Returning to the State Capitol to Finish the 2020 Legislative Session
Over the course of the coronavirus pandemic, my colleagues and I have worked to balance the health and safety of our staff and visitors to the State Capitol with our constitutional obligation to pass a balanced budget for the state’s upcoming fiscal year. Striking this balance has presented unique challenges to each member of the Missouri General Assembly; however, I believe the time has come for lawmakers, in both chambers, to return to the State Capitol on April 27 and resume the legislative session. This was not an easy decision, but I believe it is critical that we come together and pass a balanced state budget that ensures our government remains funded, open and able to serve the people of Missouri.
When the General Assembly reconvenes, my colleagues and I will continue to follow social distancing and infection mitigation procedures. Committee hearings and legislative proceedings will remain open to the public. I am always excited to see members from our community in Jefferson City, but I ask that everyone continue to follow social distancing guidelines and participate in the legislative process electronically when possible. For more information on committee hearings and to listen to live floor debate, please visit the Senate’s website at senate.mo.gov.
Missouri’s No. 1 Industry Remains Essential During COVID-19 Crisis
As our entire state continues to address the effects of the COVID-19 virus, the Missouri Department of Agriculture reminds us that farm workers are considered essential employees. These workers keep food on our tables, and I believe they are the bedrock of our state’s economy. As a result, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) announced a free, temporary overweight permit that allows haulers to transport up to 100,000 pounds of cargo on any Missouri highway, including interstates. This overweight permit includes livestock, poultry, feed and fuels. Please visit MoDOT’s website at modot.org for more information.
Also, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the creation of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. According to the USDA, this $19 billion relief program will provide critical support to farmers and ranchers, maintain the integrity of our country’s food supply chain and ensure every American continues to receive and have access to a safe and reliable food source.
Additionally, the USDA announced it has approved Missouri’s request to allow SNAP-eligible households to use their benefits to purchase groceries online. This approval will allow the state to expedite the implementation of online grocery purchasing through currently authorized SNAP retailers. For more information on both of these USDA programs, please visit usda.gov.
University of Missouri Develops Food Finder Tool
Developed by the University of Missouri Extension’s Center for Applied Research and Engagement Systems, the Missouri Food Finder is an online tool that connects Missouri consumers with farmers growing and selling locally produced food. Farmers, growers and local suppliers can enter basic information about their products, their contact information and their hours of operation into the online tool. That information is then uploaded into a map where consumers can enter their location and find local food options in their area. This tool has the potential to help consumers find important local and regional food options, while also giving farmers a new marketplace to sell their crops. For more information on this program, please visit MOFoodFinder.org.
Federal and State Tax Deadlines Extended
The deadlines for federal and state income tax filing have been extended until July 15. For information about federal taxes, please visit www.irs.com. To learn about Missouri taxes, please visit www.dor.mo.gov. Missouri driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations expiring in March or April have been granted a 60-day extension. Purchasers of new vehicles may register their vehicles and apply for a title online. For more information, please visit www.dor.mo.gov.
Many Missourians are starting to receive their Economic Impact Payments through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Most individuals who earn less than $75,000 per year will receive $1,200 from the federal government. The payments are automatic and no further action is necessary if you filed a tax return in 2018 or 2019, or currently receive Social Security benefits. To track the status of your Economic Impact Payment, please visit irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments.
As national and state leaders continue to work to address the impacts of COVID-19, I believe this devastating virus has taken a mental and physical toll on all of us. If you are looking for accurate, up-to-the minute information on the virus, I recommend the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ website at health.mo.gov and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov. If you have any trouble navigating any federal or state COVID-19 relief programs, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. My door is always open to the residents of our community, and my staff and I will do everything possible to ensure you receive the help you need through these programs.
It is an honor to serve you in the Missouri Senate. Please do not hesitate to contact my office at (573) 751-3678 or by email at dave.schatz@senate.mo.gov if you have any questions or concerns — we are honored to serve you.