McCain's Healthcare Plan Brings REAL REFORM!

by Brian L. Baker
TAKE A LOOK AT THE DETAILS...

With all due respect to recent letters from those opposing John McCain, the idea that a veteran, prisoner of war, and American hero would hurt veterans is a myth that originates from partisan mindsets…not facts. Senator McCain’s policy stand on healthcare will help move us toward true change. Please look at the specifics.

An important part of his plan is to use competition to improve the quality of health insurance with greater variety to match people's needs, lower prices, and portability. Families should be able to purchase health insurance nationwide, across state lines.

News reports indicate that McCain aims to reform the tax code to offer more choices beyond employer-based health insurance coverage. While still having the option of employer-based coverage, every family will receive a direct refundable tax credit - effectively cash - of $2,500 for individuals and $5,000 for families to offset the cost of insurance. Families will be able to choose the insurance provider that suits them best and the money would be sent directly to the insurance provider. Those obtaining innovative insurance that costs less than the credit can deposit the remainder in expanded Health Savings Accounts.

Senator McCain also proposes making your health insurance portable. Americans need insurance that follows them from job to job. They want insurance that is still there if they retire early and does not change if they take a few years off to raise the kids.

Senator McCain understands that those without prior group coverage and those with pre-existing conditions have the most difficulty on the individual market, and we need to make sure they get the high-quality coverage they need. He will challenge the insurance companies and fight to insure that people with pre-existing conditions can find coverage.

As President, John McCain will work with governors to develop a best practice model that states can follow - a Guaranteed Access Plan or GAP - that would reflect the best experience of the states to ensure these patients have access to health coverage.

Chronic conditions account for three-quarters of the nation's annual health care bill. McCain’s plan includes prevention, early intervention, healthy habits, new treatment models, new public health infrastructure and the use of information technology to address chronic conditions. Senator McCain’s plan dedicates more federal research to caring and curing chronic disease.

Senator McCain supports letting the states have freedom to address their needs. Missouri should have the flexibility to experiment with alternative forms of access, coordinated payments per episode covered under Medicaid, use of private insurance in Medicaid, alternative insurance policies and different licensing schemes for providers.

We must make public more information on treatment options and doctor records, and require transparency regarding medical outcomes, quality of care, costs and prices. We must also facilitate the development standards for measuring and recording treatments and outcomes. We must promote greater access through walk-in clinics in retail outlets.

Obama supporters and advisers admit that his plan clearly creates a government-run healthcare system. They believe that more government is the way to solve the issue. Some even admit that socialism is needed to address our healthcare issues. I would ask you to remember, President Thomas Jefferson said, “A government big enough to give you everything you want is big enough to take it away!”

I respectfully ask that you consider John McCain for President

Governor Sarah Palin - Bringing Real Change!

Governor Sarah Palin is a tough executive who has demonstrated during her time in office that she is ready to be president. She has brought Republicans and Democrats together within her Administration and has seen approval ratings of over 80 percent.

• She has challenged the influence of the big oil companies while fighting for the development of new energy resources.


• She leads a state that matters to every one of us -- Alaska has significant energy resources and she has been a leader in the fight to make America energy independent.


• She has actually used her veto and cut budgetary spending. And she put a stop to the bridge to nowhere that would have cost taxpayers $400 million dollars.


• In Alaska, she challenged a corrupt system and passed a landmark ethics reform bill.


• As the head of Alaska's National Guard and as the mother of a soldier herself, Governor Palin understands what it takes to lead our nation and she understands the importance of supporting our troops.

Her experience in shaking up the status quo is exactly what is needed in Washington.

In choosing Governor Sarah Palin, John McCain put Washington on notice that he is serious about shaking up the status quo.

What we're seeing is a maverick who has shaken up Washington picking as his teammate a maverick governor who has shaken up her own state.

What it's going to take to change Washington is a team of Mavericks who have a record of accomplishment in shaking up the status quo.

Republican Leaders Work to Increase Education Funding 1.2 Billion over 5 Years!

JOPLIN—Gov. Matt Blunt today visited Missouri schools to announce his successful effort to provide $1.2 billion in new funding for Missouri education over the last four years, ensuring teachers and students have the resources they need to succeed and compete in the global economy.

“Education is the most important investment our state makes, and it is my highest priority,” Gov. Blunt said. “Today I am pleased to sign a budget that delivers to Missouri classrooms more than $1.2 billion in new funding to elementary, secondary and higher education over the last four years. I commend the members of the General Assembly who share my commitment to ensuring our children receive the world-class education they need in order to reach their full potential.”

Gov. Blunt today again delivered on his promise to increase funding for education every year he is governor by signing House Bill 2002, which provides a significant increase in state funding to Missouri’s public school system. House Bill 2002 includes:
$121.3 million increase to continue full funding of the foundation formula, bringing total new formula funding under Gov. Blunt’s leadership to $490,193,006 which is a 22.5 percent increase over four years.

