FIRST REGULAR SESSION

House Concurrent Resolution No. 21

92^ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

1811L.01I

         Whereas, there is an urgent need for genuine multilateral action to eliminate weapons of mass destruction worldwide; and

            Whereas, most governments around the world oppose unilateral action regarding Iraq and support the full pursuit of diplomatic resolutions and weapons inspections before any further military action is taken against Iraq; and

            Whereas, a war with Iraq will jeopardize the lives of American soldiers and will kill many innocent Iraqi civilians who have already suffered enormously under Saddam Hussein's rule and sanctions of the United Nations; and

            Whereas, a United States military attack on Iraq threatens the stability of the Middle East region; and

            Whereas, military action will likely result in a long-term United States military presence; and

            Whereas, conflict in the area may result in the widespread destruction of the environment and the civilian infrastructure of Iraq; and

            Whereas, military expenditures will cause ballooning federal budget deficits, further weakening an already sluggish economy and ensuring reductions in federal aid to the State of Missouri and other States; and

            Whereas, the State of Missouri is suffering from a fiscal crisis such that its ability to stabilize the taxes of the people of the State is being threatened, and programs that benefit working people and the poor are being threatened by severe budget cuts; and

            Whereas, a war in Iraq is estimated to cost the United States taxpayers more than one hundred billion dollars, including millions of dollars from Missouri taxpayers, an amount that could go a long way to meeting Missouri's health and education needs; and

            Whereas, if the United States goes to war with Iraq, this resolution should in no way be interpreted as not supporting our troops, and we, the members of the Missouri General Assembly, stand in full and unwavering support of our brave men and women of the Armed Forces whenever they are called into action:

            Now, therefore, be it resolved that the members of the Missouri House of Representatives of the Ninety-second General Assembly, First Regular Session, the Senate concurring therein, hereby respectfully urge and request that the President of the United States support the full pursuit of diplomatic resolutions and weapons inspections; and

            Be it further resolved that the Chief Clerk of the Missouri House of Representatives be instructed to prepare properly inscribed copies of this resolution for the President George W. Bush and each member of the Missouri Congressional delegation.