Another hypocrisy filled session has begun in Jefferson City, lead by the usual Republican suspects. Despite their rhetoric of job creation and infrastructure building, a barrage of Republican sponsored bills have been filed that continue to cut basic life saving programs to increasing governments size and control over citizens lives. One of many examples is HB1104 sponsored by Republican Representative Shane Schoeller of Willard. The bill requires voters to show a government-issued photo ID card before voting. It seems harmless, but the truth is that this is the seventh time Republicans have tried to suppress the voting rights of low income, minority, home bound and people with disabilities, all of whom traditionally vote against Republicans. Republicans pride themselves in fighting for smaller government and cutting "wasteful" spending. HB1104 will cost taxpayers' over $3 million for the first year of implementation followed by another $4 million the following two years. With no proof of voter fraud and a 2006 ruling by the Supreme Court that bills like this infringe on voters' rights, Republicans have once again set the tone for another do nothing session. It's time to demand our representatives actually represent all of us and stop protecting their own self serving agenda.

Richard G. Green

Ozark, Mo.