• $5.5 million increase for the School District Trust fund. Over four years, Gov. Blunt has increased funding for this trust fund by $97.3 million which amounts to a 13.8 percent increase.
• $3.5 million increase for the A+ Schools Program. Gov. Blunt has increased funding for the A+ Schools Program by $12.7 million over four years which more than doubled funding for the program since he was elected governor.
• $2.9 million increase to educate severely disabled children bringing the total amount provided by Gov. Blunt to $21 million.
• $15 million for the Small Schools Program.
• $5.8 million for the Missouri Virtual School Program (MoVIP), including a $600,000 increase.
• $1 million for eMINTS in support of the Missouri Mathematics, Engineering, Technology and Science (METS) Initiative.
• $2.6 million increase for sheltered workshops bring the total amount provided by Gov. Blunt to $5.2 million which equates to a 28 percent increase since the governor was elected.

“Governor Blunt has once again made education the top priority for our state and I am proud to have been able to work with him to greatly increase the level of funding we provide to elementary and secondary public schools as well as our institutions of higher learning. We have made a commitment to the young people of this state and this budget honors that commitment by allocating the funding that will provide them with a better system of education and more opportunities to attend an institution of higher learning,” Rep. Allen Icet said.

The $1.2 billion in total new funding reflects Gov. Blunt’s commitment to education and includes: $652.5 million in increases for elementary and secondary education, $218 million in increases for higher education, and $335.3 million for the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.

Education is Gov. Blunt’s highest public policy and budget priority. Gov. Blunt also has been a champion for higher education in Missouri. When he took office, he immediately put an end to the previous administration’s cuts in higher education. The governor’s support for higher education nearly quadruples funding available for Access Missouri scholarships and provides $105.8 million in new funding for colleges and universities. Additionally, Gov. Blunt’s Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative is providing $335 million for colleges and universities across the state for important capital improvement projects on campus.

Missouri Improves Funding to Higher Education

JOPLIN—Gov. Matt Blunt today further expanded access to higher education for Missouri students by signing House Bill 2003, which increases funding for Missouri’s two- and four-year colleges and universities and provides a significant increase in scholarship funding. With this budget, as he outlined in his State of the State Address, Gov. Blunt has delivered a total increase of $1.2 billion to support education in Missouri, ensuring teachers and students have the resources they need to succeed and compete in the global economy.

“Access to higher education is essential to the future success of Missouri students,” Gov. Blunt said. “Our significant investment in higher education is an investment in Missouri’s future and enables us to provide students with a world-class education.”

“We increased college scholarships through the A+ and Access Missouri programs as well as increased the budgets for higher education institutions to help make college more affordable,” Sen. Gary Nodler said. “Plus, we have continued our commitment to fully fund a new school funding formula that gives all our children an equal opportunity for a great education.”

House Bill 2003 provides, among other things, the governor’s recommendations for:

• $43 million increase for Missouri’s public two- and four-year higher education institutions. Gov. Blunt has increased funding over the last four years for two- and four-year institutions by $105.8 million which is a significant 12.4 percent increase.
• $23.7 million increase for the Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program, allowing additional students access to higher education, bringing total funding to $95.8 million. Gov. Blunt has nearly quadrupled funding for needs-based scholarships since he became governor by providing an additional $71 million for students.
• $437,640 increase for the Missouri Telehealth Network, which enhances access to medical care to people in underserved areas.
• $1.6 million in total funding for the Missouri State Historical Society which includes a $100,000 increase. Over the last four years Gov. Blunt has increased funding for the
• Missouri State Historical Society by $696,960 which equates to a more than 75 percent increase.

House Bill 2003 confirms what Gov. Blunt said to lawmakers in his State of the State Address, “By passing my budget, you will ensure, once again, that Missouri teachers and students have the resources they need to succeed. And when passed, we will have achieved a remarkable feat. By having the vision to look ahead and the fortitude to keep our commitments to the people of Missouri, we will have increased our total investment in education by $1.2 billion.”

The $1.2 billion in total new funding reflects Gov. Blunt’s commitment to education and includes: $652.5 million for Elementary and Secondary Education, $218 million for Higher Education and $335.3 million for the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.

Governor Blunt Works to Stop Identity Theft

LEBANON – Gov. Matt Blunt today signed legislation allowing Missourians who are concerned they have been the victim of identity theft to request a security freeze on their credit reports.

“This legislation provides for more consumer protection for Missourians,” Gov. Blunt said. “Identity theft and fraud is an increasing problem and an increasing concern for Missourians. The legislation I am enacting increases penalties for these con artists and greatly enhances the ability of victims to protect themselves and their credit.”

House Bill 1384, sponsored by Rep. Stanley Cox, allows Missourians to request a security freeze on their credit reports including victims of identity theft or anyone who believes they may have been victimized. The legislation also allows victims of identify theft to file and receive a copy of a police report on the incident. The bill also states any person who manufactures or possesses multiple fictitious or forged means of identification with the intent to distribute to others for the purpose of committing a crime will be guilty of a class C felony.

