SB 8:  Amends the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act by changing the minimum wage and tip credit increase schedule.

Sponsor:  Sen. Hertel (D)                          

Passage:  69-40 with Immediate Effect

Why I voted YES: Small businesses are the backbone of our state’s economy. This will help keep many of our small businesses such as “mom and pop” restaurants in business, while also allowing tipped workers to keep more of their hard-earned money.

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BILL PACKAGE HB 4062-4064:  Closing the Legislators and Department Heads to Lobbyists Revolving Door

Sponsors:  Reps. Tisdel (R), Martin (R), Neyer (R)                          

HB 4062 Passage:  98-11 with Immediate Effect

HB 4063 Passage:  96-13 with Immediate Effect

HB 4064 Passage:  103-6 with Immediate Effect

Why I voted YES: Officeholders who are looking at becoming a lobbyist immediately after serving in office could be tempted to support or oppose legislation in a manner that helps them secure their next job, and not in their constituents’ best interest. It presents the possibility of a conflict of interest.

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HB 4002:  Amends the Earned Sick Time Act to modify which employees and employers are covered under the act and the accrual and usage of paid sick time.

Sponsor:  Rep. DeBoyer (R)                     

Passage:  81-29 with Immediate Effect *Previous Bill

Why I voted YES: The changes under this bill would prevent small businesses – the backbone of our state’s economy – from being stifled under the burdensome mandates of poorly-written policy.