STATE REPRESENTATIVE JASON GRILL

2009 Legislative Survey Results

2009-05-22T17:47:00.000-04:00

1. Do you support revisions to Missouri’s personal income tax code that would result in fewer brackets?

Yes 74.9% No 10.2% No Opinion 10.5% Blank 4.4%

2. Do you support changes that would make it easier for new alternative energy projects, such as wind farms and hydroelectric plants, to be constructed in the state?

Yes 80.7% No 13.3% No Opinion 3.4% Blank 2.7%

3. Do you support repealing the 1976 law so that utilities may increase customer rates to pay for new power plants while they are under construction?

Yes 19.1% No 72.0% No Opinion 6.3% Blank 2.6%

4. Should the legislature reinstate campaign contribution limits?

Yes 87.1% No 8.4% No Opinion 2.4% Blank 2.2%

5. Should Missouri implement some form of early voting?

Yes 65.5% No 28.1% No Opinion 4.0% Blank 2.4%

6. Should Missouri do away with term limits?

Yes 19.7% No 73.0% No Opinion 4.7% Blank 2.6%

7. Should Missouri law require Plan B to be available only by prescription?

Yes 35.8% No 56.1% No Opinion 5.2% Blank 3.0%

8. Do you consider yourself pro-life or pro-choice?

Pro-life 38.6% Pro-choice 52.4% Blank 9%

9. Should the penalty for assaulting a sport’s official/coach be increased?

Yes 65.9% No 15.6% No Opinion 15.6% Blank 2.9%

10. Should sports wagering be legalized in the State of Missouri?

Yes 45.8% No 42.4% No Opinion 8.6% Blank 3.2%

11. Should restaurants with more than 15 locations nationwide (Chains) be required to post calorie information next to the price on menus and menu boards?

Yes 50.6% No 38.1% No Opinion 10.0% Blank 1.4%

12. Should local school districts be required to integrate a minimum of 90 minutes of physical activity per week into the school day for elementary and secondary school students?

Yes 83.5% No 11.9% No Opinion 3.5% Blank 1.1%

13. Should people or entities that own or use personal information be required to disclose a breach of security to any resident whose information was wrongly acquired?

Yes 94.8% No 1.2% No Opinion 2.3% Blank 1.7%

14. Do you approve or disapprove of the job Representative Jason Grill is doing?

Approve 55.7% Somewhat Approve 22.5% Somewhat Disapprove 5.0%
Disapprove 2.4% Blank 14.4%

15. Do you approve or disapprove of the job Mayor Mark Funkhouser is doing in Kansas City?

Approve 11.2% Somewhat Approve 19.8% Somewhat Disapprove 25.3%
Disapprove 31.6% Blank 12.0%

16. In your opinion, the state economy is………………….

Improving rapidly 0.3% Slowly on the rise 18.6%
Staying the same 26.4% Getting worse 44.3%
Blank 10.4%

17. Which political party do you tend to identify or affiliate yourself with the most?

Democrat 30.9% Republican 29.1%
Other 13.6% Blank 26.4

House Crime Prevention Committee Considers Rep. Grill's Legislation to Protect Sports Officials

2009-04-10T15:22:00.001-04:00

An increase in violence towards sports officials has prompted Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, to propose legislation that would ensure the safety of such officials during sporting events. The House Crime Prevention Committee heard testimony this week on HB 754 which calls for tougher penalties for unruly sports fans found guilty of attempting to cause bodily harm to officials during sporting events.

“Increasing the penalty to a class A misdemeanor will ensure that officials can do their job fairly without fear of physical retribution from disgruntled fans,” said Grill. “There are already many precautions taken to protect athletes on the field. It is time that we start doing more to protect Missouri’s officials.”

Many witnesses came to the hearing in support of the bill including the Missouri State High School Activities Association, Central Missouri Soccer Referees Association, Mid Missouri Umpires Association, and several other longtime sports officials. Representative Steve Hodges, D- East Prairie, a sports official, also testified in support of the bill.

The bill will now need to voted on in executive session to be allowed for debate on the House floor.

House Ways and Means Committee Approves Rep. Grill's Film Tax Credit Legislation

2009-04-10T15:00:00.001-04:00

Members of the House Ways and Means Committee this week approved legislation sponsored by Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, that would increase the amount of tax credits offered to entice film production projects to locate in Missouri. The committee approved Rep Grill’s legislation (House Bill 767) by a vote of 9-1 during a public hearing held Thursday, April 9.

Rep. Grill’s bill would increase the cap on tax credits for qualified film production projects from $4.5 million to $10 million per year. Rep. Grill said his goal is to attract more motion picture productions to Missouri, which would create new jobs, increase revenue and further the state’s economic development efforts. During the hearing for the bill, several individuals testified in favor of increasing the tax credit caps including: Lorah Steiner, President of the Missouri Motion Media Association; Ray McCarty, President of Associated Industries of Missouri; Kyna Iman of Missouri Citizens for the Arts; and Geno Hart, Executive Manager with Paramount Pictures. No opposition to the legislation was voiced.

“Missouri’s film industry represents a great deal of untapped potential in regard to the amount of additional economic development that is possible for our state. By expanding the tax credits we offer, we can realize much of that potential by bringing in more and more job-producing film projects,” said Rep. Grill. “I want to thank the members of the House Ways and Means Committee for giving this bill full consideration and approving it. I look forward to the House Rules Committee moving quickly to send the bill to the House floor where I am confident it will receive strong support from both parties.”

Rep. Grill’s legislation now heads to the House Rules Committee where it must be approved before moving to the House floor for debate.

Rep. Grill's Proposed Legislation on Film Tax Credits Drawing Attention

2009-04-02T07:59:00.000-04:00

"St Louis Rolls the (tax) credits"
Efforts under way to boost Missouri’s film tax credit from $4.5 million to $10 million
St. Louis Business Journal - by Lisa R. Brown

The tax incentive used to lure George Clooney’s movie to St. Louis almost didn’t happen.
Last fall, the $4.5 million in state tax credits to help pay production costs of Paramount Pictures’ “Up In The Air” got caught in the shuffle of transitioning governors. Outgoing Gov. Matt Blunt wouldn’t sign off on tax credits, leaving the approval to incoming Gov. Jay Nixon, who was not yet sworn in.

Time was running short, and the film’s producers and Director Jason Reitman were close to moving the bulk of the filming to Michigan, which has an unlimited amount of tax credits available for film production. Reitman, who directed the Oscar-winning “Juno,” came to St. Louis with a team of producers the week of the vice presidential debate in early October. By November, Reitman’s team, including St. Louis native Michael Beugg as executive producer, had settled on the St. Louis area as a primary location to film portions of the movie, in which Clooney portrays a businessman on a mission to accumulate a million frequent-flier miles. Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, with thousands of square feet of empty space after cutbacks by American Airlines, was viewed as a natural fit for the airport scenes.

“I told (Missouri Film Commission Director) Jerry Jones, they’re going to Michigan. We’re going to miss this,” recounted Kim Tucci, former chairman of the commission. Tucci also heads the St. Louis Film Office and is a St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission board member and co-owner of the Pasta House restaurant chain.

Beugg, whose producing credits include “Little Miss Sunshine” and “He’s Just Not That Into You,” said his St. Louis ties were not a factor in choosing to film here. Beugg was born in St. Louis and graduated from St. Louis University High School in 1981. “The tax credits were the No. 1 reason,” he said.

Beugg was a line producer on the 1988 film “The Big Brass Ring,” which also was shot in St. Louis. “If the tax credits were not approved, it’s certain we would have gone to another state that has tax credits for ‘Up in The Air.’”

But St. Louis got its happy ending. The state gave its approval at the 11th hour, and “Up in The Air” garnered the highest amount of tax credits ever given in the 10-year history of Missouri’s film tax-credit program — $4.5 million, the total amount available for 2009.
By Tucci’s estimate, the $30 million production of “Up in The Air” will have an economic impact of at least $50 million on the St. Louis region, generating 500 jobs in St. Louis and translating into 6,000 local hotel room nights. The film is building 50 sets in the St. Louis area, including at Lambert, Affton High School and dozens of other sites throughout the region. Beugg said two-thirds of the film’s crew, or 88 people, are Missouri residents working full time.

Boosting the credit
To help build the state’s viability for attracting more film production, a new effort is under way to more than double the amount of available tax credits. Missouri Rep. Jason Grill (D-Kansas City) has introduced House Bill 767 to expand the state tax credit to $10 million for 2010. The bill does not yet have a hearing date.

Grill said he’s convinced that boosting funding for movie production in Missouri is a sure-fire job creator. On March 20, Grill, an attorney and Saint Louis University alumnus, traveled to St. Louis to appear as an extra in “Up in The Air.”

“I think it’s so important for job creation and our economy,” Grill said of the tax credit bill. “There are many other states that have uncapped tax credits for film production, including Iowa, Illinois and Louisiana. We have to remain competitive with other states around us.”
Missouri is one of three dozen states that have some form of tax credits available for film production, but getting the measure passed by the state Legislature will take a Herculean effort, as tax credits are under fire. When Nixon was elected governor last fall, he ordered a review of all tax credits in the face of a $261 million dollar budget shortfall. Legislators in recent weeks have taken aim at some tax credits, calling for caps and sunsets on some, such as Missouri’s tax credit for renovations to residential and commercial historic properties.

In Wisconsin, Gov. Jim Doyle is pushing to end that state’s existing film tax-credit program — which provides a 25 percent tax credit on film production costs and a 15 percent tax credit for infrastructure costs for production — and replace it with a $1 million grant program. Missouri’s film tax credit provides a 35 percent tax credit for film production costs.

“Tax credits are under siege right now, but this is a good tax credit that works, and there’s data to support it,” Grill said.

The Missouri Film Commission’s Jones said he’s bracing for a battle. “Obviously, we would like to have the increase, but in these times with the view on tax credits, I don’t know what’s going to happen,” he said. Jones organized a lobbying day in Jefferson City on March 31 for supporters of HB 767 to talk to legislators about getting a hearing set for the bill.

Boosting funds available for the tax credits does have some bipartisan support — Rep. Mike Sutherland, (R-Warrenton), a member of the Missouri Film Commission, said he’s backing the increase. The commission must approve all films and commercials that receive the tax credits, which also must be approved by the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “The tax credit doesn’t get used unless the dollars are spent,” Sutherland said. “We’re bringing a lot of money from outside the state inside the state.”

St. Louis is nothing short of star-struck with George Clooney’s film “Up in the Air.” Backers of the film-production tax credit said the buzz around the movie should help drum up support for increasing it.

Dennis Fallon, a Kansas City-based director and producer, is backing an increase in the state’s film tax credit. With “Up in The Air” taking the entire $4.5 million available in tax credit authority for 2009, Fallon said he’ll have to choose an out-of-state location for his next movie if the tax credits aren’t available.

Fallon’s Waldo West Productions received $285,784 through the state tax credit program in 2006 to help fund “Even More than Puppy Love,” a family feature shot in the Kansas City area. Fallon has directed or produced four films in Missouri, most recently, “All Roads Lead Home.”

“It’s almost impossible to produce a film without incentives,” Fallon said. “When we produce a film, we do everything in Missouri, from pre-production, to production and post-production. All that money goes back into Missouri.” Fallon said based on the success of “All Roads Lead Home,” which is now available on DVD, he has a deal in the works on the first of a three-film family series. “If I have this film in place and there’s no tax credits in Missouri, I’m not stopping my film. I’ll go somewhere else, and I don’t want to do that.”
Kim Tucci, former chairman of the Missouri Film Commission, said landing “Up in the Air” is a positive step for the local movie industry because it lets other filmmakers see the viability of producing a movie here, and it helps build a skilled support staff base. “It’s a good test for St. Louis to show how film-friendly it is here,” Tucci said. His wife, Sharon Tucci, heads St. Louis-based talent agency TalentPlus, which is supplying “Up In The Air” with actors. Sharon Tucci also is a board member of Missouri Motion Media Association, which lobbies state officials to provide funding to bring additional movies to Missouri.

St. Louis has served as a backdrop for dozens of films, from “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” in 1987 to “King of the Hill” in 1993. Recent large-scale movie productions shot in St. Louis include “Meet Bill,” starring Jessica Alba, in 2006, and “The Game of Their Lives” in 2003.

Not all of the movies filmed in St. Louis that have received state tax credits have been hits or even widely released. In 2008, 11 productions shared in the $4.5 million in available tax credit authority, including a Harley-Davidson commercial that received $53,900 in tax credits.

