From time to time, Missourians experience difficulties when dealing with State Government. One of my greatest responsibilties as an elected official is to aid constituents like you. As a Missouri citizen, your government should be working for you. My office may be able to help you answer questions, find resources, or resolve problems. To determine whether your problem is one with which I can assist, please read carefully through the information below.

Can you help me if I am not a resident of the 140th District?

Step One: Find out here if I am your Representative. If you are not a resident of the 140th District, legislative courtesy usually dictates that an elected official be given the opportunity to assist the people he or she was elected to represent. My office may forward your inquiry to the elected official in whose district you live, but we will notify if we must do so.

With what matters can you assist me?

Step Two: I can help you if your problem involves a state agency or matter. If your problem involves a federal issue or agency, it falls outside my authority. While I cannot provide direct assistance, I will forward your inquiry to the appropriate federal elected official. Also, city or county issues (e.g., local zoning issues) may be more effectively handled by city or county elected officials.

How do I ask for your assistance?

Step Three: If you have determined that your problem involves a state agency or matter with which I can help, you may be able to view my list of frequently asked questions and find an answer or resolution.

Step Four: If you have read the FAQs and still need assistance, please go through the following steps:

- Please gather all the appropriate documents that I will need to contact the state department or agency. If you have any paperwork pertaining to your problem (letters from the agency, bills, etc.), please make copies and mail them to my office. It is important that my office have all the necessary information in order to help you as much as possible.

- Submit your request for assistance (and any necessary documentation or background information) by mail or by completing my online contact form. Detail the problem you are experiencing, what you have tried to do to resolve it, and what you are asking my office to do to assist you. My office will contact you as soon as we receive the form.

- If you need my assistance on a time-sensitive matter, please call my Jefferson City office directly at 1-866-291-5077 (toll free).

Why should I submit my request for assistance in writing?

A written request gives me a clear understanding of the difficulty that you are having with the state agency involved and the resolution you are seeking.

How will you resolve the problem I am experiencing with a state agency?

I cannot guarantee a particular outcome, nor can I overturn an agency's decision. However, my staff and I will do our best to help you receive a fair and timely response. We will do everything possible to cut through the red tape, get answers to your questions, and make sure your concerns are adequately addressed. It is my responsibility to advocate on your behalf.

How long will it take resolve my problem?

Some situations take longer to resolve than others. Many requests for assistance can be resolved with a letter or a phone call from my office.

Can you assist me with a legal matter or give me legal advice?

My staff and I are not able to assist in judicial or court matters, such as child custody, divorce, pending litigation, criminal trails or imprisonment. Due to the separation of the legislative and judicial branches, legislators cannot intervene in any matter involving proceedings, judgments, or sentences of any court of law. My staff and I are not able to offer legal advice or recommend an attorney. You may want to contact the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association or consult their Lawyer Referral Service.

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