Neth: FY 2012 Budget Update

An identical missive was sent by Rep. Bob Nance at 4:46 p.m., 10 May 2011.

FY 2012 MISSOURI GENERAL ASSEMBLY BUDGET

The Missouri General Assembly passed its budget last week granting approval to a $23.2 billion budget. This budget reflects the continuing commitment of the House Majority to pass a budget that's not only balanced, but sets aside $28 million in savings and continues to reflect the top priorities of the Missouri General Assembly.

States across this country are faced with budget shortfalls on an unprecedented scale. Tough decisions made in the past, and tougher decisions made during this budget process have led to a budget that House Majority members can point to as a roadmap for continued fiscal recovery. The General Assembly balanced this budget while being able to hold K-12 education harmless to the 2011 funding levels, instituting only modest reductions to our higher education institutions, protecting low income health care and maintaining funding for other vital state services such as correctional facilities and public safety.

Further state restructuring and program changes will be needed to move Missouri through this current financial crisis. Continuing work by the House Appropriations Committees and the Interim Committee on Budget Transparency will enable this process to remain fluid and provide vital knowledge necessary to make difficult fiscal decisions.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Left more than $28 million on the balance sheet, a balanced budget that continues to meet the needs of all Missourians.
• Held funding for the Foundation Formula. In light of recent historical declines in state revenues, the General Assembly was able to again make education the #1 priority.
• Mitigated the Governor's reduction to Higher Education by appropriating $12 million more to institutions across the state.
• Rescued the Senior Missouri Rx Program from elimination in the Senate.
• Continued funding for Missouri's commitment to the production of alternative fuels. This aims to continue to move Missouri towards an economy less dependent on foreign oil.
• A budget of over $8.4 billion for the MO Healthnet program. This money will continue to fund access to healthcare for the neediest Missourians.
• Combined funding of over $40 million for job training, retention and development programs within the Department of Economic Development.
• $365k in cuts to the Missouri House of Representatives budget, further proof the House is taking the lead during this financial crisis.
• Reduced funding for Department Directors and Deputy Directors to a maximum level of $86,500, saving state taxpayers over one million dollars.
• Held the Governor accountable for his excessive use of the state plane by restricting expenses from other state departments.

EDUCATION

The General Assembly continues their strong commitment to public education. This budget is a clear reflection of how the General Assembly is prepared to support education in spite of the nation's economic downturn. Holding the Foundation Formula harmless during these challenging economic times further displays the commitment of the State Legislature to make education our number one priority. This year, total funding for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will exceed $5.2 billion.

Also included is the House's commitment to the state's higher education system. The General Assembly exceeded the Governor's funding levels for institutions by including a $12 million increase over the Governor's recommendation.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Over $3 billion for the School Foundation Formula. This completes the House's plan to fund both the FY 2011 and FY 2012 Foundation Formula at the same amount, mitigating wild funding disparities that would have occurred in the Governor's initial plan.
• $107.8 million for the school transportation program. Withholdings in the current year by the Governor continue to effect out-state school districts.
• $300,000 for a pilot St. Louis math and science tutoring program. This will provide outreach to kids in inner-City St. Louis, a district that continues to struggle with underperformance in these areas.
• $29.3 million for the High Need Fund. This reimburses school districts for the excess costs of educating children with disabilities.
• Provides an increase in the Early Childhood Special Education line of $9.5 million. The Missouri Supreme Court ruled that these services shall come at no cost to school districts, and we continue to meet this commitment.

Funding for education also includes:

• Over $16 million for the Parents as Teachers program.
• A modest 5.45% reduction to higher education institutions.
• An increase of one million dollars for the Bright Flight program. This will continue to ensure that our State's best and brightest stay in Missouri's higher education institutions.
• $7 million increase for the A+ Program. This will fully fund all eligible students.
• Continued funding of over $64.8 million for the Access Missouri Scholarship program. These successful scholarship programs will continue to allow Missouri students the ability to attend Missouri public and private institutions.

ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE

This budget provides access for low-income health care across the entire state of Missouri. With the state's new focus on early diagnosis and treatment, as well as prevention, we are moving in the right direction for the needy citizens in Missouri.

The Missouri HealthNet program will receive over $8.4 billion in funding, an increase of over $537 million. This continues to be the single largest program in the State of Missouri, and while the commitment of the House Majority to low-income health care cannot be debated, the staggering caseload increases and subsequent cost increases continue to put an enormous strain on state finances. With this trend, and the imminent enactment of Obamacare, the State of Missouri must continue to look for ways to manage our Medicaid system in the most efficient way possible.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Provides $152.5 million to continue the MO Healthnet programs as well as $95.8 million in caseload growth to accommodate the increases in the low income health care population. This continued growth, coupled with an impending federal health care mandate, will have serious consequences on future General Revenue outlays.
• Increased funding for the MO Healthnet/Mental Health Partnership which saves the state approximately $15 million per year on pharmaceutical costs.
• Over $58.8 million in funding to pay for increased mental health caseloads.

SENIOR CITIZENS

This year's budget continues to honor and assist our seniors by continuing our commitment to providing funding for nursing homes, in-home services, home delivered meals and the Missouri Senior Rx Program.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• $571 million for our State's nursing home industry.
• $581 million for in-home services. This funding ensures that seniors will be able to stay in their own homes with care.
• Approximately $37 million for non-emergency medical transportation.
• Increased funding of $942,000, totaling over $40.6 million for Area Agencies on Aging (AAA's). This will support continued congregate and home delivered meals.
• Rescued the MO Senior Rx Program from elimination in the Senate. This will benefit over 207,000 seniors in the state.

AGRICULTURE AND ENERGY

Missouri's primary industry is agriculture, and our state cannot meet the challenges of the competitive global economy without a healthy, vibrant agricultural system.

America uses foreign oil at an alarming rate. We must look to agriculture as a solution to this dependence. The Missouri House of Representatives is seeking innovative solutions to our energy issues through the promotion of biofuels. Research institutions statewide continue to develop new, innovative means to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

This budget, as it affects agriculture, is forward-looking, as we continue our service to Missouri farmers, while realizing the potential of Missouri agribusiness in the new, global economy.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Continued funding of the biodiesel incentive fund totaling $11.9 million.
• Continued funding of the ethanol incentive fund totaling $8.9 million.
• $24 million in aid to private land owners for local soil and water conservation efforts.
• Added ten investigative staff for the purpose of animal health investigations throughout the state in response to concerns brought by Prop B.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Missouri economy-fueled by key budgetary and policy decisions passed by this General Assembly-is continuing to move in the right direction despite challenging economic times nationwide. Combined with the Quality Jobs Act, continued funding for job creation and incentives for innovation will be vital as we strive to climb out of this global financial recession.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• House funded over $2.1 million for innovation centers, the State MOFAST program and the Missouri Manufacturing Program. These programs will continue to assist businesses in job training/job retention programs throughout the State.
• Continued full funding for the Community College Jobs Retention Training ($10 million), Community College New Jobs Training ($16 million) and Jobs Development ($14.5 million) programs. Combined, these programs will continue to aid in statewide workforce development.

Tim Jones: Majority Minute: A Thank You

Thank you for receiving and reviewing The Majority Minute every Monday during our 2011 Regular Session.  I do hope you have found the information useful and helpful.  As we make a very quick sprint to the finish during this last week of Session.  I know that the days will be long and the tension thick but I am encouraged by the great amount of success that the House has enjoyed these past few months.  If I can ever be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our office.  I wish you all a very relaxing, safe and enjoyable summer with your family and friends!

Mother's Day

I hope everyone had a Happy Mother's Day and enjoyed spending time with their families.  Thanks to all the Mothers out there for all that you have done.  A special thanks to all the special mothers in my life, my wife, Suzanne, my mom, JoAnn, my sister, Amy, my great grandmother, Helen, and all of my aunts and cousins who are all great moms.

Monday, May 9, 2011

Bills Completed Today Thus Far

These bills were third read and passed by the House today.  If the Senate decides to move quickly on these bills, they still can be passed by the General Assembly this week…

HCS SB 59, sponsored by Rep. John Diehl (R-87), was third read and passed.
HB 138, sponsored by Rep. Mike Thomson (R-4), was third read and passed.
HCS HBs 504, 505 & 874, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Silvey (R-38), was third read and passed.
HB 658, sponsored by Rep. Dave Schatz (R-111), was third read and passed.
HCS HB 732, sponsored by Rep. Ellen Brandom (R-160), was third read and passed.
HCS #2 SB 97, sponsored by Rep. Paul Fitzwater (R-152), was third read and passed.
SB 71, sponsored by Rep. Scott Largent (R-120), was third read and passed.
HCS SS SB 118, sponsored by Rep. David Sater (R-68), was third read and passed.
HCS SCS SB 29, sponsored by Rep. Caleb Jones (R-117).

TENTATIVE HOUSE SCHEDULE FOR THE REMAINING DAYS OF SESSION

The last few days of Session are frenetic to say the least.  The bills below are currently up for final consideration.  More legislation will move through the House this week than at any time during the Session.  Many of these bills have been debated several times by both the House and Senate and are finally up for final consideration.  To keep up to date on all the activity in the House this week, please feel free to visit www.house.mo.gov at any time!

House Concurrent Resolutions for Third Reading - Informal

HCR 38, sponsored by Rep. Mike Cierpiot (R-56).
HCR 28, sponsored by Rep. Jerry Nolte (R-33).
HCR 41, sponsored by Rep. Mark Parkinson (R-16).
HCR 48, sponsored by Rep. Dave Schatz (R-111).
HCR 33, sponsored by Rep. Lyle Rowland (R-143).

Senate Bills for Third Reading

HCS SB 207, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146).
HCS SS SB 202, sponsored by Rep. Shane Schoeller (R-139).
SB 237, sponsored by Rep. Jay Barnes (R-114).
HCS SB 243, sponsored by Rep. Scott Dieckhaus (R-109).
HCS SB 250, sponsored by Rep. Rodney Schad (R-115).
HCS SCS SB 270, sponsored by Rep. Tony Dugger (R-144).
HCS SB 284, sponsored by Rep. David Sater (R-68).
SCS SB 323, sponsored by Rep. Sue Allen (R-92).
SB 38, sponsored by Rep. Chris Carter (D-61).
HCS SCS SB 60, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118).
SS SCS SB 65, a bill I sponsored.
HCS SB 90, sponsored by Rep. Eric Burlison (R-136).
HCS SS SCS SB 132, sponsored by Rep. Todd Richardson (R-154).
HCS#2 SCS SB 162, sponsored by Rep. Casey Guernsey (R-3).
SS SB 238, sponsored by Rep. Dave Hinson (R-98).
HCS SB 325, sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-150).
HCS SS SCS SB 351, sponsored by Rep. Jay Barnes (R-114).
HCS SCS SB 356, sponsored by Rep. Tom Loehner (R-112).
HCS SS SB 360, sponsored by Rep. Zach Wyatt (R-2).
SS SCS SB 70, sponsored by Rep. Ward Franz (R-151).
HCS#2 SCS SB 117, sponsored by Rep. Thomas Flanigan (R-127).
HCS SB 180, sponsored by Rep. Noel Torpey (R-52).
HCS SS SCS SB 254, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118).

House Bills with Senate Amendments

SCS HB 798, HB 141, HB 153, HCS HB 363, HB 415 & HB 813, sponsored by Rep. Cloria Brown (85).
HCS HB 108, SCA 1 and SA 1, sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (150).
SCS HB 307 & HB 812, sponsored by Rep. Chuck Gatschenberger (R-13).
SCS HB 388, sponsored by Rep. Eric Burlison (R-136).
SCS HCS HB 631, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Grisamore (R-47).
SCS HB 270, as amended, sponsored by Rep. Eric Burlison (R-136).
SCS HB 186, sponsored by Rep. Sue Entlicher (R-133).
SCS HB 149, sponsored by Rep. David Day (R-148).
SS SCS HCS HBs 73 & 74, sponsored by Rep. Ellen Brandom (R-160).
SCS HB 256, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118).
SCS HCS HB 214, sponsored by Rep. Anne Zerr (R-18).
SS SCS HB 137, sponsored by Rep. Mike Thomson (R-4).
SCS HCS HB 641, sponsored by Rep. Ward Franz (R-151).
HCS HB 197, SCA 1, sponsored by Rep. Tishaura Jones (D-63).
HB 340, SA 1, sponsored by Rep. Glen Klippenstein (R-5).
SCS HCS HB 250, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118).
SS HCS HB 338, sponsored by Rep. Darrell Pollock (R-146).
SCS HCS HB 578, sponsored by Rep. Mike Thomson (R-4).
SCS HB 737, sponsored by Rep. Craig Redmon (R-1).
SS SCS HB 282, sponsored by Rep. Ward Franz (R-151).

FY 2012 Budget Highlights

Left over $28 million on the balance sheet.
Held funding for the Foundation Formula harmless (education funding the first priority).
Appropriating $12 million more to Higher Education institutions across the state. Rescued the Senior Missouri Rx Program from elimination in the Senate.

Continued funding for production of alternative fuels to relieve dependency on foreign oil.
$8.4 billion for the MO Healthnet program to fund access to healthcare for the neediest Missourians.
$40 million for training, retention and development within the Dept. of Economic Development.
$365k in cuts to the Missouri House of Representatives budget.
Reduced Department Directors and Deputy Directors pay to a maximum level of $86,500, saving state taxpayers over $1.0 million.
Held the Governor accountable for his excessive use of the state plane by restricting expenses from other state departments.

Historical Veto Override

As many of you may know, after weeks of stalemate and tense negotiations, a valuable compromise was finally reached as both Chambers passed a final proposed map with overwhelming majorities in support.  This bill [HB193] was vetoed by the Governor.  Since the Governor decided not to heed the work of the Legislature, in order to prevent this issue from going to the Courts and being decided by unelected judges, the House and Senate voted to override the Governor's veto.  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 override was the first successful veto override since 2003.  This is a difficult process in the House and requires bipartisan support for success.  To see an interactive map and/or hear an interview on the subject, visit http://house.mo.gov/largemap.aspx?map=3 or http://centralmoinfo.com/LEGISLATURE-OVERRIDES-VETO-ON-CONGRESSIONAL-REDIST/9767772.

If you ever have any questions about any legislation, feel free to contact my office at 573-751-0562.

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

Tim Jones.

Mayer: First Steps to Rebuilding, Flood Insurance Assistance, A Balanced Budget and Redistricting

As our communities begin to work to rebuild in the wake of historical floods and damage from severe storms, it is important the state brings the information they need directly to those who have been impacted. That is why I would like to remind families and businesses in the 25^th District and other areas in southeast Missouri who have been affected by the recent flooding to attend one of the many community response meetings scheduled to help individuals learn more about the resources, tools and services provided by the state that are available to assist them during this time. From providing unemployment and re-employment assistance and training for displaced workers to receiving drinking water, temporary housing and food assistance, these meetings are designed to help citizens get back on their feet. I understand these meetings are not an overnight remedy, but they will provide much-needed assistance to those who have been affected by one of Mother Nature’s most devastating occurrences. Leaders from various state agencies, as well as county and federal officials, will be available after the meeting to visit with citizens. Here’s the full list of meeting scheduled for this week:

Tuesday, May 10 9 a.m. – Noon Poplar Bluff High School (1300 Victory Ln.) For residents of Butler, Iron, Madison, Ripley, Stoddard and Wayne counties 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sikeston 5th & 6th Grade Center (100 Twitty Dr.) For residents of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Scott and Stoddard counties.

Wednesday, May 11 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Charleston High School (606. S. Thorn St.) For residents of Mississippi County 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. New Madrid Central High School (310 US Hwy 61) For residents of New Madrid and Stoddard counties 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Caruthersville Middle School (1705 Ward Ave.) For residents of Dunklin and Pemiscot counties

Another tool that may help citizens in affected areas is a website developed by the Missouri Department of Insurance. The website helps citizens file their insurance claims for their recent flood damage. For those Missourians who have flood insurance coverage on their homes, cars or crops, this site will help provide answers to many of the questions you may have. It is a great resource for flood victims - from contact information for your flood insurance agent, to learning how to watch out for unscrupulous contractors - this website provides a wealth of information. You can visit the Department of Insurance’s website for flood victims at insurance.mo.gov/consumer/weather/floodresources.htm or call (800) 726-7390.

