The Three Important Issues Ignored by the Legislature: Jobs, Jobs and Jobs

What got done

The federal extension of unemployment benefits, which I have , did get passed, albeit after a Senate filibuster. Huge cuts to state education were averted this session; however, schools are still approaching a crisis next year after the federal stabilization dollars phase out.

A prescription drug benefit for low-income senior citizens and the disabled was reauthorized until 2014. If this had not happened, more than 220,000 Missourians would not be able to pay for their prescriptions.

A compromise was reached between the Gov. Nixon and advocates for Proposition B, the anti-puppy mill issue. Proposition B passed last November and would have toughened laws against dog breeders in Missouri. A weakened version was signed into law.

What did not get done

On the side of common sense, the English-only drivers license bill failed this year, however, look for it to resurface next year. Likewise, legislation to allow a second nuclear reactor in Callaway County did not make it through the legislative process, although I am sure this will make a comeback next year and might just pass. This issue is an interesting one, putting green energy advocates on both sides of the issue along with job creation and consumer protection mixed in.

For all the press about returning local control to the City of St. Louis Police Department, that initiative fizzled out as well. This issue returns every legislative session, so you are sure to hear more about this and how the pension concerns with the legislation may or may not have been overcome.

Largely disappointing, however, is the lack of progress on the China Hub Project, also known as Aerotropolis. This initiative would grant tax incentives to companies who locate warehousing, centralized operational support and international trade centers in and around Lambert St. Louis International Airport. Not only would this project create short-term jobs, but it would also put St. Louis at the forefront of international trade.

What never made the list

In my opinion, what we need most for our state and nation is job creation and economic development. The China Hub would have been a good start, however, Missouri needs the tools to be more competitive to attract jobs from other states. We also need to be able to attract international investment, and transition our workforce for jobs that are in demand, like the green economy.  

We also need to know how our local schools will be affected by the court decision that opens up unaccredited school district students to attend any school district in an adjoining county. This will affect all schools in South County and could have unintended consequences for all students.

Ending term limits for state legislators was also not on the radar this session. I believe that solutions to our state’s problems should be brought forth by elected officials with experience, not short-timers who have just learned the process. Our toughest public policy challenges are not going to be solved with fast and easy fixes. 

Why we should care

This is just a partial list of legislation for this year. Many of these issues affect South County and its future for years to come. There are so many other bills and good ideas out there that do not get to see the light of day. Ultimately, everything state government does affects us in some way, maybe not now, but in the future.

I am more worried about what our state government does not do. The role of government is to help the neediest of our citizens. Without a more comprehensive approach to public policy, I am afraid more of us will be in need of help.