Legislation Gains Traction

I have written about the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) and Senate Concurrent Resolution 22 several times during this legislative session. The riverways and the attractions surrounding it not only enrich the lives of folks living in the area, but the lives of those who visit it as well. That is why I sponsored SCR 22. I want to ensure that the livelihood of these great people is not affected by a bureaucratic change that truly goes beyond just changing a management plan.

SCR 22 urges the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Park Service to take one of three options in regards to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways: choose the "no-action alternative" option of the general management plan. It also calls for the Department of Interior to enter into negotiations with the Missouri Department of Conservation for the return of the ONSR to the State of Missouri, or enter into a contract with the Missouri Department of Conservation for the management, operation, and maintenance of the ONSR.

The House Tourism and Natural Resources Committee held a public hearing on the bill on April 17.

Earlier this week I also learned that there is a plan to close Alley Mill from mid-April through August. The closing of this iconic mill frustrates and saddens me, even though it is only temporary. This mill, which is a popular tourist attraction with its bright red paint and rich history, will be closed for repairs, which we can all agree are needed. What I cannot understand is the need to close it during peak tourist season. The riverways will be filled with floaters and hikers over the next several months and sadly many will not have a chance to enjoy Alley Mill this year.

This week another piece of legislation I sponsored, Senate Bill 860, has been first read in the House. This measure creates an exemption for sales and use taxes for used manufactured homes. The reasoning for not charging sales tax on these used homes is the same as applied in Senate Bill 693, sponsored by Sen. Mike Parson, R-Bolivar. This measure would exempt any vehicle that is 10 years old or older and is being re-sold for less than $15,000, from paying sales tax. Across the board I and other members of the upper chamber support these measures.

As we prepare to celebrate Easter I hope each of you is able to find a moment to celebrate this joyous holiday with the love of friends and family. This holiday is a perfect time to come together in celebration of our faith, family and new beginnings.

It is a busy time in the building and especially in my office. In the last several weeks my two dedicated staff members have been handling hundreds of calls a day, sometimes so many calls come in at a time that our voicemail system fills with as many as 25 calls as the ladies are responding to others . While they are working their hardest, it may be hard to reach them, or me. Please know you and your opinions are important to us.