Punitive Damages Bill Signed by Governor
I am very pleased to report that my punitive damages legislation, Senate Bill 591, was signed into law by the governor on July 1 in St. Peters, and then again at a re-signing event in Springfield. The measure modifies provisions relating to civil actions, including punitive damages and unlawful merchandising practices. It has been a priority of mine for several years to set the record straight and put an end to these meritless claims. I am thankful that my colleagues and I were able to negotiate the language and move it through the legislative process during the shortened session, and I believe this needed change will help Missouri’s business climate thrive in the coming years.
Show-Me Hope Crisis Grant Provides Behavioral Health Outreach
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of our society and every corner of our communities. The Missouri Department of Mental Health was awarded a $2.27 million grant from FEMA to extend a crisis counseling program for those seeking behavioral, mental and emotional support as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Show Me Hope counselors will be available statewide to offer stress relieving techniques, enhance coping skills and make referrals if necessary. Dade County residents may call the Clark Community Center at 417-476-1000, and Jasper and Newton county residents may contact the Ozark Center at 417-347-7070 or by text at 720-789-8695. All calls are confidential, and Show Me Hope counselors may also be reached 24/7 at 800-985-5990 or by texting “TalkWithUs” to 66746. We can all use a little assistance recovering from this disaster, so please do not suffer alone or in silence when free help is a phone call or text away.
Economic Development Connects People with Resources
The Department of Economic Development’s tagline is “Helping Missourians Prosper,” and I can think of no better way of accomplishing this goal than helping communities, business owners and citizens connect with beneficial resources. Check out the Show-Me Strong Recovery COVID-19 testing information to help keep businesses open, workers safe and economic activities running at full throttle.
Announcements from the Missouri Department of Conservation
Every five years, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) charges the General Assembly with reviewing its rules and regulations. The public is welcome to review the proposed changes and comment on its Wildlife Code and existing rule-making process during the months of July and August.
Navigate the great MO Outdoors with your fingertips by downloading the free app on your mobile device. Users can connect with MDC conservation areas, fishing information, hiking trails and other outdoor attractions around the state, and searches can be individualized based on activity preferences.
The 2020 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting and Regulations booklet is now available where MDC’s permits are sold or can be downloaded from their website.
Joplin Honors Public Servants at the Police and Firefighters Appreciation Breakfast
There has never been a more important time to show our appreciation to law enforcement officers and firefighters, and I am so thankful to Robert Raudenbush for inviting me to do just that at the Appreciation Breakfast at Finn’s on July 7.
Each public servant received a certificate that explained, “Without you…Joplin wouldn’t have the peace and wonderful atmosphere that we enjoy. So thanks be unto you!” Amen!