“Identity theft is a threat to all consumers and it is imperative that we give Missourians the tools they need to minimize the damage from this devastating crime. This is the most significant piece of consumer protection legislation passed this session and I thank Governor Blunt for his support on the issue and for signing it into law,” Rep. Cox said.

The governor recently signed Senate Bill 999, sponsored by Sen. Delbert Scott, allows the attorney general to bring an action for unlawful merchandising practices when the name of a financial institution is deceptively used in Internet scams, mailings, and on mortgages among other things. Under current state law only the financial institution whose name is used can take action.

“Con artists who prey on Missourians have resorted to the tactic of using reputable financial institutions’ names in order to scam consumers,” Sen. Scott said. “This new law will allow us to better protect consumers by cracking down on these deceptive practices.”

Governor Blunt Signs Legislation to Help Austic Families

COLUMBIA – Gov. Matt Blunt today signed legislation that makes significant investments for Missourians living with Autism. The legislation, which provides $5 million for the highly respected Thompson Center for Autism in Columbia, continues the governor’s commitment to Missouri families who will benefit from increased resources for autism services.

“Autism has a profound impact on Missouri families and this critical funding will help raise awareness about Autism and provide greater treatment options to better the lives of Missouri children,” Gov. Blunt said. “Most of us know someone with an Autistic child, and these parents can tell you how important a place such as the Thompson Center is and how important this funding can be in the fight against Autism.”

“With the incidence of autism increasing dramatically in recent years, more and more Missouri families are seeking help in dealing with this challenging disorder. The Thompson Center is doing admirable and innovative work to help children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. It is important that we provide them with the funding to continue that effort and I thank Governor Blunt for his support in signing this bill into law,” Rep. Ed Robb said.

House Bill 2023 designates $5 million for planning, design, renovation, construction and/or purchase of a facility for the Thompson Center. This appropriation ensures that the Thompson Center has the resources and necessary tools to continue the life-changing work being performed and will benefit countless Missouri families. The Thompson Center for Autism was established in April 2005 to promote research, teaching and service innovations to help improve the lives of children with Autism and other neurological conditions.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the 6th most prevalent disability and the second most common developmental disability in the United States. Missouri currently serves more than 4,200 young Missourians with an ASD diagnosis across their lifespan.

Last year Gov. Blunt secured of $3.9 million in additional state funding to focus on improvements to Autism treatment and diagnosis. The legislation provided:

• $500,000 to create an intensive day treatment program at the Ozark Center in Joplin, the first of its kind in Missouri
• $2.4 million to reduce the waitlist for Autism diagnosis and treatment by expanding staff and training
• $1 million for Missouri’s Autism projects

Gov. Blunt has been a champion for Missouri families who face the challenges of Autism. Since taking office the governor has secured $17.6 million in new state funding to support Autism services.

Governor Blunt Signs Legislation for Clean & Safe Water

BRANSON – Gov. Matt Blunt today signed legislation to modify requirements relating to the issuance of grants and loans by the Department of Natural Resources for storm water control.

“I believe that we have an obligation to protect our environment and leave it better than how we found it. To reach this goal we need to help our communities meet required environmental standards,” Gov. Blunt said. “These grants and loans will help counties make required improvements to their storm water plans helping ensure a safer and cleaner water supply for Missourians.”

Current law requires the Department of Natural Resources to provide both grants and loans using the funds resulting from the issuance of storm water control bonds. Senate Bill 1040, sponsored by Sen. Dan Clemens, modifies this requirement so that both are no longer simultaneously required. The act removes the requirement that 50 percent of the proceeds from the bonds be allocated to grants and 50 percent to loans. The legislation becomes effective only with voter approval of SJR 45. The initiative will go to the voters in November.

“This is a great way for our first class cities and counties to improve their infrastructure at no increased cost for our citizens,” Sen. Clemens said.

Once the initial offer of grants or loans has been made to all eligible recipients, the act allows any remaining funds to be proportionally distributed to grant or loan recipients who are eligible for, and need, additional funding. The act requires repayments of storm water loans and applicable interest to be deposited in the Storm Water Loan Revolving Fund, which is created by the act, and authorizes the monies in the fund to be used to finance and construct storm water control plans, studies, and projects.

Since taking office Gov. Blunt has been a leader in improving Missouri’s water infrastructure. He created the Clean Water Initiative administered by the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Water Protection Program. The department has already distributed $8 million to cities and water districts to help provide safe and clean water for communities across Missouri allocating the $50 million in funds as follows:

• $18 million for 40 percent State Construction grants for wastewater related projects,
• $13.2 million for rural sewer grants targeted for rural and special needs communities,
• $14.8 million for rural drinking water projects,
• $4 million in direct loans for water or wastewater projects, including planning loans for wastewater facilities

The governor’s Clean Water Initiative is funded through $50 million in bonds to assist Missouri communities facing problems related to drinking water and wastewater treatment.

