Weekly readers of this column know that sometimes it covers what is happening in Washington, D.C., while other times it focuses on things taking place in Missouri. This week, I'd like to highlight an issue important to Missourians as tax season gets underway, an opportunity for local students to have their artistic talents recognized and an update on a project to give a small token of thanks to our veterans on Valentine's Day.
Just a few days ago, several constituents brought to my attention that the Jefferson City Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office had been closed since last month. Of the eight local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers in Missouri, the Jefferson City office is the only one in Mid-Missouri and the next nearest office is 120 miles away.
I sent a letter to the IRS commissioner to find out what was happening and I was not satisfied with the response I received. According to the commissioner, the Jefferson City office is staffed with only one employee, who is new, so the office was closed for that employee to receive basic training. I think taxpayers deserve IRS offices that are open and staffed with trained employees year round, but particularly during tax season and especially after the IRS received additional funding for customer service for this fiscal year.
In addition, the commissioner suggested that Mid-Missourians should use the IRS' 1-800 number for assistance during the office's closure. If you've ever tried to call the 1-800 number for assistance, it's probably not a surprise that only 38 percent of callers get through to talk to representatives and spend an average of 30 minutes on hold to do so. This situation raises more questions in my mind and I plan on following up with the commissioner in the coming days to get to the bottom of it.
In addition, this week was the kick off of the Congressional Art Competition. This is an annual opportunity for high school students living in the 3rd District to display their artistic talents. The winner of the contest in the 3rd District will have his or her artwork displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the United States Capitol for one year and receive free airfare to Washington, D.C. to attend a ceremony this summer for the unveiling of the artwork.
Runners-up will have their works displayed in my offices in Jefferson City, Washington, Mo., and Wentzville. In the past, I have received hundreds of inspiring and unique pieces of artwork and I am looking forward to see what comes through the door for the 2016 competition.
Lastly, as America marked Valentine's Day, I wanted to send an update about my office's inaugural "Valentines for Veterans" drive to give thanks to our nation's heroes. I am incredibly proud to report that my district offices received over 9,000 valentines from across eastern and Central Missouri that have been distributed to local veterans through the VA hospitals, veterans homes, and veterans service organizations. I am amazed by the kindness of everyone in the 3rd District and it is safe to say the first year of this program was a complete success!
U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo., represents the state's 3rd District, which includes Jefferson City. His local office can be reached at 573-635-7232.
Web link: