Northeast Missouri Congressman Kenny Hulshof and West Central Missouri Congressman Ike Skelton sit down with federal, state, and industry officials in Jefferson City, Wednesday, to discuss the situation with Mississippi and Missouri River shipping in light of the damage done by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to the ports in New Orleans. Skelton says the rivers are a vital lifeblood for this state. And, Hulshof says lawmakers might end up stepping in to provide funding for the recovery effort. But Hulshof admits spending more might not play well with his Republican, conservative base, already upset about the growth of government. He says it could mean cuts in other areas.