Rupp: Focusing on Job Creation in Missouri

Now that we’ve passed the mid-point of session, our focus is on passing valuable bills that would establish a climate that spurs economic development and creates jobs for countless Missourians. Unemployment is still an issue in our state, with more than 225,000 people without work. To have a rewarding job that allows one to provide for his or her family should be attainable for everyone, and I want Missourians to be excited to work and raise their families in our state.

The Missouri Senate has passed numerous bills that address important economic priorities, including SB 572, which would have helped protect co-employees from personal lawsuits regarding their role in honest accidents in the workplace. By ending lawsuit abuses and relieving the need for additional insurance to cover honest workplace accidents, Missouri businesses could have the opportunity to expand and prosper.

However, last week Gov. Jay Nixon vetoed this legislation, as well as another measure in the House (HB 1219) that supported jobs in our state. Passing measures such as these is a duty that my colleagues and I take very seriously.

Everyday, I strive to do what’s right for our state, because the decisions we make today will make a big difference in the lives of future generations. All Missouri businesses—large and small—deserve the chance to succeed, with as few “big government” intrusions as possible. Missourians should have jobs that make them happy to go to work. We have the votes to override the governor in the Senate; however, the House will have more difficulty gaining the two-thirds majority of votes needed to override the governor’s veto.

As session continues, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1282 if you have any concerns regarding matters in our community or issues pertaining to state government. It is always my pleasure to serve you. Thank you and God bless.