Representative Munzlinger's Capitol Report

It has been another lovely day in paradise. As I write this it is raining again, but it sounds like after this round, it should clear. All sectors of agriculture as well as others need some sunshine. It is hard for farmers to get their crops out and it is hard on livestock to fight all the mud. If farmers are able to get in the fields, they will also be on the roads, so I encourage everyone to be extra careful as they drive. Remember also that deer will be on the move as harvest progresses.

I have asked MoDOT to grant an emergency declaration allowing a waiver for hours of service and to grant a 10 percent overweight waiver for the remainder of this harvest season. Right now a farmer doesn't want to worry whether or not he should hold ten bushels of corn or beans in the combine to wait for the next truck. The harvest windows that we have been getting have been short and the quality of the crop is rapidly deteriorating. I did this request to help speed up a short harvest time.

I learned this week that Kenneth Morris, a former Lewis Countian, was able to fly to Washington, D.C. as part of the Honor Flight Program. This program flies veterans to our nation's capitol to view their memorials and visit with other veterans. Mr. Morris served in WWII in the Army. Our veterans are a vital part of America's heritage and history.

It doesn't seem like Christmas should be so close, but if you want to send a care package to a soldier overseas, the postage deadline is fast approaching. You need to check with your local post office for the dates. Please keep those soldiers and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

Governors across the country, from both parties, are expressing grave concern with the federal push for government-controlled health care. We are in one of the worst economic recessions that our country has ever seen. This is not the time to implement such an expensive program. It would burden our taxpayers while they are struggling at home to pay their bills and provide for their families.

With that I share a quote from Thomas Jefferson, "I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them."

Congratulations to Schuyler County Ministerial Alliance and Lewis County. Schuyler County Ministerial Alliance has been approved for tax credits from the Neighborhood Assistance Program. Schuyler County Ministerial Alliance will conduct a capital campaign for the construction of a new facility to house the Food Pantry and Clothing Nook. Lewis County has been approved for the Enhanced Enterprise Zone Program. This will allow Lewis County to continue to move forward in its economic development efforts.

As always, you can feel free to contact me for any reason. I can be reached at (573) 751-7985 or at brian.munzlinger@house.mo.gov.