Missouri Senate, 20th District: Jim Kreider, Democrat

Jim Kreider, Democrat

Jim Kreider, of Nixa, has 10 years experience in the Missouri legislature and served as Speaker of the House the last two years.

What is your plan to get the state budget back in line?

"State revenues are off. Last year we cut $1 billion out of the budget. It looks like we're going to have to cut another $500 million. When times are tough like this, you've got to truly know what your priorities are and stick to the basics. I believe that we must fund education. It is the foundation of our democracy and of our economy.

On transportation, "I believe we need to look into transportation again, even after the defeat of Prop B. I think we need to put a question to the people to allow toll roads in this state. I'm in favor of them. I believe it's an option that is needed."

What is your plan to stimulate Missouri's economy?

With the economy slumping like it is, with the job losses that we've had due to NAFTA the state must do our best to attract business and help business to expand. I think we can do that through economic development, and through tax credits.

"I have appointed an interim committee called the Committee on Job Preservation and Creation. They are traveling the state right now trying to get input from Missouri's businesses to see what we need to do to help the business and job climates."

How will you address the rising cost of health insurance and its impact on small businesses?

"That's really something the federal government needs to step in and do. But I have proposed legislation to give small business tax credits to encourage small businesses to pool together in order to get a better rate."

What is your position on workers' compensation reform?

"I was in the legislature when we reformed workers' compensation in 1995. But I have heard complaints from small business and employees. So maybe it's time to get into that issue again and see if we can make it better."

by Eric Olson

SBJ Reporter