There is also assistance available for those Missourians who do not have flood insurance. Unfortunately, most home and renters’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage. But you may be eligible for financial assistance and there are many organizations available to help citizens who fall under this umbrella. Missourians can call the United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week to connect to a variety of resources. You can also contact the American Red Cross Southeast Missouri Chapter at (800) 733-2767 for Red Cross services or (800) 526-1417 for their National Disaster Center.

In Jefferson City last week, we met our Constitutional deadline and approved funding to run the critical functions of state government without a tax increase. We sent the governor the 13 budget bills totaling $23.2 billion for the fiscal year beginning July 1. The bills include a $13.5 million net reduction in general revenue spending from the budget the governor proposed. Although we worked with the same revenue estimates as the governor, we were able to identify $22 million in restorations to K-12 and higher education, including $12 million for Missouri’s two- and four-year colleges and universities and $10 million for Missouri’s K-12 transportation needs. These actions mean universities and colleges will work to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for our college students and their families and our K-12 will not have to raid other funding sources to afford busing costs for students. We also voted to maintain the school funding formula at its current level.

An update to last week’s news about having fulfilled our constitutional duty of crafting a fair and equitable map when it comes to Missourians’ representation in the U.S. Congress. Last Saturday, the governor vetoed that map. On Wednesday the House and Senate both successfully voted to override the governor’s veto, meaning the map drawn by the Conference Committee Report for House Bill 193 will be Missouri’s new Congressional districts. We believe the map, that both Republicans and Democrats voted to support, reflects the best interests of all Missourians.

I will continue to keep you apprised of issues important to the people of the 25^th Senatorial District and all Missourians. Please feel free to contact me throughout the year with any comments or questions using the information listed below and on my website at www.senate.mo.gov/mayer.

Nance: Reflections Upon Overriding Governor's Veto

Last week was extremely busy with the budget being passed by the May 6^th deadline. There is only one week left in the regular session for 2011. I will forward some points of interest on the budget tomorrow.

House Bills Truly Agreed and Finally Passed

• HBs1-13, which make up the approximately $23.2 billion FY2012 Operating Budget.
• HBs 17, 18, 21 & 22, which would appropriate money for various capital improvement projects.
• HB 190 would authorize divisions within the Department of Natural Resources to receive funds to be placed in a revolving fund for the purpose of cash transactions involving the sale of items made by the divisions.
• HB 315, which would combine and modify the provisions of the Revised Statutes of Missouri that have been enacted in more than one bill so that there is only one version of a statute.
• HB 83, which would specify that an agreement to operate or share an automated teller machine cannot prohibit the owner or operator of the machine from imposing an access fee or surcharge on foreign bank transactions.
• HB 109, which would repeal the provisions allowing the State Treasurer to invest in any linked deposit for specified purposes only for certain time periods
• SB 101 which was a duplicate of my House bill, creates requirements for contractors who perform home exterior and roof work after a storm and when insurance is involved.
• The House also voted to override the governor’s veto of HB 193, which would change the composition of Congressional districts based on the 2010 census.
  
  After much consternation and yes prayer, I voted to override the governor’s veto of the legislature’s redistricting plan. My decision was a difficult one. I fought the redistricting maps throughout the entire process. I do, however, recognize it is the General Assembly’s job to pass redistricting and I believe that turning the process over to the courts would have resulted in an outcome that would not favor any of rural Missouri.
  
  While the Senate had enough Republican members to override the Governor’s veto without Democrats, the House relied on bi-partisan support of the legislative plan to overcome the Governor’s veto.
  
  Ray County has been a democratic stronghold for over a century and the committee responsible for the map would not put it in a republican district regardless of my argument for rural versus urban differences. The courts are not accountable to anyone. I seriously doubt that relinquishing our responsibility would have resulted in a different outcome with the voting history of the rural areas affected and had a real potential to hurt the state overall.

Dates of interest

May 13-Session ends
July 14-Deadline for the governor to sign bills
September 14-Veto session begins

Hoskins: The Last Week Is The Busiest

This begins the final week in this legislative session. I can tell you in all honesty, the last week is the busiest.

Legislative Update

Several key legislative accomplishments last week included an historic veto override and final approval of the appropriations bills for next year’s budget. I’ll also cover a couple of other issues in this week’s report.

Congressional Redistricting

Congressional redistricting has been highly controversial, to put it mildly. In fact, this has been so controversial that Governor Nixon vetoed HB 193, the map approved by the House and Senate. Since the legislature is still in session, then both bodies had the opportunity to override the governor’s veto before this session adjourns, which we did on Wednesday. Prior to this, the last time a veto was overridden was in 2003 so you see it is not a process taken lightly.

Although not support by Governor Nixon, this map was supported by eight of the nine current congressmen and women and by both Republicans and Democrats in the General Assembly. The map we passed was clearly supported by both sides of the aisle. Overriding a veto requires a 2/3 majority in both chambers. In the House, that equates to 109 of 163 members in the Missouri House. As there are only 105 Republicans in the House this session, Democrats have to join in for a veto override to be successful. Not to be repetitive, but this was truly a bi-partisan effort.

I’ve covered the topic of Congressional redistricting in several previous Capitol Reports so I trust this is the final report to you on this topic. Besides Missouri losing a vote in the Electoral College, the importance of Congressional redistricting can have a significant impact on the accessibility to federal funding for our state. All over Johnson County, we are reminded everyday of the importance of federal defense funding to our communities. We also need to remember the impacts of other federal funding including education and transportation.

