Davis: Eight Days Of Session Left

At left: Some great ladies from SW Missouri come visit us at the capitol. I was the thorn among the roses!

“How did it get so late so soon? Its night before its afternoon. December is here before its June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?” –Dr. Seuss

It is hard to believe that there are only 8 more days of session left. This year has gone by SOOOOOOOO fast yet it seems like I have seen my family so little. I must thank my wonderful wife and children for allowing me to serve the people of the 128^th district. It has been difficult but worth the sacrifice. My daughter, Jennifer, graduated this past Sunday and this was a very emotional time for me. To see my baby girl grow up and become a lovely lady touches my heart but also breaks it. She will be going to college this fall and I will greatly miss her, while her brothers fight over who gets her bedroom ;) Jennifer, I will be praying for you and I want you to know I am so proud of you.

What happen this past week at the capitol

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality. The added membership will provide greater opportunity for meaningful work to be accomplished for the children of Missouri.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis. By changing the method the actuaries use to calculate the amount of annual contribution required from the city from the current fixed initial liability method to the entry age normal funding method, St. Louis City will save money.

HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

At right: Peterson Outdoors, a ministry that takes our wounded soldiers on hunting trips. It is such a blessing to be part of such a wonderful group.

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 136 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding economic development. By offering tax incentives for the development and expansion of technology business facilities, data storage centers, and server farm facilities, we will improve the job outlook for Missourians.

HCS HBs 600, 337, and 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), was third read and passed. These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HCS HB 161, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 127 to 24. This would authorize Pettis County, upon local voter approval, to change its transient guest tax from $2 per room, per night to up to 5% and increases the number of members on the Pettis County Tourism Commission. Local control for local decisions is the purpose of this enabling legislation.

HCS HB 523, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 139 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association Act, insurance coverage for portable electronics, and residential and home warranty service contracts.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts. The purpose is to provide options to students and help improve school district performance. Even though it passed out of the house, I voted no on this bill because I believe our schools in SW Missouri are doing a fine job. Why punish the entire state for 2 school districts, St. Louis and KC, for failing.

HCS HB 773, sponsored by Rep. Don Gosen (R-84), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding the regulation of surplus lines insurance to comply with the federal Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010.

HCS HB 787, sponsored by Rep. Don Wells (R-147), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding early distributions from certain annuities or retirement plans, the Missouri Higher Education Saving Program and residential mortgage loan brokers.

HCS SB 161, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), was third read and passed. The current regulations allow for loans to be generated for the purchase or improvement of agricultural property. This legislation would allow for the generation of loans for the purchase, expansion, or improvement of an actual agribusiness, not just agricultural property.

HCS SCS SB 366, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), was third read and passed by the vote of 146 to 6. This legislation creates cooperative associations and modifies the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations.

HCS HB 552, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed. This legislation facilitates the establishment of rules governing the standard of care for pharmacies dispensing blood clotting therapies. This standard is already being met by specialty pharmacies and the legislation has the purpose of making these standards law.

HCS HB 597, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Private Landowner Protection Act which allows for the creation and enforcement of conservation easements to protect the environment and preserve certain historical or cultural property. The landowner and the grantee of the easement would be required to enter into a contract.

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

This legislation has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for consideration. For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

SS SCS HCS HB 45, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Denny Hoskins (R-121), was truly agreed to and finally passed by a vote of 127 to 24. This bill changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act and provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive for each new full-time job created or a $20,000 incentive for each new full-time job created when the business offers health insurance and pays at least 50% of the premiums of all full-time employees. The bill also seeks to limit and reduce the amount of regulations that Government forces onto small businesses that simply cause them to spend time doing paperwork instead of growing their enterprise. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses.

Congressional Redistricting Update

Most importantly this week, the House and the Senate finally agreed to a final compromise map to complete the constitutional duty of the State Legislature in drafting eight new Congressional Districts for our State. As many of you are aware, it is the duty of the General Assembly to complete the task of Congressional Redistricting, every ten years, following the national census. After weeks of stalemate and tense negotiations, a valuable compromise was finally reached and late last night, both Chambers passed a final proposed map with overwhelming majorities in support. The bill [HB193] is now headed to the Governor’s desk for approval. It is our request to the Governor that he immediately sign the map and heed the work that the Legislature did and not force this issue to go to the Courts and be decided by unelected judges. This is a serious matter that affects every single person in the State, hundreds of hours of time went into the process and the final product is a fair, compact, contiguous map that is good for all of the citizens of our State. This truly shows how liberal of a Governor we really have. Even though we have a vast majority of republicans in our state, he wishes to increase the number of democrat congressmen to 4. This is unacceptable.

