Jefferson City

JANUARY 8, 2026

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe and the Department of Economic Development’s (DED) Office of Broadband Development (OBD) announced today that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved Missouri’s plan to award more than $814 million to bring high-speed internet to more than 200,000 unserved and underserved locations across the state.

“High-speed internet is no longer a luxury—it’s essential infrastructure,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “We thank the Trump Administration and NTIA for approving Missouri's plan to invest more than $814 million to expand broadband access to over 200,000 of the most difficult to serve locations in our state. This investment strengthens our economy, supports rural communities, and creates new opportunities for families and businesses across Missouri.”

The NTIA, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, approved Missouri’s Final Proposal for projects under the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program on January 6. This approval will allow OBD to enter into agreements with awarded internet service providers to extend high-speed broadband networks. Providers will then have four years to complete their obligations under the program.

“I want to congratulate and applaud our broadband team for their extraordinary work to reach this milestone,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “Their dedication, expertise, and tireless collaboration with partners across the state made NTIA’s approval possible. This achievement reflects their commitment to expanding connectivity and improving the lives of Missourians in every corner of our state.”

OBD published a summary of provisional awards before submitting its Final Proposal for review. NTIA’s approval process resulted in loss of eligibility for approximately 7,200 locations due to removal from the Federal Communication Commission’s National Broadband Map or providers reporting plans for service during the State’s challenge process.

“We’re thrilled to have reached this significant point in the process of connecting all Missourians,” said BJ Tanksley, Director of the Office of Broadband Development. “Our team has worked tirelessly alongside providers and stakeholders statewide to prepare a proposal that benefits as many locations as possible. We sincerely appreciate the contributions of all our partners who helped make this approval a reality.”

Types of awards by technology in the approved Final Proposal:

• End-to-end fiber: 166,750 locations (82%)
• Low-earth orbit satellite: 23,378 locations (12%)
• Fixed wireless: 11,494 locations (6%)
• Co-axial cable: 2,212 locations (1%)

In line with the Restructuring Policy Notice, OBD was able to award all eligible locations while saving $900 million of Missouri’s $1.7 billion BEAD allocation. OBD will look to NTIA guidance on how these funds can be used to advance plans for crucial investments in Missouri’s economic competitiveness.

A table showing the number of locations awarded by provider is available at this link. The final award for each eligible location, searchable by address, will be available at broadbandmap.mo.gov in early January.

About the Office of Broadband Development

The Office of Broadband Development (OBD) is focused on addressing broadband availability and non-infrastructure barriers to full participation in the digital economy in Missouri by working with providers, communities, and stakeholders to expand and accelerate broadband deployment across the state. OBD’s Connecting All Missourians initiative includes an extensive public engagement process to inform plans for programs funded by the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, part of the Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act (IIJA).

To learn more about the Office of Broadband Development or its programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.

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JANUARY 7, 2026

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe will deliver the 2026 State of the State Address detailing his legislative priorities and his Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Below is a full media schedule.

The address will be livestreamed on Governor Kehoe's Facebook, X, and YouTube, as well as on mo.gov/live.

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

1:30 - 2:00 p.m. (CST)

What:    Budget Overview Briefing

Where:   Missouri State Capitol - Joint Committee Room (Room 117)             

Media:    Embargoed and on Background until Start of Speech

Budget Director Dan Haug will give an overview of Governor Kehoe's FY2027 General Revenue Budget. Media will receive embargoed copies of the budget summary. 

3:00 p.m. (CST)

What:    2026 State of the State Address

Where:   Missouri State Capitol - House Chamber              

Media:    Open

Media should contact Ben Peters at Ben.Peters@house.mo.gov or 573-751-4043 to arrange accommodation in the House Chamber.

For instructions to access the satellite, please see attachment.

A press release will go out at the start of the 2026 State of the State Address including an embargoed copy of the address.

• 2026 State of the State Satellite Coordinates.pdf
• 2026 State of the State.jpg

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JANUARY 5, 2026

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced two gubernatorial appointments.

Scott Ream, of West Plains, was reappointed to the State Board of Optometry.

Mr. Ream has been the owner and primary optometrist of Scott Ream Optometry for nearly 40 years. He remains an active member in the field of optometry, serving as the president of the Missouri Optometric Foundation and as the past president of the Missouri Optometric Association. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and his Doctor of Optometry from the University of Missouri–St. Louis College of Optometry.

Christopher Schappe, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the Board of Probation and Parole.

Mr. Schappe previously served as legal counsel to the Minority Caucus in the Missouri Senate before transitioning into private practice. He remains an active member of his community, serving as a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and a member of St. Joseph's Cathedral. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English, a Master of Public Administration, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri School of Law.