Gov. Blunt has also been a leader in protecting Missouri’s environment and conserving our energy resources. In addition to his Clean Water Initiative, Gov. Blunt signed legislation in 2006 to set a 10 percent ethanol content standard for gasoline. Ethanol is a cleaner burning alternative to petroleum based gasoline and contains more oxygen, which results in better combustion and fewer carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and carcinogenic emissions.

Gov. Blunt also issued an executive order requiring that at least 70 percent of new vehicles purchased by the Office of Administration be flex fuel vehicles.

This year, the General Assembly approved Gov. Blunt’s plan to create a Show-Me Green tax holiday. This ends the sales tax on Energy-Star certified appliances for one week every year. Missouri is only the fourth state in the country to enact this kind of environmentally-friendly tax holiday joining Connecticut, Florida and Virginia.

Cass Republicans Receive Cass Medical Report

Cass Republicans Receive Cass Medical Center Report; Hear from Hartzler and Cook

Harrisonville – The Cass County Republican Committee took time to learn about the new Cass Medical Center being constructed in Harrisonville at their monthly meeting in June.

Sonya McLellan, Executive Director for the Cass Medical Center, gave a complete presentation on the construction project and projected services that will be provided by the Medical Center. The new facility will have 138,000 square feet, which doubles the size of the current facility. CMC is a critical service hospital that will provide 21 medical/surgical beds, 4 intensive care unit beds, and 10 behavioral health unit beds. The increased space will give the CMC the ability to handle more outpatient services, providing specialists clinics and outpatient procedures. The Emergency Room capacity will expand from 5 beds to 11 beds in the new facility. CMC is looking to July 2009 for completion.

“An independent consulting firm looked at CMC’s existing facility and the cost of renovation and expansion. Their findings concluded that the cost of building new was nearly equal to what it would cost to renovate or expand,” stated McLellan. “The decision was clear that constructing new was best.”

Representative Brian Baker asked that the CMC work to share more facts about how the county hospital serves the entire Cass County area and works with Research Belton Hospital. “Citizens in the north end of the county are paying a tax to help keep this hospital in play and it is imperative that we are fiscally accountable and explain the need for services and how both entities work together.”

McLellan also noted that the increasing population and county needs clearly showed the Board of the Cass Medical Center there was a need to be proactive in thinking about the future. “Research Belton offers a great service in the north, but as the population grows, there is a need for us to grow and offer services. We have a very good working and management relationship with HCA and Research Belton.”

Cass Republicans also took time to hear from special guests Bill Cook and Vicky Hartzler.

Vicky Hartzler took time to share about her new book “Running God’s Way.” The book is focused on helping candidates run for office using positive and sound campaign methods. The book focuses on helping candidates look at Christian principles in running for office, such as being professional, kind, debate issues without being negative, and many other campaign strategies. Hartzler has been traveling the state and meeting with groups about the book and even presented the book to some groups in Washington DC.

Candidate for South Commissioner Bill Cook was the final guest for the night. He took time to share with Cass Republicans his vision for the county. “We have the potential to be great,” stated Cook. “My vision is to help our county create a plan for the future, to work to maintain our rural and farm heritage, improving our roadways and bridges, while at the same time helping local communities attract business and jobs.”

Cook said he will encourage departments like Planning & Zoning and Codes Enforcement to serve the people of Cass and not dictate. “This is about servant-leadership,” stated Cook. “It’s about serving the people and creating a positive image for Cass County.”

Cass County Republicans will meet next at the Belton Comfort Inn on Thursday, July 10 @ 7pm.

Gov. Blunt Sends $6.1 Million for Lewis & Clark Initiative

Gov. Blunt’s Landmark Higher Education Initiative Distributes $6.1 Million to Benefit Missouri Students

JEFFERSON CITY—Gov. Matt Blunt’s plan for Missouri colleges and universities today provided more than $6.1 million to benefit students around the state, promote technology and innovation, and help secure Missouri’s role as a higher education leader. The $6,117,050 payment distribution is the ninth of the $335 million total that Gov. Blunt secured for Missouri students and classrooms through his Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative. Thus far, MOHELA has provided nearly $240 million to the state for Gov. Blunt’s higher education initiative.

“As governor I have worked to increase opportunity in our state and to plant seeds for future prosperity. Education is the most important, critical, and significant investment we can make in our future. To ensure future prosperity, Missouri students must have access to the knowledge and skills they need to compete in a global economy,” Gov. Blunt said. “The Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative is providing state-of-the-art learning centers for our students to help position Missouri as a leader in higher education and give Missouri students the foundation they need to be successful in their future endeavors.”