As we prepare for these final 2 weeks of session, I wish to thank each and everyone for allowing me to be your representative. I have fought to protect your freedoms and liberties and did what I believe was absolutely the best thing for Missouri. I look forward to spending some time with you all during the interim but more importantly, getting to know my family again. May god richly bless you all.

Kelley: Arrange Tours Of Jeff City This Summer

As the rains continued their drenching torrent over the weekend and floodwaters rose, many of us across the State watched warily as creeks and rivers became engorged with rising floodwaters. Late week sunshine brought a welcome respite as the activity in the Capitol Dome increased to ever heightened levels of tension and concern. Huge victories emerged in Congressional Redistricting and the Budget as Session marched unerringly towards its final two weeks…

“Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty as a heritage of all men, in all lands, everywhere.” –Abraham Lincoln

Third Reading & Final House Passage

The following bills were given final approval by the House and sent to the Senate for further consideration.
I supported all of the legislation below. For more information regarding any specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality. The added membership will provide greater opportunity for meaningful work to be accomplished for the children of Missouri.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis. By changing the method the actuaries use to calculate the amount of annual contribution required from the city from the current fixed initial liability method to the entry age normal funding method, St. Louis City will save money.

HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 136 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding economic development. By offering tax incentives for the development and expansion of technology business facilities, data storage centers, and server farm facilities, we will improve the job outlook for Missourians.

HCS HBs 600, 337, and 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), was third read and passed. These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HCS HB 161, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 127 to 24. This would authorize Pettis County, upon local voter approval, to change its transient guest tax from $2 per room, per night to up to 5% and increases the number of members on the Pettis County Tourism Commission. Local control for local decisions is the purpose of this enabling legislation.

HCS HB 523, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 139 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association Act, insurance coverage for portable electronics, and residential and home warranty service contracts.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts. The purpose is to provide options to students and help improve school district performance. We have finally moved forward in a positive, proactive, substantive way to truly place parents in charge of their children’s education, to advance serious education reforms and to address the true problems facing public education in a positive way.

HCS HB 773, sponsored by Rep. Don Gosen (R-84), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding the regulation of surplus lines insurance to comply with the federal Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010.

HCS HB 787, sponsored by Rep. Don Wells (R-147), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding early distributions from certain annuities or retirement plans, the Missouri Higher Education Saving Program and residential mortgage loan brokers.

HCS SB 161, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), was third read and passed. The current regulations allow for loans to be generated for the purchase or improvement of agricultural property. This legislation would allow for the generation of loans for the purchase, expansion, or improvement of an actual agribusiness, not just agricultural property.

HCS SCS SB 366, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), was third read and passed by the vote of 146 to 6. This legislation creates cooperative associations and modifies the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations.

HCS HB 552, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed. This legislation facilitates the establishment of rules governing the standard of care for pharmacies dispensing blood clotting therapies. This standard is already being met by specialty pharmacies and the legislation has the purpose of making these standards law.

HCS HB 597, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Private Landowner Protection Act which allows for the creation and enforcement of conservation easements to protect the environment and preserve certain historical or cultural property. The landowner and the grantee of the easement would be required to enter into a contract.

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

This legislation has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for consideration. For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

SS SCS HCS HB 45, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Denny Hoskins (R-121), was truly agreed to and finally passed by a vote of 127 to 24. This bill changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act and provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive for each new full-time job created or a $20,000 incentive for each new full-time job created when the business offers health insurance and pays at least 50% of the premiums of all full-time employees. The bill also seeks to limit and reduce the amount of regulations that Government forces onto small businesses that simply cause them to spend time doing paperwork instead of growing their enterprise. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses.

Congressional Redistricting Update

Most importantly this week, the House and the Senate finally agreed to a final compromise map to complete the constitutional duty of the State Legislature in drafting eight new Congressional Districts for our State. As many of you are aware, it is the duty of the General Assembly to complete the task of Congressional Redistricting, every ten years, following the national census. After weeks of stalemate and tense negotiations, a valuable compromise was finally reached and late last night, both Chambers passed a final proposed map with overwhelming majorities in support. The bill [HB193] is now headed to the Governor’s desk for approval. It is our request to the Governor that he immediately sign the map and heed the work that the Legislature did and not force this issue to go to the Courts and be decided by unelected judges. This is a serious matter that affects every single person in the State, hundreds of hours of time went into the process and the final product is a fair, compact, contiguous map that is good for all of the citizens of our State. The Governor has vetoed the map so we now must look at the next options. 1. Veto override, 2. Try again with new map, 3. Courts draw map. I am hoping the House and Senate will pull off number one.