But Kim Tucci said it doesn’t matter whether the film ultimately is a critical success or a flop. What matters, he said, is the production dollars spent while filming. “I don’t care if it’s spent in Kansas City, Springfield or Branson, the bottom line is how much money they spend while they’re here.”

Rep. Grill named ranking member of Financial Institutions panel

2009-02-18T13:06:00.000-05:00

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – House Minority Floor Leader Paul Levota, D-Independence, has appointed state Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, as the ranking Democratic member of the House Financial Institutions Committee. In the role of ranking member, Grill will coordinate and oversee the activities of the other Democrats on the panel.

“This is an important committee, especially given the financial situation of the state and country,” Grill said. “As the ranking Democrat, I will promote stronger consumer protections and a crackdown on unscrupulous lending practices that have pushed many Missourians to the brink of foreclosure and beyond.

The Financial Institutions Committee handles all legislation relating to banks, credit unions, savings and loans, and other financial institutions.

Rep. Jason Grill Advocates for Calorie Information on Restaurant Menus

2009-02-17T20:26:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, this week filed House Bill 755 which would require food service establishments that are one of a group of 15 or more doing business nationally to display calorie information to consumers on menu boards. The caloric information will be required to be located alongside prices and similar in size. Rep. Grill indicated the bill is similar to code implemented in New York City, which was the first U.S. city to establish such a regulation to fight obesity and promote healthy eating habits. Other cities including Portland, Seattle, and Philadelphia have all passed similar legislation. So far, California is the only state to pass a similar measure, but legislation is moving in Indiana on this issue.

The bill will require that caloric information be available to consumers to encourage them to select lower-calorie meals, which will lead to a lower incidence of obesity. It is an additional step that will ensure customers have accurate nutritional information about the health content of food they consume. Studies have shown that customers of restaurants often underestimate the calorie content of meals.

“We know we must do everything we can to promote healthy lifestyles. That includes everything from providing citizens with adequate nutritional information to ensuring children engage in regular physical activity each week. The bill I have sponsored will give our state a solid start towards allowing access to important nutritional information to help our citizen’s health and well-being,” said Rep. Grill.

Rep. Jason Grill Introduces Consumer Protection Legislative Package

2009-02-17T20:24:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, this week introduced three pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening Missouri’s consumer protection laws. The bills are part of a larger pack of legislation sponsored by Rep. Grill covering issues ranging from health care to tax reform.

One piece of legislation introduced by Rep. Grill would require any person or entity that owns or uses personal information concerning a Missouri resident in any form to disclose a breach of security to any resident whose personal information was wrongfully acquired. The legislation established provisions for the prevention and protection from security breaches.

A second piece of legislation sponsored by Rep. Grill would require any business that conducts business or maintains personal information of residents in Missouri to take all reasonable measures to protect against the unauthorized access to or use of the information.

“The rate of identity theft has risen at an alarming rate and our state has lagged behind in addressing this serious security risk. There are 44 states who have already taken action to enact security breach laws. It is time for us to move forward on this issue and provide Missourians with the protections they need,” said Rep. Grill.

The final piece of legislation introduced by Rep. Grill would establish the Wireless Telephone Consumer Protection Act to protect consumers in their dealings with commercial service providers. The bill includes requirements that a wireless carrier provide a coverage map at the time of sale, make price and fee disclosures at the time of sale, and clearly disclose in writing to the customer at the time of sale whether a price is guaranteed for the term of the contract and if there are any early termination fees.

“It’s important that Missourians know what they are paying for and that they receive the services they are due. The Wireless Telephone Consumer Protection Act is a simple but powerful tool to ensure wireless phone users are not charged hidden fees or provided with service different from what was promised,” said Rep. Grill.

Rep. Jason Grill Sponsors Legislation to Ensure Fairness and Accessibility in Missouri’s Elections Process

2009-02-17T20:22:00.002-05:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently introduced two pieces of legislation with the goal of ensuring the election process in Missouri is fair and easily accessible for Missouri voters. The bills are part of a larger package of legislation sponsored by Rep. Grill covering issues ranging from consumer protection to tax reform.

One piece of legislation, House Bill 771, filed by Rep. Grill would establish one-stop voting sites that allow a person to register and vote at the same time. Under the legislation, an applicant would have to fill out a voter registration application form and provide proof of residency. An applicant would vote by absentee ballot or vote on the ballot provided at the polling place if registering to vote on the day of the election. In addition, a person could choose not to vote immediately. In that case, the registration would be processed and the person could vote at a one-stop voting site or at the person's correct polling place in the same election.

“There has been an emphasis on improving voter turnout but we continue to see too few people come out to participate in the process. One-stop voting is something that has been used with success by several other states,” said Rep. Grill. “By making it easy to register and vote even on the day of the election, we can ensure more voices are heard and the will of the people is served.”

Another piece of legislation, House Bill 772, sponsored by Rep. Grill would establish procedures for listing candidates for statewide office, state senator, and state representative in random orders on the election ballot. Rep. Grill said the purpose of the bill was to ensure no candidate is given an unfair advantage by being listed first, last, or in the middle of their respective election on the ballot.

“Under this system, we would have ballots printed with an equal number listing each candidate’s name first. With this, no individual has the advantage of being listed first on each ballot simply because of different circumstances,” said Rep. Grill. “Both of these changes are common sense approaches to making our elections process even better.”

Both bills now await assignment to committee for further discussion.

Rep. Jason Grill Outlines Legislative Package Aimed at Improving Missouri’s System of Education

2009-02-17T20:22:00.001-05:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently introduced several education-based pieces of legislation for the 2009 legislative session. The three education bills are part of an aggressive package of legislation filed by Rep. Grill covering issues ranging from job creation to tax reform.

One piece of legislation would establish the “Missouri Books from Birth Program.” Under the program, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, along with a nonprofit partner, would develop a statewide program to distribute a book each month to children in Missouri from birth to age five. Rep. Grill indicated the bill was similar to one passed in Tennessee and would be an important step toward giving children an educational head start.

“The Books from Birth Program is a great way to promote literacy and a love of reading to children at a very early age that will not only prepare them to meet future academic challenges but also to become productive members of the workforce. I am hopeful my colleagues will work with me this session to make this idea a reality in Missouri,” said Rep. Grill.

Another piece of legislation filed by Rep. Grill would require school board members to have lived in a school district for one year prior to serving on the board for that district. According to Rep. Grill, the bill represents a logical change that would ensure school board members are knowledgeable about the issues facing the school district they serve.

The final piece of education related legislation offered by Rep. Grill, known as the Missouri Diploma and Transcript Act, would create the crime of selling a fraudulent diploma or transcript if a person knowingly sells or offers for sale a diploma or transcript from an educational institution without the express written authorization of the institution or uses a fraudulent diploma when applying for a job or to a higher education institution. The bill is similar to a piece of legislation filed by Rep. Grill in 2008 that received committee approval but did not receive final passage by the Missouri General Assembly before the end of session.

“All of the legislation I have filed this session address issues important to maintaining the integrity of our system of education. We must make certain our children are reading at an early age; that our school board members are qualified to make decisions that will positively impact the lives of students; and that a college diploma and transcript is a protected document. We have an ambitious agenda ahead of us this session, but I am hopeful we will find time to address educational issues,” said Rep. Grill.

The education bills represent a portion of Rep. Grill’s legislative efforts. In total, he has filed 25 pieces of legislation for the 2009 session.

Rep. Jason Grill Sponsors Legislation to Promote Film Production in Missouri

2009-02-17T20:21:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – Filmmakers seeking a business-friendly environment could find Missouri a more attractive destination under legislation filed this week by Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville.

Rep. Grill introduced House Bill 767 to increase the cap on tax credits for qualified film production projects. The legislation would raise the cap from $4.5 million to $10 million per year. Rep. Grill said his goal is to attract more motion picture productions to Missouri, which would create new jobs, increase revenue and further the state’s economic development effort.

“Missouri is a scenic state that is an ideal location for many movies going into production. Because attracting these movies is a highly competitive endeavor between locations, we must give our state every advantage possible to secure these productions,” said Rep. Grill. “With our focus on job creation this session, my legislation fits perfectly into the current agenda. The more films that are made in Missouri, the more jobs we will create and the more our state revenue will increase. This is a truly bipartisan issue and one I hope members from both sides will work with me to pass.”

Film tax credits are issued to a qualified film production company for up to 35 percent of the amount expended in Missouri for production or production-related activities to facilitate film production in Missouri. To be eligible for the credits, a film production company must have an expected instate expenditure budget of at least $100,000 for films more than 30 minutes in length and at least $50,000 for films less than 30 minutes in length.

Rep. Jason Grill Unveils Health Care Legislation for 2009 Session

2009-02-17T20:20:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, this week filed a host of bills aimed at improving the health and well-being of Missourians. The health care bills filed by Rep. Grill are part of a larger package of legislation covering issues ranging from election reform to education.
One piece of legislation sponsored by Rep. Grill would set standards for each local school district to integrate a minimum of 90 minutes of physical activity per week into the instruction school day for elementary and secondary school students. Another would establish an advisory council and Office of Child Nutrition and Wellness to promote better child nutrition and wellness. Rep. Grill said his goal with the legislation is to promote fitness and well-being for young people in Missouri.

Rep. Grill also filed a bill that would require food service establishments that are one of a group of 15 or more doing business nationally to display calorie information to consumers on menus. Rep. Grill indicated the bill is similar to code implemented in New York City to fight obesity and promote healthy food choices.

“We know we must do everything we can to promote healthy lifestyles. That includes everything from providing citizens with adequate nutritional information to ensuring children engage in regular physical activity each week. The bills I have sponsored will give our state a solid start that will allow more children to grow into healthy, active adults and more adults educational opportunities with regard to health and wellness,” said Rep. Grill.
Rep. Grill also introduced legislation that would require health insurers to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment for autism spectrum disorder. The bill is similar to “Kate’s Law” introduced in the Kansas state legislature.

“The rate of autism has skyrocketed in recent years but the health insurance industry has not made a move to provide the coverage so many Missouri families need. This situation calls for immediate and decisive action. I hope my colleagues in the House will join with me to address this issue so children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder will receive the health care they need,” said Rep. Grill.

The three bills represent only a portion of the health care legislation filed by Rep. Grill. He has filed eight health-care-related bills in total, some of which deal with fighting type 2 diabetes and preventing tobacco sales to minors, as well as more than 25 pieces of legislation in total for the 2009 session.

Rep. Jason Grill files legislation to address Sports Wagering and abusive behavior directed at Sports Officials

2009-02-17T20:18:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – In an effort to help Missouri generate additional tax revenue during the economic downturn, Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, filed legislation this week urging the United States Congress to lift the ban on sports wagering. The resolution, House Concurrent Resolution 31, is part of a larger package of legislation sponsored by Rep. Grill covering issues ranging from consumer protection to tax reform.

Rep. Grill pointed out that illegal sports wagering occurs across the nation and generates $380 billion in economic activity each year. Rep. Grill indicated that only one percent of all sports wagering nationwide is legal.

“If we are able to have legalized sports wagering we can generate the tax revenue we need for our state budget in these tough financial times,” said Rep. Grill. He added, “Several other states are considering similar resolutions and I think it’s important that we join them in this effort.”
Also this week, Rep. Grill filed legislation focused on curbing abusive behavior directed at sports officials. The legislation would increase the penalties for anyone convicted of causing physical injury to any athletic contest official immediately prior to, during, or immediately after an interscholastic, intercollegiate, or other organized athletic contest in which the athletic official is participating.

“We’ve seen a disturbing increase in the amount of aggression and physical behavior directed toward referees and officials. It’s important that we establish this behavior will not be tolerated and that it will be punished accordingly should it happen,” said Rep. Grill. “I look forward to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle on these proposals.”
Rep. Grill’s bills now await assignment to committee for further discussion.

Rep. Jason Grill Announces Legislative Efforts to Provide Tax Relief to Missourians

2009-02-17T20:17:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – Missourians, especially federal retirees and seniors, would receive some much-needed tax relief under legislation filed recently by Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville. The two tax relief bills filed by Rep. Grill are part of a larger package of legislation covering issues ranging from consumer protection to health care.

One bill offered by Rep. Grill would establish the Federal Retirement Exemption Act. The act would authorize a state individual income tax exemption for federal retirement benefits for taxpayers 62 years of age or older whose annual Missouri taxable income is $85,000 or less.

The second piece of legislation would improve the Missouri Homestead Preservation Act by specifying the meaning of the term "base year” and extending the deadline to file an application from September 30 to October 15. The bill also would require the Director of the Department of Revenue to determine the apportionment percentage by equally distributing it among all eligible applicants.

