JEFFERSON CITY – Senator Kurt Schaefer is pleased to announce the signing of legislation to criminalize the possession of spice cannabinoids – also known as K2. The drugs are smoked for their euphoric effects similar to marijuana, and are sold over the counter in many locations, sometimes being marketed as incense.
House Bill 1472, handled in the Senate by Sen. Schaefer, contains language similar to Senate Bill 887, which he also introduced in the Senate.
"The drugs targeted in this legislation are widely available and contain noxious chemicals and other substances that are quite dangerous. They are widely known by the medical community to cause severe side effects and were never intended for human consumption," Sen. Schaefer said. "I am glad to see this bill signed into law to protect our citizens, and especially our younger and most impressionable population."
To see available summaries and the full text for HB 1472, please visit Sen. Schaefer's website at www.senate.mo.gov/schaefer and click on his sponsored bill link. Should you have a question or concern about this or any other facet of the Missouri Legislature, feel free to contact Sen. Schaefer's office.
06 July 2010
Ruestman: 2011 Fiscal Year State Budget
The primary function of the Missouri General Assembly is to pass a budget each year. This year was the toughest year to balance a budget due to the nearly $900 million shortfall. The Republican Majority of the last eight years has been committed to not raising taxes. In years of revenue declines the only way to balance the budget is to either raise taxes or increase cuts. I am proud to say, we (once again) passed a balanced budget with NO TAX INCREASE.
It is difficult to cut any program, knowing that each program is important to some of our constituency. However, as a conservative, I am committed to smaller government, lower taxes and a balanced budget. I am happy to say that at the end of my eight years in the Missouri House of Representatives we have delivered on all of those commitments.
Even during this recession, you can be proud to be a Missourian. With your help, we have become one of the most fiscally sound states. Additionally, Missouri is winning awards for being one of the most transparent governments in the world. It is important for you to have access to and be aware of budget information. Missouri’s fiscal year began July 1. Here is a synopsis of where your money goes:
The total budget for this year is $23,274,922,486.
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.
It is difficult to cut any program, knowing that each program is important to some of our constituency. However, as a conservative, I am committed to smaller government, lower taxes and a balanced budget. I am happy to say that at the end of my eight years in the Missouri House of Representatives we have delivered on all of those commitments.
Even during this recession, you can be proud to be a Missourian. With your help, we have become one of the most fiscally sound states. Additionally, Missouri is winning awards for being one of the most transparent governments in the world. It is important for you to have access to and be aware of budget information. Missouri’s fiscal year began July 1. Here is a synopsis of where your money goes:
| Where it goes… | (out of each dollar) |
|---|---|
| Social Services | 32.9¢ |
| Education | 28.3¢ |
| Elementary and Secondary | 23.0¢ |
| Higher Education | 5.3¢ |
| Transportation | 11.3¢ |
| Administration and Employee Benefits | 5.1¢ |
| Mental Health | 5.1¢ |
| Corrections and Public Safety | 5.1¢ |
| Health and Senior Services | 4.0¢ |
| Agriculture, Natural Resources and Conservation | 2.1¢ |
| Elected Officials, Judiciary, Legislature and Public Defender | 1.9¢ |
| Economic Development | 1.1¢ |
| State-wide Leasing | 0.6¢ |
| Labor and Industrial Relations | 0.5¢ |
| Public Debt | 0.2¢ |
| Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration | 0.2¢ |
The total budget for this year is $23,274,922,486.
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.
Nance: State announces new insurance program for Missourians with pre-existing health conditions
$81 million in federal money will fund new pool
Jefferson City, Mo. – Insurance Director John M. Huff announced today that a new type of health coverage will soon be available for Missourians who have trouble buying insurance because of their medical conditions. The federal government has approved a proposal from the Missouri Health Insurance Pool (MHIP) to run a new high risk pool subsidized by $81 million in federal funding. The program is part of the national health care reform law.
“Because of this federal funding, Missourians with pre-existing conditions will now be able to buy health insurance at competitive rates,” said Huff. Under state law, the director of insurance serves on the MHIP Board of Directors and appoints the members.
MHIP has contracted with RightChoice, a subsidiary of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, to administer the program and Catalyst Rx to provide prescription drug coverage.
To be eligible for the new high risk pool, consumers must be Missouri residents, have a pre-existing medical condition and be uninsured for at least six months. In addition to the $81 million in federal money, the program will be funded by premiums paid by policyholders. The high risk pool will be available until 2014, when the new federal law requires health insurance companies to offer coverage to all applicants, regardless of health status, at standard market rates.
This new pool will be the second operated by MHIP in Missouri. Since 1991, MHIP has run a high risk pool for Missourians, established by state law. The pool has more than 4,000 members. That pool is funded by premiums paid by policyholders and by fees assessed on health insurance companies operating in Missouri.
Consumers can apply online for insurance coverage in mid-July at mhip.org or by calling 1-800-821-2231.
Jefferson City, Mo. – Insurance Director John M. Huff announced today that a new type of health coverage will soon be available for Missourians who have trouble buying insurance because of their medical conditions. The federal government has approved a proposal from the Missouri Health Insurance Pool (MHIP) to run a new high risk pool subsidized by $81 million in federal funding. The program is part of the national health care reform law.
“Because of this federal funding, Missourians with pre-existing conditions will now be able to buy health insurance at competitive rates,” said Huff. Under state law, the director of insurance serves on the MHIP Board of Directors and appoints the members.