Here’s a link to the approved version of the new congressional map:
http://kc.citizen-publications.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/missouri-redistricting-map.jpg

Budget

By our state constitution, the legislature has a deadline for completing work on the next year’s budget. This year’s deadline was May 6, 2011 and we finished the budget on May 5th. It made for some long days but we were successful. In spite of revenue limitations, we have submitted a good budget to Governor Nixon that takes a common-sense, family-style approach to budgeting – only spending the money that we actually have.

The Missouri Constitution requires our state to operate with a balanced budget. It’s irresponsible to budget on the backs of our children, and we would never allow that to happen in our state. As a result, we did everything we could to fund the vital needs of our state without raising taxes. With our current economic climate, it was challenging to draft a budget that would meet the state’s needs. Not only were we able to pass a budget without new job-killing taxes, but we were able to craft a plan in line with our session-long goal of creating new jobs for Missourians.

I am proud to announce that even though our State’s revenue picture continues to be grim, we were able to hold the line on our foundation formula education funding. Our local school districts will continue to be funded according to the formula. Last year we were forced to make some cuts to school bus transportation funds. This year, we were able to put some of that money back in the budget, helping our schools deal with the rising price of gasoline and diesel.

Higher Education is a little different story. Though the original budget recommended a 7% overall cut to funding, in our final budget we were able to increase our original amount by $13,000,000, which resulted in a smaller 5.5% cut. This increase from our original number for the year should help our universities, including UCM, continue to operate at a high level despite the poor economic conditions in our state.

Our budget also contains incentives to help small-businesses develop, grow, and hopefully hire new workers in our state. This session we have tried to do everything in our power to help turn around this economy, and this approach is also reflected in the budget that we passed.

In additional, we were able to preserve Missouri Rx. This is a program that helps thousands of Missouri seniors with their prescription medications. We had to find money that was previously used in other parts of the budget, but with a little creativity and ingenuity, we were able to cobble together funds from different areas to ensure that these prescription drug benefits would remain.

The state budget is roughly $23 billion and there are many other programs that lost or gained funding. I have just included some of the highlights. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss other aspects of the budget in addition to the limited high points that I covered here.

Voter Identification

In the 2005 legislative session, Missouri passed into law the requirement that individuals present photographic identification when they vote in person. This was in response to the public perception to irregularities in St. Louis and in several counties during the 2004 presidential election. After the election was over, it seems more individuals voted than the number of people who actually lived there.

The Missouri Supreme Court said that this requirement was unconstitutional under state law, because voting is a fundamental right under our state constitution, and one or two named individuals in the case may have a hard time getting the photographic identification required to vote.

Yes, voting is a fundamental right. It should be protected to the fullest extent of the law. One way to protect the right to vote is to make sure that everyone’s vote counts equally. When individuals vote illegally, it reduces the value of the legally cast ballots. I see this voting identification measure as being designed to protect Missourian’s fundamental right to vote. Because the Missouri Supreme Court disagrees, we’re going to poll the people.

At the next statewide election, you will have the opportunity to vote on SJR 2. This is an amendment to our state constitution that would allow early voting, and also would grant the legislature the power to specifically require voters to present photographic identification at the polls. We think requiring identification protects those of us who vote legally from those that don’t. On this issue, you get to decide. I hope that you’ll choose to protect our right to vote by amending our constitution to allow us to require photographic identification for voting.

Visitors to the Capitol

The highlight of this week’s visitors was a group of Whiteman and UCM spouses. The trip was hosted by the Warrensburg Chamber of Commerce. For many of the spouses, this was their first visit to our state capitol. Several made comments about the beautiful artwork in our capitol, especially in comparison to other states where they have lived or visited. Tammy Long planned a great day ending with a trip to Central Dairy, a true Jefferson City landmark. I am hopeful that some of these spouses will return with their families to the Capitol (and Central Dairy) in the future. Whenever you’re in the Capitol, I hope you’ll stop by to say hello, too.

Special Visitor to Missouri

Last Friday evening, it was my pleasure to attend the UCM commencement to see 272 graduates of the Class of 2011 complete this stage of their formal education with their graduate degrees. Former President Bill Clinton made this an especially memorable event for these graduates as their commencement speaker. This is the first time a President has been to Warrensburg since Harry Truman. UCM has been especially innovative in efforts to enhance renewable energy, which is what brought President Clinton to our campus. We may not share political beliefs but it was my pleasure to be in the presence of an American President.

Ways to Keep in Contact

I consider communication with my constituents a high priority. My weekly Monday morning chat at 8:45 a.m. with Woody at KOKO Radio on AM 1450 is one of the best ways I’ve found for you to literally “hear” from me. Tune in every Monday morning at 8:45 to hear the latest concerning District 121.

Please share this report with anyone you feel would be interested in this information. As the Legislature will not be in session, it will be two weeks before my next Capitol Report. It is genuinely a privilege to serve as your state representative.

Kelley: Budget Battles Resolved, Redistricting Completed

Following tumultuous thundering storms, powerful tornadoes and swirling floods, Spring time weather and gentle sun drenched skies were a welcome reprieve this week as we returned to the Capitol for our final two weeks of Session. Final budget battles loomed as we successfully and finally came together on House/Senate compromises that gave us a balanced Budget with no tax increases and yet allocated 23 billion dollars in a fair and judicious fashion…

“Let us be sure that those who come after will say of us in our time, that in our time we did everything that could be done. We finished the race; we kept them free; we kept the faith” – Ronald Reagan

Passage of Vetoed House Bills

Although the following bill was vetoed by the Governor on May 2, 2011, the Missouri House and Senate voted, in a bipartisan fashion, to override the Governor’s veto on May 4, 2011.