The Missouri Solution: Reaching a Complete Compromise Regarding Proposition B

Also yesterday, the Missouri House led the way in approving a final piece of legislation that has resolved the Proposition B issue for nearly all of the stakeholders involved. After weeks of negotiations which were led by Representative Tom Loehner, we successfully passed SB 161 which EVERY MISSOURI GROUP involved in this debate signed off on. The groups representing animal rights, animal agriculture, dog breeders, the Governor’s office and agencies and many others, finally all came together on a good, solid, constitutionally defensible piece of legislation that is fair to all. The consensus from both sides of the issue was that leaving the fix to Prop B alone (SB 113) would result in a solution that did not satisfy the majority of those involved. That is why we continued to work towards the ultimate compromise, known as The Missouri Solution, contained in SB161. As I mentioned, every Missouri based group, on all sides of this issue, came together, signed an open, mutual letter urging the General Assembly to take this final action. I was very happy to be a part of this solution which finally puts this issue to rest for the Session. I want to thank all involved for all the hard work they did and for not resting until the best bill was passed, legislation good for the entire State of Missouri.

Personal News & Notes

If you know anyone who would be interested in receiving this Capitol Report, they can click the “Capitol Report Signup” button on my member home page at www.house.mo.gov and enter the appropriate information to receive the Capitol Report. As the days grow a great deal longer under the Capitol Dome, we want to encourage you to keep up with the flurry of legislative activity.

I plan to visit the Capitol each week while out of session, if you have a church or civic group that would like a fun filled educational day at the Capitol please contact me. I will be sending out a list of all the educational tours that Jefferson City has to offer. Since we will not be in session it will be a great opportunity to visit with the groups and personally take them on the tours of historic Jefferson City. I have already had several groups express interest and look forward to having a busy summer.

Until my next update, I am, and remain, in your service.

Berry: Redistricting Map Completed, Floor Week In Review

THIS WEEK….

Wow what a week!

We are quickly heading to the end of session and everyone is pushing to get as much done before the end as possible. The number of bills that were third read and passed reflects that hectic pace.

The most important business that we completed this week was redistricting. Many of you have contacted me with concerns about the map. Everyone in the 35^th District will still be in Congressman Graves district.

Missouri’s Constitution requires that districts be drawn so as to be “contiguous and compact.” This means they have to be mostly contained within the same spot on the map. The map shouldn’t look like spider webs, snakes, or blobs; this is referred to as gerrymandering.

Our approach was to look at the standing districts, and to maintain district lines as closely as possible to what currently exists, while having to adjust for population shift within our state.

The end result is what we think is a fair way to make the adjustments that are required because of our loss of a Congressional district. Every district's population increased significantly. The proposed map meets the requirements of the Missouri Constitution and splits only a few counties into different Congressional districts.

For a look at our map, you can visit:
http://stlbeacon.org/images/stories/news_issues/missouri/grandcompromisemo550.jpg

Please remember that each one of the eight districts have to have exactly the same population as the rest. One district can be minus 1 person compared to the rest that is how tight the variation is. That is why when you look at the map you do see some areas that meander around a bit.

For a look at our map, you can visit:
http://monewshorizonblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Screen-shot-2011-03-31-at-7.10.58-AM.png

Third Reading & Final House Passage

The following bills were given final approval by the House and sent to the Senate for further consideration.
I supported all of the legislation below. For more information regarding any specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality. The added membership will provide greater opportunity for meaningful work to be accomplished for the children of Missouri.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis. By changing the method the actuaries use to calculate the amount of annual contribution required from the city from the current fixed initial liability method to the entry age normal funding method, St. Louis City will save money.

HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), was third read and passed unanimously. This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 136 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding economic development. By offering tax incentives for the development and expansion of technology business facilities, data storage centers, and server farm facilities, we will improve the job outlook for Missourians.

HCS HBs 600, 337, and 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), was third read and passed. These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HCS HB 161, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 127 to 24. This would authorize Pettis County, upon local voter approval, to change its transient guest tax from $2 per room, per night to up to 5% and increases the number of members on the Pettis County Tourism Commission. Local control for local decisions is the purpose of this enabling legislation.

