Scott Lipke named 2005 Legislator of the Year

State Rep. Scott Lipke, R-Jackson, was named the 2005 Missouri Sheriff's Association "Legislator of the Year" during a ceremony in Springfield.

Lipke's work in the State House of Representatives this past year was highlighted by his co-sponsorship of house-bill 441. The bill is new, tougher legislation designed to make it more difficult for Pseudo ephedrine to reach the hands of those who would use it to make methamphetamines.

Missouri law-enforcement officials appreciated the law designed to change Missouri's status as a meth hot-spot. "He has worked hard to develop an understanding of the problems facing both the rural and metropolitan sheriffs of Missouri," said executive director of the sheriff's association Mick Covington. "We appreciate his hard work and look forward to working with him in the future."

The future for Lipke will mean more of the same. He already has plans to introduce several new pieces of legislation aimed at crime-prevention. Session for the house of representatives began Wednesday.

His goals for this year's session range from streamlining the re-distribution process for assets seized from convicted drug-dealers to making it a crime to take away a police officer's weapon. He also plans to see to it that MoSMART, Missouri's anti-meth initiative gets the money it needs to give it teeth.

The award honors Lipke who is Chairman of the House Committee on Crime Prevention and Public safety for his efforts to aid law-enforcement in the state.

"It's a tremendous honor to receive this award," said Lipke. "I hold law-enforcement officers in the highest regard because I know what a difficult job they have.

Lipke said he gained appreciation for the job done by police officers while working as an assistant prosecutor in Cape Girardeau for five years.

tgreaney@semissourian.com

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