CCS SS HCS HB 193, Missouri’s Congressional redistricting bill was passed by a majority veto override vote in the House and the Senate and was delivered to the Secretary of State. The representative will of the people drew and passed the new Congressional Districts map and then overrode the Governor’s veto. The courts will not draw the district lines, the elected representatives of the people have done so, as is our constitutional duty.

Third Reading & Final House Passage

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

HCS#2 SJR 2, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox (R-118), has been third read and finally passed in the House. This resolution proposes amending the Missouri Constitution to require a person to provide valid, government issued, photo identification, in order to vote in Missouri. Our history is full of Americans who spent their entire lives trying to gain this very basic and precious right. The fight to gain voting rights continued for many years. I want to be the first to tell you, this fight is over. You may not have heard it yet, but yes, it is true, all Americans aged 18 or over are allowed to cast ONE ballot in each election. So now that this fight is over, it is time to make sure we guarantee the integrity of the voting system by making sure this precious right is not abused.

HCS SS#2 SCS SB 8, would provide protection against co-employee liability lawsuits in cases involving workers’ compensation. This bill passed with a House Committee Substitute and was sent back to the Senate. Currently, the Senate has refused to concur and has requested a conference to address their concerns.

HCS SS SCS SB 58, sponsored by Rep. Charlie Denison (R-135), was third read and finally passed. This bill addresses a variety of issues related to transportation.

HCS SS SB 135, would modify provisions pertaining to the storage and dispensing of motor fuel and extends the expiration date for the environmental laws relating to dry-cleaning facilities to August 28, 2017.

HCS#2 SB 3 is another bill related to elections and the requirements for advanced voting and the providing of photo identification.

HCS SCS SB 163 deals with the changes in composition of the MU Board of Curators due to the loss of a Congressional district. This bill is the same as HB 174.

HCS SB 173 passed the House with a committee substitute and was sent back to the Senate. The Senate has refused to concur and has called for either a conference to address their concerns, or for the house to recede from its position. As it is, this bill would require the Joint Committee on Missouri's Promise to develop long-term strategies and plans for developing a modern infrastructure and transportation system.

HCS SCS SB 219 deals with the fees that can be charged by owners of ATM’s for out of country account transactions.

HCS SB 282 has a number of effects related to elections and public contracts. In particular, it moves the presidential primary from February to March.

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 SB 101 states that contractors, who perform roof or other residential exterior work, will not be allowed to offer monetary payment of a homeowner's insurance deductible as incentive to hire the contractor.

SS SB 55 classifies sawmills and planing mills as agricultural and horticultural property instead of commercial property for the purpose of relieving excessive taxation on the industry.

SS SB 306, SB 83, SB 165, were also truly agreed to and finally passed.

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 as both Chambers passed a final proposed map with overwhelming majorities of support. This bill was vetoed by the Governor. Since the Governor decided not to heed the work of the Legislature, in order to prevent this issue from going to the Courts and being decided by unelected judges, the House and Senate voted to override the Governor’s veto. This is a serious matter that affects every single person in the State, hundreds of hours 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.

Budget Update

I am extremely proud of the 96^th General Assembly and the work we accomplished in passing a balanced budget. The fiscal year 2012 budget heavily funds our state’s most important priorities without increasing the tax burden on our already economically strapped citizens. This required an enormous bipartisan effort and was a huge accomplishment. The most impressive aspect about the development of the 2012 budget was our ability to hold the funding for K-12 at 2011 levels while increasing transportation funding for school districts. As impressive as our work on the budget has been, an even more impressive effort will be required to prepare our state for future budget shortfalls as the struggle to recover from our nation’s recession continues. In Missouri, smart, conservative budgeting has proven to provide the type of stability necessary, not only to survive this economic recession, but to actually see some growth in revenue. Continuing this economic policy in the future will place Missouri in an enviable economic environment of growth.

Big Government Get Off My Back

Last week the House truly agreed to and finally passed SS SCS HCS HB 45. 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.

Visiting the Capitol

I always enjoy it when constituents visit the Capitol and want to thank all who make the journey. If you ever find yourself in or around Jefferson City at any time during the year, please feel free to visit us! While I will be in the office some during the interim

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.

Mayer: Helpful Insurance Website Available to Citizens Affected by Recent Area Flooding

JEFFERSON CITY – Weeks have gone by since massive flooding hit the southeast Missouri area, and Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, would like to remind citizens in affected areas that help is available. One of the most recent forms of assistance is a website developed by the Missouri Department of Insurance to help citizens file their insurance claims for their recent food damage.

“For those Missourians who have flood insurance coverage on their homes, cars or crops, this site will provide answers to many of the questions they might have,” said Sen. Mayer. “This site is a great resource for flood victims. From figuring out how to contact your flood insurance agent if you’ve purchased flood insurance for your home, vehicle or farm to learning how to watch out for unscrupulous contractors hired to repair your property, this website provides a wealth of information.”

Citizens can visit the Department of Insurance’s website for flood victims at insurance.mo.gov/consumer/weather/floodresources.htm or call 1-800-726-7390. There is also assistance available for those Missourians who do not have flood insurance.