MHIP has contracted with RightChoice, a subsidiary of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, to administer the program and Catalyst Rx to provide prescription drug coverage.
To be eligible for the new high risk pool, consumers must be Missouri residents, have a pre-existing medical condition and be uninsured for at least six months. In addition to the $81 million in federal money, the program will be funded by premiums paid by policyholders. The high risk pool will be available until 2014, when the new federal law requires health insurance companies to offer coverage to all applicants, regardless of health status, at standard market rates.
This new pool will be the second operated by MHIP in Missouri. Since 1991, MHIP has run a high risk pool for Missourians, established by state law. The pool has more than 4,000 members. That pool is funded by premiums paid by policyholders and by fees assessed on health insurance companies operating in Missouri.
Consumers can apply online for insurance coverage in mid-July at mhip.org or by calling 1-800-821-2231.
About the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions & Professional Registration
The Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration (DIFP) is responsible for consumer protection through the regulation of financial industries and professionals. The department's seven divisions work to enforce state regulations both efficiently and effectively while encouraging a competitive environment for industries and professions to ensure consumers have access to quality products.
Keaveny: Free Health Fair This Saturday
I have organized a Free Health Fair for anyone in the community.
It is this Saturday, July 10 from 10:00AM - 2:00PM
at Forest Park Community College
5600 Oakland Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63110
Come by, bring your family for free check ups and helpful advice.
Kraus: Standing on Principle
You may have seen my name in the news recently when the Speaker of the House removed me from the Job Creation and Economic Development Committee. I wanted to take this opportunity to explain.
Standing on principle, I refused to guarantee House leadership my vote on a bill to be brought before the committee before the bill was even heard or discussed. My firm stand caused me to be removed from the committee ten minutes before it began. The vote in question was the committee vote on the Manufacturing Jobs Act, which proposes to allow companies up to $10 million per year in tax incentives.
Work in committee is to hash out the specifics of a bill, hear both sides, and decide if a bill is good for the taxpayers or not. I was in Jefferson City, ready to listen, but I was told to vote 'yes' regardless of testimony and discussion and without knowing the final language of the bill. That is too much like business-as-usual in Washington, D.C. I simply couldn't guarantee to vote yes or no.
On June 30, the newspaper in Jefferson City, the News-Tribune, reported on the story and had this to say about my removal on its editorial page, "A lawmaker elected to represent constituents doesn't deserve to be benched for pledging to listen to reasoned debate and cast an informed vote on an issue. Those are the types of abuses that give politics a bad name."
In good conscience, I can't just be a 'yes' man for House leadership and forego thinking about what is best for my constituents.
According to the Speaker's office, other members were removed from a committee because they were not present at the Capitol to vote. For more information, you can click on this link to an article by the Associated Press: Kraus Removed from Special Session Committee.
The connectors officially complete this $45 million project that was designed to improve traffic operations for the more than 130,000 vehicles that use the junction of I-470 and Routes US 50/MO350. Spanning U.S. 50 and MO 350, these roads join the two half-diamond interchanges, creating what is commonly referred to as a Split-Diamond Interchange. Motorists traveling on I-470 will now have access to each area of the completed interchange, allowing for more efficient travel and traffic congestion relief throughout the area.
HB 1965 - Repeals various expired provisions of law, changes the laws regarding certain state publications, and establishes a joint committee on Missouri's future and a committee on accountability
HB 1643 - Changes the laws regarding certain documents recorded with the county recorder of deeds
HB 2070 - Changes the laws regarding joint central fire and emergency dispatching services taxes
HB 1868 - Changes the laws regarding keys to the Capitol dome, state agencies, and MO HealthNet claims and establishes the Joint Committee on the Reduction and Reorganization of Programs within State Government
SB 649 -Requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation designating March 12th as "Girl Scout Day"
HB 1662 - Authorizes the State Veterinarian to restrict the movement of animals or birds under investigation for the presence or suspected presence of a toxin
SB 808 - Modifies compensation and continuing education requirements for public administrators
SB 1007 - Amends various requirements for public assistance programs administered by the state
SB 842 - Modifies provisions relating to public assistance programs administered by the state
SB 739 - Modifies the provisions governing fire department employee residency requirements
HB 2081 - Specifies that a pregnant woman may use deadly force if she reasonably believes that deadly force is necessary to protect her unborn child against death, serious physical injury, or any forcible felony
HB 1898 -Establishes the Women's Heart Health Program to provide heart disease risk screenings to certain uninsured and underinsured women
SB 586 - Regulates sexually oriented businesses
Standing on principle, I refused to guarantee House leadership my vote on a bill to be brought before the committee before the bill was even heard or discussed. My firm stand caused me to be removed from the committee ten minutes before it began. The vote in question was the committee vote on the Manufacturing Jobs Act, which proposes to allow companies up to $10 million per year in tax incentives.
Work in committee is to hash out the specifics of a bill, hear both sides, and decide if a bill is good for the taxpayers or not. I was in Jefferson City, ready to listen, but I was told to vote 'yes' regardless of testimony and discussion and without knowing the final language of the bill. That is too much like business-as-usual in Washington, D.C. I simply couldn't guarantee to vote yes or no.
On June 30, the newspaper in Jefferson City, the News-Tribune, reported on the story and had this to say about my removal on its editorial page, "A lawmaker elected to represent constituents doesn't deserve to be benched for pledging to listen to reasoned debate and cast an informed vote on an issue. Those are the types of abuses that give politics a bad name."
