Governor Parson, along with Senator Fitzwater and Reps. Perkins and Doyle hosting Ruby in the Governor’s Office

Ruby Leigh Comes to the Capitol
Ruby Leigh, who was the runner-up on this season of “The Voice”, came to the Capitol today to be introduced on the House and Senate Floors and meet with the governor. Representative Perkins had the privilege of welcoming the talented singer before his colleagues in the House, where she received a warm reception. Members expressed their admiration for the musician and excitement that she was visiting their state capital. During her day touring the Capitol and meeting legislators, Ruby Leigh radiated kindness and gratitude. It was an honor for Rep. Perkins to host the rising star and spend time learning more about how her experiences on “The Voice” have shaped her promising career.

HB 1769 Sponsored by Rep. Perkins Clears First Hurdle
The Firefighters Procedural Bill of Rights cleared its first legislative hurdle on Thursday when it was voted out of the Committee on Public Safety. Upon passage Perkins said, “This is the first step in a long process. I look forward to being a vocal advocate for this important legislation every step of the way until it reaches the governor’s desk.”

Elections Committee Hears More Initiative Petition Proposals
The House Committee on Elections and Elected Officials in Missouri, one week after hearing proposed changes to citizen-led initiative petitions, recently discussed three more bills aiming to modify the process of adopting Constitutional amendments. These bills seek to raise the standards for majority votes, requiring approval in both legislative districts and statewide votes, while one bill proposes increasing the threshold from a simple majority. The goal is to improve the process of citizen-initiated ballot measures by increasing transparency, improving accountability, creating stricter deadlines and rules to ensure verified, legal signatures, and curb outside influence from special interest groups.

Improving Rural Economic Development
The House Committee on Rural Community Development recently considered two bills aimed at enhancing rural economic development in Missouri. This endeavor is vital for rejuvenating and sustaining rural communities, tackling demographic challenges, fostering job creation, diversifying the economy, and enhancing overall quality of life.
HB 2170 introduces the “Missouri Rural Access to Capital Act,” promoting economic development by offering tax credits to investors making capital investments in rural funds. The credits start at zero percent for the first two years and rise to 15% for the subsequent four years, with an annual cap of $16 million. Rural funds must undergo an approval process, adhere to investment criteria, and could face credit recapture for non-compliance. Eligible businesses must meet specific criteria, and rural funds are required to submit annual reports. The program sunsets on August 28, 2030.

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