Senator Mike Bernskoetter

6th Senatorial District

For Immediate Release: 

Feb. 21, 2025

Capitol Building, Room 416

Jefferson City, MO 65101

Contact Kenny Ross: 

 573-751-2076

Senate Bill 104 Heard in Committee

This week the Senate committee on Local Government, Elections and Pensions heard one of the bills I filed for this session, Senate Bill 104. This legislation would authorize the village of Sunrise Beach to put a sales tax increase of .5% on their ballot for public approval. If approved, the money would go towards funding public safety measures. I believe this legislation is an important piece of public policy for two primary reasons. 
 

First, it shows support for local law enforcement and the tough job they do. When law enforcement comes to the people and say they need more resources we should take that request seriously. Their job is dangerous and stressful. It is also crucial to the wellbeing of our communities. I will continue to do all I can to support law enforcement because giving them the help they deserve ensures Missouri remains a safe place for all its residents.

Secondly, this legislation is an example of how I believe a tax increase should be handled. It should be voted on by the people of the affected community. This legislation allows the residents of Sunrise Beach to decide, for themselves, if they want to pay more for goods in order to invest in a safer community. This is a situation where they can see what they are paying for with their tax dollars and make the decision if they would like to see more of their money going to the government to pay for it.

There are ample examples of the wrong ways and reasons to increase taxes. This, in my opinion, is how it should be done. I am hopeful with the hearing of SB 104 that it is on its way to being passed by the General Assembly.

Please feel free to contact my office at 573-751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.