In good conscience, I can't just be a 'yes' man for House leadership and forego thinking about what is best for my constituents.
According to the Speaker's office, other members were removed from a committee because they were not present at the Capitol to vote. For more information, you can click on this link to an article by the Associated Press: Kraus Removed from Special Session Committee.
I-470/US50 Half-Diamond Interchange Ready for Public Use
Traffic operations at Interstate-470 and US 50 in Lee's Summit will soon flow easier and smoother now that the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) completed the Split-Diamond Interchange in this busy area of Lee's Summit. The Half-Diamond Interchanges at Pryor Road and Blue Parkway were finished last year, and now traffic will be able to access each end with the use of the new connector roads that opened Monday, June 28.The connectors officially complete this $45 million project that was designed to improve traffic operations for the more than 130,000 vehicles that use the junction of I-470 and Routes US 50/MO350. Spanning U.S. 50 and MO 350, these roads join the two half-diamond interchanges, creating what is commonly referred to as a Split-Diamond Interchange. Motorists traveling on I-470 will now have access to each area of the completed interchange, allowing for more efficient travel and traffic congestion relief throughout the area.
Gov. Nixon Signs Bills into Law
Governor Nixon has signed the following bills into law. For more detailed information about each bill, please click on the bill number and you will be taken to the state website where the bill and other pertinent information is posted. In my next newsletter, I'll have information on other bill signings.HB 1965 - Repeals various expired provisions of law, changes the laws regarding certain state publications, and establishes a joint committee on Missouri's future and a committee on accountability
HB 1643 - Changes the laws regarding certain documents recorded with the county recorder of deeds
HB 2070 - Changes the laws regarding joint central fire and emergency dispatching services taxes
HB 1868 - Changes the laws regarding keys to the Capitol dome, state agencies, and MO HealthNet claims and establishes the Joint Committee on the Reduction and Reorganization of Programs within State Government
SB 649 -Requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation designating March 12th as "Girl Scout Day"
HB 1662 - Authorizes the State Veterinarian to restrict the movement of animals or birds under investigation for the presence or suspected presence of a toxin
SB 808 - Modifies compensation and continuing education requirements for public administrators
SB 1007 - Amends various requirements for public assistance programs administered by the state
SB 842 - Modifies provisions relating to public assistance programs administered by the state
SB 739 - Modifies the provisions governing fire department employee residency requirements
HB 2081 - Specifies that a pregnant woman may use deadly force if she reasonably believes that deadly force is necessary to protect her unborn child against death, serious physical injury, or any forcible felony
HB 1898 -Establishes the Women's Heart Health Program to provide heart disease risk screenings to certain uninsured and underinsured women
SB 586 - Regulates sexually oriented businesses
Roorda: Praise For New Autism Insurance Law, State Employee Travel Restrictions, MOSERS Base Pay Increases
Representative Roorda praises signing of Autism Insurance Bill
At left: Representative Roorda shows his support at the June 8 Autism Bill signingState regulated insurance companies will be required to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorders under legislation, CO-Sponsored and supported by Rep. Roorda, that Gov. Jay Nixon signed into law Thursday.
House Bill 1311&1341 will require insurers to provide coverage for up to $40,000 a year in treatment for autistic children age 18 and younger. The legislation has been a priority for Roorda and other House Democrats in recent years.
"House Bill 1311&1341 was by far the best bill to pass this year," said Roorda. "For years, Missouri has been one of the only states in the country that has allowed insurance companies to arbitrarily deny benefits and cancel coverage for Autism and Spectrum Disorders, this bill will make a huge difference in the lives of many Missouri families."
Similar legislation was blocked in the House of Representatives in 2009. This year's bill, however, enjoyed strong bipartisan support, passing 144-16 in the House and 27-6 in the Senate. As with most bills passed during the 2010 legislative session, HB 1311&1341 will take effect on Jan. 1, 2011.
Read the St. Louis Post Dispatch Article: Missouri Legislature Approves Autism Insurance Bill
Travel Restrictions on State Employees
Missouri Governor. Jay Nixon's administration is placing tight restrictions on out-of-state travel by state employees to reduce expenses, The Associated Press reported on June 8 citing an administration memo to state department directors.
The new policy generally prohibits state workers from traveling out of state however, there are exceptions. Transporting prisoners, emergency responses, and travel that is legally required, privately paid, or essential to conduct an audit, collect taxes or fees due to the state.
Increase in MOSERS base pay
After it was revealed that employees of the Missouri State Employees Retirement System received substantal bonuses in 2008, despite the fact that the system lost $1.8 billion that year from its investments, MOSERS agreed to eliminate bonuses for all but the system's top managers starting later this year. But the MOSERS Board of Trustees this month will consider a proposal to offset the loss of bonuses by increasing their employees' base pay.
Although MOSERS' investment staff received the bulk the bonuses, support staff, such as secretaries, also were given more modest bonuses. Under the proposed pay plan, the approximately 70 employees who are no longer eligible for bonuses would receive pay increases equal to 90 percent of what they oringinally received bonus wise. MOSERS oversees the pension system for most state employees.
Read the St. Louis Post Dispatch Article: Mosers considers pay increase
Respected Children's Advocacy Group Closes Doors
After 25 years, Citizens for Missouri's Children, a respected child advocacy group that produces the annual Kids Count report, has ceased operations. In June 4 letter to supporters, CMC Director Scott Gee cited a lack of sufficient funding as the reason for the group's demise.