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DECEMBER 30, 2025

Jefferson City — In 2025, the Kehoe Administration worked to advance a conservative, results-driven agenda focused on securing Missouri’s future.

Since taking office on January 13, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe took action to turn priorities into results—strengthening public safety, expanding economic opportunity, supporting Missouri agriculture, and modernizing education and workforce development—all while holding state government to a higher standard of efficiency and accountability.

“Missourians are resilient and adaptable, and they expect their government to be the same,” said Governor Kehoe. “This past year presented real challenges for our state, but I am proud of how we lead and responded—by moving with purpose and common sense to deliver results that make our state safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

This year, Missouri experienced hundreds of storms, fires, tornadoes, and floods, prompting swift, coordinated response efforts across state agencies to deliver aid, accelerate recovery, and support impacted communities. These storms led to five federal disaster declarations, more than any other state.

Governor Kehoe also convened two extraordinary legislative sessions, calling lawmakers back to Jefferson City to address urgent disaster relief, tax relief, economic opportunity, and federal representation—ensuring Missouri could act when waiting was not an option.

2025 by the Numbers

• One international trade mission to expand global partnerships and attract new investment
• Five federal disaster declarations that affected 41 Missouri counties and the City of St. Louis
• 37 executive orders signed to improve public safety, streamline operations, and respond to urgent statewide need
• 54 bills signed into law prioritizing public safety, emphasizing economic development, bolstering agriculture, strengthening education, and more
• 100+ agency administrative rules cut and condensed to reduce the regulatory burden of state government
• 241 gubernatorial appointments to fill boards, commissions, judicial seats, and county vacancies with qualified Missourians looking to serve their communities
• 7,420 new jobs created through the work of the Department of Economic Development and partners

The year 2025 brought progress and action on Governor Kehoe’s four key priority areas.

Public Safety: Enforcing the Law and Securing Missouri Communities

Public safety anchored Governor Kehoe’s agenda throughout the year, reflecting his commitment to enforcing the law and supporting those who protect Missouri communities. In partnership with the General Assembly and public safety partners, the Governor signed sweeping reforms into law and launched targeted executive actions to protect communities and support first responders.

Major actions included:

• Launching Operation Relentless Pursuit to strengthen intelligence-led policing and improve cross-jurisdictional coordination to arrest violent offenders, leading to more than 1,000 arrests and more than 1,800 warrants cleared to date (Executive Order 25-02)
• Establishing the Blue Shield Program, delivering $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities to strengthen local law enforcement and public safety efforts (Executive Order 25-03)
• Enforcing immigration laws, establishing a 287(g) partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to allow trained Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers to assist in enforcing immigration laws and targeting criminal offenders (Executive Order 25-04)
• Directing the Department of Public Safety and MSHP to collect immigration status data for individuals charged with crimes in Missouri (Executive Order 25-05)
• Signing the Public Safety Recruitment and Retention Act, expanding education incentives and benefits for first responders and their families (Senate Bill 71)
• Championing major public safety legislation, benefitting law enforcement across the state and establishing a citizen board to oversee the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (House Bill 495)

Economic Development: Promoting a Pro-Business Climate

To keep Missouri competitive, Governor Kehoe advanced a pro-business agenda focused on lowering costs, reducing red tape, and attracting long-term investment.

Major actions included:

• Signing major tax relief with the historic elimination of income tax on capital gains, benefiting families across Missouri (House Bill 594)
• Repealing costly mandates on Missouri job creators and employers (House Bill 597)
• Strengthening Missouri’s energy infrastructure, protecting consumers, and supporting long-term economic growth (Senate Bill 4)
• Keeping Missouri competitive, while still protecting the best interests of taxpayers with the Show-Me Sports Investment Act (Senate Bill 3)

Agriculture: Standing with Farmers and Rural Missouri

Agriculture remained a central focus of the Kehoe Administration. The Governor’s approach to ag policy is simple: farmers know best, and government should be a partner—not an obstacle.

Major actions included:

• Signing legislation to protect farmers and increase their health coverage options, preserve water resources, and strengthen rural infrastructure—reinforcing Missouri’s agricultural leadership and rural way of life (Senate Bills 79 & 82)
• Investing in the next generation of agriculture leaders with historic funding for Missouri FFA
• Refocusing Missouri SNAP to support the purchase of healthy foods and locally sourced agricultural products
• Securing more than $216 million in federal funding for healthcare in rural communities

Education: Bolstering the Workforce of the Future

Supporting Missouri students and education in all its forms was a key priority for 2025, with critical investments and forward-thinking actions.

