JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri’s chief executive this week signed into law the special session bill, promoted workforce development and infrastructure, and visited several educational centers across the state.
Gov. Mike Parson visited Jasper, Johnson, and Newton counties to tour bridges — all more than 50 years old — in need of repair. Since taking office, he has made infrastructure one of his top priorities.
We’ve made great progress toward improving Missouri’s bridge infrastructure in recent months, & we will continue to focus on addressing these transportation needs to ensure we have the framework for future access & expansion. #MissouriForward
— Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) September 24, 2019
This week, Parson also traveled to a variety of educational institutes to promote workforce development — the other hallmark of his administration.
At State Fair Community College, he talked with students, administrators, and workforce partners about the Fast Track program. At Crowder College, he toured the Maddox Hill Behavioral Support Center, which provides resources for children with autism, developmental disabilities, or behavioral challenges. At Neosho Middle School, he attended the opening of the DON’T QUIT! Fitness Center.
TY to @BodyByJake, @GovParsonMO & @natgovfit for helping celebrate the Foundation’s $100,000 “Don’t Quit” fitness center GIFT at @NeoshoMiddle. The fitness room is amazing. TY for your commitment to students & their healthy lifestyles. Well done @CharityWRocks & staff! #NeoshoSD pic.twitter.com/SPXoGlxUAD
— Dr. Jim Cummins (@Neosho_Supt) September 25, 2019
On Wednesday, Parson signed HB 1, which allows the sales proceeds of more than one vehicle to be used as a credit against the sales tax owed on the purchase of a new vehicle. The bill was the result of a special session.
“We’re thankful for the overwhelming bipartisan support of the legislature to address and correct this issue,” Parson said in a statement. “Our administration will always do what is right for the hardworking people of our state, and at the end of the day, that’s what this was all about.”
He also critized reports estimating the cost of special session at $71,000. Parson noted veto session cost approximately $44,000, and the concurrent special session cost approximately $42,000.
Alisha Shurr was a reporter for The Missouri Times and The Missouri Times Magazine. She joined The Missouri Times in January 2018 after working as a copy editor for her hometown newspaper in Southern Oregon. Alisha is a graduate of Kansas State University.