Vicky Hartzler column

Missouri Girls State

I was blessed to get to speak to this outstanding group of young women about leadership and the privileges and opportunity we have in this country to make our voices heard and to serve others through public service. I know our country will be in good hands in the future as these outstanding young leaders share their gifts and talents to impact our communities.

Business roundtable

I joined a business roundtable in Butler County and heard concerns from local businessmen and women. Discussions were focused on overreaching government mandates that present obstacles to their businesses growth and overall job creation. Participating in these conversations allows me to better understand challenges constituents across Missouri’s Fourth are facing and better represent the needs of the business community.

Russell Stover

While I was visiting Butler County, I was able to stop in to see the Russell Stover Distribution Center. It was incredible to witness all the various chocolates and candies they sell. Additionally, many Missourians are enjoying their ice cream during these hot summer days.

Spartan Light Metal Products

In Audrain County, I had the privilege of touring the family-owned aluminum and magnesium die cast manufacturing company, Spartan Light Metal Products. Based in Mexico, their business model encourages teamwork and focuses on creating a work environment where employees are engaged and work with each other to improve performance. Their expertise is in machining and assembly as well as design and analysis. I was thankful to see their facility.

Meeting a need

In Mexico, I stopped by the Help Center. This facility is the only food pantry in Audrain County and provides needy households with up to 28 pounds of food per monthly visit. I am thankful for the important work they do each day in providing a valuable service to the community there.

Dura automotive systems

While I was in Randolph County, I visited Dura Automotive’s Moberly facility. This is only one of their 36 locations in 15 countries. The company is an independent designer and manufacturer of automotive components, including control systems, exterior systems, and lightweight structural systems–marketing to every North American, Asian and European Original Equipment Manufacturer. I am always happy to visit Missouri Fourth businesses that are creating good jobs for the citizens of our district.

Zika funding at a standstill

In the wake of the House passing a critical measure to fight the Zika virus and prevent it from spreading, it is unfortunate that what was previously supported by the Senate failed this past week. With 60 countries and territories reporting mosquito-borne transmission of the virus, it is imperative that Congress acts in a timely manner to prevent further outbreak. The Zika virus is a serious threat and we must act to protect Americans. I am hopeful for Congress to get past this gridlock and come to a common sense agreement that address this issue. Please know that I will continue to keep you updated as decisions are made.

Disappointment in Supreme Court ruling

The United States Supreme Court issued its ruling in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt. In a 5-3 decision, the Court struck down the law in Texas to protect women’s health and emergency care. Unfortunately, this allows abortion clinics to continue operating in dangerous conditions, putting the health of women at risk. While I am deeply disappointed in this decision that appears to have put politics ahead of wise health care decisions, I remain committed to ensuring women receive the best and safest medical care.

A Day to celebrate

Finally, our nation  celebrated its 240th birthday as we marked Independence Day, 2016. We are truly blessed to live in the greatest nation on earth. America is a country like no other in its advancement of the virtues of liberty and freedom for all. We embrace the truth that “all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”

As we celebrated this past weekend, thank God for the blessings He has bestowed on us and we gave thanks to the brave men and women who have fought and died for the freedoms we enjoy as we prayed for those serving our country.

Thank you for investing your time in reading my weekly newsletter. It is my goal to serve you and Missouri’s Fourth by providing accurate and timely updates from our nation’s Capital.

Vicky Hartzler

Member of Congress