It has been a busy week here at the Capitol. We are now spending more time on the Floor debating bills, and have dealt with many issues ranging from illegal immigration to pharmaceutical drug lists. There is never a dull moment around here, and it often amazes me how simple, common sense issues can suddenly become so complex.

On Thursday we passed a bill aimed at stopping the rapidly growing crime of illegally selling prescription medication. This bill sets up a record keeping system to track the sale of commonly abused prescription drugs. Sounds simple, right? Wrong. Suddenly this bill aimed at keeping prescription drugs off the streets became a civil liberties issue. A few of my fellow legislators claimed that any type of drug tracking and record keeping would be a violation of your privacy, regardless of whether you were breaking the law. A long debate ensued and you would have thought that those of us who supported the bill were recycled Nazis from WW II. After many accusations and raised voices, the bill was brought to a vote. Common sense prevailed and the bill passed.

I had many visitors from the district at the Capitol this week. Supporters and employees from the University of Missouri County Extension were here to lobby on behalf of funding for their organization. Windsor School brought their student council over…a bright bunch of kids who seemed truly interested in the political process. As always, I think the highlight of their trip was the climb to the Capitol Dome. If you ever happen to be in Jefferson City, don’t hesitate to come to the Capitol to visit. We will be glad to escort you to the Dome if you are interested in that activity.

I promised Chase I would watch him play soccer tonight, so I will cut this report short and race back to Clinton.

As always, I encourage you to contact me with your suggestions or ideas. I can be reached at my Capitol office (573) 751-1484, or by e-mail at shannon.cooper@house.mo.gov. My mailing address is: Room 310, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.