Capitol Report

Had the distinct honor to introduce to the General Assembly the 5th through 8th grade students, parents and faculty from St. Joseph Catholic School.

In addition to their introduction, I was happy to acknowledge four graduates from St Joe that now work here at the State Capitol – Brad Green, Justin Arnold, John Burcham and Joe Engler.

I am happy to say that HB 1443 has passed the House and is on its way to the Senate. This bill changes the law regarding the use of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This past year, over $19 million was taken out as cash and then used for any purchase of their choice. House Bill 1443 prohibits EBT cards from being used at ATMs or to access cash, and limits the items that may be purchased with TANF benefits. We need to be better stewards of taxpayer’s money and this bill is a start to help eliminate the fraud associated with these cards.

House will be back in Session on Monday, March 26 and will be focusing our efforts on the state operating budget as well as tax relief legislation. Lawmakers have a deadline of May 11 to complete the state operating budget. You can see budget facts at MO House Budget.

Kevin Engler

This report was filed March 16, 2018