Monday, December 07, 2009

Ruestman: Remember our troops


In her latest capitol report, Rep. Marilyn Ruestman R-Joplin, offers some thoughts about our troops and about the upcoming legislative session:

As I begin writing this week’s report I am reminded that today (Monday) is the 68th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The shock of this bombing stunned the nation as we lost 2400 fellow citizens with 1200 more wounded. As we reflect back on this dark day in our history, I encourage everyone to remember our World War II and other veterans for their great sacrifice to our nation.

During this holiday season, please remember those currently serving away from their families and those preparing to deploy. I cannot help but think of the 13 victims of the Ft. Hood shooting and their families who will spend their first Christmas without their loved one. Keep them and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

Christmastime always means a new session is quickly approaching. We are busy preparing to move our district office back to the Capitol, and I am beginning to look toward the major issues facing our state.

Once again I will be taking a close look at legislation being sponsored by my colleagues. The budget will remain at the top of our priority list this year. Job creation statewide must rebound. State sovereignty is also a chief concern because of current federal actions.

2010 will find me continuing to work on property tax reform and a tax credit for volunteer firefighters. My office has been approached by constituents regarding sales tax at farmers’ markets and we plan to follow up the results at the Division of Family Services regarding placement of children with grandparents. Our investigation will continue as we determine why our foster care home placements remain so high in the state of Missouri.

Session begins January 6th, 2010. We invite you to make plans to visit us in Jefferson City. It is always a pleasure to visit with fellow common-sense Southwest Missourians.

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