Feb. 22, 2018

Practical Solutions for Unique Challenges

Moving forward in Missouri’s Education System

Lawmakers discussed and debated Senate Bill 612 on the Missouri Senate Floor this week. I do not support this legislation because it does not solve the problems it was created to address. Senate Bill 612 establishes a voucher system for the purpose of helping kids with disabilities; however, the definition of a disabled student is so broad that the bill can apply to almost all students. I believe this is a problem because the bill’s funding structure does not accommodate for a large number of students. Additionally, even under this bill, most private schools will still not be able to afford the specialized services disabled students need to be successful in school.

From a tax perspective, SB 612 is also problematic because the tax credit is valued at 100 percent of a donation. Most Missouri benevolent tax credits are worth 50 percent of a donation. This policy is not consistent with other benevolent tax credit programs in Missouri and it would create an unbalanced system that is tilted in favor of one particular tax credit at the expense of other credits.

Another issue that needs to be addressed in our schools, is personnel management for school administrators.  In order to run our schools and to keep educators accountable, I believe administrators should be equipped with the skills to effectively manage a team of employees. Just like in a successful business, education professionals need to work cohesively, and good management plays a major role in creating a positive school culture and enabling teachers to succeed.

I am in the process of drafting language for a bill that would require personnel management courses for individuals pursuing an education administration certificate in Missouri. These courses would teach future administrators the proper methods of counseling, disciplining, and if necessary, terminating employees. This legislation would go a long way in improving the professional environment in our schools and, in turn, the quality of education offered to young Missourians.

Missouri Senate Prioritizes Prevailing Wage Reform

Prevailing wage reform is a priority for senators on both sides of the aisle. Several bills have been filed addressing issues surrounding the state’s prevailing wage, and a work group is being formed to negotiate the best path forward. Both union and non-union contractors are involved in conversations about reforms that will ensure workers are held to high standards while being paid fair wages.

Just as our education system should not be dismantled in order to fix its problems, I believe prevailing wage policies should be reformed, not abolished. I look forward to working with my fellow senators and industry representatives to create solutions that are equitable for all parties involved while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently.

Addressing Growing Concerns about Feral Hogs

Feral hogs have been a growing problem since the 1990s and the feral hog population is now fully established in more than 30 counties in Missouri. Constituents in the 3^rd Senatorial District are justifiably concerned about the negative impacts on agricultural land and wildlife habitats. As one constituent put it, “it’s not a problem until it’s your problem.” Feral hogs are dangerous to humans and cause massive damage to the environment. Eradicating feral hogs is difficult, but necessary and we need to change the state’s regulatory policies in order to address this serious issue.  Feral hog sightings or signs of damage inflicted by feral hogs should be reported to the Missouri Department of Conservation at 573-522-4115 ext. 3296 or online.

Lincoln Day

I was honored to give the closing remarks at the St. Francois County Republican Central Committee’s Lincoln Day Breakfast. There are some great candidates for county and state level positions this year, and I appreciated the opportunity to speak with such a dynamic group of individuals.

Community Development Block Grant

I am pleased to recognize the cities of Bismarck and Bunker for receiving Community Development Block Grants. In Bunker, the grant will be utilized for much needed street improvements. Grant funds in Bismarck will be used to construct a new center for the L.I.F.E. Inc. Center for Independent Living. These grant projects are funded through the Missouri Department of Economic Development and will improve the quality of life for residents in both towns and the surrounding communities.

Capitol Visits

I always appreciate receiving visitors to my office. This week I was privileged to meet Don Thompson, Jason Saylor, Alexander Milosevich, Josh Reynolds, Wyatt Saylor, Bethany Loveless, Matthew Loveless, Jacob Reynolds, Jonathan Loveless, Mike Millikan, Joshua Barrett, Stephanie Bennett and Tracy Carroll. Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-4008. You may write me at Gary Romine, Missouri Senate, State Capitol, Jefferson City, MO 65101; or email me at gary.romine@senate.mo.gov; or www.senate.mo.gov/romine.