[Missouri-l] a couple more things to keep in mind when speaking with our representa tives' offices

[dauidr at juno.com]

All,

A couple more comments as we proceed in calling our representatives on this Medicaid issue.

First, when we speak with a legislative aid such as Shawn in Sue Allen’s office or Joan in Ryan Silvey’s office, we need to keep in mind that these folks are gatekeepers and filters. Many of them really do not have the knowledge on line items and reasons behind them that a budget analyst or chief of staff may have.

Remember, too, that many of the similar office workers for our representatives are folks who may come the ladder from working with the rep as he has ascended from the city or county level to legislator. So, they often fulfill a chair or role that they have known for a long time. Their responsibilities mirror that role.

I say this upon having a couple very cordial and very informative discussion with a couple of my legislative representatives’ offices. 

I understand that many of us are upset and may be paicking over the Medicaid, no matter how some are spinning it. Yet, we need to remember our talking points and stick with them.

In closing, here are some question I have that legislative aids across the board have received well.

First, can you clarify from your understanding the specific cut that the appropriations committee recommends?
Follow up with (my favorite). I am all in favor of conservative budget cuts. Our state need them as we need lower taxes. Yet, why did you cut specifically in the area of Medicaid—State Medical?
Then if they are having difficulty answering the question, ask to make a phone appointment with either the representative, their chief of staff, or their budget analyst. I have had a couple folks offer to call me tomorrow morning.

Look over the budget issues tonight after the MCB Connect, which many of us wil be on. BE prepared tomorrow to suggest or discuss other areas where cuts could be made so as to replace the revenue that Gov. Nixon had taken from higher education.

This issue, I believe, conservatives and liberals can work together in advocating since we are all concerned about how to preserve Medicaid in  its fullness. We all know people whose livelihood are truly at stake.

David Rosenkoetter
Kansas City, MO
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