This week the Missouri Senate took up the issue of Right to Farm.  This constitutional amendment came about because of recent events involving urban sprawl and out of state interests attempting to interfere with Missouri livestock production.  As fewer people are involved in production agriculture, it is becoming increasingly difficult to operate a farm or ranch.  Today less than two percent of our population provides the necessary food and fiber for the other ninety-eight percent.  Increased regulations and new neighbors moving to the country from urban areas constantly present new challenges for today’s farmers and ranchers.  This legislation is intended to protect agricultural operations ranging from the very small to the very large.

The Senate Appropriations Committee is now meeting at least twice a day as the final stages of the state budget are underway.  There was a standing room only crowd when the Department of Revenue testified in front of the committee.  The department has come under fire recently as accusations of turning over sensitive information to third parties, including the federal government have arisen.  Officials from Department of Revenue have repeatedly denied this is happening, but doubts linger as new information continues to surface.  Adding to the issue is the revelation that the Missouri Highway Patrol may also be involved in retaining and turning over information to a federal agency, especially related to holders of Conceal and Carry permits. 

Acting quickly, in response to the actions of the Department of Revenue, the Senate gave first round approval to a bill that would prohibit the retention and scanning of these documents.  It also requires the department to destroy any records they have retained after September 1, 2012.  A final vote is expected next week to approve the bill and send it to the House for its consideration.

Visitors to the office this week include Tisha Clawson, Velynda Cameron, Justin Viles, Whitney Skopec, Karissa McAtee, Will LeJune, Taylor Moore, Sadie Schaffer, Sarah Glidewell, Ken & Becky Legan, Don Woods, and Mike Stephens, all from Polk County; Sheriff Wayne Merritt, John Self, Gib Adkins, Chris Heard, Sherry Headley, Bruce Meckem, Danny & Nancy Rhoades, Lyle Anderson, Lisa Rabe, and People First, all from Laclede County; Sara Towry, Corey Edwards, Teri Anglen, Mary Hitchings, and Kelsey Doty, all from Dallas County; Marsha Boeschen, Brett Barth-Fagan, Russ Johnson, R.J. Lindstrom, David Furnell, and Mat Melville, all from Pettis County; Agape School, Travis Cameron, Darrin Griffin, and Dayton Robison, all from Cedar County; Debbie Dieckman from Benton County; and Dr. Patrick McShane and James & Billie Allen.