Prioritizing All Types of State Infrastructure
This year, the governor and members of the Missouri General Assembly are taking a hard look at our state’s many infrastructure needs, whether that be broadband infrastructure, water infrastructure or transportation infrastructure. I firmly believe these services are part of the basic function of state government. As your elected representatives, it’s our responsibility to take proper care of these vital resources.
One type of infrastructure, broadband internet, is important for keeping our communities connected. In the modern economy, fast internet is also vital for many people’s jobs. This is particularly true of our youngest and oldest workers, who often work from home at least part of the time. This wouldn’t be possible without a reliable internet connection. If we want to grow our communities and attract new businesses, broadband infrastructure is crucial.
Proper water management is equally important. That’s true regardless of whether we’re talking about having too much water, as with the recent floods, or having too little water, as with last year’s droughts. Strengthening our water infrastructure can protect our communities from rising river levels and provide relief during a severe dry spell.
As chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am prioritizing infrastructure funding. To make taxpayers’ money go as far as possible, the Committee is continually exploring ways to secure federal matching grants on many of these projects. By creating and maintaining reliable infrastructure of all types, we are making a sound investment in our future.
As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is (573) 751-1415, my email is dan.hegeman@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 332, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.