The following universities and colleges received funding today:

• Harris Stowe-State University Child and Parent Education Center, $102,233
• Missouri Southern State University Health Sciences Center, $51,241
• Missouri Western State University Agenstein Science and Math Halls, $360,943
• University of Missouri Greenley Learning and Discovery Park, $17,286
• University of Missouri Delta Research Center, $20,524
• University of Missouri Southwest Education and Outreach Center, $44,070
• University of Missouri Horticultural and Agroforestery Research Center, $35,622
• University of Missouri Thompson Farm, $8,184
• University of Missouri Wurdack Farm, $264
• University of Missouri South Farms, $14,208
• Missouri University of Science and Technology Engineering Building, $846,226
• Crowder College, $201,518
• East Central College, $144,00
• Jefferson College, $343,205
• Mineral Area Community College, $224,861
• Moberly Area Community College, $135,697
• Ozarks Technical Community College, $430,658
• St. Louis Community College, $938,784
• Three Rivers Community College, $35,026
• Missouri Technology Corporation, $2,162,500

Gov. Blunt’s landmark Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative is a partnership between the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority and the state. The partnership, authorized through legislation and supported by lawmakers, reinvests a state asset to generate $335 million to strengthen Missouri’s colleges and universities for students. The Department of Higher Education and the Office of Administration are working with universities and colleges to process the funding.

The payment amounts reimburse four-year colleges and universities for actual expenditures and are determined by information provided by the institutions each month. Community college payment amounts are set at $2 million each and distributed by request. In addition, $6 million total for maintenance and repair was allocated to community colleges. Community colleges must provide a local match in order to receive the maintenance and repair funds. Under the governor’s plan, the $335 million will be distributed over the next five years to maximize the benefit to students and ensure as many projects may be completed as quickly as possible.

The historic initiative takes an enormous stride forward for higher education in our state and provides much-needed funding for state-of-the-art learning and research centers. The new learning centers will prepare students to compete in today’s global economy where higher quality learning in areas such as math and science are crucial elements for students’ future success.

For a complete list of projects funded by the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative and for more information, visit http://www.ded.mo.gov/lcdi.

Gov. Blunt has been a champion for higher education in Missouri. When he took office, he immediately put an end to cuts in higher education. Gov. Blunt’s support for higher education quadruples funding available for Access Missouri scholarships, includes funding to support education opportunities for health professionals, and provides $103 million in new funding for colleges and universities in addition to the $335 million provided by the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.

Gov. Blunt's Accountability Portal Receives Award

Gov. Blunt’s Accountability Portal Honored with American Business Award

JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Matt Blunt today announced that the team who developed his Missouri Accountability Portal (MAP) initiative has earned national recognition with an American Business Award. The Information Technology Services Division (ITSD) Team won the Best MIS and IT Team Category for the development of MapYourTaxes.mo.gov at the 2008 American Business Awards.

“I believe that all Missourians have a right to know where their money goes and how state government is spending their tax dollars. This is why my administration has been committed to making your state government more transparent and accountable with initiatives like the Missouri Accountability Portal,” Gov. Blunt said. “Recognition like this validates the many efforts that went into our vision for an Internet site that allows Missourians to map their tax dollars.”

The American Business Awards are the only national, all–encompassing awards program honoring great performances in business. More than 2,600 entries from companies of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted for consideration in more than 40 categories, including Best Overall Company, Best Executive, Best New Product or Service, and Best Corporate Social Responsibility Program. The Missouri Accountability Portal (MAP) project team won the Best MIS & IT Team category.

“I am honored that our team won the 2008 American Business Awards in the Best MIS & IT Team category,” said Alicia J. Weaver, director for Enterprise Applications and Data Management for the State of Missouri. “The talented team we assembled for Gov. Blunt’s initiative helped the State of Missouri provide government transparency on a level that is truly a first in the nation. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with the project.”

Gov. Blunt’s MAP site is an Internet site enabling Missourians to track the expenditure of all tax dollars in near real-time. The governor encourages Missourians to visit the MAP site at http://mapyourtaxes.mo.gov/.

The MAP site is one of the first comprehensive databases of financial records based on real-time data in the nation. The MAP site is updated at the close of each business day to provide up-to-date access to information about state spending. Anyone can search the MAP site by budget category, vendor or contract. Links to other public information maintained by the state are also available on the MAP site. The MAP expenditure site has also been enhanced to allow Missourians to review state expenditures by state agency and information regarding tax credits administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development since tax credit application year 2000. The site also provides easy to access, real time information on state employee salaries.

For more information about The American Business Awards, visit www.stevieawards.com/aba.

Gov. Blunt Signs Mortgage Fraud Bill

Gov. Blunt Signs Legislation to Protect Homeowners from Unscrupulous Mortgage Practices

RAYMORE - Gov. Matt Blunt today signed legislation he called for to protect homeowners from fraudulent mortgage practices by strengthening both Missouri’s civil and criminal laws.

“Purchasing a home is an integral part of the American dream,” Gov. Blunt said. “I am pleased to sign this important legislation that will work to put an end to deceitful mortgage practices in our state and is aimed at getting the hucksters and charlatans out of the real estate business, and, in the worst cases – in jail.”