Major actions included:

• Investing in school choice with $50 million in historic funding to the MOScholars program
• Recommending an effort to rewrite to the school funding formula with the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force to ensure sustainable funding for the next generation (Executive Order 25-14)
• Evaluating the state’s career technical education system to strengthen the workforce pipeline with the Governor’s Workforce of the Future Challenge (Executive Order 25-16)
• Working to improve the regulatory environment for child care providers through an evaluation of current regulations (Executive Order 25-15)

Government Efficiency: Delivering Service at the Speed of Business

Governor Kehoe championed a culture shift inside state government—one focused on efficiency, accountability, and results rather than process for process’s sake.

Major actions included:

• Prioritizing stakeholder engagement and administrative agency rulemaking focused on customer service and efficiency (Executive Order 25-13)
• Eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in state agencies and ensuring compliance with the constitutional principle of equal protection under the law (Executive Order 25-18)

Looking Ahead

As Missourians look ahead to 2026, Governor Kehoe says the work of securing the state’s future continues—with a focus on public safety, economic growth, agriculture, education, and a state government that moves efficiently for the people it serves.

“Securing Missouri’s future means staying focused and staying accountable to the people we serve,” Governor Kehoe continued. “This year reminded us that growth comes from relationships, working together, and showing up for Missourians every day. We’re proud of what we were able to accomplish, but we're just getting started.”

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DECEMBER 29, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) announced the State of Missouri has been awarded more than $216 million in funding for the first year of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, a $50 billion initiative designed to strengthen healthcare access, improve outcomes, and support innovative care in rural communities. A total of $10 billion will be awarded annually to states over the next five fiscal years.

“This historic investment by the Trump Administration will strengthen Missouri's rural communities with additional resources for high-quality, accessible healthcare,” said Governor Kehoe. “We appreciate the work of our state agencies and healthcare stakeholders in submitting a thorough and competitive plan. Through Missouri's Rural Health Transformation plan, we are supporting local partners who understand their communities and are positioned to deliver meaningful, lasting impact for future generations of Missourians.”

Announced earlier today by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the first year award provides more than $216 million to DSS’s MO HealthNet Division, which is leading Missouri’s efforts to increase access to care, improve quality, enhance care coordination, and incentivize long-term sustainability to create a healthcare ecosystem that will support Missouri’s rural communities for generations to come.

“By addressing longstanding health disparities affecting rural residents through these locally driven solutions, we are helping rural providers build capacity, modernize services, and better meet the needs of Missouri patients,” said Director Jess Bax, Missouri DSS. “This investment would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts across state agencies and our external partners. The funding announced today provides Missourians with an opportunity to change the landscape of healthcare access and outcomes for our rural communities.”

The Rural Health Transformation Program emphasizes collaboration among hospitals, clinics, community-based organizations, and local leaders to develop sustainable solutions tailored to the unique needs of Missouri’s rural areas.

Awarded through a competitive process on Missouri’s ability to demonstrate innovation, community engagement, and measurable impact, Missouri’s transformative plan was completed in coordination with the Governor’s Office, DSS, the Department of Health and Senior Services, the Department of Mental Health, and key healthcare stakeholders, including the Missouri Hospital Association, the Missouri Behavioral Health Council, and the Missouri Primary Care Association.

For more information on Missouri's RHT plan, please visit DSS's website and CMS’s summary for all 50 states.

For more information on CMS' Rural Health Transformation Program, visit this link.

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DECEMBER 19, 2025

Jefferson City — William Eckart, of Gravois Mills, was appointed to the Elevator Safety Board.

Mr. Eckart has over 40 years of experience in elevator and escalator service and repairs. He currently works as a technical compliance corporate auditor at Schindler Elevator Corporation and previously served as an adjuster for the same company in Kansas City. He holds an Elevator Supervisor Class 1 certificate from the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities and from the City of Kansas City.

Steve Hodge, of Sikeston, was appointed to the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council.

Mr. Hodge has been employed by Southeast Missouri Residential Services (SEMORS) since 2000. His interest in the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council stems from his desire to help others with developmental disabilities. Hodge graduated from Doniphan High School.

Michelle Luster, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners.

Luster is a licensed educator and cosmetologist with over 20 years of experience in the industry. She previously served as the owner and operator of Alternative Nail Salon and Spa for over 18 years and taught as an instructor for several years. Luster earned her cosmetology license from Debado’s Hair Academy, her cosmetology educator’s license from Elaine Steven Beauty College, and her associate's degree and teaching certification from Harris-Stowe State University.

Eddie Sargent, of Lee’s Summit, was appointed to the Elevator Safety Board.

Mr. Sargent served as a mechanic for KONE, Inc. before being elected to serve as business manager of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) Local #12. He holds a Missouri State Elevator License and has over 28 years of elevator experience in service, repair, and construction.

David Scott, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Elevator Safety Board.

Mr. Scott serves as the business representative of the IUEC Local #3. In addition to his work with Local #3, he is the director of the St. Louis Building Trades Wellness Coalition. He maintains elevator mechanic licenses in both Missouri and Illinois. Scott holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fontbonne University.

