The Members of the Missouri Legislature were asked to vote on a House Joint Resolution (HJR) 173 & 174 that could eliminate state income tax and replace the current revenue source with a new sales and use tax.

My vote for the passage of the resolution did one thing – it gave you, the voters, the opportunity to decide whether or not it’s better for the future of the State of Missouri to eliminate income tax in favor of a sales and use tax.

It is your decision and your vote that counts. If there was ever a reason to vote, this resolution is it. I have heard from constituents that support the resolution. I have heard from constituents that oppose the resolution. Between now and the election, both sides – for and against – will have arguments to help you to decide if you are a yes or no vote.

• This resolution does not define who will charge you a use tax or how much.

• This resolution does not define what percentage the new sales tax could be.

• The resolution, if passed by Missouri voters, will allow the Missouri Legislature to craft a new tax system, with the intention of serving the best interests of future generations of Missourians.

• Will the legislature make it better or just different?

• Is a consumption tax (sales and use tax) better than a production tax (income tax)?

Governor Kehoe has until May 22nd to decide if this will be on the ballot in August or November.

Before the election, my office will have information available to you and ballot language adopted by the General Assembly, to help educate you on the facts, so you are able to make an informed decision.