Ezra Bitterman

3 weeks ago | stltoday.com | Ezra Bitterman

JEFFERSON CITY — Politics can be cruel. Last month, at an event celebrating a new medical research reactor at the University of Missouri, state House Budget Chair Dirk Deaton, R-Seneca, was honored for his work in helping fund the project. Then, unexpectedly, Deaton killed the budget bill with the state’s construction projects, thus pulling the $50 million appropriated for MU’s new research reactor.

1 month ago | stltoday.com | Ezra Bitterman

JEFFERSON CITY — The Missouri House on Thursday sent legislation allowing homeschooled kids to play in public school sports to the governor’s desk for his consideration. Under the bill, any homeschooled student could participate in public school activities like bands or sports as long as they complete any required tryouts. Students would not have to take any classes or pay extra costs to be involved in the program.

1 month ago | stltoday.com | Ezra Bitterman

JEFFERSON CITY — The Missouri Legislature this week sent Gov. Mike Kehoe a long-awaited update to an ailing tax credit for Missouri seniors. The Missouri Property Tax Credit — nicknamed the “circuit breaker” — provides as much as a $1,100 benefit for homeowners and $750 for renters, but only those over 65 or disabled with very low incomes can qualify. For example, a married couple filing jointly must have household income of $34,000 or less to take advantage of the credit.

1 month ago | stltoday.com | Ezra Bitterman

JEFFERSON CITY — Democrats in the Missouri Senate are blocking legislation Tuesday that would prevent state law enforcement agencies from enforcing federal gun control measures. The proposed Second Amendment Preservation Act would prevent state law enforcement from enforcing any federal law to “collect data or restrict or prohibit the manufacture, ownership, or use of firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition,” the bill reads.

1 month ago | stltoday.com | Ezra Bitterman

JEFFERSON CITY — Gamesmanship over a Republican push to roll back a minimum wage measure approved by voters is starting to seep into even bipartisan legislation as lawmakers prepare to adjourn at the end of next week. Over the last few weeks Senate Democrats have repeatedly blocked consideration of a proposal to undo the new paid sick leave requirement voters approved under Proposition A in November.