49th House District: Lisa Buhr
Party: Democratic
Name: Lisa Buhr
Age: 38
Place of residence: Holts Summit
Occupation: Legislative assistant
Education: Some college
Political experience: Worked for Missouri Legislature since 2013
Opponent: Travis Fitzwater
Recent state income tax cuts have been hailed by some as an economic jumpstart and derided by others as taking money that’s needed for social services and education. What is your opinion?
There is something to be said for income tax cuts and corporate tax cuts bringing people and businesses to our state. However, when cutting taxes means social services and education take the hit, that’s when our most vulnerable citizens start to suffer. We need to prioritize giving assistance to those that need it. We need to prioritize giving our kids high quality education through public schools and skills training. If cutting taxes means we can’t provide for all of our citizens, then we need to stop cutting taxes.
Voters will decide Nov. 6 whether to raise Missouri’s gas tax. Do you support raising the tax?
I will be voting yes on Proposition D Because our roads and bridges desperately need repair. Generally I am opposed to sales and use tax, but this was a compromise made in the General Assembly. Studies show that the gas tax is the best way to improve infrastructure.
Voters will also decide on whether to approve any of three medical marijuana proposals. What are your thoughts on the issue?
I am supporting Amendment 2 because the tax rate is reasonable and the money goes to the Missouri Veterans Commission. It gives the home grow option to rural patients who are not near a dispensary to access the medications they need. Because it’s a constitutional amendment, any changes must be approved by a vote of the people.
What other key issues do you see facing the state?
My family has been in the trades for three generations, so I know that Right to Work is WRONG for Missouri. It hurts working families. The express purpose of unions is to protect workers and their wages and benefits. The middle class was built on the back of union labor. Missourians voted to protect our unions and we need to make sure our legislature upholds that decision as well.