HCS HB 523, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed by the overwhelming majority of 139 to 8. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association Act, insurance coverage for portable electronics, and residential and home warranty service contracts.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts. The purpose is to provide options to students and help improve school district performance. We have finally moved forward in a positive, proactive, substantive way to truly place parents in charge of their children’s education, to advance serious education reforms and to address the true problems facing public education in a positive way.

HCS HB 773, sponsored by Rep. Don Gosen (R-84), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding the regulation of surplus lines insurance to comply with the federal Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act of 2010.

HCS HB 787, sponsored by Rep. Don Wells (R-147), was third read and passed. This bill changes the laws regarding early distributions from certain annuities or retirement plans, the Missouri Higher Education Saving Program and residential mortgage loan brokers.

HCS SB 161, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), was third read and passed. The current regulations allow for loans to be generated for the purchase or improvement of agricultural property. This legislation would allow for the generation of loans for the purchase, expansion, or improvement of an actual agribusiness, not just agricultural property.

HCS SCS SB 366, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), was third read and passed by the vote of 146 to 6. This legislation creates cooperative associations and modifies the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations.

HCS HB 552, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), was third read and passed. This legislation facilitates the establishment of rules governing the standard of care for pharmacies dispensing blood clotting therapies. This standard is already being met by specialty pharmacies and the legislation has the purpose of making these standards law.

HCS HB 597, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), was third read and passed. This bill establishes the Private Landowner Protection Act which allows for the creation and enforcement of conservation easements to protect the environment and preserve certain historical or cultural property. The landowner and the grantee of the easement would be required to enter into a contract.

Truly Agreed To and Finally Passed

This legislation has been passed by both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for consideration. For more information regarding any specific piece of legislation, please visit www.house.mo.gov.

SS SCS HCS HB 45, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Denny Hoskins (R-121), was truly agreed to and finally passed by a vote of 127 to 24. This bill changes the laws regarding the Big Government Get Off My Back Act and provides additional incentives for responsible businesses that provide health benefits to those new, full-time employees. In particular, a $10,000 tax incentive for each new full-time job created or a $20,000 incentive for each new full-time job created when the business offers health insurance and pays at least 50% of the premiums of all full-time employees. The bill also seeks to limit and reduce the amount of regulations that Government forces onto small businesses that simply cause them to spend time doing paperwork instead of growing their enterprise. This bill is a positive step in the direction of strengthening Missouri small businesses.

Bill Information

If you would like to track legislation you may log on to www.house.mo.gov and select “Bill Information” and then select “Bill Tracking”. You may search by topic or bill number. If you want to track the bills that I have either sponsored or co-sponsored, just enter my last name and you will be able to look at each of those also.

Co-sponsored Bills

HB73; HB146; HB199; HB200; HB209; HB247; HB280; HB284; HB340; HB352; HB364; HB423; HB437; HB467; HB468; HB470; HB511; HB528; HB580; HB629; HB639; HB648; HB658; HB736; HB748; HB749; HB755; HB760; HB772; HB774; HB778; HB786; HB789; HB795; HB799; HB874; HB875; HB888; HB901; HB924; HB940; HB957; HB980; HB1008; HCR9; HCR30; HCR33; HCR46; HCR47; HCR48; HCR52; HJR26; HJR27; HJR31; HJR33

As always if you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact my office at (573) 751 – 2238 or by email at TJ{dot}Berry{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.

Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service.

Torpey: Charter Schools measure advances, Redistricting

A Special Note

On Wednesday, I was graciously assigned a Coro-Fellow Student to shadow me throughout the day. The Fellows Program in Public Affairs is an intensive nine-month, post-graduate program. The program is experience-based and the Fellows spend most of their time working and learning full time at field placements in a nonprofit organization, local government agency, organized labor, electoral politics and business. My shadow for the day was Mary Gleich, an extremely bright and intelligent young woman who our office loved having around! Mary graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota with degrees in Human Services and Political Science in May 2010. Her experiences and her upbringing as a child of teachers, has committed Mary to working for quality education. While Mary was at the Capitol, we were lucky enough to hear a bill on charter schools and join Missouri NEA for lunch a few blocks away.

