Stay informed on upcoming ballot measures

Secretary of State Jason Kander announced recently that Missouri voters will have a voice on some important issues, two of which are limits on campaign contributions and increases in cigarette tax hikes. These measures will be on the Nov. 8 ballot.

No one runs for office without an abundance of finances, so candidates rely on these. Currently, there are no limits on how much a donor may give. This new measure, sponsored by the founder of St. Louis's Orion Investment Co., would impose a $2,600 limit on candidates per election, with a $25,000 cap on contributions by political parties. This will level the playing field, as some candidates benefit from donations that reach as high as six figures.

Cigarettes are the other hot topic, which emerged in two phases.

A 60-cents per pack increase would go towards funding early education. The ballot initiative was funded by the "cigarette giant" Reynolds American Inc., as the Southeast Missourian recently reported.

The second proposed increase, funded by the Missouri Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association political action committee and tobacco companies, would amount to 23 additional cents per pack and would go towards transportation infrastructure. This is not a replacement tax; it would be in addition to the 17-cent tax already in place. The measure also proposes to "raise the tax on other tobacco products by 5 percent in 2017."

Attorney General Chris Koster is on record for supporting the campaign contribution limit, citing "transparency and accountability." He is also on record for rejecting the cigarette tax hikes, as they create, according to him, another level of "educational bureaucracy."

It is important to know where Missouri's elected officials stand on these issues, but it is more important to follow along as these issues unfold so you can take your own stand. Be informed and engaged -- and please vote in November. It'll be here before you know it.