LeVota Looks Forward to Productive Session

State Senator Paul LeVota says Missouri has a unique opportunity to dramatically improve the state’s economy while greatly expanding access to basic health care needs for thousands of Missourians. Expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act would provide health care coverage to 160,000 Missourians who currently lack health insurance, while creating more than 20,000 jobs across the state, according to a recent study from the University of Missouri. The report finds that state tax revenue generated by these new jobs could provide enough money to cover the state’s share of the cost of expanding Medicaid.

“Hospitals across Missouri are urging us to expand the Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act, because the federal government will begin cutting payments to hospitals for taking care of the uninsured this year,” LeVota said. “The federal government picks up 100 percent of the costs of the expansion the first three years and would never pay less than 90 percent of the costs. Even the Missouri Chamber of Commerce supports expanding Medicaid, because of all of the jobs the expansion would create. I am hopeful Missouri will do what’s right.”

Education will be front and center once again this legislative session, especially in light of the failure of lawmakers to allow the state to intervene more quickly in struggling school districts. An agreement to remove the current two-year waiting period after a district loses accreditation failed on the last day of the 2012 session.

Lawmakers also must consider changes to the school funding formula, which falls further behind its stated funding goals each year. LeVota says that he is prepared to challenge efforts to end teacher tenure and other politically motivated assaults on public education in Missouri.

A number of lawmakers are proposing issuing state bonds to rebuild Missouri’s infrastructure, which would put tens of thousands of Missourians back to work building roads, bridges and public facilities. Last year, the state retired $600 million in voter-approved bonds promoted in 1982.

The First Regular Session of the 97th Missouri General Assembly convened on Jan. 9 with a swearing-in ceremony for new members. The 2013 legislative session concludes on May 17.

LeVota Becomes Senator for the 11th District

On Jan. 9, Sen. Paul LeVota took the oath of office to serve the 11th Senatorial District. He was sworn in during the opening day ceremony for the First Regular Session of the 97th General Assembly. Senator LeVota won election to the upper chamber of the Missouri Legislature in November 2012.

“It’s a privilege and an honor to serve as the voice of the 11th District in the Missouri Senate,” LeVota said. “There are many challenges ahead, from high unemployment to struggling schools. And hard-working families across the state are looking to the Legislature for solutions. It’s critical we find balanced approaches to these issues, and embrace responsible measures that will create opportunities for all families, for all businesses in Missouri.”

Shown right, the LeVota family descends the grand staircase in the Capitol Rotunda on the night of the inauguration.  The inaugural festivities were a great start to the new legislative session, and the family was delighted to participate. It was a wonderful opportunity to see old friends and acquaintances.

LeVota Proudly Sponsors Callahan

On Jan. 16, Sen. LeVota appeared before the Senate Committee on Gubernatorial Appointments to sponsor the nomination of his friend and predecessor, former senator Victor Callahan, to the Missouri State Tax Commission.

“Senator Callahan’s work experience and civic background have equipped him with the vast knowledge and experience that will enable him to be an excellent and productive member of the Tax Commission.  There is no doubt in my mind that Sen. Callahan will serve the citizens of Missouri with distinction and professionalism,” LeVota wrote in his recommendation to the governor.

Callahan is a former City of Independence Councilman and chairman of the Jackson County Legislature. As chairman, he initiated and implemented a major modernization of the tax assessment and collection functions of Jackson County. He went on to serve in the Missouri State Senate, where he acted as Minority Floor Leader from 2008-2012.  His nomination was approved by the Senate.

LeVota Sponsors Richardson to Foster Care Board

Another local constituent, Janet Richardson, was appointed to the Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board. An Independence resident, she is the mother of six children by birth and adoption and works to help with the placement of children in state custody. Senator LeVota sponsored her appointment. She appeared before the committee with two of her children.

“In my opinion, her experience will be invaluable on the Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board,” said Sen. LeVota. “Janet will be a strong asset not only to the board, but to the State of Missouri.”

LeVota Presents Resolution to Local Business

On Jan. 30, Sen. LeVota presented Margaret Fitzgerald, Director of Marketing and Public Affairs for Milbank Manufacturing Co., with a resolution recognizing the company’s contributions to the Kansas City business community.  Founded in 1927, Milbank is headquartered in Kansas City and maintains operations throughout the state.  They are an industry leader in electrical metering, maintaining approximately 50 percent of the U.S. market.

LeVota Files Bills for 2013 Session

Senator LeVota has filed four bills so far this session.  They are:

• Senate Bill 217, which modifies the process for replacing stolen license plate tabs;
• Senate Bill 218, which requires the display of the Honor and Remember flag at all state buildings and state parks;
• Senate Bill 227, which charges the Attorney General with administering and enforcing ethics laws and imposes campaign contribution limits;and
• Senate Bill 258, which reduces the number of members on the Kansas City School District board of education from nine to seven and creates a recall procedure for board members.

Mother's Refuge Rebuilding After Fire

For 25 years, Mother’s Refuge has provided shelter for pregnant, homeless teenagers and their children in the Independence area.  Tragically, the facility was destroyed in a fire this past October.  Its residents are once again facing an uncertain future without a permanent home.  Senator LeVota would like to encourage those who can to support its rebuilding effort. To learn more, visit its website at www.mothersrefuge.org.