2011 Legislative Session continues

Passes through the House this week:

• HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Jones (063), will change the laws regarding charter schools and establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission. Charter schools are public schools that take public money, but are not subject to the same regulations as other schools in the state. In exchange for this public money, they must accept students that choose to attend them, and they must meet certain performance standards. If they don't meet these standards, they lose this funding. There are several successful charter schools in the St. Louis area, and we want to expand the ability for individuals to start them. One type of these proposals is to allow universities, like MU or SLU to sponsor a charter school. Another is to let non-profit or charitable organizations start charter schools. However, while new Charter schools may offer good alternatives we also need to make sure they are accountable. Additionally, if we give money to a charter school, and they don't meet the performance requirements, this bill will allow us to revoke their status as a charter school. Additionally, local school boards must authorize the creation of any new Charter Schools. This bill passed the House by a vote of 86-70, with myself voting in favor.
• SB 161, sponsored by Senator Munzlinger, addresses the issues around Proposition B and the modifications recently passed by the House and Senate. This measure would actually make it harder to operate a puppy mill in our state. This bill, unlike the United States Humane Society's proposition (Prop B), increases the cost of obtaining a dog breeder's license in Missouri, and uses that money to increase inspections. It is my belief that bad people will always do bad things. The current "puppy mills" in Missouri are already operating in violation of our laws. Missouri's "Operation Bark Alert" has been catching hundreds of illegal breeders and rescuing thousands of dogs since its creation. This bill passed with a vote of 108-42, myself voting in favor. Yesterday, Governor Nixon gladly signed this bill, creating great compromise between everyone involved.
  
  **If you suspect someone is operating an illegal puppy mill and want to help us shut them down, PLEASE report them to state officials with "Operation Bark Alert" at: http://mda.mo.gov/animals/ACFA/barkalert/reportbreeder.php **
  
• HB 193, sponsored by Rep. Diehl, changes the composition of Congressional districts based on the 2010 census. In other words, this bill is this suggested Congressional Redistricting Map. A last minute effort was made with both the House and Senate coming together to create a new Congressional Map for Missouri. Eight out of nine members of the US House have agreed to this map and are in favor of it, including Congressman Cleaver of the 5th District and Congressman Graves of the 6th District (Congressman Carnahan did not agree to any of the suggested maps drawn). The map now makes its way to Governor Nixon to be signed into law. If the governor decides to veto this bill/map, the House and Senate have one last effort to find the numbers to over-ride the veto on the very last day of session (May 13). If the numbers are not found to be able to over-ride the veto, the map will not go into effect and redistricting will be sent to the courts. This bill passed with a vote of 97-55 in the House, and 27-7 in the Senate. I voted in favor of this measure.
• SB 366, sponsored by Senator Goodman, will create Missouri cooperative associations and will modify the law relating to the conversion of certain business organizations. Right now, if a business is in another state and they want to move their registration to Missouri, it's not a clear or easy process. This bill seeks to clarify the ways that businesses can operate, to streamline the process for a corporation to transition to a Missouri corporation. The easier it is for foreign corporations to locate here, the more likely they will, and bring new jobs with them. Additionally, right now, if a foreign corporation is a "Cooperative Association" they cannot even register in our state. Our addition of this corporate form to Missouri will allow these businesses to form, and will also allow Missouri citizens who want to start a new business under this form to do so. This bill passed overwhelmingly, with myself voting in favor.

For more information on current legislation in the Missouri House of Representatives, please contact our office or visit the House website.

Committees

Fiscal Review met Tuesday and today to hold executive session.

• HCS HB 600, 337, 413, sponsored by Rep. Schad, is an omnibus bill over the topic of public safety. This passed committee with a vote of 8-0.
• HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Frederick, will change various provisions regarding the licensure and inspection of hospitals. This bill passed committee with a vote of 6-3, with myself voting in favor.
• HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Silvey, would authorize local government technology business facility projects and would create state and local sales and use tax exemptions for data storage center projects. This bill passed out of committee with a vote of 8-0.
• SB 3, sponsored by Rep. Stouffer, would establish photo identification requirements for voting. This bill passed with a vote of 9-2, with myself voting in favor. SB 3 will only be made into law if the vote of the people passes SJR 2.
• SJR 2, sponsored by Rep. Stouffer, would allow enabling legislation for photographic identification for voting. This bill passed by a vote of 8-3, with myself voting in favor.
• HJR 27, sponsored by Rep. Brattin, proposes a constitutional amendment specifying that the right of every citizen to possess, purchase ammunition, and any parts or articles for the proper functioning of arms must not be infringed. This bill passed out of committee with a vote of 8-3, with myself voting in favor.
• HJR 16, sponsored by Rep. Dugger, proposes a constitutional amendment increasing the signature requirement for all initiative and referendum petitions. This bill passed by a vote of 9-1, with myself voting in favor.