CMC was best known for its Kids Count report, which annually compiled comprehensive data on child poverty rates, health issues, and other matters affecting Missouri children. Gee told the Missouri net that he hopes another group will take over the report.
Read the Kansas City Star article: Advocacy group Citizens for Missouri's Children closes its doors
Jefferson City Voters Consider Smoking Ban
The Jefferson City Council on June 7 voted to place a proposed ban on smoking in public areas, including bars and restaurants, on the Nov. 2 ballot. The council acted after anti-smoking activists submitted a petition for a smoke-free ordinance containing more than 1,200 signatures. According to the Jefferson City News Tribune, Missouri's state capital is one of only six in the country that doesn't have a broad smoking ban.Read more about the proposed smoking ban at the St. Louis Post Dispatch article: Jefferson City will vote on smoking ban
If there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to contact my office. I enjoy serving my constituents as "their" voice in the Missouri State Capitol.
04 July 2010
Holsman: End of Session Report
Dear Friends,
I want to start by wishing you all a Happy Independence Day! I hope that you and your family have a fun, safe, and relaxing Fourth of July. Let us not forget the sacrifices that have been made throughout the years to protect the liberties and freedoms that we, as Americans, hold dear. From our founding fathers to the soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen currently serving in our armed forces, we all owe a debt of gratitude to those men and women who have helped make this country great.
This End-of-Session newsletter is prepared especially to keep you connected and informed. The budget shortfalls dominated a majority of our legislative efforts. Issues we all care deeply about - education, healthcare, energy and the environment, law enforcement, taxes - were carefully deliberated.
In this newsletter are brief summaries of some successful bills. Detailed summaries and full pdf copies of all the bills that passed can be found at: http://house.mo.gov. All bills are sent to the Governor for his approval before becoming law.
Now that the legislative session has come to a close, I look forward to spending more time at home, talking with constituents and learning about the issues most important to south Kansas City and Grandview. Whether here or in Jefferson City, I am humbled by this opportunity to serve.
Warmest regards,
Jason
The Property Assessed Clean Energy Act, originally sponsored by Rep. Jason Holsman as House Bill 2178, passed as an amendment on House Bill 1692. Property Assessed Clean Energy, or PACE, grants municipalities the authority to issue bonds to provide homeowners with funding to install energy efficiency improvements or energy-generation systems on their properties. These improvements would be paid for over time by the homeowner through a higher assessment of their property. Therefore the bonds will be paid off only by the citizens who take advantage of the program. The PACE program will allow homeowners and residents to save money on their utility bills by reducing their net energy consumption and will create 'green-collar' jobs by putting people to work building and installing energy efficient improvements.
House Bill 1848, sponsored by Rep. Jason R. Holsman, creates a Joint Committee on Urban Farming to explore ways to provide inner city residents with improved access to healthy food. The 10-member committee is charged with studying and making recommendations regarding the impact of urban farm cooperatives, vertical farming, and sustainable living communities. The committee will also examine various trends in urban farming; existing resources and capacity; the impact on affected communities; and any needed legislation, policies, or regulations.
House Bill 1695, 1742 & 1674 creates stronger penalties for DWI offenders. 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 or other court-ordered treatment. In addition, the bill allows any circuit court to set up a DWI docket or court for repeat offenders or those whose blood-alcohol content exceeds 0.15 percent. Several Missouri courts already offer DWI Courts, which allow repeat DWI offenders to avoid jail time while receiving treatment for alcohol abuse.
The bill also requires state courts to handle any DWI case involving a defendant with two or more alcohol-related contacts with authorities or intoxication-related traffic offenses, requires police and prosecutors to adopt policies for reporting information on DWI offenses to a central databank, increases the minimum jail time for previous DWI offenders from five to 10 days, and increases the minimum jail time for a persistent offender to 30 days.
Senate Bill 844 is an ethics reform package designed to increase transparency and accountability in the political process. One provision of the bill addresses the issue of political money laundering by restricting committee-to committee transfers of campaign donations. The bill limits the number of political committees and makes it a crime to transfer committee funds with the intent to conceal the source of the original funds.
The bill also gives additional authority to the Missouri Ethics Commission to launch investigations. Under current law, the commission can act only after receiving a complaint. Senate Bill 844 allows the commission to launch an investigation after a unanimous vote of all six commission members. The bill also creates the crime of obstructing an ethics investigation.
In addition, the bill requires that campaign contributions made during a legislative session in excess of $500 be reported within 48 hours. The bill also makes it a crime for an elected official to offer a job to a lawmaker in exchange for votes. Senate Bill 844 also creates new crimes for lobbyists who do not properly report how much they spend on meals and gifts for state officials.
At left: Representatives Grill & Holsman with Governor Nixon at the signing ceremony of Missouri's Autism Insurance bill.
House Bill 1311 & 1341 requires state-regulated group insurance policies to provide coverage for children with autism spectrum disorders. The legislation requires group insurance policies to provide coverage for applied behavioral analysis services (ABA) for autistic children age 18 and younger. The coverage will have an annual cap of $40,000 and will be adjusted at least once every three years for inflation.
The bill also establishes a state Behavior Analyst Advisory Board under the State Committee of Psychologists within the Division of Professional Registration. The new board will be charged with establishing and overseeing licensure and registration requirements for behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts who provide therapies for children with autism spectrum disorders.
In addition, House Bill 1311 & 1341 provides an exemption to businesses with 50 or fewer employees that show the mandate increased their premiums by at least 2.5 percent compared to the previous year.
