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Missouri legislators discuss record session, upcoming tax amendment at Carthage chamber event.CARTHAGE, MO.- (KOAM) - Missouri legislators returned to their home communities this week to discuss a record-breaking legislative session and upcoming ballot measures, including a proposed constitutional amendment that would eliminate the state income tax.State Senator Jill Carter and House Representative Cathy Jo Loy spoke at the Carthage Chamber of Commerce's legislative wrap-up chamber coffee today, sharing details about their work in Jefferson City and priorities moving forward.The Missouri legislative session concluded last month with a record number of bills signed by Governor Mike Kehoe.Carter expressed satisfaction with the volume of legislation passed."As long as we're limiting the control the government has on our lives, I'm okay with that many being passed," said Loy.Carter said she is most proud of two key pieces of legislation from the session: a criminal justice reform bill and a child online safety measure that received strong support from the Joplin area."That was a bill and a passion that really came from our community conversations within our community of how do we protect our kids online, and what do we do with people who are being extorting our children?", said Carter.The senator also noted a significant milestone in budget negotiations, marking the first time during her term that all Republicans backed the budget proposal."We cut bureaucracy and we have a slimmer budget," she said."So that gave us the confidence to say, 'listen, we're we're using taxpayer dollars efficiently.'" However, both legislators acknowledged that some constituents feel their voices aren't being heard on certain issues, particularly regarding data center projects in the region.Loy emphasized the need for improved dialogue between lawmakers and residents."They want to continue to scream and holler that we're not listening and we're trying to listen," she said."I hope that we can dial that narrative down and really have some good, solid conversations." Looking ahead, much of the legislators' attention has turned to Missouri Amendment Five, a ballot measure that would eliminate the state income tax if approved by voters in August.The amendment represents a significant policy shift that could reshape Missouri's revenue structure.Loy expressed strong support for the measure, framing it as both an economic and moral issue."I believe that income tax is probably one of the moral issues of our society," she said."I just think that people will spend their money wisely.And so let's let them just choose how they're going to spend their money." Both legislators emphasized their commitment to maintaining open communication with constituents throughout the summer months.Carter said staying accessible to voters remains a top priority as they navigate complex policy issues."I want those conversations to happen to where you understand the reality of what goes on up there, and what we can do to try to fix some of the pressure points that we're all feeling," she said.The Carthage Chamber of Commerce praised the legislators' outreach efforts, saying the engagement is making a meaningful difference in the community's understanding of state government processes.Today's event represents one of several speaking engagements both representatives are scheduled to hold this summer as they continue their community outreach efforts.COPYRIGHT 2025 BY KOAM NEWS NOW.ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.