Letter - Governor vetoes small business protection legislation

To the editor:

Governor Holden recently vetoed legislation (SB 69) that would aid small businesses in complying with burdensome state regulations.

Small businesses are the backbone of Missouri's economy and they must be protected to help stimulate job growth in the state. Governor Holden is trying to drag this state in the wrong direction with his veto of small business legislation along with his demands for the largest tax increase in Missouri history.

SB 69 would create the Small Business Regulatory Fairness Board, which would serve as a liaison between agencies and small businesses on issues concerning the impact of agency rules and regulations. This board would give small businesses a chance to have their voice heard instead of being over run with burdensome regulations set forth by state government.

The House passed SB 69 with only three dissenting votes which, is more than enough to override the governor's veto. I am confident that the General Assembly will once again address the needs of small businesses and vote SB 69 into law during the annual veto session in September.

It is unfortunate that the governor has refused to work with the Legislature in finding solutions to protect and promote jobs in Missouri.

Rep. Jason Crowell

R-Cape Girardeau