Senate Bill 733 addresses the discrepancy between scholarship money available to private and public school students through the Access Missouri program. Under current law, students who attend private and public schools are eligible for disparate award amounts. Senate Bill 733 raises the maximum scholarship to $1,300 for community college students and sets it at $2,850 for students at either public universities or private institutions, starting in 2014.
Senate Bill 733 also modifies the Bright Flight scholarship program. Most significantly, the bill ensures that students who score in the top 3 percent with their ACT or SAT scores receive Bright Flight merit scholarship awards before those who score in the top fourth or fifth percent. Bright Flight eligibility will expand to the top 5 percent next year under a new state law.
In addition, the bill addresses students who elect to join the armed forces. These students who qualify for a Bright Flight scholarship may defer their award and receive it at a later date, as long as they return to full-time student status within six months of the end of their military service.
At right:
Representative Jason R. Holsman meeting with a World War II veteran in the Missouri State Capitol.
House Bill 1524 & 2260 will make it easier for military members serving overseas to vote. The bill requires the Secretary of State to establish procedures for overseas voters to request voter registration applications and absentee ballot applications. The legislation also requires that at least one form of electronic communication for use by absent uniformed services and overseas voters must be designated for requesting voter registration applications and absentee ballots.
The bill also authorizes the governor to present a Legion of Merit Medal to individuals who have exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding military service and achievement reflecting honorably and creditably upon the state. In addition, the governor can present a campaign ribbon to individuals who have served in direct support of several military campaigns. The ribbons will include a Missouri Iraq Campaign Ribbon, a Missouri Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon, a Missouri Kosovo Campaign Ribbon, and a Missouri Vietnam Campaign Ribbon.
Other provisions of the bill specify that the State of Missouri recognizes the designations of Prisoner of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA) as valid descriptions of casualty status and category classification for military personnel; require the Adjutant General to establish the Missouri Youth Challenge Academy for at-risk high school age youth; and require all state agencies and political subdivisions to give a three-point bonus preference to a service-disabled veteran business operating as a Missouri business when letting a contract for the performance of any job or service.
House Bill 1868 reduces the size of state government and authorizes the formation of a committee to study the potential for additional downsizing in the future. The bill will save the state millions of dollars by transferring the powers and duties of the State Water Patrol to the newly established Division of Water Patrol within the State Highway Patrol. The bill also establishes the Joint Committee on the Reduction and Reorganization of Programs within State Government. The 14-member committee must publish a report by December 31, 2010, with recommendations for reducing, eliminating, or combining state programs and departments.
At left: Rep. Holsman with a group of students from Boone Elementary
House Bill 1543 contains a number of provisions focused on school safety and improving the working environment for school staff . The bill gives school boards more authority to establish discipline codes. It also expands immunity for school employees who follow established discipline policies. Another provision of the bill defines cyber-bullying to include the use of computers, the Internet, and phones to bully a student.
The legislation also provides school districts with additional budget flexibility during times when funding is limited. For the next three fiscal years, the bill suspends the requirement that school districts spend one percent of state funding on professional development. The legislation allows a school district to spend the money at its discretion. The change will free up approximately $30 million in education funding for schools across the state.
In June, Governor Jay Nixon called the Missouri General Assembly back to Jefferson City for a special "Extraordinary Session" to consider a tax incentive bill to potentially save thousands of jobs at a Ford Motor Company manufacturing plant in the Clay County. The bill has been subject to The Missouri State Capitolsome controversy, as the suggested funding mechanism for these job-saving tax incentives is a reduction in the pensions of Missouri State employees, who are already among the lowest paid state employees in the nation. The House of Representatives was in session June 24th through June 29th discussing this bill. After the bill has worked its way through the Senate, it will return to the House for further consideration on July 7th and 8th. I will keep you updated about the progress of this bill as it moves through the legislative process.
I want to start by wishing you all a Happy Independence Day! I hope that you and your family have a fun, safe, and relaxing Fourth of July. Let us not forget the sacrifices that have been made throughout the years to protect the liberties and freedoms that we, as Americans, hold dear. From our founding fathers to the soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen currently serving in our armed forces, we all owe a debt of gratitude to those men and women who have helped make this country great.
This End-of-Session newsletter is prepared especially to keep you connected and informed. The budget shortfalls dominated a majority of our legislative efforts. Issues we all care deeply about - education, healthcare, energy and the environment, law enforcement, taxes - were carefully deliberated.
In this newsletter are brief summaries of some successful bills. Detailed summaries and full pdf copies of all the bills that passed can be found at: http://house.mo.gov. All bills are sent to the Governor for his approval before becoming law.
Now that the legislative session has come to a close, I look forward to spending more time at home, talking with constituents and learning about the issues most important to south Kansas City and Grandview. Whether here or in Jefferson City, I am humbled by this opportunity to serve.
Warmest regards,
Jason
Property Assessed Clean Energy
The Property Assessed Clean Energy Act, originally sponsored by Rep. Jason Holsman as House Bill 2178, passed as an amendment on House Bill 1692. Property Assessed Clean Energy, or PACE, grants municipalities the authority to issue bonds to provide homeowners with funding to install energy efficiency improvements or energy-generation systems on their properties. These improvements would be paid for over time by the homeowner through a higher assessment of their property. Therefore the bonds will be paid off only by the citizens who take advantage of the program. The PACE program will allow homeowners and residents to save money on their utility bills by reducing their net energy consumption and will create 'green-collar' jobs by putting people to work building and installing energy efficient improvements.
