One of the Missouri Senate’s highest priorities this session is addressing the insolvency of the state’s Second Injury Fund (SIF). For the last few years, the SIF’s annual obligations have far outgrown the revenue it brings in. Today, there are more than $28 million in unpaid liabilities and thousands of claims that have yet to be considered. This has left a great deal of uncertainty for employers and employees across the state. It’s an urgent issue.

On Thursday, we approved Senate Bill 1, which modifies provisions related to the SIF and workers’ compensation. Under the bill, the surcharge rate which funds the SIF would increase by 1.5 percent for the final two quarters of 2013, and then another 1.5 percent for the following years (for a total 3 percent increase). The rates would return to normal on Dec. 31, 2020, unless the deficit is paid off early. The legislation also removes partial disabilities from the fund, a move that will eliminate 70 percent of claims alone.

As a business owner, I understand how important it is that we find a solution to this problem. Employers and workers across the state deserve a level of security when dealing with the state’s SIF and workers’ compensation system. This bill would go far in giving them that. The legislation now goes to the House for consideration.

Another important measure passed by the upper chamber this week was Senate Bill 17, which I cosponsored. The legislation establishes the Career and Technical Education Advisory Council. Vocational and technical training is an important part of Missouri’s overall education policy. This bill will ensure the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education continues to support career training and provide the necessary funds to promote these programs in our state.

The passage of SB 17 appropriately coincided with the legislative days this week for FFA, FBLA, DECA and other career and technical education leadership groups. Local representatives from these organizations visited the Capitol, and it was a pleasure to meet with them. Many years ago, I myself was a member of DECA, blue-blazer and all. It was a valuable experience, and formative in my life. It was wonderful to see the newest generation of students taking part in the program.

Last week, I filed legislation to name a section of Interstate 70 in honor of Andy Gammon, a carpenter from Park Hills who tragically lost his life while working on the new Mississippi River Bridge in St. Louis. I believe it’s important we honor the memory of Andy, who was a good husband, father and member of his community. He gave his life working to improve our state, and such a sacrifice deserves recognition. I will continue working with my colleagues in making sure Andy is remembered and honored.

I filed Senate Bill 317 in the Missouri Senate this week. The legislation allows motorists to provide proof of insurance with mobile electronic devices. As we continue to move towards a paperless world, it’s important we pass measures to modernize state regulations and procedures. This also increases efficiency within the system, which helps eliminate waste. The bill will likely be assigned to committee next week.

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