Craig Stevenson, of Hallsville, was reappointed to the Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board.

Mr. Stevenson is the manager of population health strategy for Home State Health. He previously served as the director of policy and advocacy for Kids Win Missouri. He is an active member of his community, serving on the stewardship committee for the Centralia United Methodist Church and as president of the board of education for the Hallsville R-IV Public School District. Stevenson earned his bachelor's degree in political science and his master's degree in public affairs from the University of Missouri.

David Williams, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the Board of Probation and Parole.

Mr. Williams was a member of the Jefferson City Police Department, where he served for 33 years before retiring as a captain in 2025. He remains an active member of his community, serving on boards for Special Learning Center and Multipli Credit Union. Williams is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Class #231. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in criminal justice from Columbia College.

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DECEMBER 17, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe, along with Senate Appropriations Chairman Rusty Black and House Budget Chairman Dirk Deaton, announced Missouri's Consensus Revenue Estimate (CRE) for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY2027).

The annual CRE is a figure established by state budget experts and economists from the University of Missouri and Missouri State University. It serves as one of the foundational assumptions the Governor and Missouri General Assembly use to build a balanced budget.

"We appreciate the work of our state budget team, House and Senate leaders, and our university economic experts in developing this revenue estimate to guide our budget for the next fiscal year," said Governor Kehoe. "As Governor, I have a constitutional obligation to balance the budget. While Missouri's economy remains strong and solid revenues are expected, the FY2027 budget will be challenging. Spending, not revenues, is the problem facing state government. We look forward to presenting the legislature with a responsible budget that reflects our commitment to fiscal discipline and a long-term vision for growth."

The key figure in the CRE is the projected general revenue collections. Net general revenue collections in FY2027 are expected to be $13.65 billion. This represents a 3.8 percent net general revenue growth over the estimated revenue for FY2026.

The revised estimate for FY2026, the current fiscal year, assumes a 2.1 percent decrease to $13.15 billion in net general revenue collections.

"Reaching a consensus revenue estimate is an important step in the budget process," said Senator Black, Senate Appropriations Chairman. "Once the Governor submits his budget, the Senate will diligently evaluate the proposal and work to develop a fiscally responsible budget that reflects the priorities of Missourians."

"This past session, we were proud to support critical programs and initiatives while also delivering much-needed tax relief for Missouri families, but any spending does not come without budgetary consequences,” said Representative Deaton, House Budget Chairman. "The House stands ready to work with the Governor and the Senate to deliver a sustainable budget for the people of Missouri."

Governor Mike Kehoe will deliver the 2026 State of the State Address, detailing his legislative priorities and his Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

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DECEMBER 16, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of St. Charles County Ambulance District Lieutenant Sarah McCarthy, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered the U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at government buildings in St. Charles County and at every emergency medical service station in Missouri on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

"Lieutenant Sarah McCarthy was a dedicated first responder who spent 23 years serving patients in need as a paramedic with the St. Charles County Ambulance District," Governor Kehoe said. "Paramedics and emergency responders courageously and selflessly devote their lives to ensuring the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens, and Sarah will be remembered for her unwavering compassion for her community. Claudia and I are keeping Sarah's family, her first responder colleagues, and all who loved her in our prayers."

On November 21, Lieutenant McCarthy suffered chest pain while on-duty at St. Charles County Ambulance District Station 12 in St. Peters and was taken by colleagues via ambulance to Missouri Baptist Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery. On December 4, she suffered a grave setback in her recovery and was transferred to Barnes Hospital St. Louis, where she passed peacefully on December 9 with her family by her side. As a final act of service to others, Lieutenant McCarthy gave the gift of organ donation through Mid America Transplant.

Flags will be flown at half-staff on the day Lieutenant McCarthy is laid to rest. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

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DECEMBER 15, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-36 temporarily suspending the hours of service regulations for commercial motor vehicles transporting residential heating fuel in Missouri.

"Significant disruptions on the pipeline distribution system that supplies Missouri with critical heating fuel has resulted in transporters needing to travel farther to secure product for Missourians," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "During a time when Missourians rely on heating fuel the most, we want to ensure we're doing all we can to assist with these challenging supply issues to keep homes and businesses warm."

Executive Order 25-36 temporarily suspends regulations for motor carriers transporting residential heating fuel such as propane, natural gas, and heating oil. No other petroleum products or fuels are covered under the order.

The executive order maintains all other regulations and safety requirements associated with commercial transportation. The order will take effect immediately, and remain in effect until January 2, 2026, unless otherwise extended.

To view Executive Order 25-36, click here.

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DECEMBER 12, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced two gubernatorial appointments.

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