UNINSURED MOTORISTS SLIP BY

The problem of uninsured motorists continues to plague Missourians and cries out for tougher laws by the General Assembly. A recent survey by the Southeast Missourian demonstrated that nearly 16 percent of drivers in this part of the state aren't insured and are ignoring the state's financial responsibility law.

Missourians currently must sign a financial responsibility form when they renew their license plates each year. They also must carry proof of insurance in the auto. But, as Rep. Larry Thomason, D-Kennett, points out, many people simply lie on the form. Thomason wants to toughen the law and has sponsored legislation that passed the House but died in the Senate in the most recent session.

The problem of uninsured motorists is serious and it isn't going away. It is time for Missouri lawmakers to make something like Thomason's bill a high priority.