New ways to help Missourians

To the editor:In Missouri, the beginning of a new year means the beginning of a new legislative session. It is the time to focus on priorities that can make a positive difference in the lives of Missouri families and in the operation of Missouri businesses.

This year, I am pleased to support a range of commonsense ideas designed to benefit Missouri voters, small business owners and investors:

1. The Voter Confidence Act, which would ensure that every Missouri voter who wants to vote on a paper ballot has the chance to do so.

2. The Red Tape Reduction Act, which would reduce fees and paperwork for Missouri businesses.

3. The Senior Investment Protection Act, which would deter investment fraud against seniors and the disabled.

Marking paper ballots takes less time at the polls and decreases wait time for voters. Missouri voters always deserve the choice of voting either on a voting machine or a paper ballot.

The Red Tape Reduction Act would give businesses which ordinarily have to file reports with the secretary of state's office annually the option to file every two years instead. It would allow them to file the required paperwork online.

My team works hard to ensure that Missouri seniors are not taken advantage of by dubious investments and financial schemes. The Senior Investment Protection Act would stiffen penalties for committing investment crimes against both seniors and the disabled.

I hope you will help me advocate for these changes by contacting your legislators.

ROBIN CARNAHAN, Secretary of State, Jefferson City, Mo.