Urban Farming
House Bill 1848, sponsored by Rep. Jason R. Holsman, creates a Joint Committee on Urban Farming to explore ways to provide inner city residents with improved access to healthy food. The 10-member committee is charged with studying and making recommendations regarding the impact of urban farm cooperatives, vertical farming, and sustainable living communities. The committee will also examine various trends in urban farming; existing resources and capacity; the impact on affected communities; and any needed legislation, policies, or regulations.
Stronger DWI Penalties
House Bill 1695, 1742 & 1674 creates stronger penalties for DWI offenders. 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 or other court-ordered treatment. In addition, the bill allows any circuit court to set up a DWI docket or court for repeat offenders or those whose blood-alcohol content exceeds 0.15 percent. Several Missouri courts already offer DWI Courts, which allow repeat DWI offenders to avoid jail time while receiving treatment for alcohol abuse.
The bill also requires state courts to handle any DWI case involving a defendant with two or more alcohol-related contacts with authorities or intoxication-related traffic offenses, requires police and prosecutors to adopt policies for reporting information on DWI offenses to a central databank, increases the minimum jail time for previous DWI offenders from five to 10 days, and increases the minimum jail time for a persistent offender to 30 days.
Ethics Reform
Senate Bill 844 is an ethics reform package designed to increase transparency and accountability in the political process. One provision of the bill addresses the issue of political money laundering by restricting committee-to committee transfers of campaign donations. The bill limits the number of political committees and makes it a crime to transfer committee funds with the intent to conceal the source of the original funds.
The bill also gives additional authority to the Missouri Ethics Commission to launch investigations. Under current law, the commission can act only after receiving a complaint. Senate Bill 844 allows the commission to launch an investigation after a unanimous vote of all six commission members. The bill also creates the crime of obstructing an ethics investigation.
In addition, the bill requires that campaign contributions made during a legislative session in excess of $500 be reported within 48 hours. The bill also makes it a crime for an elected official to offer a job to a lawmaker in exchange for votes. Senate Bill 844 also creates new crimes for lobbyists who do not properly report how much they spend on meals and gifts for state officials.
Autism Insurance Reform
At left: Representatives Grill & Holsman with Governor Nixon at the signing ceremony of Missouri's Autism Insurance bill.House Bill 1311 & 1341 requires state-regulated group insurance policies to provide coverage for children with autism spectrum disorders. The legislation requires group insurance policies to provide coverage for applied behavioral analysis services (ABA) for autistic children age 18 and younger. The coverage will have an annual cap of $40,000 and will be adjusted at least once every three years for inflation.
The bill also establishes a state Behavior Analyst Advisory Board under the State Committee of Psychologists within the Division of Professional Registration. The new board will be charged with establishing and overseeing licensure and registration requirements for behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts who provide therapies for children with autism spectrum disorders.
In addition, House Bill 1311 & 1341 provides an exemption to businesses with 50 or fewer employees that show the mandate increased their premiums by at least 2.5 percent compared to the previous year.
College Scholarships
Senate Bill 733 addresses the discrepancy between scholarship money available to private and public school students through the Access Missouri program. Under current law, students who attend private and public schools are eligible for disparate award amounts. Senate Bill 733 raises the maximum scholarship to $1,300 for community college students and sets it at $2,850 for students at either public universities or private institutions, starting in 2014.
Senate Bill 733 also modifies the Bright Flight scholarship program. Most significantly, the bill ensures that students who score in the top 3 percent with their ACT or SAT scores receive Bright Flight merit scholarship awards before those who score in the top fourth or fifth percent. Bright Flight eligibility will expand to the top 5 percent next year under a new state law.
In addition, the bill addresses students who elect to join the armed forces. These students who qualify for a Bright Flight scholarship may defer their award and receive it at a later date, as long as they return to full-time student status within six months of the end of their military service.
Veterans Omnibus Bill
At right:
Representative Jason R. Holsman meeting with a World War II veteran in the Missouri State Capitol.House Bill 1524 & 2260 will make it easier for military members serving overseas to vote. The bill requires the Secretary of State to establish procedures for overseas voters to request voter registration applications and absentee ballot applications. The legislation also requires that at least one form of electronic communication for use by absent uniformed services and overseas voters must be designated for requesting voter registration applications and absentee ballots.
The bill also authorizes the governor to present a Legion of Merit Medal to individuals who have exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding military service and achievement reflecting honorably and creditably upon the state. In addition, the governor can present a campaign ribbon to individuals who have served in direct support of several military campaigns. The ribbons will include a Missouri Iraq Campaign Ribbon, a Missouri Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon, a Missouri Kosovo Campaign Ribbon, and a Missouri Vietnam Campaign Ribbon.
Other provisions of the bill specify that the State of Missouri recognizes the designations of Prisoner of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA) as valid descriptions of casualty status and category classification for military personnel; require the Adjutant General to establish the Missouri Youth Challenge Academy for at-risk high school age youth; and require all state agencies and political subdivisions to give a three-point bonus preference to a service-disabled veteran business operating as a Missouri business when letting a contract for the performance of any job or service.
Downsizing Government
House Bill 1868 reduces the size of state government and authorizes the formation of a committee to study the potential for additional downsizing in the future. The bill will save the state millions of dollars by transferring the powers and duties of the State Water Patrol to the newly established Division of Water Patrol within the State Highway Patrol. The bill also establishes the Joint Committee on the Reduction and Reorganization of Programs within State Government. The 14-member committee must publish a report by December 31, 2010, with recommendations for reducing, eliminating, or combining state programs and departments.
