Joplin-area representatives defended their votes for HB 808, which would have set up so-called tuition tax credits for students in failing St. Louis schools. The bill was defeated earlier this week by a 96-62 vote"
Among the quotes:
Steve Hunter, R-Joplin- "What this bill would do would be to help kids who would otherwise end up in prison or go on welfare," said Hunter with his voice raising at times. "It is time to help them out. I am proud to have voted for this bill and I would do it again."
Ed Emery, R-Lamar- "It would have added $40 million to education and increased parental involvement," he said.
Ron Richard, R-Joplin- "Morally, I think it was the thing to do," said Richard. "We need to do this regardless of race. Financially, this will help families with the cost of private education."
Marilyn Ruestman, R-Joplin- "These are schools are kids are trapped and can't get out," continued Ruestman. "We need to take care of our schools, which is all of our schools. My duty is to help these kids. This issue will be back and I will vote for it again."
Buzz Ball's article in the Neosho Daily News also quotes Rep. Kevin Wilson, R-Neosho, the only Joplin-area representative to vote against the measure:
Wilson, in explaining his vote against the measure said taking some kids out of failing schools and leaving other kids in to fail is not the answer.
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