from State Representative Ron Copeland
Since the state legislature adjourned on May 15th, I’ve enjoyed spending more time at home with my family, as well as the opportunities to meet with constituents all throughout Missouri’s 143rd house district. This week, I toured Eminence Manufacturing, Inc. with Congressman Jason Smith. Mike Ennius, the owner, was a gracious host. His business does great things for the community! I also stopped by Carr’s canoe rental, Smitty’s Hatchet House, and the Riverside Motel – all fantastic, locally owned small business in Eminence.
I’m also preparing for the possibility of a special session in the next few months. One of the issues left on the table from the 2021 legislative session is the renewal of a tax on hospitals, nursing homes, and pharmacies that accounts for more than $2 billion in funding for Missouri’s Medicaid program. Now, as the governor contemplates calling a special session to address the issue, members from both chambers are asking him to include strong pro-life provisions in any bill considered by the legislature. I’m hopeful that we can work out a compromise that allows us to continue funding essential state service, while ensuring that Washington DC will never force Missouri taxpayers to fund abortions in our state.
Other lawmakers have requested a special session to prohibit the teaching of critical race theory in Missouri’s schools. During our regular session, I supported language that would keep this divisive, anti-American propaganda out of our schools. I’d be happy to tackle this issue in a special session.
Even though our regular legislative session has come to a close, my capital office is still open. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, concerns, or feedback. My office phone number is 573-751-2264, and my email address is Ron.Copeland@house.mo.gov.