“Unfortunately, most home and renters’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage,” said Sen. Mayer. “However, you may be eligible for financial assistance and there are many organizations available to help those citizens who fall under this umbrella.”

Missourians can call the United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week to connect to a variety of resources. Citizens can also contact the American Red Cross Southeast Missouri Chapter at (800) 733-2767 for Red Cross services or (800) 526-1417 for their National Disaster Center.

Mayer: Community Response Meetings in 25th District Regarding Aid for Families, Farms and Businesses

Jefferson City — Senate Leader Robert N. Mayer, R-Dexter, would like to remind families and businesses in the 25^th District and other areas in southeast Missouri who have been affected by the recent flooding to attend one of the many community response meetings scheduled to help individuals learn more about the resources, tools and services provided by the state that are available to assist them during this time.

“From providing unemployment and re-employment assistance and training for displaced workers to receiving drinking water, temporary housing and food assistance, these meetings are designed to help citizens get back on their feet,” said Sen. Mayer. “I understand these meetings are not an overnight remedy, but they will provide much-needed assistance to those Missourians who have been affected by one of Mother Nature’s most devastating occurrences.”

Leaders from various state agencies, as well as county and federal officials, will be available after the meeting to visit with citizens. For more information on these meetings, please contact my office.

Southeast Missouri Community Response Meetings
Tuesday, May 10 9 a.m. – Noon Poplar Bluff High School (1300 Victory Ln.) For residents of Butler, Iron, Madison, Ripley, Stoddard and Wayne counties 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sikeston 5th & 6th Grade Center (100 Twitty Dr.) For residents of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Scott and Stoddard counties.	Wednesday, May 11 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Charleston High School (606. S. Thorn St.) For residents of Mississippi County 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. New Madrid Central High School (310 US Hwy 61) For residents of New Madrid and Stoddard counties 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Caruthersville Middle School (1705 Ward Ave.) For residents of Dunklin and Pemiscot counties

Dugger: Redistricting Override, State Budget Protects Seniors

“Let us be sure that those who come after will say of us in our time, that in our time we did everything that could be done. We finished the race; we kept them free; we kept the faith” – Ronald Reagan

Redistricting – Veto Override

A long process came to an end this week when the Missouri House and Senate joined together to override Governor Nixon’s veto of our legislative redistricting map [HB193]. It was the first successful veto override in Missouri since 2003.

Despite the fact that our map was supported by 8 of our state’s 9 current congressmen, and was backed by both Republicans and Democrats, Governor Nixon decided to veto it.

This week we stood up to the Governor and sent a clear message – we will not allow you to veto legislation for personal reasons – especially when it is supported by both sides of the aisle.

While the Senate has enough Republican members to override the Governor’s vetoes without Democrats, the House relied on bi-partisan support of the legislative plan to overcome the Governor’s veto.

Overriding a veto requires 109 of 163 members in the Missouri House, or a 2/3rds majority. As there are only 105 Republicans in the House this session, Democrats have to join in for a veto override to be successful.

With this vote we sent a clear message to the Governor; members of his own party are willing to stand up with us to continue to move Missouri forward. We will not allow the Governor to hold our state hostage with the legislative veto.

You can view the final, approved version of the new congressional map here:
http://kc.citizen-publications.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/missouri-redistricting-map.jpg

FY 2012 MISSOURI GENERAL ASSEMBLY BUDGET

The Missouri General Assembly passed its budget this week granting approval to a $23.2 billion budget. This budget reflects the continuing commitment of the House Majority to pass a budget that’s not only balanced, but sets aside $28 million in savings and continues to reflect the top priorities of the Missouri General Assembly.

States across this country are faced with budget shortfalls on an unprecedented scale. Tough decisions made in the past, and tougher decisions made during this budget process have led to a budget that House Majority members can point to as a roadmap for continued fiscal recovery. The General Assembly balanced this budget while being able to hold K-12 education harmless to the 2011 funding levels, while instituting only modest reductions to our higher education institutions, while protecting low income health care and while maintaining funding for other vital state services such as correctional facilities and public safety.

Further state restructuring and programmatic changes will be needed to move Missouri through this current financial crisis. Continuing work by the House Appropriations Committees and by the Interim Committee on Budget Transparency will enable this process to remain fluid and will allow members the needed knowledge of state services to continue to make fiscal decisions.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Left more than $28 million on the balance sheet, a balanced budget that continues to meet the needs of all Missourians.
• Held funding for the Foundation Formula harmless. In light of recent historical declines in state revenues, the General Assembly was able to again make education the #1 priority.
• Mitigated the Governor’s reduction to Higher Education by appropriating $12 million more to institutions across the state.
• Rescued the Senior Missouri Rx Program from elimination in the Senate.
• Continued funding for Missouri’s commitment to the production of alternative fuels. This aims to continue to move Missouri towards an economy less dependent on foreign oil.
• A budget of over $8.4 billion for the MO Healthnet program. This money will continue to fund access to healthcare for the neediest Missourians.
• Combined funding of over $40 million for job training, retention and development programs within the Department of Economic Development.
• $365k in cuts to the Missouri House of Representatives budget, further proof the House is taking the lead during this financial crisis.
• Reduced funding for Department Directors and Deputy Directors to a maximum level of $86,500, saving state taxpayers over $1.0 million.
• Held the Governor accountable for his excessive use of the state plane by restricting expenses from other state departments.