“With the current state of our economy, many Missourians and our seniors are struggling more than most and need any and all help we can give them. My legislation provides substantive relief to our federal retirees while also making the Homestead Preservation Act more accessible and equitable,” said Rep. Grill. He added, “This needed tax policy reform is something I hope will gain bipartisan support this legislative session.”

Rep. Jason Grill Files Legislative Package for 2009 Session

2009-02-17T20:15:00.000-05:00

Grill’s 25 pieces of legislation cover issues ranging from education and consumer protection to health care and tax reform

Jefferson City –Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently announced the package of legislation he has filed for the 2009 legislative session. In total, Rep. Grill has filed 25 pieces of legislation covering a wide range of issues including education, consumer protection, health care, job creation, economic development, transportation, elections, sports, and tax reform.

“We’ve opened the session with an emphasis on bipartisanship so I am hopeful the House will give serious consideration to the bills I am sponsoring. These are all common sense issues that I am confident members from both sides of the aisle can find common ground on as we work deeper into the legislative session,” said Rep. Grill. “Whether it’s by protecting Missourian consumers, improving the quality of education in our state, creating jobs, implementing election and tax reforms, or by promoting healthy lifestyles and well being; my legislative package is focused on addressing some of the issues that matter most to Missourians. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House on this important legislation.”

The bills filed by Rep. Grill now await assignment to committee for further discussion.

Recognized Missouri legislator Jason Grill joins King Hershey, PC.

2009-01-30T10:12:00.000-05:00

State Representative Jason Grill, considered an emerging force in the Missouri legislature, has become of-counsel to the Kansas City-based King Hershey Law firm.

Elected to the legislature in November 2006, Grill represents more than 35,000 people from the Kansas City metropolitan area in Platte County. At 29, Grill is one of youngest legislators in the state of Missouri. In his first term, Rep. Grill sponsored and passed legislation, which was signed into law, to fight identity theft and help men and women in the military. He has served on numerous committees and currently serves on the House Judiciary, Ways and Means, Financial Institutions, and Personal Privacy committees.

The King Hershey law firm, founded by the late Richard A. King, a pioneer of innovative public/private development partnerships, works with municipalities, developers and financial institutions to foster economic growth projects throughout Missouri.

King Hershey president Mike Burke said, “Jason is a top-notch attorney and a passionate, hard working legislator who is committed to helping move Kansas City, Platte County, and Missouri forward. We are excited to have him joining us at King Hershey.”Missouri State Representative Jason Grill recently joined King Hershey PCRecently, Rep. Grill was recognized by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as one of Missouri’s Up and Coming Lawyers. The weekly magazine recognized the best attorneys in Missouri who are under the age of 39 and who represent determination in legal work and in community betterment. In 2008, Rep. Grill was voted and recognized as KC’s “Best Local Politician” by KC Magazine. He has worked in the White House, at CNN Washington, and at other Kansas City and St. Louis based law firms. Rep. Grill is a 2004 graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, where he earned an Advanced Certificate in Dispute Resolution.

Founded in 1988, King Hershey’s practice emphasizes real estate development, public finance and complex commercial transactions and litigation. The firm offers a broad range of general business and litigation services, and is known for its ability to structure complicated public/private financing for development projects.

Rep. Grill votes to reject salary increase for legislators

2009-01-27T15:11:00.000-05:00

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - State Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently voted in favor of a resolution rejecting potential salary increases for lawmakers and statewide elected officials. The measure, HCR 5, passed in the Missouri House of Representatives.
“With many Missourians losing their jobs and the state facing a tight budget situation, now is not the time to pay elected officials higher salaries,” Grill said. “This is simply not a priority use of taxpayer money.”

HCR 5 rejects recommendations made late last year by the State Salary Commission that call for pay increases for elected officials in each of the next two fiscal years. Under the Missouri Constitution, the recommended pay increases will take effect unless rejected by both chambers of the General Assembly with two-thirds majorities by Feb. 1. The measure now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

Because the resolution is to reject pay raises rather than endorse them, a “yes” vote was to oppose raises while a “no” vote was to support raises.

Lawmaker appointed to four committees for 2009 session

2009-01-21T13:03:00.001-05:00

Jefferson City - Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, was recently appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rep. Paul LeVota (D-Independence), to serve on four powerful House committees for the 2009 legislative session. Rep. Grill was named to the House Committees on Judiciary, Ways and Means, Financial Institutions, and Real ID and Personal Privacy.

The House Judiciary Committee considers and reports upon bills and matters relating to the judicial branch of the State and the practices and procedures of the courts of this State, on matters pertaining to civil and administrative laws and procedures, and on matters relating to the ethics of public officials. The House Committee on Ways and Means is responsible for all bills relating to the taxes of the State, tax credits, revenue and public debt of the State, and the interest thereon, and the administration of taxation and revenue laws.

“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to serve on these influential committees and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the coming months as we try to find solutions to the problems our state currently faces,” said Rep. Grill. “I am confident my experience as an attorney will help immensely as I work with the members of the Judiciary Committee to craft legislation that will support and improve the judicial process. I’m also excited to work with the members of the Ways and Means Committee as we look for ways to streamline our tax codes and lower taxes for working Missourians.”

The House Committee on Financial Institutions is responsible for all bills relating to banks, savings and loans, credit unions and other financial institutions. The House Committee on Real ID and Personal Privacy considers and reports upon bills and matters relating to the protection of personal privacy and security concerns.

“With the current financial crisis, I look forward to being a member of the Financial Institutions Committee as we try to find legislative solutions that ensure the stability of our banks and credit unions for all Missouri consumers and businesses. I am also looking forward to working with the members of the Real ID and Personal Privacy Committee to make certain the personal information of Missourians remains private,” said Rep. Grill. “This will be a challenging session but I am ready to get to work and am confident we can pass legislation that will make a real difference in the lives of all Missourians.”

Rep. Jason Grill Addresses 2008 Graduates of St. Pius X HS

2008-11-19T15:25:00.002-05:00

Jefferson City – Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently offered words of wisdom and encouragement to the St. Pius X High School graduating class of 2008. Rep. Grill gave the address over a breakfast at the Embassy Suites Northland, which took place on Sunday, May 18.
“I have fond memories of my time at St. Pius X and it was an honor to be able to come back and celebrate this momentous occasion with the graduating class of 2008,” said Rep. Grill, who graduated from the school in 1997. “These young men and women are on their way to becoming successful adults and it was exciting to be able to share a few of my own experiences and thoughts with them as they get ready to take that next step.”

Approximately 1,000 people were in attendance for the graduation breakfast. Rep. Grill’s speech focused on persevering and overcoming obstacles to achieve success. He used examples from the life of Winston Churchill as well as some from his own experiences to encourage the students to remain determined and never give up. He informed students that they had 86,400 seconds a day with which to succeed and improve the lives of others. In addition, he presented each graduate with an official certificate of recognition from the Missouri House of Representatives.

“I know St. Pius X has prepared each of these young people to succeed in college and beyond and I am grateful I was able to play a small role in wishing them well as they move on to the next phase of their lives,” said Rep. Grill. “They have accomplished so much already but their best days are ahead of them and we all look forward to seeing the many contributions they will make to this community, this state and this nation.”

http://pressreleases.kcstar.com/?q=node/8355

2008-11-19T14:57:00.004-05:00

Rep. Jason Grill selected as “Up and Coming Lawyer” by Missouri Lawyers Weekly

Kansas City – Missouri State Representative Jason Grill was recently recognized by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as one of Missouri’s Up and Coming Lawyers. The weekly magazine recognized the best attorneys in Missouri who are under the age of 39 and who represent determination in legal work and in community betterment in their July 28, 2008 issue. Grill, 28, is an attorney at the Kansas City law firm of Holtsclaw & Kendall, LC. He focuses his practice in the areas of personal injury, commercial litigation, FELA, products liability, and transportation related matters. Out of the 48 individuals honored by Missouri Lawyers Weekly in 2008, 14 specialize in litigation, 5 are minorities, 12 are women, 24 are from Kansas City, and 16 are from St. Louis. Prior to joining Holtsclaw & Kendall, LC, Grill practiced law with his father, Brad Grill, at the Grill Law Firm, LLC, after graduating with a Juris Doctor and an advanced certificate in dispute resolution from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law. Rep. Grill serves in the Missouri House of Representatives and also works as an adjunct professor of graduate and undergraduate courses at Park University in Parkville. “I am honored and very grateful to be recognized with such a great group of young lawyers from throughout the state of Missouri,” said Rep. Grill. “I look forward to continuing to give all clients the individual attention they deserve in a caring and dedicated manner.”

Missouri Lawyers Weekly, which was founded in 1987, is a newspaper of general circulation that reports on legal decisions issued by all the state and federal courts in Missouri, as well as changes to court rules, verdict & settlement reports, bar-discipline notices and all other news vital to attorneys in the state.

http://pressreleases.kcstar.com/?q=node/9787

http://www.molawyersweekly.com/

2008-11-19T14:55:00.003-05:00

Rep. Jason Grill voted KC's "Best Local Politician"

Kansas City – Missouri State Representative Jason Grill was recently voted and awarded Kansas City's "Best Local Politician" by the general public and the readers of KC Magazine. The magazine published its annual review of the Best of Kansas City in its September 2008 issue. Nominees for the award were selected by a panel of approximately 500 Kansas Citians in February of 2008. The four finalists based on this panel's selections were Representative Jason Grill, former Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, and former City Councilman Alvin Brooks. Once the final nominees were in place online voting took place in May of 2008 and was open to the general public and readers of KC Magazine. More then 145,000 total votes were cast in 125 different categories in KC Magazine's annual review of KC's best people, dining, fashion, events, and entertainment. Rep. Grill received the award on August 21st, 2008 at the City's Best award ceremony held at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. "I am very grateful to receive this award and appreciate the continued support of all those who nominated me and voted for me for this very special recognition," said Rep. Grill. "I look forward to continuing to serve the great people of the state of Missouri, Kansas City, and Platte County in the Missouri Legislature.

http://pressreleases.kcstar.com/?q=node/10627

More information about KC Magazine can be found online at www.midwestluxe.com and at www.kcmag.com.

Rep. Jason Grill quoted in national Wall Street Journal article

2008-11-19T14:52:00.004-05:00

Find online at

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122549239200489255.html

Rep. Jason Grill receives support from small business owners (NFIB)

2008-11-19T14:49:00.003-05:00

NFIB Endorses Jason Grill for reelection to Missouri House

Candidate’s Strong Stance on Small Business Issues Earns Nod

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., July 11, 2008 – The National Federation of Independent Business, Missouri’s leading small business association, today announced its endorsement of Jason Grill in his bid for re-election to the Missouri House. Rep. Grill secured the group’s nod because of his strong record on small business issues critical to
Main Street.

“NFIB is proud to endorse Jason Grill because he has a clear understanding of the needs of small business owners. He has worked to protect their rights as well as fight to keep unnecessary regulations from adding to the burden of running a successful business,” said Brad Jones, NFIB/Missouri state director.

“Rep. Grill knows that small business is the engine that drives Missouri’s economy, and he has worked to provide the tools small business owners need,” Jones said.

NFIB’s endorsement of Grill brings with it the powerful support of thousands of small business owners from across the state. He has maintained a strong and consistent voting record in support of small business owners.

“Our members know and appreciate the importance of an ally in the legislature,” Jones said. “Just as we know Jason has worked hard for the interests and rights of small business, NFIB members will work hard to send him back to Jefferson City.”

Today’s endorsement comes from the Missouri SAFE (Save America’s Free Enterprise) Trust, NFIB’s political action committee. The National Federation of Independent Business bases its political support on candidates’ positions and records on small business issues.

###

NFIB is the nation’s leading small business association, with offices in Washington, D.C. and all 50 state capitals. Founded in 1943 as a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, NFIB gives small- and independent-business owners a voice in shaping the public policy issues that affect their business. NFIB’s powerful network of grassroots activists sends its views directly to state and federal lawmakers through our unique member-only ballot, thus playing a critical role in supporting America’s free enterprise system. NFIB’s mission is to promote and protect the right of our members to own, operate and grow their businesses. More information about NFIB is available online at www.NFIB.com/newsroom.

Rep. Jason Grill holds town hall meeting in Parkville

2008-11-19T14:45:00.009-05:00

Article in SUN Newspapers

Rep. Grill holds town hall meeting

By Michael Westblade

Jason Grill, state representative for Missouri House District 32, held a town hall meeting at the Meetin’ House at Park University on July 16 to share the work of the Missouri Legislature from the past year and to obtain feedback and hear concerns from his constituents.