School Safety
At left: Rep. Holsman with a group of students from Boone ElementaryHouse Bill 1543 contains a number of provisions focused on school safety and improving the working environment for school staff . The bill gives school boards more authority to establish discipline codes. It also expands immunity for school employees who follow established discipline policies. Another provision of the bill defines cyber-bullying to include the use of computers, the Internet, and phones to bully a student.
The legislation also provides school districts with additional budget flexibility during times when funding is limited. For the next three fiscal years, the bill suspends the requirement that school districts spend one percent of state funding on professional development. The legislation allows a school district to spend the money at its discretion. The change will free up approximately $30 million in education funding for schools across the state.
Extraordinary Session
In June, Governor Jay Nixon called the Missouri General Assembly back to Jefferson City for a special "Extraordinary Session" to consider a tax incentive bill to potentially save thousands of jobs at a Ford Motor Company manufacturing plant in the Clay County. The bill has been subject to The Missouri State Capitolsome controversy, as the suggested funding mechanism for these job-saving tax incentives is a reduction in the pensions of Missouri State employees, who are already among the lowest paid state employees in the nation. The House of Representatives was in session June 24th through June 29th discussing this bill. After the bill has worked its way through the Senate, it will return to the House for further consideration on July 7th and 8th. I will keep you updated about the progress of this bill as it moves through the legislative process.
01 July 2010
MO Expat: New Twitter Feed
After a couple hours of re-tooling Twitterfeed, I'm pleased to announce that I have established a new Twitter feed devoted to alerting followers when the latest missives are posted.
Twitter users like yours truly can now follow MissivesFromMO to get the latest weekly reports & news releases from your elected representatives. And whenever I post something on The Missouri Expatriate, you'll find out this way too.
Thank you for visiting Missives from Missouri, whether you're a Jeff City junkie or concerned citizen Googling legislation pertinent to your everyday life.
Twitter users like yours truly can now follow MissivesFromMO to get the latest weekly reports & news releases from your elected representatives. And whenever I post something on The Missouri Expatriate, you'll find out this way too.
Thank you for visiting Missives from Missouri, whether you're a Jeff City junkie or concerned citizen Googling legislation pertinent to your everyday life.
Rupp: The Community Celebrates Our Country’s Independence
We are fortunate to live in the greatest country on the planet. Every year, Americans get together to celebrate the fact that we are a nation founded upon freedom and liberty. We are blessed to be a part of the United States of America – the land of the free and the home of the brave.
The 2nd Senatorial District of Missouri is right in the middle of this great country, and our district knows how to throw a great party in celebration of our independence. While there are many options this Fourth of July weekend, here are the details about some of the free celebrations in our area:
St. Charles – Riverfest: July 3 - July 4, Frontier Park, 500 S. Riverside Dr.
This Independence Day celebration includes fireworks, live music, a parade, and much more. For more information call 1-800-366-2427 or visit stcharlescitymo.gov.
O’Fallon – Heritage & Freedom Fest: July 3: Noon -11 p.m., July 4: Noon - 10 p.m., 900 TR Hughes Blvd.
Activities include a parade, fireworks, booths, music, a midway and carnival, entertainers, kids' activities and much more. The parade is on Saturday, July 3 at 9:30 a.m. For more information call 636-379-5614 or visit heritageandfreedomfest.com.
Winfield – Old Tyme July Fourth Celebration: July 2, 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.; July 3 and July 4, Noon - 11 p.m. at the Winfield Fairgrounds. Carnival rides, a magician, karaoke and more. Visit wffpd.org for more information.
Elsberry – Old Glory Jubilee/Picnic in the Park: July 3, at the City Park. The parade begins at 9:00 a.m. at Elsberry High School. Visit the events section of elsberrycofc.org for more information.
Lake St. Louis – Fireworks display: The Chamber Ambassadors will have a fireworks display on the spillway around dusk on July 4. Contact the Chamber at (636) 699-0045 for more information.
Wentzville – Parks and Recreation Fourth of July Celebration: Noon to 9:30 p.m. at Progress Park, 968 Meyer Rd. Visit wentzvillemo.org for more information.
I look forward to seeing you out in the community, and I look forward to seeing the spectacular fireworks displays that make these events so popular. I also look forward to the food!
If you have any questions or comments about this week’s column or any other matter involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach my office by phone at (866) 271-2844.
The 2nd Senatorial District of Missouri is right in the middle of this great country, and our district knows how to throw a great party in celebration of our independence. While there are many options this Fourth of July weekend, here are the details about some of the free celebrations in our area:
St. Charles – Riverfest: July 3 - July 4, Frontier Park, 500 S. Riverside Dr.
This Independence Day celebration includes fireworks, live music, a parade, and much more. For more information call 1-800-366-2427 or visit stcharlescitymo.gov.
O’Fallon – Heritage & Freedom Fest: July 3: Noon -11 p.m., July 4: Noon - 10 p.m., 900 TR Hughes Blvd.
Activities include a parade, fireworks, booths, music, a midway and carnival, entertainers, kids' activities and much more. The parade is on Saturday, July 3 at 9:30 a.m. For more information call 636-379-5614 or visit heritageandfreedomfest.com.
Winfield – Old Tyme July Fourth Celebration: July 2, 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.; July 3 and July 4, Noon - 11 p.m. at the Winfield Fairgrounds. Carnival rides, a magician, karaoke and more. Visit wffpd.org for more information.