House Bill 2188, sponsored by Rep. David Pearce, shuts existing loopholes, creates civil and criminal penalties for mortgage fraud and further enhances consumer knowledge about the mortgage process. The legislation:

• Gives the Real Estate Commission and Real Estate Appraisers Commission power to suspend or revoke licenses for mortgage fraud
• Creates the crime of mortgage fraud, a class C felony, with up to 10 years of prison
• Enhances consumer protection laws to protect Missourians from fraudulent scams
• Provides the commissioner of the Division of Finance power to prohibit offenders from doing real estate lending in the state

As part of his plan to help protect Missouri Gov. Blunt also created a free hotline for Missourians to report fraud and access information to protect themselves against foreclosure. Missourians at risk of foreclosure can use the free hotline (1-888-246-7225) to obtain information, materials, and contact information to help them keep their homes. The hotline operates within the Consumer Credit Section of the Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions, and Professional Registration (DIFP).

“The Missouri Bankers Association appreciates the governor signing this bill to protect Missouri homeowners,” said Max Cook, President and CEO of the Missouri Bankers Association. “Homeownership is the American dream. Cracking down on mortgage fraud will keep homeownership from becoming the American nightmare. We also urge any Missourians facing difficulty in making their mortgage payments to contact their lenders.”

Gov. Matt Blunt Signs Economic Development Bill

Gov. Blunt Signs Premier Economic Development Bill, Positions State to Build on Job Growth Legislation; Increases Resources for Most Popular Economic Development Tool

BELTON - Gov. Matt Blunt today signed legislation that will benefit Missouri workers and employers by enhancing entrepreneurship and economic growth opportunities in Missouri. The governor signed the legislation at Quik ’n Tasty, highlighting the success of his Quality Jobs initiative.

“As governor, I have worked to cultivate economic growth and make Missouri a state of opportunity by enacting pro-jobs, pro-growth initiatives. By changing our state’s business climate, we have encouraged Missouri entrepreneurs, small businesses, and large employers to create new jobs in our state for Missouri workers,” Gov. Blunt said. “With the dedication of Missouri’s working men and women, together we are letting businesses know that Missouri is open for business. Our changes are working and Missouri’s families are benefiting from sustained economic growth at the state level.”

"Economic development and job creation has been one of Governor Blunt's top priorities. This bill expands the Quality Jobs Act and proves once again that Missouri is open for business and taking proactive steps to bring jobs to Missouri,” stated Rep. Brian Baker. “The bill received 140+ votes showing tremendous bi-partisan support. It is fitting that Cass County, one of the fastest growing counties in the state, becomes the backdrop for this law."

Expanding Successful Economic Development Tools - Quality Jobs

The legislation increases the annual cap on Gov. Blunt’s successful Quality Jobs Tax Credit Program from $40 million to $60 million. Quality Jobs has been heralded as the most popular economic development incentive in Missouri, working to attract high paying jobs that also provide health care. Companies qualify if they pay at least average county wages and provide health coverage to their employees. Since 2005, the Quality Jobs Act has helped create nearly 22,000 new jobs and retain 2,379 others.

Quik ’n Tasty was approved for the Quality Jobs Program in 2007 and anticipates the creation of at least 200 jobs over the next 5 years. As the Quik ‘n Tasty illustrates, the Quality Jobs Program boasts vast potential to increase the number of family-supporting jobs for Missouri’s working men and women.

Building on Programs with Proven Success - Enhanced Enterprise Zone

The legislation increases the amount of tax credits the Missouri Department of Economic Development may authorize for the Enhanced Enterprise Zone Program, from $14 million to $24 million. The Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was implemented in 2004. Enhanced enterprise zones are specified geographic areas designated by local governments and certified by the Department of Economic Development. Zone designation is based on certain demographic criteria, the potential to create sustainable jobs in a targeted industry and a demonstrated impact on local cluster development.

Ensuring Accountability to Missouri Taxpayers

The legislation creates greater openness and transparency in state government by requiring that every state agency make public the name of tax credit recipients and the amount of the tax credit.

This provision builds on the governor’s actions to increase transparency with the Missouri Accountability Portal (MAP). The governor’s MAP Internet site provides state government spending and tax credit information in an easy to use format. As one of the first comprehensive databases of financial records based on real-time data in the nation the site, http://mapyourtaxes.mo.gov/, has established Missouri as the national pace-setter in government accountability and has been heralded as an example for other states to follow.

Gov. Blunt has successfully restored order to a broken state budget without raising taxes. He inherited a devastated state economy in January 2005 that was $1.1 billion in the red and had lost 34,000 jobs in the previous four years. Overall, Gov. Blunt’s pro-jobs, pro-growth initiatives have helped Missourians create more than 80,000 new jobs since January 2005.

Republicans Express Concern on California Same-Sex Marriage!

