With the governor’s proposed budget cuts to Missouri’s colleges and universities and to the Department of Health and Senior Services, I believe it is important for industry leaders to stay informed on the actions of lawmakers regarding the state’s operating budget . This week, I had the privilege of meeting with education and health care leaders who came to the State Capitol to share their legislative agendas.
Education is one of the key economic engines in our state. Advocates from the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Inc. (FCCLA) were among various groups who visited the State Capitol this week.
FCCLA is a nonprofit made up of student leaders who have an interest in issues such as teen pregnancy, family relationships, substance abuse, financial literacy, career exploration and more. Through this nonprofit, teenagers are taking the initiative to equip themselves with the necessary skills to overcome any obstacles that may detract from their future success.
I was proud to meet with FCCLA students from Warrensburg, New Franklin and Richmond during the past week in the State Capitol. It was quite impressive to see a group of young leaders take an interest in the budget decisions that may affect their ability to continue promoting their mission within our school districts.
In addition to FCCLA students, members of the Future Farmers of America and Missouri Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), who are a team of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management, were also among the group of students visiting the State Capitol. All of these student-led programs fall under the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, who set the guidelines for schools statewide that help prepare our youth for opportunities in higher education.
I also visited with representatives from the Johnson County Community Health Center and Pathways Community Health center in Warrensburg. Both entities need their budget requests to be fully-funded in order to continue to provide vital services throughout our communities. Having access to adequate health care services is a necessity for all Missourians, especially for those who live in rural areas.
It was a pleasure to meet with all of these individuals, and I encourage others to contact my office at any time to schedule a visit. As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns. Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-4302. You may also email me at denny.hoskins@senate.mo.gov.
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