Grill went through what he called “the meat and potatoes” of the legislative session and spoke about the bills he thought were highlights, the bills he helped defeat and the bills he voted against.

Some of the legislative highlights for Grill were tax reform, illegal immigration reform, increasing tax incentives for development, mortgage fraud legislation, education opportunities for veterans, tax reciprocity, cyber stalking and cyber crimes legislation, and of course, a bill increasing the penalties for identity theft, which Grill sponsored.

Grill also said he voted against a minimum-wage decrease and public vouchers, which were both defeated, as well as voting against a law scaling back campaign finance reform, which passed and will become law Thursday, Aug. 28.

The most important issues for the next legislative session, Grill said, are health care reform, transportation and infrastructure.

Energy reform and higher education will also be priorities next session, as well as teacher salaries and economic development, he said.

After his review of the legislative session and announcing his plans for 2009, Grill opened the hall to questions.

Eric Burgrud, director of Park University’s International Center for Civic Engagement, asked if it was possible that the Kansas City earnings tax would be eliminated next year.

“I think there is a hard-core group that wants to get rid of it,” Grill said. “I don’t think it’s on the front burner, but it will come up.”

Another audience member asked if the legislature will be considering not just new roadways, but also multimodal transport.

“With public transit, I think the writing is on the wall,” said Grill. “Gas is at $4.09 a gallon and it’s going to go up. We have to make tough decisions now because we’ve waited too long. We have to invest more money in public transportation.”

Another audience member wondered, with Bombardier Aerospace deciding not to build an assembly plant here, if there was a way to become more competitive and attract big developments.

“When (Bombardier) sat down with us and told us about it, it sounded like we were a shoe-in,” said Grill. “But concessions were made in Canada that kept them there. I really thought we would get it and I was really unhappy. But at least we created a law so we could attract more business like that.”

Health care was also an important topic in peoples’ minds at the meeting with questions about what new health care legislation may come up next year and what legislation would come up for small businesses struggling to provide health care to their employees.

Grill said new health care legislation would depend on who wins new seats in upcoming election. Grill also said he would do anything he could to help small businesses, because they’re the driving force of the economy.

Grill, who just finished his first term as state representative for District 32, will run unopposed for his seat in November.

The town hall meeting was sponsored by Park University’s International Center for Civic Engagement.

Governor Blunt signs Grill's Identity Theft bill

2008-11-19T14:42:00.004-05:00

Article in SUN Newspaper

By Michael Westblade

Thursday, July 10, 2008 1:12 AM CDT

Gov. Matt Blunt signed a bill June 30, sponsored by state Rep. Jason Grill, that addresses identity theft and gives new protections to Missouri citizens.

The bill, which goes into effect Aug. 28, will provide victims of identity theft the right to contact their local law enforcement agency and request that an incident report be prepared and filed. They may also request a copy of the report.

While most jurisdictions may have already done this, Grill said the new statute will make sure police departments know they have to comply, and citizens will know they have the option to file a report.

In addition, the bill makes possession of five or more fictitious or forged means of identity with the intent to distribute to others for the purpose of committing a crime a Class C felony and allows consumers to request that a “security freeze” be placed on their credit report, which would prohibit credit reporting agencies from releasing the consumer’s credit report or score without specific authorization from the consumer.

In Missouri, a Class C felony brings imprisonment of up to seven years and fines up to $5,000.

The bill, Grill said, lets people know they have options when faced with an identity theft situation.

“A lot of people have had (identity theft) happen to them,” he said. “Hundreds in my district have. People want to have some sort of idea of what to do in this situation.”

According to a Federal Trade Commission report on identity theft released in 2008, Missouri was ranked 21st in the country for the amount of identity thefts during 2007, with 3,962 incidents.

Of those 3,962 incidents, 1,048 involved credit card fraud, 681 involved phone or utility fraud, 619 involved bank fraud, 303 involved government document or benefit fraud, 285 involved employee related fraud, 194 involved loan fraud, 1,084 were listed as other and 256 complaints involved attempts at identity theft.

Identity theft, Grill said, is an issue Missouri needs to face.

“I had received calls and e-mails from constituents with problems with identity theft and consumer protection issues,” he said. “Missouri has lagged behind. We had problems, and we didn’t do enough to protect people from identity theft.”

Rep. Grill's Legislation to Protect Missourians from Identity Theft Goes to Governor for Final Approval

2008-11-19T14:39:00.003-05:00

Jefferson City – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Jason Grill that would provide additional help to Missourians victimized by the crime of identity theft is now one step away from becoming law. Rep. Grill's original piece of legislation (HB 2157) was combined with another bill (HB 1384) and given bipartisan approval in both chambers of the legislature this week.

Rep. Grill's legislation provides identity theft victims with the right to contact the local law enforcement agency where they live and request that an incident report about the identity theft be prepared and filed. The victim may also request to receive a copy of the report. Rep. Grill said the bill is necessary to give Missourians a clear process to follow that will assist in dealing with the financial mess that can result from a case of identity theft.

"Victims of identity theft are left with a confusing process and far too many questions on how best to proceed to protect their money and credit rating. It's important that we involve local law enforcement in the process and give identity theft victims access to an official police report that is so often necessary for credit card companies who want to verify that identity theft actually occurred," said Rep. Grill. "This was truly a bipartisan effort and something that Missourians needed in order to provide adequate protection from the growing crime of identity theft, which affects 8 million new victims each year."

The final version of legislation includes many other important provisions dealing with the crime of identity theft. The bill makes it a Class C felony for anyone who manufactures or possesses five or more fictitious or forged means of identity with the intent to distribute to others for the purpose of committing a crime. It also allows a consumer to request a "security freeze" be placed on his or her credit report. A security freeze gives consumers the choice to "freeze" or lock access to their credit file against anyone trying to open up a new account or to get new credit in their name. The freeze also prohibits credit reporting agencies from releasing the consumer's credit report or credit score without specific authorization from the consumer. "These additions to the original bill make this legislation even stronger and will give the citizens of Missouri more tools to guard themselves against the crime of identity theft, "said Rep. Grill

The legislation now moves to governor's desk to be signed into law.

Missouri House Staff 2008 Passed Legislation Summaries

2008-06-02T13:25:00.001-04:00

Missouri’s 2009 Budget
The Missouri General Assembly approved a $22.4 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2009. The spending plan includes an increase of $136.7 million in direct state aid to public elementary and secondary schools. Included in that is a $121.3 million increase for the state’s foundation formula that is used to allocate money among Missouri’s public schools. The budget also includes a $43 million increase for Missouri’s colleges and universities. In addition, the budget authorizes a $334.4 million increase for the state’s MO HealthNet program and an increase of $155.4 million for the Missouri Department of Transportation’s construction program.

Property Tax Relief
Senate Bill 711 provides property tax relief to Missourians suffering from excessive rate increases due to increases in assessed valuation of their property. The legislation mandates that all taxing jurisdictions must roll back their tax rate to counter reassessment increases regardless of whether they are operating at or below their tax rate ceiling. Currently, only taxing jurisdictions operating at their tax rate ceiling are required by Missouri's Constitution to roll back to protect taxpayers. This allows taxing jurisdictions operating below their ceiling to approve back door tax increases with no legal recourse. The change made by Senate Bill 711 will ensure taxing jurisdictions roll back their tax rates when reassessment increases just as the law intended.
The bill also closes a loophole that allows taxing districts to apply new voter approved levies to future and unknown assessments. An opinion issued by the office of the Attorney General in 2003 states that taxing jurisdictions can take a tax increase approved by the voters, for example in 2006, and then apply that new tax rate to the higher reassessed value in 2007. Senate Bill 711 prevents this from happening.
It also requires that taxpayers receive a projected tax liability along with their reassessment notices. Charter counties and the City of St. Louis will provide these in 2009 and all other counties will participate by 2011.
The bill also enhances the state Circuit Breaker program responsible for providing senior citizens property tax relief. The bill increases the maximum annual household income a senior citizen can have to qualify for the Circuit Breaker from $27,500 to $30,000. The spousal exemption will double from $2,000 to $4,000 for married couples. The maximum benefit from the Circuit Breaker will increase from $750 to $1,100.

Illegal Immigration Reform
House Bill 1549 includes several provisions designed to curb illegal immigrants from being employed in the state and to prevent those here illegally from receiving taxpayer services.
One provision of the bill cracks down on employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants. The legislation makes it clear that Missouri employers are barred from hiring illegal immigrants and creates penalties that could result in the loss of a permit or license if an employer knowingly hires someone living here illegally. Employers who misclassify workers as contractors instead of employees will be subject to penalties of $50 per day per misclassified worker and up to a maximum of $50,000 in fines. These provisions apply to businesses with at least five employees performing public works.
Under the bill, public employers, including state and local governments, are required to participate in a federal work authorization program such as the E-Verify federal database that checks immigration status. Participation in such a program is also required for businesses that have a government contract worth more than $5,000 or that receive state loans or tax breaks. Private businesses are not required to use the database, but can do so in order to provide a defense against allegations of knowingly hiring an illegal immigrant. Employers who don't participate in a work authorization program would have to start using one if they are found knowingly hiring illegal immigrants.
The legislation requires people to prove they are U.S. citizens or legally in the country when applying for food stamps, housing or other taxpayer services.
The bill also allows law enforcement officers to check the immigration status of anyone arrested or detained in Missouri and denies bail for jailed individuals who cannot prove legal residency. The Missouri State Highway Patrol will also receive training to enforce state and federal immigration laws.
Also included in the bill are provisions that prohibit: communities from adopting sanctuary policies that provide safe harbor to illegal immigrants; bar individuals from transporting or harboring unlawful immigrants; require written tests for commercial licenses to be administered in English only and, provide penalties for individuals who assist illegal immigrants in obtaining driver’s licenses in a fraudulent manner.

Economic Development Incentives
House Bill 2058 expands the annual limit on state tax credits available through the Missouri Quality Jobs Program to $60 million. The current cap is set at $40 million. The Quality Jobs Program provides tax credits to eligible companies for jobs that pay more than their counties' average while also providing health insurance.
The bill also increases the state's Enhanced Enterprise Zone cap from $14 million a year to $24 million. Enhanced Enterprise Zone credits go to companies in locations with high unemployment and low income.

Economic Incentives for Mega-Projects
House Bill 2393 allows the state to offer an incentive package for mega-projects. Currently, Bombardier Aerospace is considering building an aircraft manufacturing plant near the Kansas City International Airport. Within eight years, Bombardier would be required to invest $400 million in this jet assembly plant and would employ 2,100 people.
Under the bill, Missouri could offer up to $240 million in tax credits over eight years, beginning in 2013, based on the number of employees hired at the assembly plant. Bombardier Aerospace would repay the tax credits by giving Missouri a fixed amount of money for each plane it sells from the plant. The bill clarifies what the Missouri Department of Economic Development can offer in state assistance through existing programs such as the Enterprise Zones Program and Quality Jobs Act.

Mortgage Fraud
House Bill 2188 protects consumers and lets those who take advantage of homebuyers know that Missouri will not tolerate mortgage fraud. The legislation stems from the work of the Interim Committee on Consumer and Financial Protection that found the state was limited in its ability to prosecute individuals committing mortgage fraud. The bill places local prosecutors on the same footing as federal investigators who were the only ones able to prosecute offenders. Mortgage fraud often includes illegally inflating property appraisals, concealing a second mortgage from a primary lender, or concealing a borrower’s identity. These practices ultimately contribute to higher loan costs and more restrictive lending practices.

House Bill 2188 creates civil and criminal penalties for residential mortgage fraud. The legislation makes it a Class C felony to employ a device, scheme, or artifice to defraud; make an
untrue statement or omit information; receive any portion of the purchase, sale, or loan proceeds in connection with a real estate arrangement that has to do with fraud; and influence appraisals in certain circumstances. A Class C felon in Missouri can receive up to seven years in prison. The bill also contains specific provisions relating to real estate brokers, real estate salespersons, real estate appraisers, and residential mortgage brokers.

Campaign Finance Reform
Senate Bill 1038 eliminates contribution limits and allows unlimited donations to candidates for statewide offices and the legislature. Under current law, candidates for state representative are limited to contributions of $325 per person. Candidates for state senator can accept $675 and contributors can give statewide office candidates up to $1,350 per election cycle. The legislation also requires campaigns to report donations of more than $5,000 to the Missouri Ethics Commission within 48 hours of receipt.