SENIOR CITIZENS

This budget continues to honor and assist our seniors by continuing our commitment to providing funding for nursing homes, in-home services, home delivered meals and the Missouri Senior Rx Program.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• $571 million for our State’s nursing home industry.
• $581 million for in-home services. This funding ensures that seniors will be able to stay in their own homes with care.
• Approximately $37 million for non-emergency medical transportation.
• Increased funding of $942k, totaling over $40.6 million for Area Agencies on Aging (AAA’s). This will support continued congregate and home delivered meals.
• Rescued the MO Senior Rx Program from elimination in the Senate. This will benefit over 207,000 seniors in the state.

Lant: Monumental Week At Capitol

Well, I promised a big week and I'm not going to let you down! We started off by passing in the House HCS SJR2 which amends the Missouri Constitution to require a person to provide valid, government issued, photo identification in order to vote in Missouri. Voting is a basic and precious right and now that we have passed legislation to prevent voter fraud, we need to make sure this right is no longer abused. It will now become the job of the voters at the next statewide election to decide whether we want this to be the law in Missouri. SB 8 deals with providing protection against co-employee lawsuits in workers compensation cases and was sent back to the Senate for some of their fine tuning.

The Senate began to send the budget bills back to us a few at a time. After the Conference Committees made the necessary compromises, we debated the changes and voted on each of the bills separately. It is no small job for the Budget Committees to allocate 23.2 Billion dollars. It took an enormous bipartisan effort to pass a budget that is not only balanced, but sets aside 28 Million in savings and continues to reflect the top priorities of Missourian's. We held funding for the school Foundation Formula and mitigated the Governors' cut to Higher Education by appropriating 12 Million more to educational institutions statewide. We rescued the Senior Rx program from the Senate. We budgeted 8.4 Billion for the MO Health net program for the neediest Missourians. We also funded over 40 Million for job training, retention and development programs in the Department of Economic Development.

Along with strong conservative management of the taxpayer dollars, we cut the budget of the Missouri House by 365 Thousand dollars, reduced Department Directors and Deputy Directors’ compensation by 1 Million, and restricted the excessive use of the state airplane.

Last but most assuredly not least, Missouri history was made last week when the Governors' veto of the redistricting map [HB193] was overridden by a bipartisan effort in the House. Shortly thereafter, the Senate also overrode the veto and we now have a fair, compact, and contiguous map that is good for all of the citizens of the state. After hundreds of hours of work and compromise by State Representatives and Senators as well as the support of all the U.S. Congressmen, a last minute herculean effort by the House and Senate negated the Governors' attempt to send the map to unelected judges.

The weather at the Capitol was wonderful last week and many school groups were on field trips. I was honored to be able to introduce a class from Tri-Way Elementary at Stella. For any individual or group that wishes to visit your Capitol just let my office staff know, and we will arrange functions and tours.

Just one more week of session! I can't wait to see what unfolds! I'll fill you in next week, until then I am and remain in your service.

Sater: This Week In The Missouri House, Issue 17

FYI…DS

[Click here to view]

Schaefer: Budget Finalized

At left: Senator Schaefer debates on the Senate floor during session.

This week at the Capitol, the Conference Budget Committee finally worked out the differences between the Senate and House versions of the budget bills. It was a difficult process, but the House and Senate finally came to a compromise that both sides agreed on late Wednesday night, which was then heard in both the House and Senate on Thursday. This compromise involved fully funding MoRx and in-home care, and also provided $12 million over the governor’s recommendation to higher education.

In addition, the legislature lessened a 7 percent cut to higher education that the governor had originally sought, by adopting a $12 million increase for higher education, and a $10 million increase for K-12 transportation. This will help colleges and universities to curb some out-of-pocket expenses for their students, and the K-12 transportation funding will keep schools from having to redirect other funds to pay for transportation costs.

Several budget bills were also heard on the floor of the Senate this week. House Bill 17, HB 18, and HB 21 were passed early Wednesday (5-4) morning, after a filibuster that lasted through the night, and SB 22 passed on Wednesday afternoon. All of these bills deal with capital improvements funding.

One of my bills, SB 213, was also heard in the House on Wednesday. This bill would modify the information required when petitioning for guardianship of a minor or an incapacitated person.

On Tuesday (5-3), I had the pleasure of introducing the 4th Grade class of West Boulevard Elementary School from Columbia along with their teacher Becky Elder. The class was visiting the Capital City to learn about state government and the history of the Missouri Capitol.

During the month of May, motorcyclists and motorists are encouraged to safely “share the road” in observation of the National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. All motorists are reminded to watch for motorcycles and to be alert to help keep motorcyclists safe, while motorcyclists are reminded to make themselves visible to other motorists.

In news around the district, the Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 24, at the Activity and Recreation Center at 1701 W. Ash Street in Columbia from 4:00 - 6:30 p.m. to discuss plans to widen Route 740 (Stadium Blvd.) in Columbia from just north of Interstate 70 to south of Broadway.

The plans also include modifying the interchange at I-70 and Stadium and adding lanes to Fairview Road from Worley Avenue North to the west entrance of the Columbia Mall and to Bernadette Drive from Fairview Road to Beverly Drive. The work is being done to improve safety and traffic flow through the area.

An open-house community briefing will be held on Tuesday, May 17, from 4:30 until 6:00 p.m. to discuss plans to replace the Lick Fork Creek Bridge on Route NN in Boone County. The bridge is located approximately three miles west of U.S. Route 63. The meeting will be held in the VFW Community Room at the Harrisburg R-VIII School Administration Building.

Thank you for your continued interest in the issues that affect the citizens of Boone and Randolph counties. If you have any questions or concerns please contact my office.