Missouri income tax refund information

Missouri's 126th Dist.

JEFFERSON CITY, MO -- Visiting with citizens around the district, I have been asked about Missouri tax refund information. This year citizens may see a delay in receiving back their Missouri tax refunds because of increased reviews for fraud prevention. Citizens can check the status of their tax refund by going to to the 2016 Missouri Return Inquiry System at https://dors.mo.gov/tax/taxinq/welcome.jsp. For further assistance, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Health Insurance Rate Transparency (SB 865) -- Under legislation that will soon be law, Missourians will be able to easily compare the premium rates charged by insurance companies operating in Missouri. The Missouri General Assembly gave final approval during the final week of the legislative session to a bill that will enact the Missouri Health Insurance Rate Transparency Act.

SB 865 will require health carriers to file premium rates with the director of the Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration for any health benefit plans sold in the state. The rates may be used after the director determines the rates to be reasonable, after the health carrier notifies the director of its intent to use rates that the director deems unreasonable, or 60 days after the filing date. Final rates will then be published on the department's website, which will also allow the public to comment on any proposed rate increases.

The bill is meant to give Missourians the opportunity to cost compare and determine if the rates they are being charged are fair. Without transparency, Missouri's rates have increased at a pace above the national average, and rates vary significantly from one part of the state to another. Rate transparency and review is meant to help reduce costs by empowering Missourians to make informed decisions regarding their health insurance options.

It is an honor to serve on your behalf in the Missouri House of Representatives. Our 126th District office is open year round. My contact information is patricia.pike@house.mo.gov or 573-751-5388.