Alternative Teacher Certification
Senate Bill 1066 creates an alternative route for career-changing professionals to become certified to teach in secondary schools. The program is designed to offer working professionals an opportunity to bring their real-world experience to the classroom and to help the state address a shortage of qualified teachers. Prospective teachers would be required to complete certification from the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE), a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that is funded through federal grants. In addition to coursework and certification exams, individuals seeking alternative certification would need to already hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, complete a background check, and verify the ability to work with children by completing 60 hours of classroom instruction under the supervision of a mentor teacher. The bill exempts early childhood, elementary and special education, where a teacher must still receive traditional certification.

Bond Registration Fee
Senate Bill 944 places a cap on the charges made by the State Auditor’s office when registering a bond. Municipalities and school districts employ the sale of voter-approved bonds to fund construction projects. Current law allows the state auditor to collect ten cents for every $100 of face value of bonds being registered. For example, if a school district registers $50 million in bonds, the district has to pay the auditor a fee of $50,000. Senate Bill 944 enacts a maximum fee of $1,000 for all bonds registered with the office.

Education Opportunities for Veterans and Military Children
House Bill 1678 provides Missouri soldiers returning from duty and their families with additional educational and career advancement opportunities.
One provision of the bill creates the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children to encourage states to work together to improve educational opportunities for the sons and daughters of military personnel. The compact seeks to remove barriers placed on children in military families caused by frequent moves and deployment of their parents. The compact makes several recommendations, including allowing for timely enrollment, promoting flexibility and cooperation, and facilitating the eligibility for extracurricular activities.
Another provision of the bill, known as the “Missouri Returning Heroes’ Education Act,” requires all higher education institutions in Missouri that receive state funding to limit the tuition charged to combat veterans to $50 per credit hour. To qualify, a veteran must have been a Missouri resident when first entering the military; must have honorably served in armed combat after September 11, 2001; and must maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Eligibility for the reduced tuition will expire 10 years from the date of the veteran's discharge.
The bill also creates a tuition grant for survivors of veterans who are disabled or killed in combat. Specifically, the legislation allows the spouse and children of a soldier who is killed in action after September 11, 2001, or who becomes 80% disabled because of an injury sustained in combat action after that date, to receive an educational grant for tuition at a public or private college or university in Missouri. In addition to the full cost of tuition, the grant includes $2,000 per semester for room and board and the actual cost of books up to $500 per semester.
Other provisions of the bill add the chairman of the Missouri Veterans Commission to the Missouri Military Preparedness and Enhancement Commission. They also clarify that the commission's duties include developing policies and methods to improve the prosperity and employment opportunities of retired military members and the families of former military members. The bill renames the Guard at Home Program, the Hero at Home Program. It extends the program to cover the first year after discharge from deployment, to cover reservists, and to cover situations in which an individual cannot return to his or her previous employment. The bill further requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to facilitate agreements between school districts and military installations in order to assist children transitioning to Missouri schools.

Flags at Half-Staff for Fallen Missourians
Senate Bill 806 provides the state with a way to honor Missourians who have made the ultimate sacrifice for this nation. Since September 11, 2001, ninety-three of the state’s military men and women have lost their lives. Senate Bill 806 requires U.S. and Missouri state flags to be flown at half-staff for one full day whenever a Missouri resident is killed in the line of duty during military service. The Missouri Veterans' Commission will be responsible for determining if any residents have been killed in the line of duty and will notify the governor of any such death. The governor will determine the day on which the resident will be honored and will then notify the Office of Administration.

Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders
Senate Bill 768 is part of Missouri’s efforts to enhance autism health and education services and empower families to improve the quality of life for Missourians of all ages living with autism. The legislation creates the Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to make recommendations about all levels of ASD and to develop a comprehensive, coordinated system of healthcare, education and services for people living with ASD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism affects one in 150 children — more than AIDS, juvenile diabetes and pediatric cancer combined. The Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders will provide another much-needed resource for families who deserve the best resources available for diagnosis, treatment and support services.

Tax Reciprocity
Senate Bill 748 averts a tax dispute with the State of Kansas involving workers who work in one state but live in the other. Under current law, a non-resident income taxpayer must add any amount of property taxes paid to another state back into adjusted gross income. This act requires non-resident taxpayers to add-back property taxes paid to adjusted gross income only if the property is located in another state that does not allow a similar subtraction from income for property taxes paid to this state. The legislation creates equalization across state lines and re-establishes a fair and equitable tax structure with all surrounding states.

Drug Monitoring Program
Senate Bill 724 is intended to strengthen the monitoring procedures for over-the-counter drugs used to make methamphetamine. Under current law, pharmacies are required to maintain a paper log and document any transactions where the customer purchases products that contain pseudoephedrine, a key ingredient used in the production of methamphetamine. Senate Bill 724 requires pharmacies to upgrade to an electronic, rather than a written log, which records when a pseudoephedrine product is purchased and who purchased it. The act also specifies that the photo ID provided by the buyer of pseudoephedrine products be government issued and shown prior to the purchase.

Prescriptive Authority for Nurse Practitioners
Under Senate Bill 724, Missouri joins 47 other states that allow Schedule III, IV, and V prescription drugs to be prescribed by advanced practice nurses. Currently, nurse practitioners (APRNs) who have a written agreement with a physician can prescribe any medication that is not addictive. However, many common medications fall into the category of “controlled substances,” and under Missouri law can only be prescribed by physicians. This would move Missouri more in line with the practice of other states and also help increase health care access for many rural Missourians who may live a great distance from a physician. The bill requires nurses to have a collaborative agreement with a doctor and limits them to only write prescriptions for a five-day period.

Telecommunications Deregulation
House Bill 1779 lifts price regulations statewide for a phone company whenever it faces competition for at least 55 percent of its subscribers. The goal of the legislation is to entice phone companies to spend the capital necessary to expand high-speed Internet access in rural areas.
Under current law, phone companies can escape price regulation when the Missouri Public Service Commission determines they face adequate competition in a particular geographic area.
The bill allows telecoms in noncompetitive areas to increase their monthly rates by as much as $2 for residential customers.

Ethan’s Law
House Bill 1341 establishes Ethan's Law, which requires the owner of a for-profit, privately owned swimming pool or facility to maintain liability insurance. The bill applies to swimming pools that have a capacity of fewer than 500 patrons and charge an admission fee. It requires them to maintain at least $1 million per occurrence in the event of injury or death of a patron. This legislation is in response to the tragic death of Ethan Cory, who drowned at a private water park in an unincorporated area near Joplin. The swimming pool held no liability insurance and the lifeguards were not certified. The legislation is meant to prevent future tragedies.

Omnibus Agriculture Bill
Senate Bill 931 allows the State of Missouri to support a voluntary animal identification program. The act prohibits the Missouri Department of Agriculture from mandating premises registration under the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Animal Identification System (NAIS) program unless the Department is specifically authorized by statute to do so.
In addition to the animal identification provisions, the legislation contains language dealing with the cleanup of hazardous waste. The bill requires that owners of hazardous materials pay only for cleanup costs that are ''necessary.'' Organizations that assist in the cleanup – such as a volunteer fire department, county or town - have 60 days to bill the owner. The invoice must include an explanation for why the listed costs are reasonable, necessary, not duplicative and don't involve costs that are part of the organization’s normal duties.
The legislation also allows gas stations to get a tax credit to help pay for new storage tanks and other equipment needed to sell biodiesel, higher ethanol concentrations and other alternative fuels. That program is capped at $3 million in 2009, $2 million in 2010 and $1 million in 2011.
In addition, the bill exempts fencing materials from state and local sales taxes as well as farm tractors, machinery, equipment and the parts needed for them.
The legislation also makes changes to the state’s veterinary student loan program by requiring participants in the program be here legally and capping the loans at $20,000 per academic year. Currently, the veterinary loan program allows up to $80,000 in loans to be forgiven in installments if the student works as a large animal veterinarian and serves in a part of the state experiencing a shortage.

Cyber Stalking
Senate Bill 818 makes cyber harassment illegal in Missouri. The legislation comes in response to the suicide of a St. Charles County teen who was teased and harassed over the Internet. The bill updates state laws against harassment to include harassment from computers, text messages and other electronic devices. Current law requires harassment communication to be written or over the telephone.
Under the bill, repeat offenders and anyone who is at least 21 years of age can be charged with a felony and face up to four years in prison if they harass a minor. Other instances of harassment remain a Class A misdemeanor, which carries penalties of up to a year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
The bill also requires school officials to tell police about harassment and stalking on school grounds and expands state laws against stalking to cover ''credible threats'' not only against the victim, but also family and household members and animals.

Cyber Crimes Investigation Fund
Senate Bill 932 creates the Cyber Crimes Investigation Fund to provide $3 million per year for the existing Internet Cyber Crime Grant (ICCG) program that targets Internet predators and pornographers who attempt to lure and sexually exploit children.
The Department of Public Safety will administer the funding, which is set to begin in 2010. The measure allows funds used for investigating Internet sex crimes against children to also include an allocation for training prosecuting and circuit attorneys.

Identity Theft
House Bill 1384 & 2157 creates new protections to combat the growing number of identity theft victims.
The measure allows victims, at the first sign of identity theft, to freeze their credit by either calling or going online to protect against further fraudulent claims. A credit freeze on a victim's credit file prevents anyone from trying to receive credit, loans or other services in their name without permission from the consumer.
The bill also allows a victim of identity theft to file and receive a copy of a police report with the local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over his or her residence. Many credit card companies require a police report before taking action to repair the damage done by an identity thief.

Green Sales Tax Holiday
Senate Bill 1181 gives consumers a tax break on energy efficient appliances. The legislation creates the Show-Me Green Sales Tax Holiday to remove the state sales tax on the first $1,500 of the price for energy certified appliances such as washers, dryers, water heaters, ovens and refrigerators. The holiday will run from April 19 through April 25 beginning in 2009.
The legislation also requires 10 percent of the money in the state's maintenance fund for state buildings to go toward energy-efficient projects.

Operating a Boat While Under the Influence of Alcohol
House Bill 1715 lowers the legal blood alcohol level to .08% for operating a boat on lakes and major rivers, the same as used for Missouri motorists. The bill applies to all Missouri lakes and the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The bill also clarifies that prior conviction in municipal courts count in determining whether someone is a repeat drunken driver or boater. The clarification comes in response to a Supreme Court ruling saying otherwise.
Another provision of the bill requires boats to travel at no-wake speeds within 100 feet of the Water Patrol and other emergency vessels with red or blue lights.

Ignition Interlock
Senate Bill 930 & 947 gives repeat drunken drivers a strong incentive to use ignition interlock devices on their vehicles. A law passed in 2001 requires courts to order ignition interlock devices for people convicted of two or more drunken driving offenses. The devices prevent a vehicle from starting unless the driver blows into a special gauge without registering alcohol. The legislation passed this year gives the Missouri Department of Revenue a means of encouraging the devices by denying license reinstatement to repeat drunken drivers without proof they have equipped their vehicles with ignition interlock devices.

Gun Rights
House Bill 2034 shields firearm range owners from civil and criminal liability for noise emission.
The bill also removes residency requirements for concealed carry permits. Under current law, residents must live in Missouri for six months before they can receive a permit. The new legislation waives the six month requirement for those who already possess a valid permit from another state.
In addition, the bill closes the records of those who filed a permit-to-acquire with their county sheriff. It is no longer a requirement to file with the county sheriff and records that are still on file will now only be available through a court order relating to criminal investigations.
Other provisions of the bill prohibit denying the sale of a firearm to a non-licensee, who is otherwise eligible to possess a firearm, based solely on the non-licensee having purchased a firearm that was later the subject of a trace request; make it a Class C felony for any felon to posses any firearm; and clarify what weapons are considered “explosive weapons.”

Scrap Metal
Senate Bill 1034 makes it easier for law enforcement officers to track scrap metal dealers that have bought and sold stolen copper and aluminum.
The legislation requires scrap metal dealers to obtain a copy of photo identification from individuals who are not regular business customers but are selling them more than $50 worth of metals such as copper and aluminum. Dealers must save records for two years in case law enforcement officers want to inspect them. Dealers who violate the provision can be charged with misdemeanors punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine, up from the current fine of $25 to $500.
Also under the legislation, scrap metal dealers must pay with a check or some other traceable method for certain purchases of more than $500.
The bill makes it a felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison, to steal wire, electrical transformers or any pipe used for conducting electricity or transporting natural gas or other fuels.
It also prohibits scrap dealers from buying manhole covers, bleachers, guard rails, signs, traffic lights or cemetery materials without written permission from the utility, governmental entity or cemetery. They also are prohibited from buying metal beer kegs unless from the brewer or its authorized representative.

