The last month has been very busy with meetings and working on legislation for 2024. I am working on legislation to support law enforcement, increase penalties for violent crimes, increase access to healthcare and reform our welfare system. Legislation is also being developed to create an official Emmett Kelly Day for Missouri. I am working with the Summersville VFW to name a bridge in the Summersville area after one of our Texas County Veterans.

Honor Those Who Have Served

On November 11 (Veterans Day), we pause to express our gratitude for the heroic men and women who made the life-altering decision to serve. It is also a time to express gratitude for the sacrifices they have made. The debt owed to these heroes can never be fully repaid. We should strive to express our gratitude and appreciation on Veterans Day and on each day of the year. America would not be the greatest nation on this planet today without the service and sacrifices of veterans.

On this Veterans Day, I ask you to keep these brave men and women in your hearts and prayers. We should also give thanks to all of the selfless Americans who have served in defense of our nation throughout its history. Let us do all we can to support our veterans, so we can help them have brighter days ahead just as they have given us a brighter future with their service.

Visiting the Capitol

If you are planning a trip to your Missouri State Capitol and would like assistance with a tour please contact my office at 573-751-2264 or email me at benniecook@house.mo.gov

Representative Bill Hardwick and I attended the Maries County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting and met with the Vienna FFA.

Representative Bruce Sassmann and I recently visited the Maries R-II School in Belle and Bland.