Gov. Blunt Statement on California Supreme Court’s Refusal to Delay Same-Sex Marriage Ruling

JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Matt Blunt today issued the following statement on the California Supreme Court’s refusal to delay their ruling to allow same-sex marriage which would have allowed the people to decide the issue in the November elections, rather than the courts:

“It is disappointing that the California Supreme Court would not delay their decision on same-sex marriage until after the voters of California decide again on this issue. Last week ten attorneys general from across the country sought to delay this decision and it is unfortunate that Jay Nixon waited as long as he did to follow their lead which we now know was too little too late.

“Missourians made their voices heard in 2004 by defining marriage as between one man and one woman in our state’s constitution. I believe, as do the majority of Missourians, that marriage is between one man and one woman and that we must protect traditional marriage. It is imperative that we stand up and defend the institution of marriage when it is attacked.”

Last Thursday ten attorneys general filed a brief in California asking the Supreme Court not to finalize their same-sex marriage decision until after the November election in order to let the people and not the courts decide. After repeated pressure from Gov. Blunt, late yesterday Jay Nixon finally joined the effort. Unfortunately that action was too late to have an impact on the Court’s decision.

Gov. Blunt quickly voiced his opposition to the California Supreme Court’s initial action last month to thwart the will of the people by allowing same-sex marriage in their state.

Gov. Blunt Announces $5.5 Million to Combat Meth in Missouri

JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Matt Blunt announces over $5.5 million in Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grants (JAG) has been awarded to law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The grants and tough anti-meth legislation signed by the governor in 2005 will help with Missouri’s ongoing efforts to combat meth and eliminate dangerous lab operations across the state.

“Methamphetamine use not only harms the user, but our families, our communities and our environment,” Gov. Blunt said. “These funds will help our local law enforcement continue fighting for Missouri families in the fight against meth.”

Thirty-seven agencies will receive part of the $5,501,207.23 federal grant awarded to Missouri. All components of the criminal justice system, such as, crime investigation, justice information sharing initiatives, drug and gang task forces, and domestic violence programs, will be supported by the grants.

The grant funds are provided through the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance and are administered by the Missouri Department of Public Safety. Please visit the Department of Public Safety’s internet site at www.dps.mo.gov for a breakdown of cities and counties awarded for 2008.

During 2007, law enforcement officials throughout the state responded to, seized or investigated 1,285 laboratory incidents, which included chemical/equipment/glassware seizures, dumpsites and operational laboratories. To compare, in 2006, there were 1,284 meth lab incidents.

Gov. Blunt has worked with law enforcement to reduce the impact of meth in Missouri. Blunt signed tough anti-meth legislation in June 2005 to limit access to the materials used to make meth. The law restricts the sales of products containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine and relocates them behind pharmacy counters. Individuals are also now required to show photo identification before purchasing products containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine and are limited to how much of the products they can purchase each month. Under the legislation pharmacies are required to maintain purchase logs and make them available for inspection to law enforcement officers.

Earlier this year Gov. Blunt approved more than $1.8 million in supplemental funding to support the Missouri Sheriff’s Methamphetamine Relief Team (MoSMART) in the state’s fight against meth. The funding helped pay for a federal shortfall caused by the U.S. Congress’ elimination of funding, later restored by U.S. Sen. Kit Bond, for critical anti-meth task forces and ensure that 48 sheriff’s offices and drug task force employees around Missouri were not eliminated.

Brad Lager for Missouri State Treasurer

Senator Brad Lager, a Republican, is seeking to become Missouri's next State Treasurer. Lager has earned a reputation as a taxpayer watchdog during his time in Jefferson City. The Associated Press called him one of the legislature's "more fiscally-conservative members." Lager is in his first term as a State Senator after having previously served as the House Budget Chairman.

Brad is asking to be your next treasurer because he believes that every dollar of the taxpayers’ money that is spent and invested should be done so in a way that is in the best interest of the taxpayers.

As a small business owner, Brad makes sure that every dollar he spends is done so with a good reason. All too often, government creates barriers and roadblocks instead of fostering economic opportunities. Brad does not believe that is the way that government should work and it is time government becomes a partner in the process.

As the House Budget Chairman, Brad helped eliminate a billion dollar deficit and ushered in a new way in which our state spends money. For too long, Democrats simply spent money we didn’t have and then asked for tax increases we couldn’t afford. Brad fought to prioritize our expenses, not spending more than we took in, to stop spending money on reoccurring “one-time” expenses, and Brad worked to balance the budget without raising taxes on Missouri’s hard-working families.

We need better government not bigger government. We need a government that understands it needs to be reasonable, responsible, and accountable to the people who it serves. If you believe like Brad that the cornerstone of good government is fiscal restraint and responsible stewardship, then Brad is asking you to join him in this endeavor. Brad is asking for your help and asking for your support.

"I believe that Missourians need a fiscal watchdog in Jefferson City," said Lager. "I have successfully fought and changed the way we do business in Jefferson City. The State Treasurer's position is an opportunity to keep fighting for our fiscal values."