Uniform Anatomical Gift Act
Senate Bill 1139 establishes a state organ and tissue donor registry. Any individual who agrees to have his or her name on the registry gives full legal consent to the donation of any of his or her organs or tissues upon death. Missourians are under no obligation to add their names to the registry and may withdraw their consent to donate at any time.

State Dessert
Senate Bill 991 designates the ice cream cone as Missouri’s official state dessert. A group of school children was instrumental in securing passage for the legislation that now provides Missouri with its 23rd official state symbol. In the process, the children learned how an idea becomes a law, how to communicate with their legislators, and how a citizen, even a child, can change his or her state.
The edible ice cream cone made its American debut at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. Some of the first companies to make ice cream cones were located in Sullivan, Missouri. The ice cream cone remains an important part of the state’s economy to this day as 35 ice cream manufacturers are located in Missouri. Additionally, the University of Missouri-Columbia has an ice cream research and development facility. The legislation makes Missouri one of only a few states with an official dessert.

Rep. Jason Grill to file 2008 legislative package to Move Missouri Forward

2008-02-02T17:55:00.000-05:00

Representative Jason Grill, (D-Parkville) will file his 2008 legislative package in the month of February 2008. Below are brief summaries of this legislation. Rep. Jason Grill will continue to fight to Move Missouri Forward and improve the lifes of all Missourians.

Education

1. This legislation establishes the “Missouri Books from Birth Program”. Under the program, DESE along with a nonprofit partner will develop a statewide program, which will distribute a book each month to children in Missouri from birth to age five. This legislation is very similar to legislation passed in Tennessee. More information can be found at governorsfoundation.org about this important program to encourage youth education and reading.

2. This legislation establishes the “Missouri Diploma and Transcript Act,” which creates the crime of selling a fraudulent diploma or transcript. This will help fight the problem of companies selling bogus diplomas or transcripts, which hurt the integrity and mission of our state educational institutions.

Election Reform

3. This legislation establishes procedures for listing candidates for statewide office, state senator, and state representative in random orders on the election ballot. This would not give any candidate any unfair advantage of being listed first, last, or in the middle of their respective election on the ballot. For example if John Smith were running against Mary Johnson for State Representative, there would be equal number of ballots printed with John Smith first and Mary Johnson second on ballot for that election and vice versa.

Consumer Protection

4. This legislation establishes the “Missouri Consumer Credit Report Freeze Act,” which allows a consumer to place a freeze on his or her credit report. I have taken many of the strongest points from others states legislation on this issue and constructed a bill, which allows for more individuals to do this free of charge and without hassle.

5. This legislation would protect consumers by establishing security procedures for business and government to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of personal data to prevent security breaches. When a data breach occurs notice would be required to consumers that their personal data has or may have been compromised. This would alert consumers so they can take measures to protect themselves from identity theft. Most states have passed notice of data security breach legislation.

6. This legislation would allow consumers to file a police report in their home jurisdiction if he or she has been the victim of identity theft. In many instances consumers need these police reports to get access to their federal right to get records of transactions from a business where the identity thief did business while impersonating the consumer.

7. This legislation establishes laws for destruction of personal information to prevent identity theft. This would prevent sensitive personal information from falling into the hands of identity thieves.

Taxation

8. This legislation establishes the “Federal Retirement Exemption Act,” which exempts federal retirement income from Missouri income tax for an individual 62 years of age or older who has an annual Missouri taxable income of $85,000 or less and has retired from employment by the United States.

9. This legislation changes the laws regarding the “Missouri Homestead Preservation Act” to allow for applications filed in or after 2008, to be based on the increase in tax liability from the base year to the year prior to the application year. “Base year” means the year prior to the first year in which the eligible owners application was approved, or 2006, whichever is later. This legislation will help Missouri’s seniors.

Supporting Missouri Families

10. This legislation known as the “Motherhood/Fatherhood Stay at Home Tax Credit” is very similar to HB 932 http://www.house.mo.gov/content.aspx?info=/bills071/bills/HB932.HTM filed last year, which received bipartisan support and made it out of committee, as well as out of the House as an amendment onto another bill. This bill will help families and encourage more parental involvement in a child’s most important early years.

Encouraging Missouri’s Economy

11. This legislation establishes the “Promoting Missouri Food Products Act,” which provides any retail grocer, grocery store, or similar establishment a tax credit for sales of Missouri food products totaling at least fifteen percent of all the taxpayer’s gross annual sales. This legislation will encourage grocery stores to carry and sell Missouri products which were produced or grown in this state.

Promoting Missouri’s Small Businesses

12. This legislation establishes the “Fairness for Missouri Business Act,” which encourages investment in small businesses and promotes convenience and efficiency for them by providing liability protection for small businesses, providing a process for continuing partnerships, and by eliminating duplicate bureaucratic paperwork.

Protecting our children

13. This legislation increases the punishments and penalties for the selling of tobacco to minors. This legislation will help fight the youth smoking problem in Missouri.

Transportation/License related issues

14. This legislation would allow Missouri drivers to only have to display a rear license plate on their vehicle, instead of the two required by current law. Many states, including Kansas, allow drivers to display a license plate of their choice such as a Missouri Tigers, Kansas Jayhawks, or Kansas City Chiefs novelty plate on the front of their cars. Many Missouri drivers have voiced their opinions on this issue due to the makeup of their vehicles as well.

15. This legislation allows individuals to display license plate tags on an interior window instead of on their license plate. This legislation will fight the problem of stolen license plate tags in Missouri.

Jason Grill - "The Right Man for the Job" - Platte County Magazine

2007-10-02T12:18:00.000-04:00

Below are excerpts from a September Platte County Magazine Interview with State Representative Jason Grill, District 32.

COUNTY profiles -The Right Man For The Job
Jason Grill Finishes His First Session In Missouri House
Missouri State Representative Jason Grill - District 32

A note from the editor.

I first met Jason Grill in June when he arrived at River Rock Coffee Company for
the Platte County Magazine launch party.
It was so flattering because he had no idea
what COUNTY was going to be about and what it would look like,
but he had gotten an invitation and he was there.
Ah… I thought. The consummate politician. He
was charming, engaging and full of energy
about what we were doing and how he
thought it was going to benefit the entire area – not only his district.
Then, within two days of the launch party I got a
hand written thank you and congratulatory letter
on official letterhead.
I was impressed all the more and knew this was a man to get to
know and to follow.

We next met informally in Parkville to discuss this interview and to explore topics. I knewthen that my first impressions were
right on – this is a man that anyone could love and he is
not just a politician, but a politician with a vision, a mission and a message.

When we met again for this formal interview, we were both sorry that we could not meet in Platte County. We tried, but alas,
our mutual schedules called for meeting on
the Plaza. We met at Plaza Three SteakHouse around four,
before their dinner crowd came in and it was perfect.
He had a later meeting to plan his ten year St. Pius X
high school reunion nearby and I had been close by earlier that day, so it worked. I was just glad that we could meet again
in time to get the story in this issue and hope that
you enjoy getting to know Jason as much as I have.

PCM – OK, you lost your first race (see relat-
ed sidebars with this feature profile), and
you won the second and you are here! State Representative
Jason Grill. You have to be looking forward to
the next session and then running for reelection. Who will
run against you?

JG – I am truly just focused on getting ready
for the next session, but as of right now,
no one is declared to challenge me and I
haven’t heard of anyone interested.

PCM – OK. Your first session is over and
you are looking at the next. What have you
learned and where are you going? What is
the message you want your district and all
others concerned to have about you?

JG – My message is simple. Any idea is an
idea that can take wings if presented correctly and put through the right process. At
the end of the day – or the session – I just
want the residents of my district to know
that I did everything within my power to
represent them honestly and with integrity.
I listen to the people I talk to, Sabrina, and
I try my best to understand what they want,
then I take their opinions with me to
Jefferson City.

PCM – So, how do you make everyone happy?

JG – Well, unfortunately it is not possible
to make everyone happy. I understand this.
I represent not only my district in Jefferson
City, but also the state of Missouri. At the
end of the day, I have to make my decisions
based on what the people tell me they
want. what I have researched and, then,
what I feel is ultimately the best for my district
and Missouri in the overall picture. I put that objective over my own
personal political ambitions and beliefs.
Other representatives and lobbyists make
compelling arguments for their own dis-
tricts and the interest groups that they
serve respectively - many well founded,
some superficial, and some self serving. I
am not a proponent of either extreme par-
tisan politics or politics driven heavily by
special interest groups.

PCM – So how do you ignore the pressure
you must get from the partisans and the
special interest groups?

JG – I can’t say that it is not a challenge. But,
I do not, nor will I ever believe that politics
can be truly effective without compromise.
No one side is ever completely right. This is a
democratic society – the representation of all
sides and the effective compromise for the
greater good is what makes it democratic. We
all have to work together for the greater good
not our own selfish interests. We must find solutions to
the problems that face Missouri. Only partisan politicians and the
special interests want things there way
or the highway. The people in Platte
County are level headed, independent
individuals who just want effective leadership
in government that they can trust.

PCM – So, you feel that you know your con-
stituency. How do you achieve that?

JG – I was born and raised in Platte
County. I knock on doors. I interact with
individuals at the grocery store. I talk with
folks at the gym. I return phone calls. I
return emails. I go to as many events in my
district as I possibly can and get reports on
the ones I can’t go to. You can not repre-
sent people you don’t know and they won’t
trust you to represent them for very long if
you don’t have an understanding of who
they are and what they need.

PCM – It’s interesting that you mention the
knocking on doors. I met a couple – Bill and
Julie Hartoung, both doctors in your district –
who had wonderful things to say about you.
Julie’s comment when I asked her what she
thought of you was this – “I am a die hard
republican. But this guy knocked on my door
and he connected with me.”

JG – That is very flattering and I am glad to
know that she felt a connection. As a mod-
erate, mainstream legislator I have received
support from Democrats as well as
Republicans. It’s hard to remember everyone by name
when you are out there hour after hour, day
after day, knocking on doors.
However, I do remember the people I meet, the
issues we discuss, and any stories
they care to share. I listen to all sides and arguments,
and have an open door policy. No matter
what political party you are, or whether you
voted for me or not, I took office to
effectively represent all individuals in the
32nd District.

PCM – Well, enough about politics. Let’s
talk about Jason Grill the man. You grew
up here right? Went to school here? Have
lived here all your life right? How does your
family feel about your political life?

JG – Yes, I grew up here. I went to St.
Therese grade school and then to St. Pius X
high school. I graduated from Saint Louis
University earning an economics degree
and to law school at the University of
Missouri-Columbia where I earned my law
degree. My father is a Platte County attorney, my mother just retired from U.S.
Army Corp of Engineers. I have a large
extended family here. They are all extremely supportive. We are a close knit group.
Having grown up here only makes me more
passionate about what I am doing. In edition to serving as a legislator
I am also anattorney and an adjunct
professor at Park University.
My family helps me balance my career and
my duties by encouraging me
and by believing in what I am doing.

PCM – So, what do you do in this so called
‘life” of yours while you are not out making
Missouri and Platte County a better place?
What do you read? Where do you go? How
do you unwind?

JG – Because I truly love what I do, I enjoy
the all aspects of my political and profes-
sional life. There are many family events –
weddings, birthday parties, dinners and the
like all the time, and attending these events
is a large part of my life. I read all the local
papers and the KC Star, I like the local
magazines – KC Magazine and COUNTY
of course, and quite frankly beyond keeping up with
professional journals and political news, I read GQ,
Esquire and Men’s Journal. I also read historic biographies of
great presidents – just finished a good book
on JFK and another on Lincoln. And to
unwind and stay in shape I run at the
YMCA or at English Landing Park in
Parkville and play tennis or basketball
when I can.

PCM – We are both watching our watches
and I know you have another engagement,
so what is the last word Jason?

JG – The last words for me would have to
be just these– I care deeply about Platte
County. I love the great state of Missouri
and want to do what I can to make it a bet-
ter place for everyone. That is why I got
involved in government. I truly believe
strong communities will lead to a better
way of life for all Missourians.

PCM – Thanks Jason. I think that you will
get your wish and I wish you all the best. I
look forward to many future interviews
and to watching your career move forward.

JG – Thank you very much!

Rep. Grill's persistance and bipartisan approach leads to passage of his HB 933 language

2007-05-29T15:03:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City-Rep. Grill's sponsored House Bill 933, might have met its end in the Senate because of the partisanship of the Mohela debate, however the pertinant language of this legislation will become law.

Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, worked with House handler of Senate Bill 82 and General Laws Committee Chairman, Steven Tilley, R-Perryville, to get language that will help those in the miliary and their families. Rep. Grill offered House Amendment 12 to Senate Bill 82 on the House Floor. This amendment states that an application for a driver’s license or renewal would be sufficient when signed by person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the currently deployed member of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Rep. Grill's sponsored language stayed in the Senate Bill through the House/Senate Conference Committee and on May 25th, the bill was signed by the President of the Senate.

"I am very excited that HB 933 language will become law in Missouri," said Rep. Grill. "I appreciate the General Laws Committee Chairman for working across the aisle to do the right thing to help the brave men and women who are serving our country overseas.”

Rep. Grill Helps Gain House Approval of Senate Bill to Help Military Members

2007-05-29T14:50:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Despite his status as a first-year legislator and a member of the minority party, Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, helped gain approval of legislation that would make it easier for deployed Missourians to renew a driver’s license. Rep. Grill was the handler of Senate Bill 666 that was approved in the House by a vote of 158-0. The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City, contains language identical to that contained in Rep. Grill’s own bill (HB933)

“It was an honor to have the opportunity to handle this bill in the House and I appreciate everything Rep. David Day, R-Dixon, (Chair of the House Veterans Committee) did to help me with this process,” said Rep. Grill. “I am delighted the majority party gave me the chance to lead the effort in passing this issue. It has been an incredible experience for me as a first-year legislator and I am excited we have the chance to help the brave men and women who are serving our country overseas.”

Both SB 666 and HB 933 state that an application for a driver’s license or renewal would be sufficient when signed by person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the currently deployed member of the U.S. Armed Forces. SB 666 has additional language that allows certain licensed professionals to renew a license expiring while they are serving in the military, within 60 days from completing their service.

During the process in the House, SB 666 had one amendment added to it that would allow a military veteran to submit his or her certificate of release or discharge from active duty, noting honorable discharge, as proof of lawful presence for the purpose of obtaining a driver's or nondriver's license.

SB 666 was never brought up for final approval on the Senate floor by Senate Majority Floor Leader Charlie Shields.

Rep. Jason Grill Attaches His Stay-At-Home Parent Tax Credit Proposal to Senate Tax Legislation

2007-05-29T14:42:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – As the 2007 legislative session came to a close, Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, worked diligently to ensure that his tax credit for stay-at-home parents was enacted into law. He attached the legislation, originally sponsored by Rep. Grill in the form of HB 932, to a piece of Senate legislation (SB 582) approved by the House. Unfortunately, SB 582 died in the House and Senate Conference Committee as lawmakers between the two bodies could not agree on their differences.

Rep. Grill’s plan would have helped parents who want to take a more active role in parenting by authorizing a significant tax credit for those who stay at home to raise their children. Specifically, the legislation would authorize the Motherhood/Fatherhood Stay-At-Home Tax Credit for a parent who stays at home to provide care for a child up to 24 months of age. Any parent who was employed before the birth or adoption of a child whose annual salary was less than $100,000 would be eligible for a tax credit equal to 25 percent of their salary in the year before choosing to become a stay-at-home parent. The annual cumulative amount of the credits issued could not exceed $2 million.

“I worked very hard to try and get this legislation passed as many ways as possible near the end of the 2007 regular session because I believe we owe it to the parents of this state to give them the financial support they need to be able to stay at home and effectively parent their children,” said Rep. Grill. “My legislation received unanimous support in the committee process and overwhelming approval as an amendment to the Senate legislation, which bodes well for its chances in the 2008 legislative session."

Rep. Jason Grill Welcomes Parkville Students to State Capitol

2007-05-29T14:38:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Two students interested in state government made their way to Jefferson City this week to spend time with Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville and learn more about the legislative process. Conner Blinzler, 12, and Madison Blinzler, 9, traveled to the State Capitol with their grandparents on May 8.

Conner and Madison spent time with Rep. Grill and his legislator assistant, Kay, during their day-long visit. During their time at the Capitol they toured the building, visited the Whispering Gallery and observed the Missouri House in legislative session.

“I was so impressed by both Conner and Madison as they were so well-behaved the entire time here and had a genuine interest in what we do here in the State Capitol,” said Rep. Grill.

“Conner let me know he plans to be President some day and, after seeing the way he was dressed in a collard shirt and tie and hearing some of his questions about the legislative process, I have little doubt he will make an outstanding policy maker and leader in the future. I was fortunate to meet both of these outstanding young people and I look forward to seeing the accomplishments they are sure to achieve in the future.”

Rep. Jason Grill’s Driver’s License Bill Passes in the House by a Unanimous 154-0 Vote and Senate Transportation Committee Approves Unanimously

2007-04-27T23:34:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City - Missourians serving in the military and deployed overseas would have an easier time renewing or replacing a driver’s license under legislation sponsored by Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, and approved by the House. The legislation received strong bipartisan support and passed the House by a unanimous vote of 154-0.

The legislation (HB 933) states that an application for a driver’s license or renewal would be sufficient when signed by person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the currently deployed member of the U.S. Armed Forces, if the applicant meets all other requirements set by the director. This will help streamline the renewal process and make situations less complicated for families and individuals with loved ones deployed throughout the world.

“As a freshman legislator and a member of the minority party I knew it would be difficult to get legislation passed this session,” said Rep. Grill, the only Democrat freshman legislator to pass a bill and one of only two other members of the minority party to do so this session at the time.

“However, the overwhelming support of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle made the process smoother. The end result is that we were able to pass good legislation that is the right thing to do for the brave men and women who serve our country overseas.” "As a mainstream member of the House, I have always tried to build bridges across the aisle in order to help all Missourians," said Rep. Grill

After the HB 933 was passed in the House it moved to the Senate where the Transportation Committee voted unanimously in favor of the legislation. “I’ve been fortunate to have strong support from legislators from both parties in the House and that bipartisan support has continued in the Senate. I am hopeful we will see this bill signed into law in the near future," said Rep. Grill.

Rep. Grill’s Legislation to Streamline Driver’s License Renewal Process for Deployed Military Nears Final Steps of Legislative Process

2007-04-27T23:29:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, that would make it easier for deployed Missourians to renew a driver’s license has taken another step closer to final approval by both chambers. Rep. Grill’s bill (HB933), which received unanimous approval in the House and in the Senate Transportation Committee. In the House, Rep. Grill will soon bring to the floor for debate the Senate legislation (SB 666) that contains language identical to that contained in his House bill.

The two bills state that an application for a driver’s license or renewal would be sufficient when signed by person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the currently deployed member of the U.S. Armed Forces. SB 666 has additional language that allows certain licensed professionals to renew a license expiring while they are serving in the military, within 60 days from completing their service.

“Having the language in both bills helps ensure we will get this passed and signed into law this year. I am excited to have the opportunity to handle the Republican sponsored Senate Bill in the House and to help guide it through the final steps of the process,” said Rep. Grill. "I have always believed that it does not matter if an idea come from a Republican or a Democrat as long as it is good for the citizens of Missouri." “This can help eliminate an unnecessary burden for our deployed military personnel who are selflessly serving our country. It’s the right thing to do and I am overjoyed by the support I have had from both parties all throughout this process.”

If either piece of legislation is approved it will then be sent to the Governor’s desk where it will be signed into law.

Rep. Jason Grill’s Bill to Provide Tax Credits to Stay-At-Home Parents Awaits Discussion on House Floor

2007-04-27T23:24:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, hopes to help parents who want to take a more active role in parenting by authorizing a significant tax credit for those who stay at home to raise their children. Rep. Grill is the sponsor of HB 932 that was approved unanimously by the House Special Committee on Tax Reform and currently awaits discussion on the House floor.

House Bill 932 would authorize the Motherhood/Fatherhood Stay-At-Home Tax Credit for a parent who stays at home to provide care for a child up to 24 months of age. Any parent who was employed before the birth or adoption of a child whose annual salary was less than $100,000 would be eligible for a tax credit equal to 25 percent of their salary in the year before choosing to become a stay-at-home parent. The annual cumulative amount of the credits issued could not exceed $2 million.

“Raising our children to be successful and healthy adults is a top priority for us as a society. Anything we can do to assist in that task is beneficial not only to the child, but to the population as a whole,” said Rep. Grill. “I’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of support I have received for this legislation and I am hopeful we can move it through the legislative process during the final weeks of session.”

After being approved by the House Special Committee on Tax Reform, the bill moved to the House Rules Committee where it also received unanimous approval. It now sits on the House Perfection Calendar which means it can be brought up for debate on the House floor at any time.

Rep. Jason Grill Visits With Developmental Disabilities Council to Discuss Their Needs

2007-04-27T23:18:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Members of the Metropolitan Council on Developmental Disabilities for Region IV recently made the trip to Jefferson City to visit with Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, to discuss some of the priority items on their agenda. Some of the key issues discussed were Medicaid reform, per diem increases for sheltered workshops, improving local transportation options and strengthening community providers.

“One of my top priorities is to ensure our disabled Missourians can continue to live healthy and productive lives that allow them to be the contributing members of society they want and hope to be,” said Rep. Grill. “It was a great opportunity to be able to meet with members of the council to discuss their needs and issues so that I can better represent their interests here at the State Capitol. We had a productive and enjoyable visit and I look forward to meeting with them again back in the district.”

Also on hand for the trip to the Capitol were disabled Missourians Ruth Brenner and Tom Welliver, who like Rep. Grill is a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. Janice Tilman of the Platte County Board of Services for the Developmentally Disabled also made the trip to Jefferson City.

Rep. Jason Grill Welcomes Outstanding Park Hill Student to the State Capitol

2007-04-27T23:15:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Angela Holsteadt, a sophomore at Park Hill High School, made the trip to Jefferson City this week to visit with Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, at the State Capitol. Holsteadt was participating in the annual Sophomore Pilgrimage sponsored by the GFWC (General Federation of Women’s Clubs) Art and Literature Club of Parkville.
Each year GFWC clubs send outstanding sophomores from area high schools to Jefferson City on the second Tuesday in April. The pilgrimage promotes goods citizenship and enables students to witness government in action in person. The Sophomore Pilgrimage program has been an ongoing project since 1934.

“It was a wonderful experience having Angela here to see how the legislature works and I hope she enjoyed her time at the Capitol,” said Rep. Grill. “We have so many young people in this state who are interested in the political process and want to learn how to take a more active role. With the help of programs like the Sophomore Pilgrimage they are given a chance to meet their elected officials and gain a better understanding of how the process works.”
Also in attendance with Angela Holsteadt were club members Paige Jackson and Karole Jacobsen.

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is one of the nation’s largest and oldest women’s volunteer organizations. Established in 1896, it currently has over 4,000 members volunteering within communities in Missouri. The organization has more than 10 million members worldwide in 20 countries.

Grill pushes first legislation for stay-at-home parents

2007-03-22T15:10:00.000-04:00

Bill could provide access to income tax credits

By: Jared Hoffmann
Wednesday, March 14, 2007 4:29 PM CDT

Parkville native and state Rep. Jason Grill, D-District 32, is pushing for state legislation that, if passed, would provide income tax credits for stay-at-home parents.

The bill, House Bill 932, marks the first legislative effort for Grill, who was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives during the 2006 general elections. If approved, the bill would allow parents who stay home with their children from birth to 24 months of age to apply for a tax credit equal to 25 percent of their annual salary up to $100,000. The bill also stipulates that the parent must have been gainfully employed prior to the birth of the child and ceased to maintain that employment during the first two years of the child’s life.

Grill said the bill would allow parents to temporarily forgo working in order to stay home with their children during crucial years of development.

“If we could do anything to further a parent staying home with a newborn, I think that would be a good thing,” Grill said. “I realized the way to do that was through a tax credit.”

In its current form, the bill would allocate $2 million worth of tax credits statewide. Grill said although amendments could alter the amount and other provisions of the bill, he kept the number modest to give the program better odds of approval.

With an estimated 5.8 million stay-at-home parents reported by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2005, 5.6 million mothers and 143,000 fathers, he said getting the legislation approved would be a catalyst to providing greater financial assistance to stay-at-home parents in the future.

“I think this is a really good bill for Platte County because of our demographics,” Grill said. “It’s something that I campaigned on, and I’m trying my best to fulfill that.”