Elsberry – Old Glory Jubilee/Picnic in the Park: July 3, at the City Park. The parade begins at 9:00 a.m. at Elsberry High School. Visit the events section of elsberrycofc.org for more information.
Lake St. Louis – Fireworks display: The Chamber Ambassadors will have a fireworks display on the spillway around dusk on July 4. Contact the Chamber at (636) 699-0045 for more information.
Wentzville – Parks and Recreation Fourth of July Celebration: Noon to 9:30 p.m. at Progress Park, 968 Meyer Rd. Visit wentzvillemo.org for more information.
I look forward to seeing you out in the community, and I look forward to seeing the spectacular fireworks displays that make these events so popular. I also look forward to the food!
If you have any questions or comments about this week’s column or any other matter involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach my office by phone at (866) 271-2844.
Nodler: Returning for a Special Session
The Legislature returned to the Capitol this week for a special session called by the governor. While not entirely uncommon, there have been only seven extraordinary sessions called over the past 15 years. Historically, these are occasions when the General Assembly did not address a timely issue during the regular session, ran out of time to debate a particular issue, or needed to correct language in a bill. A special session can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, and there have been times when the Legislature has been called back for additional special sessions after not completing the work the governor has asked them to do.
One aspect of a special session that is very different from the regular session is that the Legislature is restricted by the “call” issued by the governor. Constitutionally, the General Assembly is only able to address issues specifically referenced in the proclamation issued by the governor. In fact, in 1922, legislation passed by the Legislature was ruled unconstitutional after it was decided the bill went outside of the scope of the governor’s call.
On June 18th, Gov. Nixon issued the call for a special session and asked us to address two issues. The first is an incentive package designed to give tax breaks to certain automotive manufacturers in the state. Specifically, the bill [HB2] addresses the Ford plant in Claycomo that employs nearly 4,000 workers. Ford is finalizing decisions about restructuring operations and locating production lines, and many are hoping that the company will chose Missouri if these tax breaks are available. However, Ford announced plans to stop making the Ford Escape in Missouri by the end of next year, and has given no indication that tax breaks would change their course. In fact, Ford did not even testify in favor of the bill when it was in committee. The incentive package does not come without a cost, so the governor has also asked us to consider a cost-saving plan that would reform the state’s pension system for new employees. The legislation [SB1] would change retirement eligibility for future state employees and require them to contribute 4 percent of their salary to the state retirement plan.
Both of these bills were first considered during the regular legislative session, and I voted “no” on both pieces of legislation. My opinion on these proposals has not changed, and I will not support either measure during the special session. Initially, many hoped the special session would move quickly, but more recent events have stalled the progress of the legislation. I will continue to keep you up-to-date on our continuing work in Jefferson City.
One aspect of a special session that is very different from the regular session is that the Legislature is restricted by the “call” issued by the governor. Constitutionally, the General Assembly is only able to address issues specifically referenced in the proclamation issued by the governor. In fact, in 1922, legislation passed by the Legislature was ruled unconstitutional after it was decided the bill went outside of the scope of the governor’s call.
On June 18th, Gov. Nixon issued the call for a special session and asked us to address two issues. The first is an incentive package designed to give tax breaks to certain automotive manufacturers in the state. Specifically, the bill [HB2] addresses the Ford plant in Claycomo that employs nearly 4,000 workers. Ford is finalizing decisions about restructuring operations and locating production lines, and many are hoping that the company will chose Missouri if these tax breaks are available. However, Ford announced plans to stop making the Ford Escape in Missouri by the end of next year, and has given no indication that tax breaks would change their course. In fact, Ford did not even testify in favor of the bill when it was in committee. The incentive package does not come without a cost, so the governor has also asked us to consider a cost-saving plan that would reform the state’s pension system for new employees. The legislation [SB1] would change retirement eligibility for future state employees and require them to contribute 4 percent of their salary to the state retirement plan.
Both of these bills were first considered during the regular legislative session, and I voted “no” on both pieces of legislation. My opinion on these proposals has not changed, and I will not support either measure during the special session. Initially, many hoped the special session would move quickly, but more recent events have stalled the progress of the legislation. I will continue to keep you up-to-date on our continuing work in Jefferson City.
Schaefer: New Audio Clip Discussing Stronger DWI Laws
Jefferson City – State Sen. Kurt Schaefer, R-Columbia, recently added a new audio clip to his multimedia page located on his Missouri Senate website. This page features broadcast-quality audio and video links for visitors to watch and listen to Sen. Schaefer address issues that are important to him and the citizens of the 19th Senatorial District.
The new audio clip on his page features Sen. Schaefer discussing House Bill 1695, the DWI bill the senator handled in the Missouri Senate. The measure was signed into law on June 2 and will take effect on August 28, 2010.
Senator Schaefer will continue to add audio and video clips periodically throughout the remainder of the year. To view Sen. Schaefer’s multimedia page, visit http://www.senate.mo.gov/multimedia/Schaefer/SchaeferMultimedia.html
The new audio clip on his page features Sen. Schaefer discussing House Bill 1695, the DWI bill the senator handled in the Missouri Senate. The measure was signed into law on June 2 and will take effect on August 28, 2010.
Senator Schaefer will continue to add audio and video clips periodically throughout the remainder of the year. To view Sen. Schaefer’s multimedia page, visit http://www.senate.mo.gov/multimedia/Schaefer/SchaeferMultimedia.html
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