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Sponsor presents 'Show Me America 250' resolution to tourism committee; members ask about scope and safeguards
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Summary
State Representative Dean Vanskoik presented House Concurrent Resolution 52 urging Missourians to participate in 250th anniversary events on July 4, 2026 and throughout the year; members clarified there is no fiscal note and expressed support while raising concerns about appropriation by extremist groups.
State Representative Dean Vanskoik told the Special Committee on Tourism he is carrying House Concurrent Resolution 52 to encourage Missourians to take part in patriotic programs and events observing the nation's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026 and throughout the year.
Vanskoik identified himself for the record and described commission work on a logo, a model curriculum for schools and a website where local celebrations can be posted so residents can find county events. "We have a website, the Show Me 250," he said, noting curriculum materials are intended for elementary and middle schools.
Representative Reed asked the sponsor to define "patriotic programs" and expressed concern that celebrations not be "hijacked by a group like the Proud Boys or anything like that." Vanskoik replied, "It's not being hijacked by anybody now." Representative Whaley praised the resolution and recalled the bicentennial celebrations of 1976.
Vanskoik asked that the resolution be run on the committee's consent calendar; the chair agreed. When asked about a fiscal note, Vanskoik told the committee there is none. The hearing concluded with no witnesses registered for or against the resolution and the committee adjourned.
The record reflects questions about program definition and the potential for misuse by extremist groups; the sponsor denied current appropriation but did not outline any specific safeguards in the hearing record.