative session, that contribution must be reported within 48 hours. In addition, there will be increased penalties for late contribution reports whether during or not during legislative session.
Ballot Removal: If a candidate is removed from the ballot for any reason, he or she may not be re-added to the ballot by the Party Committee or anyone else for any reason.

Health Care Freedom Act: Opting Out of the Federal Plan

Missouri citizens continue to be outraged with the health care legislation that President Obama, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid have pushed through Congress. I want my constituents to know that in the General Assembly, we share your outrage and we passed a bill, that I sponsored along with nearly 100 of my colleagues, that seeks to protect you and your family from these harmful federal mandates. When the United States House of Representatives passed their health care bill, yielding over two thousand pages, they immediately took away basic right and sent us a massive, unsustainable tab.

The federal health care bill costs approximately $940 billion and the CBO continues to increase that number with every revised report, which is concerning as we face such a serious economic depression, not to mention our national debt which has shot up into the trillions. Someone has to pick up the tab, and that someone is you and me. We will be taxed through penalties if we refuse to buy health care and adhere to federal guidelines. And why should the government dictate what you must and must not do – especially when it comes to your own health care insurance?

On the first day of this year's session, we introduced the Health Care Freedom Act [HJR57] on the floor of the House and approved it for final passage in early March. Now that it has passed the Senate, it will go to the ballot in August for a vote of YOU, the people.

The Health Care Freedom Act would give individuals and employers the opportunity to pay directly for lawful health care services without being subject to federal penalties and states that the purchase or sale of health care insurance in private health care systems cannot be prohibited by law or rule.

An incredible 42 states in the country have filed legislation to oppose the federal health care legislation, and we are hopeful that you will join us in this fight. States should retain the power to regulate health care and allow their citizens the freedom to choose between health care options in the open market.

To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

You are a hard-working Missouri taxpayer. You have bills, expenses and every day items that run up costs. You know what it means to sit down and balance your budget so you can keep your family on track. In state government, we do the same thing. Every year, we go through the budget line by line and make the tough decisions necessary to balance our budget. It's not easy, but it's the right thing to do.

Our federal government is a completely different story. It's almost as if a balanced budget is a foreign concept to them. This year, the national budget was out of balance by over 40%.

We are in the midst of what economists are calling "The Great Recession" and spending our way to prosperity isn't the answer – but wise fiscal planning and responsible use of your tax dollars is the answer.

Both chambers passed House Concurrent Resolution 34 and 35 sponsored by our Budget Chairman, Allen Icet and Representative Chris Kelly, asking Congress to balance the national budget. HCR 34 & 35 comes as an official message from the Missouri General Assembly, and if adopted by Congress, it has a chance of becoming an amendment to the United States Constitution. An official change will depend on ratification by ¾'s of our nation's states.

With a budget that is over 40% out of balance, and a recent vote to raise the debt ceiling by 1.9 trillion dollars, we need to bring our elected officials in Washington DC back to reality. Congress needs to stop spending and start standing up for the future of America. You, as constituents, can help. If you agree with our resolution to require the national government to balance the budget, contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and let them know you support us in this effort.

Strengthening DWI Laws

It will increase the minimum jail time for DWI offenders who have had previous DWI offenses from 5 days to 10 days and increase the minimum jail time for a repeat offender to 30 days.
Removes the requirement that no chemical test will be given when a holder of a driver's license refuses to submit to a chemical test at the request of law enforcement.
The bill requires drivers with blood-alcohol levels of at least 0.15 percent to spend 48 hours in jail, and those with at least 0.2 percent to spend at least five days in jail, unless they complete the requirements of a DWI court or docket.
Moves DWI cases to state courts to handle any case involving a defendant with at least two alcohol-related contacts with authorities. State courts, in comparison to municipal courts, have more severe penalties for drunk-drivers.
It will require all municipal judges to complete courses on state drunken driving laws and direct their courts to report all DWI case dispositions to a central databank, holding them more accountable to the process.

HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT PASSES THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY & HEADS TO THE AUGUST BALLOT!

As mentioned above and as many of you know, I am the chief sponsor of HJR 57, the "Health Care Freedom Act". As many of you know, thanks to the courageous work of two of my Senate colleagues and friends, Senator Jane Cunningham and Senator Jim Lembke, the Senate succeeded in voting out a version of the Health Care Freedom Act [HB1764] and sending it back to the House for final passage. This very week, the House gave OVERHELMING, BI-PARTISAN approval (108-46) to the final version of the Health Care Freedom Act. Missouri voters will now have the opportunity, as the FIRST citizens in the Nation, to cast their vote this August in the FIRST voter referendum on ObamaCare and the voice of the people of the State of Missouri will again be heard loud and clear in Washington D.C. Most importantly, this version of the HCFA will spark the constitutional show down that we all are ready and willing to have between the rights of the States and the overbearing hostility of the federal government relating to your health care freedom choices and rights. We could not have made it to this point without the help of thousands of Missouri patriots and tea party groups who led the way during this fight to keep our freedoms. Thank you all very much for your support of this very important legislation, and I will look forward to seeing you all at the polls this August!

Tim's Legislative Platform for 2010

I have sponsored and filed sixteen individual pieces of legislation this Session. I have co-sponsored numerous other bills. Many of my bills were designed to be good government, bi-partisan pieces of legislation that would benefit all Missourians and that would also be top priorities for our Majority Caucus. I am blessed, pleased and happy to report that many of my bills passed either as stand alone pieces of legislation or as amendments on other bills. My "right hand woman", Jody Williams, my Legislative Assistant, was a major component in the success we had this year so I want to publicly thank her for all she continues to do for the good folks of the 89^th District and for me! 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. This week, amongst several other matters, the General Assembly passed my Health Care Freedom Act and the Government Accountability & Ethics package that I ended up handling.

Personal News & Notes

At Left: Daughter Katie takes over the Missouri House!

The last week of Session has been (of course) the most exhausting and frantic and we spent long days on the House Floor and running back and forth to the Senate. Bills and Conference Committee Reports flew back and forth between the Chambers and everyone searched for a good legislative vehicle on which to complete their priorities. I want to thank all of the great folks who support me back home as we became fully immersed in our work at the Capitol during the final days of the 2^nd Regular Session of the 95^th General Assembly, especially my family and my colleagues at my law firm, DosterUllom. I owe a special and immense debt of gratitude and thanks to my wife, Suzanne, who sacrifices so much and takes such excellent care of our daughters, Katie & Abby, while I am in Jeff City, legislating away!

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. We have had many visitors to the Capitol so far this year; if your travels find you anywhere in or around Jefferson City, please do not hesitate to stop by and visit us in Room 114! Until our next report, I remain, in your service.

19 March 2010

Gatschenberger: Town Hall Invitation, House Opposition to Federal Health Care

Please be my guest!

What: Town Hall Meeting
When: Thursday, March 25^th – 7:00 pm
Where: Wentzville City Hall - 310 West Pearce Boulevard

Why:
Attendees of my last Town Hall Meeting requested a return visit of speakers for and against the Missouri Fair Tax. Also attending will be representatives for CLAIM – Missouri's State Health Insurance Assistance Program who will address Medicare issues. In addition, Missouri Rx representatives, who help seniors and persons with disabilities on fixed incomes save up to 50% on their prescription drugs, will be there and Missouri SMP representatives, who empower seniors to prevent healthcare fraud, will also be in attendance. There will be a short presentation from Ameren UE as well.

If you have any Medicare issues you need help with… these representatives will be happy to meet with you individually after their presentation.

For questions on the content of this meeting you may contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-3572 or e-mail Chuck{dot}Gatschenberger{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov

Hope to see you there!

St. Louis Community College Hosts RCGA's Missouri Legislative Breakfast in Jefferson City

On March 17^th St. Louis Community Collegesponsored the fifth RCGA biweekly legislative breakfast in Jefferson City honoring members of the 2010 Missouri General Assembly. The breakfast was hosted by Ann Brand, Director of Government Affairs for St. Louis Community College [at right with Rep. Gatschenberger & RCGA Public Policy Council Chairman John Sondag]. The breakfast attracted many legislators from across the state as well as several RCGA Public Policy Council members.

House Opposes Federal Government Takeover of Health Care

Constituents have been writing letters, calling and flowing through the halls of the Capitol to express their outrage with the proposed federal takeover of our health care system. There have been rallies, town hall meetings and demonstrations to show the President and Congress just how serious our citizens are taking the federal health care bill.

Representative Tim Jones, sponsored House Joint Resolution 48, 50 and 57 to oppose government run healthcare. I sponsored similar legislation… House Joint Resolution 74… which has been heard in committee. I am looking forward to the debate on the floor.

Upon voter approval, this proposed constitutional amendment would allow individuals, employers and healthcare providers from opting out of participation in the health care legislation Congress may pass.

The legislation prevents individuals and employers from being fined or penalized, allowing them to pay directly for lawful health care services. It also states that health care providers can accept payment for health care services from individuals or employers without being subject to these fines or penalties.

Finally, it states that the purchase or sale of health care insurance in private health care systems cannot be prohibited by any law or rule passed down from the federal government.

Representative Jones' resolutions act as a shield from the federal government mandates, protecting Missouri citizens. It serves as an official message from the Missouri General Assembly, and if adopted by Congress, it has a chance of becoming an amendment to the United States Constitution. An official change will depend on ratification by ¾'s of our nation's states.

Representative Gatschenberger and students at the Francis Howell Parents as Teachers - Annual Read-In
Francis Howell Early Childhood Family Education Center, 4810 Meadows Parkway, St. Charles, MO

House Passes Bill, Making Drug Testing Mandatory 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. On the contrast, 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 session, the House voted to pass HB1377, which requires 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.

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.

Many recipients have families and small children to care for, and a healthy home environment is vital for a meaningful childhood. We hope that this bill will be signed in to law and inspire those who receive welfare and use drugs to end that abuse and turn their lives around.

House Members Outraged with Congress, Sending a Clear Message to Washington DC To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

You are a hard-working Missouri taxpayer. You have bills, expenses and every day items that run up costs. You know what it means to sit down and balance your budget so you can keep your family on track. In state government, we do the same thing. Every year, we go through the budget line by line and make the tough decisions necessary to balance our budget. It's not easy, but it's the right thing to do.

Our federal government is a completely different story. It's almost as if a balanced budget is a foreign concept to them. This year, the national budget was out of balance by over 40%.

We are in the midst of what economists are calling "The Great Recession" and spending our way to prosperity isn't the answer – but wise fiscal planning and responsible use of your tax dollars is the answer.

The House of Representatives passed House Concurrent Resolution 34 and 35 sponsored by our Budget Chairman, Allen Icet and Representative Chris Kelly, asking Congress to balance the national budget.

The HCR 34 & 35 comes as an official message from the Missouri General Assembly, and if adopted by Congress, it has a chance of becoming an amendment to the United States Constitution. An official change will depend on ratification by ¾'s of our nation's states.

With a budget that is over 40% out of balance, and a recent vote to raise the debt ceiling by 1.9 trillion dollars, we need to bring our elected officials in Washington DC back to reality.

Congress needs to stop spending and start standing up for the future of America. You, as constituents, can help. If you agree with our resolution to require the national government to balance the budget, contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and let them know you support us in this effort.

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

The Missouri Botanical Garden is among the top three botanical gardens in the world!

The first ironclad boat was built by James Buchanan Eads in the Port of St. Louis. He also built the first bridge using steel truss construction – the 1874 Eads Bridge.

The first Kindergarten in the U.S. was founded in St. Louis by Susan Blow.

25 February 2010

Gatschenberger: Federal Balanced Budget, Job Creation Taskforce, Wentzville Town Hall Meeting

Federal Balanced Budget

Job Creation Taskforce Meets

House Republicans remain committed to making sure there is a high-paying, quality job 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 every-thing 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. Missouri has been competitive and successful in many instances at recruiting quality employers for the state, but the goal of House Republicans and the Speaker’s Task Force 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, especially Missouri’s small businesses. There is no better way to bolster Missouri’s economy than through the efforts of personal initiative.

Reminder! 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. We will also have a short presentation from an Ameren UE representative.

HERE IS YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE DOWN THE REMOVAL OF "IN GOD WE TRUST" FROM OUR CURRENCY

HTTP://WWW.MSNBC.MSN.COM/ID/10103521/

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – THIS WEEK IN THE HOUSE

House Takes Action Towards Health Care Reform HB 1498

Health care reform is one of the most talked about issues in the country. There are several differing views on what steps need to be taken to improve health care including making it more affordable, more accessible and more transparent. Because of the controversy surrounding the issue, very little has been done on a national level to improve the system. In the Missouri House of Representatives, however, the wheels are turning and we are accomplishing the common-sense steps necessary to advance health care reform.

Many health care providers in Missouri, which include hospitals, physicians, and so forth, have experienced financial difficulties because of the failure of health insurance companies to make payments for health care services in a reasonable time frame. The House saw this as a problem that needed to be remedied.

This week House members passed House Bill 1498 with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The bill sponsored by Representative Tim Jones, R—Eureka, requires health insurance companies to pay provider claims in a timely manner.

Through this legislation, a health insurance company would no longer have the ability to delay payments to providers by suspending a claim through loopholes and special exceptions. Instead, the health insurance company would be allowed 45 days to process and pay or deny the provider's claim.
If the health insurance company needs additional information or has any questions regarding the claim, they must do so inside the 45-day window. Days in which the health insurance company is waiting for a response from the provider for that information would not count towards the 45-day window, however.
If the health insurance company does not pay the provider within the specific timeframe, that company would incur a penalty.
If the provider's claim is denied, health insurance companies will be required to provide a specific reason for the denial.

Through HB1498, we are giving health care providers an opportunity to remain financially stable in their practice and give them the ability to rely on the prompt payment of their claims. This legislation has gained wide-spread support throughout the state and on both sides of the isle.

The Governor's Budget Relies on Funding From…The Powerball?

This year, Governor Nixon presented the legislature with a state budget that depended on 300 million dollars that he hoped was coming from the federal government. Unfortunately, there was no guarantee of the 300 million dollars -- and at this point, the funding is not coming. As a result, the governor's proposed budget is 300 million dollars short – which is exactly what House leaders warned the governor would happen.

Because of the governor's 300 million dollar shortfall, legislators are looking at other options to fill the hole. One legislator, Mark Parkinson, R – St. Charles, had a creative idea that is causing quite a stir in the Capitol building and buzzing news wires across the state.

House Bill 2131, which was read in a hearing this week, requires a $2 deduction each pay period from the governor's personal paycheck to be deposited into the newly created Governor Nixon's Federal Scratch-Off, Match-Off Fund.
One dollar from the fund will be used to purchase a Powerball lottery ticket each week on behalf of the citizens of the state. Any winnings collected must be deposited into the fund until it exceeds $300 million.
At that time, the governor is authorized to dissolve the Scratch-Off, Match-Off fund and transfer the moneys to the General Revenue Fund for the purpose of filling his budget shortfall.

Upon learning about HB2131, the governor called this a "silly bill"; however, we think its pretty "silly" to bank on 300 million federal dollars that aren't coming to our state. The livelihoods of our taxpayers are at risk when there are budget shortfalls, and there's nothing funny about that.

So, while Governor Nixon is crossing his fingers and banking on winning big with the Powerball, your Republican-led House of Representatives will be working to figure out his budget mess and correct his mistakes.

Inching Closer to a Bi-Partisan Ethics Bill in the House

Restoring the public's trust in our elected officials has been a top priority set forth by Speaker Ron Richard and members of the House of Representatives this session. There is no question that when you elect someone to represent you, you should have full trust and confidence in that person.

This isn't my Chamber, this is the people's Chamber and because of that, I take pride in my work in the State Capitol. I conduct business with integrity and honesty. In addition to this personal conviction, members of the House of Representatives are working to create legislation that would reiterate these traits.

During his opening day speech, the Speaker announced his creation of his Special Standing Committee on Government Accountability and Ethics Reform and hand picked members who he assigned to this committee.

The Speaker tasked the committee with combing through every piece of ethics legislation filed in the House and working to create one bill with bi-partisan solutions improving ethical behavior in state government.

The committee chairman, Representative Kevin Wilson, R – Neosho, provided us with an update on the committee this week.

The committee, composed of both Republican and Democrat members, is working hard and has accomplished a great amount of work since its first meeting in January.

The bill they will end up being a comprehensive approach to ethical standards in state government, outlining several different rules and regulations rather than just one.

Representative Wilson and his members are hopeful to get the bi-partisan ethics bill filed before Spring break, which occurs the second week in March.

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

St. Louis residents consume more barbecue sauce per capita than any other city in America!

The soft drink Dr. Pepper was introduced at the 1904 at the World's Fair in St. Louis… also, the ice cream cone, iced tea, hot dogs and hamburgers! Now that was a fair to remember!

16 February 2010

Ruestman: A Federal Balanced Budget

Our futures are at stake, along with many future generations! As far as I'm concerned there is only one option. We have to get our budget back on track. Last year, when the Missouri House Majority heard we were receiving funds from the bailout we wanted to send it back. We then learned that if we sent it back it would be sent to other states. Knowing that this was Missouri tax dollars, we agreed to accept it, feeling it was better to spend our tax dollars here. It was then determined that our constituents should get the money back in the form of a rebate. However, we were told that doing so would be illegal because that is not how the bailout was intended to be spent.

Last week, in a bipartisan effort, the Missouri House passed House Concurrent Resolutions 34 and 35 asking Congress to balance the national budget. The House of Representatives passed this with a vote of 121 to 28 while the Senate passed its version [SCR36] by 28 to 1. This is Missouri's official way of telling our federal government we are fed up with the spending and deficits. These resolutions have the potential of becoming an amendment to the U.S. Constitution if ratified by 38 states.

Our federal fiscal policy (if you can call it that) is out of control. The national budget is 40% out of balance and the liberal majority just voted to raise the debt ceiling another $1.9 trillion. You and I know that we cannot operate our households like this, we cannot operate our small businesses like this and we don't operate our state like this. I'm always happy to remind you that Missouri is one of the top 7 states with an AAA bond rating. Over the eight years I've been in the legislature the Republicans have held the line on debt and balanced our budget. Missourians are justified in demanding their national government stop this irresponsible behavior. It is bad for our security and economy.

It is interesting to note that while the General Assembly was debating these resolutions, Senator McCaskill didn't hear the message we were trying to send her and her colleagues. She publicly criticized the state saying we shouldn't complain about federal bailout dollars. I'm insulted when our elected officials give us back our own tax dollars (and the money they plan to take in the future) and call it a "stimulus". Then, they complain because we don't say "thank you" loud enough. Perhaps the Senator should be reminded that after receiving the bailout money Missouri lost 62,600 jobs and the unemployment rate has settled at 9.6%. This bailout has not worked.

In Missouri we voted overwhelmingly to tell Washington the spending spree is over. Let us invest our own money. It's time we turn things around!

If you have problems, questions or wish to express concern over an issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Legislator Assistant, Jonathan, at my Capitol office either by phone 573-751-9801 or by e-mail at Marilyn{dot}Ruestman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

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.

15 February 2010

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”.

12 February 2010

Burlison: An Open Letter to the Federal Government: Balance the Nation Budget!

You are a hard-working Missouri taxpayer who has bills, expenses, and every day items which you budget for. For most of us, it’s a common occurrence to sit down at the kitchen table at the end of the week and balance our budgets. In state government, we do the same thing. Every year, we go through the budget line by line and make the tough decisions necessary to keep our state on track. It’s not easy, and no one likes to do it, but it’s the responsible thing to do.

For our federal government it’s a completely different story. A balanced budget seems to be a foreign concept to them. This has caused the national budget to be out of balance by over 40% this year. In December of 2009 and again this month Moodys Investor Services threatened that the United States would lose its triple A bond rating if the budget deficit was not reduced.

We are in the midst of what economists are calling, “The Great Recession” and spending our way to prosperity isn’t the answer. Instead, we need to be putting to use wise fiscal planning and responsible use of your tax dollars.

That is why, this week the House of Representatives passed House Concurrent Resolution 34 and 35 sponsored by our Budget Chairman, Allen Icet and Representative Chris Kelly, asking Congress to balance the national budget.

HCR 34 & 35 is an official message from the Missouri General Assembly, and if adopted by Congress, has a chance of becoming an amendment to the United States Constitution. An official change will depend on ratification by ¾’s of our nation’s states. If passed Missouri would join thirty other states that have already made requests for a balanced budget amendment. Only three more states would be needed to urge congress to act.