Senator Lager began his career in public service in 2001, when he was elected to the Maryville City Council. Brad served as the city's youngest city councilman ever.

From 2002 to 2006, Brad served as the 4th District Representative in the Missouri House of Representatives. During this time he served as vice-chair and then later as chair of the House Budget Committee. He also served on the House committees on Professional Registration and Licensing, Transportation and Motor Vehicles, Appropraitions for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Policy Development Committee, and the Legislative Research Oversight Committee.

"I know that my bosses do not live in Jefferson City," said Lager. "I want to make sure that every dollar that is spent in this state is invested wisely. We have a responsibility to taxpayers in this state."

As a member of the General Assembly, Brad was recognized as the 2004 Outstanding Legislator by the Missouri Athletic Trainers Association and was named Friend of Agriculture in 2004 and 2006 by the Missouri Farm Bureau. He has also received the Missouri Corn Growers Award, the Lewis and Clark Statesman Award, and the Missouri Community College Association Distinguished Legislator Award.

He and his wife, Stephanie, are members of St. Gregory's Catholic Church in Maryville. He also is a member of the Missouri Farm Bureau.

He graduated from Northeast Nodaway High School in 1993 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Management Systems from Northwest Missouri State University in 1997.

Gov. Blunt's Lawsuit Reform Achieves Big Dividends

Governor Highlights Success of
2005 Lawsuit Reform Initiative

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Matt Blunt is highlighting the success of lawsuit reform legislation he fought to pass and signed in 2005 to address the medical care crisis brewing across the state before he was elected governor. The lawsuit reform legislation the governor championed and secured has significantly improved Missourians’ access to health care as well as the state’s business climate.

“The lawsuit reform we enacted in 2005 brought common sense and balance back to Missouri’s laws and improved access to health care for Missouri families,” Gov. Blunt said. “The significant and comprehensive reforms we enacted have leveled the playing field in Missouri courtrooms so that doctors and small business owners can go about creating jobs and opportunity without the paralyzing worry about the effects of a frivolous lawsuit or runaway personal injury award.”

Gov. Blunt noted that from 2005 to 2006, total claims against Missouri doctors dropped 61 percent. General surgeons, emergency room doctors, and OB-GYNs have all seen claims drop by greater than 70 percent since the governor signed the lawsuit reform.

Claim settlement costs have declined as well. From 2005 to 2006, the average settlement cost fell nearly 14 percent. The bottom-line is Missouri doctors, and the hospitals in which they work, now have more resources available to serve Missourians, resources that might otherwise have been exhausted on unnecessary insurance costs and extortionate payouts to personal injury lawyers. Now that money is freed to invest in health care, hire new doctors, and buy new equipment.

Gov. Blunt’s success enacting meaningful lawsuit reform is also, as anticipated, having a positive impact on Missouri’s legal climate. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s rating indicates Missouri is now moving in the right direction on best legal climates in the country, as the state moved from the 41st position in 2004 to the 34th position in 2007. Businesses examine these ratings when they are considering relocations and expansions.

Before the passage of comprehensive lawsuit reform, health care providers in Missouri were being hard hit by frivolous lawsuits and outrageous awards while personal injury lawyers were chasing doctors out of the state at the expense of patients in need of care. The legislation the governor signed created more equitable joint and several liability, restrictions on venue shopping and limits on punitive and non-economic damages.

Under the new law, joint and several liability applies only to defendants 51 percent or more at fault, in all cases. Joint and several liability is a theory of recovery that permits a plaintiff to recover damages from multiple defendants collectively, or from each defendant individually. Before the improvement a defendant who was just 1 percent liable could be forced to pay almost the entire settlement. In the area of venue shopping, the new Missouri law provides that where the plaintiff was injured in Missouri, actions may only be brought in the county where the action occurred or in the county where the plaintiff was injured.

The legislation also limits an award for punitive damages to the greater of $500,000 or five times the net amount of the judgment awarded to the plaintiff against the defendant. The limits are designed to stem the growth in both the frequency and size of punitive damage awards. The law limits an award for non-economic damages in medical liability cases to $350,000, irrespective of the number of defendants and there is no inflation adjustment on the cap. All economic damages are covered under the new law. Caps in the other states with limits range from $250,000 to $875,000.

Gov. Blunt praised the great success of lawsuit reform in Missouri but warned we must remain vigilant.

The governor noted that in 1995 Wisconsin placed caps on non-economic damages in medical cases but in 2005 unelected judges on the Wisconsin Supreme Court declared the caps unconstitutional in medical cases. In Illinois judges in Cook County declared damage caps in medical malpractice cases unconstitutional. Gov. Blunt pointed to examples in Wisconsin and Illinois as evidence that Missourians should continue to support legislative and executive leaders who understand that a Missouri courtroom should not be a place where personal injury lawyers force good doctors and businesses to leave the state.