(February 21) Following the lead of the bill's sponsor, Rep. Ron Richard (R-129, Joplin, pictured at left), the Missouri House gave initial approval today to the Missouri Quality Jobs and Enhanced Enterprise Zone legislation - a key part of the MEDC's legislative package for the 2007 legislative session. The bill was approved by a unanimous voice vote. Tax credit limits for both programs are removed in the House version of the bill.Rep. Richard, who also serves as Chairman of the House Special Committee on Economic Development, said elimination of the tax credit limit was necessary for both programs. "Eliminating the limits on tax credits allows our state and local economic development professionals all over the state to work in a frictionless environment to attract and retain qauality jobs in Missouri", said Richard. "Our economic development professionals work hard to bring good paying jobs to this state and the legislature needs to give them the tools they need."
The Quality Jobs program has created more than 12,500 jobs with above average wages and health benefits in its first 19 months of operation. A study detailing more results of the Missouri Quality Jobs program is expected to be released later this week.
"This program has been an overwhelming success," said Richard, "and I am pleased that my colleagues put aside political differences to pass this quality jobs legislation." The MEDC thanks Rep. Richard, the entire committee and the leadership of the Missouri House for making this bill a priority.
