Missouri bill helps put a stop to fraud

Because of far too many liberal interpretations, there are some Missouri workers who are fired from their jobs for stealing and still are granted unemployment benefits.

By that very same liberal interpretation, there are some Missouri workers who are fired for taking drugs while at work and they are still granted unemployment benefits.

And keep in mind, employers fund the unemployment payments and we taxpayers ultimately pay the price.

But all of that may soon change because of legislation passed in the Missouri Senate this week that would redefine "misconduct" which would disqualify an employee from unemployment benefits.

When governments talk about fraud and abuse, this is a striking example right here in Missouri.

The Senate bill - which passed through committee on a unanimous vote - would exempt from unemployment benefits those who are guilty of such gross misconduct.

And since the unemployment fund in Missouri is currently in a deficit position - in other words, they're broke - it comes just in time.

Currently, "misconduct" is defined as "a wanton or willful disregard of the employer's interest and a disregard of standards of behavior of the employee."

Now honestly, you would think the current definition would disqualify those law breakers. But often, panels who review unemployment claims give a far too liberal interpretation of the definition and those who should not qualify are granted benefits regardless.

This new bill will set new standards and perhaps some of this obvious abuse will end.

The federal government could take a small lesson from this legislation. Constantly raising taxes - like some in the federal government always propose - will not end fraud and abuse.

It takes determination to stop the erosion of revenue by those who decide not to play by the rules.

This time Missouri got it right.