Downsizing State Government met today upon adjournment to hold public hearings and executive session on two bills.

• SJR 10, sponsored by Senator Lembke, would lower the number of State Representatives from 163 to 103. This bill failed to pass committee, with myself voting in favor.
• SCS SB 323, sponsored by Senator Schaefer, will require the State Auditor to conduct a one-time comparative audit of selected state agencies. This bill passed out of committee, with myself voting in favor.

For more information on these bills, or any that have been filed in the Missouri House of Representatives, please visit the House Bill information page by clicking here.

Word of the Week

An Omnibus Bill is a single document that is accepted in a single vote by the legislature, but packages together several measures into one.

In Other News

As we draw closer to the end of session, I want to remind you to feel free to contact my office with any questions or concerns, even after we have officially adjourned on May 13.

Tim Jones: Majority Minute: Appropriation Bills Progress, Three Join Resolutions Await Debate

Our thoughts and prayers go forth to all affected by the tornadoes and continued drenching downpours that have battered and soaked our State for the past many weeks and especially this past weekend.  Many of our members are finding it difficult to leave their constituents and family members back home who are dealing with great difficulties and challenges.  Back at the Capitol, we are briskly moving through a heavy load of legislation as we enter the final three weeks of Session…

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

The General Assembly was not in Session on Monday in recognition and honor of Easter Monday.  I do sincerely pray that you and your families all had a safe, blessed and joyous Easter Weekend.

TENTATIVE HOUSE SCHEDULE FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE WEEK

House Joint Resolutions for Perfection

HJR 15, sponsored by Rep. Don Ruzicka (R-132), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment stating a two-thirds majority voter approval be required for any initiative petition relating to harvesting bird, fish, game, wildlife, or forestry resources.

HCS HJR 16, sponsored by Rep. Tony Dugger (R-144), is scheduled to be perfected this week.  This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment changing the number of voter signatures that are required to place an initiative petition or a referendum on a ballot.  The current regulation of 8% for initiative petitions would reduce to 5.25%, and the 5% requirement for referendum petitions would reduce to 3.25% in each Congressional district.

HJR 27, sponsored by Rep. Rick Brattin (R-124), is scheduled to be perfected this week.  This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment specifying that the right of every citizen to possess, purchase ammunition, and any parts or articles for the proper functioning of arms must not be infringed.  A gun is useless if you cannot purchase ammunition.  There are currently restrictions being imposed in other states and Missouri needs to take steps to secure this right for Missourians with an amendment to our Constitution.

House Bills for Perfection - Appropriations

These are additional supplemental budget bills that relate to additional items in our State Budget.  For more information regarding a specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov and enter the bill number in the bill search box on the left hand side of the internet page.

HCS HB 17, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
HCS HB 18, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
HCS HB 21, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
HCS HB 22, sponsored by Rep. Silvey

House Bills for Perfection

Although it is growing very late in Session and the likelihood of a House Bill making it all the way through the Senate, back to the House and then to the Governor's desk grows slim, the following bills may still be brought up for consideration. For more information regarding a specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov and enter the bill number in the bill search box on the left hand side of the internet page.

HB 138
HCS HB 401
HCS HB 552
HCS HB 597
HCS HB 613
HB 686
HCS HB 688
HCS HB 732
HB 741
HCS HB 773
HCS HB 787
HCS HB 893
HB 924

House Bills for Third Reading

These bills are slightly further along in the process and, if voted out this week, will be off to the Senate for further consideration.

HCS HB 161, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), is scheduled to be third read this week. This would authorize Pettis County, upon voter approval, to change its transient guest tax from $2 per room, per night to up to 5% and increases the number of members on the Pettis County Tourism Commission.

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), is scheduled to be third read this week.  This bill changes the laws regarding economic development.  By offering tax incentives for the development and expansion of technology business facilities, data storage centers, and server farm facilities, we will improve the job outlook for Missourians.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), is scheduled to be third read this week.  This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts.  The idea is to give options to students and help improve school district performance.

HCS HB 523, sponsored by Rep. Chris Molendorp (R-123), is scheduled to be third read this week. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association Act, insurance coverage for portable electronics, and residential and home warranty service contracts.

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), is scheduled to be third read this week.  This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality

HCS HB 579, E.C., sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), is scheduled to be third read this week.  This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

HCS HBs 600, 337 & 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), is scheduled to be third read this week.  These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), is scheduled to be third read this week. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis.

House Concurrent Resolutions

Although it is growing very late in Session and the likelihood of a House Concurrent Resolution making it all the way through the Senate, back to the House and then to the Governor's desk grows slim, the following bills may still be brought up for consideration. For more information regarding a specific bill, please visit www.house.mo.gov and enter the bill number in the bill search box on the left hand side of the internet page.

HCR 32, sponsored by Rep. Bernskoetter
HCR 38, sponsored by Rep. Cierpiot
HCR 46, sponsored by Rep. Nolte

Senate Bills for Third Reading

HCS SB 161, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3), is scheduled to be third read this week.  This bill is the compromise bill relating to SB113, which revised portions of Proposition B.  Nearly all groups on both sides of the issue have come together in support of HCS SB 161.

House Bills with Senate Amendments

SS SCS HCS HB 45, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Denny Hoskins (R-121),
SCS HB 798, HB 141, HB 153, HCS HB 363, HB 415 & HB 813, sponsored by Rep. Brown (85)
HCS HB 108, SCA 1 and SA 1, sponsored by Rep. Smith (150)
SCS HB 307 & HB 812, sponsored by Rep. Gatschenberger
SCS HB 388, sponsored by Rep. Burlison
SCS HCS HB 631, sponsored by Rep. Grisamore

BUDGET BILLS THAT HAVE PASSED THE HOUSE & SENATE

SCS HCS HB 2, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 3, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 4, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 5, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 6, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 7, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 8, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 9, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 10, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 11, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 12, sponsored by Rep. Silvey
SCS HCS HB 13, sponsored by Rep. Silvey

Throughout Session, I will continue to send the Majority Minute to my constituents, colleagues and friends across the State.  If you ever have any questions, feel free to contact my office at 573-751-0562.

Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service,

Tim Jones.

Sater: This Week In The Missouri House, Issue 15

FYI…DS

[Click here to read]

Torpey: District Day Visit, Fiscal Review Committee Recap

A Special Note

On Tuesday, we were more than happy to hold our First Annual District Day! We were very pleased with the turn out, and truly hope that everyone had a good time! I am looking forward to holding this event again, so if you were unable to attend, there will be another chance next year. A heartfelt thank you to those who braved the rainy weather to drive down to Jefferson City to see the House in action. Please remember that if you wish to come to Jefferson City, contact my office and we would love to meet with you and show you around the area.

2011 Legislative Session continues

Passes through the House this week:

• HB 656, sponsored by Rep. Brandom, will change the laws regarding unsecured loans of $500 or less, commonly known as payday loans. This bill tries to strike a middle point between allowing responsible individuals access to payday loans, while trying to protect borrowers from predatory lending. Although this bill does not take huge strides towards payday loan reform, I believe that this is a small step in the direction we need to be heading in order to make true payday loan reform. This bill passed by a vote of 96-58, with myself voting in favor. This will now be sent to the Senate for further action.
• HB 661, sponsored by Rep. Wells, will change the laws regarding debt adjusters. With the economy in its current bad state, debt adjusters can actually provide useful services to help people lower what they may owe; however, sometimes these adjusters take advantage of people. This bill makes it clear that debt relief agencies cannot charge people without lowering the debt they owe, and they cannot charge people without explaining the process to them. This bill passed 120-22, with myself voting in favor, and is now sent to the Senate for further action.
• HB 1008, sponsored by Rep. Long, will allow the Highways and Transportation Commission to enter into infrastructure improvement agreements to reimburse funds advanced for the benefit of a county, political subdivision, or private entity. This bill simply allows MODOT to work together more efficiently through greater public-private partnerships. This bill passed 146-1, with myself voting in favor, and is now sent to the Senate.
• HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Jones (63), will change the laws regarding charter schools and establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission. This bill passed and was sent to the Committee on Fiscal Review for further action (see below).

For more information on current legislation in the Missouri House of Representatives, please contact our office or visit the House website.

Committees

Elementary and Secondary Education met on Wednesday to hold a hearing on my bill regarding kindergarten education. HB 752 will change the laws regarding the compulsory school attendance of kindergarten students. Currently, once a student is enrolled in kindergarten or first grade, even though the student is below the compulsory school age of seven years, the student's parent or guardian is required to ensure the regular attendance of the student. However, any student below the compulsory school age may be withdrawn from the school's attendance rolls upon written request. This bill requires the request to be because of a transfer to another school, health reasons, or the parent's belief that the child's best interests are served by withdrawal after discussing educational options with school personnel.

Fiscal Review met on Thursday to hold executive session.

