HJR 71 -- Sales Tax for Veterans' Services Sponsor: Fisher Upon voter approval, this proposed constitutional amendment authorizes a dedicated sales tax of one-eighth of 1% for funding veterans' homes, services, and programs. The tax becomes effective January 1, 2009, and terminates December 31, 2016, unless reauthorized by the voters. If reauthorized, the tax will be reduced to one-tenth of 1%. The sales tax must be reauthorized by the voters every 10 years. The amendment constitutionally establishes the Missouri Veterans' Commission within the Department of Public Safety consisting of nine members, five of whom will be veterans appointed by the Governor. The other four will be members from the General Assembly, two from the House of Representatives, appointed by the Speaker, and two from the Senate, appointed by the President Pro Tem, each serving a single two-year term.Copyright (c) Missouri House of Representatives