Kansas City resident Doug Wilson said the option to file for tax credits would have been useful while his wife Stacie remained home after the birth of their daughter Makenna, who was born October of 2004. He said his wife was able to stay home and tend to their newborn daughter for 12 weeks, but had to return to work shortly thereafter.

“She would have like to have stayed home longer, but we just couldn’t make due,” Wilson said. “It seems like the cost of living today requires a two-income household just to make ends meet. I think the bill is a step in the right direction to allow parents more time with their children in critical years.”

The bill was working its way through several house committees last week and if approved would have to gain the approval of the senate.

“I just think it’s extremely important for our area,” said HB932 co-sponsor and Rep. Trent Skaggs, D- District 31. “For very little money, we can keep people at home with their children. I would like to see the amount increased from $2 million eventually, but keeping it low could help get it passed.”

Staff writer Jared Hoffmann can be reached at 389-6636 or jaredhoffmann@npgco.com.

Rep. Jason Grill’s Legislation to Streamline Driver’s License Renewal Moves Forward

2007-03-21T18:41:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Rep. Jason Grill’s legislation to make it easier for deployed Missourians to renew a driver’s license was given unanimous approval by the House Special Committee on Veterans this week. Rep. Grill, D-Parkville, sponsored the legislation with strong bipartisan support including that of House Speaker Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill, who signed on as a co-sponsor.

The legislation states that an application for a driver’s license or renewal would be sufficient when signed by person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the currently deployed member of the U.S. Armed Forces.

“The support I have received for this legislation has been overwhelming and I am glad to see it is moving through our legislative process so quickly,” said Rep. Grill. “I know this is the right thing to do to help the brave men and women who are serving our country overseas. I look forward to this bill making it to the House floor and eventually being signed into law.”
The House Special Committee on Veterans approved House Bill 933 by a vote of 8-0. HB 933 was also reviewed by the House Committee on Rules, which gave its unanimous support by a vote of 8-0. The legislation is currently on the House perfection calendar where it will will sit for 5 days before it can be put on the House Third Reading calendar for discussion and a vote.

Rep. Grill represents southern Platte County (District 32) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to the House in November 2006. In addition to his legislative duties, Rep. Grill is currently an attorney as well as a professor at Park University.

Rep. Jason Grill Meets With VFW Members to Discuss Veterans Affairs

2007-03-21T18:38:00.000-04:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently spent time with area VFW members to listen to their input and offer some insight on legislation he is working on at the state capitol.

Rep. Grill attended a weekly VFW meeting at VFW Post 7356 on March 10 where he met with local veterans to discuss various veterans affairs issues. He also spent time discussing his legislation, House Bill 933, that would make it easier for currently enlisted members of the Armed Forces serving overseas to renew or obtain a driver’s license. That legislation recently received committee approval and will soon come up for a vote in the House.

“It’s important that we do everything we can to make life easier for the brave men and women making sacrifices to protect our way of life,” said Rep. Grill. “It was nice to be able to share some of these ideas with our veterans who I know appreciate the efforts we make to help the members of our Armed Forces.”

During his visit with VFW members, Rep. Grill enjoyed breakfast and presented a plaque to District 3 Commander Phillip M. Duncan and local Platte County veteran Mike Vogt. The plaque featured the words to the famous military bugle call, Taps. The back of the plaque detailed the history of the music.

Rep. Grill particpates in "Family University" at Park Hill High School

2007-03-21T18:36:00.000-04:00

Rep. Grill participates in "Family University" at Park Hill High School

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, last week took part in the Park Hill Community Drug Task Force’s free program for families and students on topics that included bullying, behavioral disorders, college planning, diversity and personal safety and substance abuse. Rep. Grill participated as a celebrity server and helped serve breakfast to all the parents and students attending the event.

“I was thrilled to take part in this important “Family University” event,” said Rep. Grill. “These are great topics that all families and students should discuss and educate themselves on.”

The event was broken into four different divisions. Elementary students learned about risk taking, bullying and personal safety and how to avoid danger. Middle school students took part in programs addressing alcohol usage as well as tobacco and drug use. High school students were given information on diversity, leadership, and college planning and personality typology. Parents attended a session that discussed Internet safety, being a “love and logic” parent, and autism.

“I want to thank the Park Hill Drug Task Force and Park Hill High School for inviting me to be a part of this event and I look forward to next year,” said Rep. Grill.

Representative Grill views Truman State University students’ undergraduate research at Capitol

2007-03-21T18:27:00.000-04:00

Representative Grill views Truman State University students’ undergraduate research at Capitol

Kirksville, Mo.- Representative Jason Grill visited with Truman State University students who presented a poster outlining their research project as one of 20 examples of undergraduate research showcased by Truman State University students at the Missouri Capitol Building in Jefferson City. The poster display provided legislators, Capitol employees and the public an opportunity to discuss the research projects with Truman students from throughout Missouri and elsewhere.

Kristen Overson, Rachel Goldammer and Steve Webb presented research titled "Putting Learning into Practice: The Practicum in Agriculture at Truman State University". Their faculty mentor is Dr. Michael Seipel.Known for its commitment to undergraduate research, Truman has more than 1,200 additional students involved in research, affording them the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors. These research projects are often presented at various national conferences.

Overson is from St. Charles. A senior communication disorders major at Truman, and the daughter of Karen Schulte, Overson attended Francis Howell High School. At the University she is involved with Alpha Sigma Alpha, Tau Lambda Sigma and Farm Bureau.

Goldammer, of Raytown & Kansas City, is a senior agricultural science major, the daughter of Steve & Pam Goldammer, and attended Raytown High School. Her activities at Truman include Sigma Alpha and Student Ambassador.

Webb of Edina, Mo., formerly lived in Plainfield, Ill., is the son of Paul and Phyllis Webb, and a graduate of Plainfield High School.

Truman State University, founded in 1867 and located in Kirksville, Mo., maintains one of the highest graduation rates for Missouri public institutions. More than 40 percent of Truman’s graduates pursue an advanced degree immediately upon receiving the bachelor’s degree. Truman enrolls approximately 5,800 students.

Rep. Jason Grill Receives Bipartisan Support for Sponsored Legislation

2007-02-20T16:16:00.000-05:00

Rep. Jason Grill will file two bills this week as the lead Sponsor. Both proposed bills have received bipartisan support in the Missouri House of Representatives and both have been Cosponsored by the Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives. Below is a brief summary of each piece of legislation.

1. Motherhood/Fatherhood Stay-At-Home Income Tax Credit. This legislation would allow an individual income tax credit equal to 25 percent of the stay at home parent’s salary before the birth or adoption of a newborn to 24 month old child. The salary can be no more than $100,000 annually, and the stay at home parent can no longer be gainfully employed because of the decision to stay at home to provide care for the eligible child. The cumulative amount of all tax credits each year cannot exceed $2 million.

This legislation has received bipartisan support and has been Cosponsored by 37 members in the House of Representatives thus far (25 Democrats and 12 Republicans). It will help families and encourage more parental involvement in a child’s most important early years.

2. Drivers Licenses for Military Personnel. This legislation states that for persons deployed with the U.S. Armed Forces, their applications for driver’s licenses or renewal are sufficient when they are signed by a person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the person deployed. This will help streamline the renewal process and make situations less complicated for families and individuals with loved ones deployed throughout the world.

This legislation has received equal bipartisan support and has been Cosponsored by 20 members in the House of Representatives thus far (10 Democrats and 10 Republicans).

"I am very happy to have the support of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle including members of leadership as well as the Speaker of the House on my first two pieces of Sponsored legislation as a Missouri State Representative," said Rep. Grill.

Rep. Jason Grill Elected Treasurer of Missouri House Freshman Caucus

2007-02-16T13:00:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – In his second week of duty as an elected official, Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, was honored by his fellow freshman legislators by being elected to the position of Treasurer for the Missouri House of Representatives Freshman Caucus.
Rep. Grill was elected to fill this position by a unanimous vote. Both Republican and Democratic party members participated in the vote for the caucus leadership.

“I am honored to be supported by members from both sides of the aisle and I look forward to working with all of my fellow first-year members in my duties as Caucus Treasurer,” said Rep. Grill. “I believe this group of freshman legislators has a great deal of potential and it will be a privilege to help in guiding our efforts in the coming months as we look to make an immediate positive impact on the legislative process.”

Rep. Grill represents southern Platte County (District 32) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to the House in November 2006. In addition to his legislative duties, Rep. Grill is currently an attorney as well as a professor at Park University.

Rep. Jason Grill Welcomes Park Hill Graduate to State Capitol as Legislative Intern

2007-02-15T10:12:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City - Kansas City North resident Matt Pepper will join Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, at the State Capitol to serve as Rep. Grill’s intern for the Spring 2007 session. Pepper joins Rep. Grill after being accepted to participate in the University of Missouri’s Civic Leaders Internship Program (CLIP).

MU has offered the CLIP program since 1999 to provide students with the opportunity to intern for elected officials at the state capitol in Jefferson City. The internship will offer Pepper the chance to actively work with and observe the state government and legislative process. This program also enables students to develop and reflect upon topics including civic responsibility, public service, and leadership skills.

"I look forward to working with Matt, and I hope to provide an experience that will teach him not only about the workings of the political system but also open the doors of opportunity for Matt should he decide to pursue a career in government," said Rep. Grill.Pepper, a sophomore business major is the son of John & Diane Pepper, and a graduate of Park Hill High School. He is active in the Delta Upsilon fraternity and also several philanthropic events throughout the year at the University.

Rep. Jason Grill Spends Time and Speaks with Local Students at Barry School

2007-02-15T10:10:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City – Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, recently visited with faculty and students from Barry School in an effort to help educate the children about state government and his role as a state legislator. Barry School is a K-8 educational institution in the Platte County RIII School District.

On his visit, Rep. Grill had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Mark Harpst, Superintendent for the Platte County RIII School District, and Rebecca Henshaw, principal of Barry School. In addition, Rep. Grill addressed the entire school during an assembly where he spoke about his duties as a legislator and how he came to be a state representative.

“It was a fun and refreshing experience to have the chance to meet with the students and faculty at Barry School,” said Rep. Grill. “Hopefully they learned a bit more about the legislative process and have some idea about what it is that I do as a state legislator. As we spend a great deal of our time in the legislature dealing with education issues, it is great to take the time to see young people in a positive learning environment to remind me what it is we are working to create.”

During his day at Barry School, Rep. Grill also met with the Fourth Grade class and answered various questions they had. Additionally, he met with the Student Council and spent time reading to the Kindergarten class.

Rep. Jason Grill Receives Committee Assignments for 2007 Legislative Session

2007-02-15T10:06:00.000-05:00

Jefferson City –Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, was appointed to serve on two important House committees for the 2007 legislative session. Rep. Grill was named to the House Special Committee on Small Business as well as the House Special Committee on Tax Reform by House Speaker Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill.

“I am excited to begin work in committees and to join with my colleagues to effect positive change for the people of Platte County and Missouri,” said Rep. Grill. “One of my top priorities is to help small businesses in our state to provide quality health care for their employees. Through my work on the House Special Committee on Small Business I hope to assist in crafting good legislation to do that.”

The House Special Committee on Small Business is responsible for all bills relating to the establishment, growth, development, expansion, retention, and operations of small businesses in the State of Missouri. Representative Grill was also appointed this week to serve on the House Special Committee on Tax Reform, which is responsible for bills relating to potential revisions to Missouri’s tax code.

“I will work with my colleagues by taking a closer look at our tax system to ensure it is beneficial to Missouri’s small business, seniors, individuals, and families,” said Rep. Grill. “We have a lot of hard work ahead of us this session and I am excited to work together as Republicans and Democrats to create legislation that will make our state an even better place to live, raise a family, and do business.”

Rep. Jason Grill Named to another Special Committee by Speaker of the House

Jefferson City –Representative Jason Grill, D-Parkville, this week was named to the House Special Committee on Health Insurance by House Speaker Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill. This is the third committee assignment for Rep. Grill who also was appointed to serve on the House Special Committees on Small Business and Tax Reform by the Speaker of the House.

The House Special Committee on Health Insurance considers and reports upon bills and matters referred to it relating to the affordability and accessibility of health insurance for Missourians.“I am honored that the Speaker would select me to serve on the Special Health Insurance Committee that will work on one of the most important issues we will consider this session,” said Rep. Grill. “I look forward to working with my colleagues from both parties to ensure Missourians have access to affordable, quality health insurance. We have a difficult task ahead of us but I am confident that we can reach a viable solution by coming together as Republicans and Democrats.”