• HB 473 (see above) was voted out of committee and sent back to the floor by a vote of 7-4, with myself voting in favor.
• HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Frederick, will change the laws regarding health care. This bill was tabled by the committee until the next meeting.
• HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Silvey, will authorize tax incentives for technology business facilities and for data storage centers and server farm facilities. This bill was also tabled until next week.

For more information on these bills, or any that have been filed in the Missouri House of Representatives, please visit the House Bill information page by clicking here.

Word of the Week

Every day, the actions in the House for the previous day are recorded in the House Journal. House Journal --An official chronological record of the actions taken and proceedings of the respective chambers. People are able to view the House Journals on-line, in order to follow the House's actions and representative's votes. You can access our journals by clicking here.

In Other News

Redistricting has been a huge topic on everyone's mind here in Jefferson City and back home. This week, the House and Senate have been going back and forth trying to find a compromise that we can send to Governor Nixon for approval. However, today (on Good Friday) the House reluctantly came back into session and passed the redistricting map [SB68] by a vote of 91-47, with the hopes that the Senate will take it up next week and then deliver it to the governor.

Tim Jones: Majority Minute: Senate Yet To Respond On Redistricting

Following a weekend of typical Missouri weather, winter one day and spring the next (!), we returned to the Capitol City to complete our final month of Session, the four week sprint to the finish…

Today in the House: Monday, April 18, 2011

Today the House was in technical session. We are currently awaiting response from the Senate concerning Congressional Redistricting. The Senate rejected the House proposal [HB193] and then has thus far not responded to a request to go to conference to work out a compromise. We await the Senate’s response on this important matter that affects every Missouri citizen.

Later this Week for Debate on the House Floor
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE

House Bills for Perfection

HCS HB 366, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill authorizes tax incentives for technology business facilities and for data storage centers and server farm facilities.

HB 466, sponsored by Rep. Shane Schoeller (R-139), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill allows an employer or labor organization to obtain political contributions through a payroll deduction if the employee or member consents to the contribution in writing.

HCS HB 473, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill establishes the Missouri Charter Public School Commission and regulates the operation of public charter schools in certain districts. The idea is to give options to students and help improve school district performance.

HB 491, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill changes the requirements regarding when funds can be released from escrow accounts under the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.

HCS HB 562, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill changes the laws regarding the Missouri Children's Services Commission and establishes the Missouri Task Force on Prematurity and Infant Mortality.

HCS HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Keith Frederick (R-149), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill changes the laws regarding fees for medical records, hospital licensure, MO HealthNet dental benefits, and the Missouri Rx Plan and authorizes permanent sickle cell disease standing committees.

HCS HBs 600, 337 & 413, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115), is scheduled to be perfected this week. These bills change the laws regarding public safety, prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from text messaging while operating a moving vehicle unless the device being used is equipped with technology allowing for voice-recognition hands-free texting, and expand the crime of making a false declaration with the purpose to mislead a public servant in the performance of his or her duty, respectively.

HB 661, sponsored by Rep. Don Wells (R-147), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill changes the laws regarding debt adjusters.

HCS HB 664, sponsored by Rep. Mike Leara (R-95), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill changes the laws regarding the Firemen's Retirement System of St. Louis.

HB 708, sponsored by Rep. Paul Curtman (R-105), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill changes the laws regarding violations of the public policy of Missouri when decisions are based on foreign law or legal code.

HCS HB 828, sponsored by Rep. Barney Fisher (R-125), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill revises the definition of "construction" as it relates to prevailing wages on public works projects and abrogates the ruling in Utility Service Co., Inc. v. Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

HB 1008, sponsored by Rep. Thomas Long (R-134), is scheduled to be perfected this week. This bill allows the Highways and Transportation Commission to enter into infrastructure improvement agreements to reimburse funds advanced for the benefit of a county, political subdivision, or private entity.

House Bills for Third Reading

HB 656, sponsored by Rep. Ellen Brandom (R-160), is scheduled for third reading this week. This bill changes the laws regarding unsecured loans of $500 or less, commonly known as payday loans.

House Joint Resolutions for Third Reading

HCS HJR 5, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146), is scheduled for third reading this week. This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment guaranteeing citizens the right to hunt, fish, trap, and harvest wildlife using traditionally approved devices or methods.

Throughout Session, I will continue to send the Majority Minute to my constituents, colleagues and friends across the State. If you ever have any questions, feel free to contact my office at 573-751-0562.

Until our next update, I am, and remain, in your service,

Tim Jones.