Warrensburg - June 26, 2007 - Governor Matt Blunt signed the MEDC Regional Economic Development District legislation into law before an attentive crowd of Girls State participants at the University of Central Missouri this evening. MEDC President Lisa Franklin holds a signed copy of HB 741 while Rep. David Pearce, Public Policy Committee Chair Randy Allen, President-elect Ben Jones, and Rep. Darrell Pollock pause for a photo with the Governor following the ceremony (above).
The legislation was originally sponsored by Rep. Pollock and was added to a broader economic development bill sponsored by Rep. Pearce (right). The new law will allow local governments to pursue a regional approach to economic development projects. Prior to passage of the new law, local governments had the ability to work together on regional plans, but had no statutory authority to fund joint projects. Rep. Pearce recognized the MEDC's work in bringing the legislation forward. He also explained the original bill contained the Missouri Economic Development Code, but through the legislative process, the legislature decided to further study that issue for possible action in the next legislative session.
Governor Blunt reiterated his commitment to job creation in comments to the Girls State crowd and commended the participants on their leadership.
The Missouri Economic Development Council thanks Governor Blunt, Rep. Pollock, Rep. Pearce, and the other members of the House and Senate for their support of MEDC's economic development legislation.
