VOTE411 Voter Guide

Candidate has not yet responded.

Candidate has not yet responded.

Fully funded public education anchors and strengthens our communities. When schools are not given the money promised them by the state constitution, cuts have to be made, people lose their jobs, children suffer as programs are cut. Possibly leading to consolidation of school districts, which again hurt communities, the people and the students. Healthcare is a major concern, both in accessibility and affordability. Almost half of the rural hospitals are at risk of closure. Nearly all of Senate District 12 counties are considered maternal care deserts. Excessive travel in order to obtain necessary help can and does jeopardize positive outcomes. The cost of living for many is rising and is a challenge for most families and those on fixed incomes. The current legislature is focused on saving money for the ultra wealthy at the expense of the rest of Missourians. The elimination of the capital gains tax ,the desire to eliminate state income tax, place undue burden on the majority.

Fully funding Public Education as is promised by the Missouri Constitution is my top priority. One avenue to pursue is the elimination of private school vouchers, which is contrary to the State Constitution. Another is to make certain that fully funding public education becomes a top priority before other items on the budget agenda are considered for funding. Another way to make the funding stretch is to eliminate unnecessary red tape for school districts which can cut into their annual budgets. Reinstating capital gains would generate much needed income for the General Revenue Budget.