ZIEGENHORN DECIDES NOT TO SEEK SENATE VACATED BY DENNIS

SIKESTON - State Representative Dennis Ziegenhorn, considered one of the leading candidates to succeed retiring Sen. John Dennis, has announced he will stay in the House rather than try to move to the Senate next year.

Ziegenhorn, a Sikeston Democrat representing the 157th district, said he plans to seek re-election to a seventh term in 1992. Earlier this year, he was appointed to head the powerful insurance committee of the House by Speaker Bob Griffin, and noted his desire to continue in that role was a major reason in deciding to stay in the House.

Ziegenhorn acknowledged that he had received a great deal of encouragement to run for the Senate, but after considering all the factors, felt his best option was to continue his present position. "Their vote of confidence is very much appreciated," Ziegenhorn said.

"There is a host of legislation and really important questions that will be coming before the insurance committee in the next session," said Ziegenhorn. "I owe it to this district and to the House leadership who expressed confidence in naming me to the insurance post, to continue that role in the House.

"It is sincerely my concern to continue dealing with the issues and problems of my home district. There is no doubt I can more effectively serve the needs of my people by remaining in the House. I hope I have a reputation of working one-on-one; of solving problems, regardless of their size. That's what I like to do and hope to continue doing in the House."

The insurance panel handles one of the heaviest work loads in the House and handles many major bills.

Ziegenhorn was appointed to replace former Rep. Dewey Crump as chairman of the insurance committee. Crump was convicted on several felony drug counts. There were also revelations that the representative had received consulting fees from insurance companies and that he often sought out companies to purchase expensive meals for committee members.

In taking over the committee, Ziegenhorn declared that he was taking a new approach to the chairmanship and instead of using his position as chairman to decide what bills were heard or passed out, would serve as "traffic director" and let the committee make such decisions.

Under his leadership, the committee heard several major bills this year that became law, including an omnibus package that included 17 reforms aimed at providing uniformity in regulation the insurance industry between states. It was the largest insurance bill ever passed by the House.

The committee also dealt with issues related to the solvency of insurance companies and consumer protection.

Next year, Ziegenhorn noted the panel will be dealing with a controversial proposal to increase workman's compensation charges for Missouri businesses. In addition, the committee will look at such problems as health insurance coverage and other bills to protect consumers from insolvent companies.

"I think we started a new era on the insurance committee last session and it is important that we continue that direction," said Ziegenhorn.

The representative said he wanted to make his announcement now so that others considering the race would know he does not plan to run.

Ziegenhorn's announcement will likely encourage other Democrats interested in the Senate to take a closer look at the race. One candidate in particular who might benefit from this announcement is Sikeston Mayor Bill Burch.

Burch has been studying a Senate campaign for some time, but will likely wait until later this fall when redistricting is finished before making a final decision.

Another former Sikeston resident, Pat Lea, who now lives in Caruthersville, announced last week that he is considering the race. Before he can run, Lea would have to move back into the district.

No candidates from either party have formally announced for Dennis' seat yet, however, filing does not begin until January.