With a budget that is over 40% out of balance, and a recent vote to raise the debt ceiling by 1.9 trillion dollars, we need to bring our elected officials in Washington DC back to reality.

You, as constituents, can help. If you agree with our resolution to require the national government to balance the budget, contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives and let them know you support us in this effort.

Congress needs to stop spending and start standing up for the future of America. This means sitting down at the table and making the hard decisions the responsible way.

11 February 2010

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

All taxpayers making less than $57,000 in 2009 can visit www.IRS.gov and use the industry's top tax preparation software for FREE. Users receive step by step assistance to prepare, complete and file tax returns online…and at NO COST!

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.

The number of Members of the 96th Missouri General Assembly who, as of 7 May 2011, have agreed to supply missives and/or have done so:
House Republicans	20 of 105
House Democrats	8 of 54
House Vacancies	4
Senate Republicans	12 of 26
Senate Democrats	1 of 8
Senate Vacancies	0

22 June 2010

Help me return $3.5 MILLION to you!

Please be my guest!

Job Creation Information

GM plant in Wentzville to build vans powered by alternative fuel

MasterCard plans new research labs in O'Fallon

House and Senate Accomplishments, 2010 Legislative Session

Budget: Protecting Missourians, No New Taxes

Protecting the Lives of the Unborn

Health Care Freedom Act: Opting Out of the Federal Plan

To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

STAY IN TOUCH

FUN FACTS

14 May 2010

MoDOT has multiple night-time closures on I-70 in St. Charles County

The 2010 Legislative Session Comes to An End

Budget: Protecting Missourians, No New Taxes

Protecting the Lives of the Unborn

Health Care Freedom Act: Opting Out of the Federal Plan

To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

Urging Congress to Put a Stop to “Cap and Trade” Legislation

Ensuring Prompt Payment to Health Providers

Providing Aid to Children with Autism in Missouri

Strengthening DWI Laws

Ensuring Ethical Behavior in Publicly Elected Offices

An Extremely Challenging & Extremely Successful Session…

The State Budget: Protecting Missourians, No New Taxes

Ensuring Prompt Payment to Health Providers

Protecting the Lives of the Unborn

Ensuring Ethical Behavior in Publicly Elected Offices

Health Care Freedom Act: Opting Out of the Federal Plan

To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

Strengthening DWI Laws

HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT PASSES THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY & HEADS TO THE AUGUST BALLOT!

Tim's Legislative Platform for 2010

Personal News & Notes

Feel Free to Contact Us!

19 March 2010

Please be my guest!

St. Louis Community College Hosts RCGA's Missouri Legislative Breakfast in Jefferson City

House Opposes Federal Government Takeover of Health Care

House Passes Bill, Making Drug Testing Mandatory for Welfare Recipients

House Members Outraged with Congress, Sending a Clear Message to Washington DC To the Federal Government: Balance the National Budget!

STAY IN TOUCH

FUN FACTS

25 February 2010

Federal Balanced Budget

Job Creation Taskforce Meets

Reminder! You're Invited! Town Hall Meeting

HERE IS YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE DOWN THE REMOVAL OF "IN GOD WE TRUST" FROM OUR CURRENCY

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – THIS WEEK IN THE HOUSE

House Takes Action Towards Health Care Reform HB 1498

The Governor's Budget Relies on Funding From…The Powerball?

Inching Closer to a Bi-Partisan Ethics Bill in the House

STAY IN TOUCH

FUN FACTS

16 February 2010

House Approves Special Elections Bill

House Passes Federal Balanced Budget Resolution

15 February 2010

Mandatory Drug Testing For Welfare Recipients

Special Elections for Statewide Office

Telling Congress to Balance the Federal Budget

In the District

12 February 2010

11 February 2010

Job Creation Taskforce Meets

Special Elections for Statewide Office

Telling Congress to Balance the Federal Budget

HEALTH CARE FREEDOM ACT UPDATE

SIX FLAGS ST. LOUIS IN EUREKA IS HIRING!!

FAST FACTS

IRS Free File Program

Tim's Legislative Platform for 2010

Personal News & Notes

Feel Free to Contact Us!

Support Missives With Kachingle

Follow Every Word

Participation Numbers

Past Missives by Legislator