Jefferson City

JANUARY 28, 2025

Jefferson City — JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Today, Governor Mike Kehoe delivered his first State of the State Address to the Missouri General Assembly, outlining his legislative and budget priorities for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26).

Governor Kehoe opened his first address to the 103rd General Assembly by reflecting on lessons learned to stay humble from his mentor, Dave Sinclair, with a commitment to working with the members of the legislature during his time as governor.

"I said earlier that I will never forget my roots. Well, I’ve sat where you sit. I understand the pressures you face. And I want to work with you—not against you—because I believe we can only secure Missouri’s future if we work together," said Governor Kehoe.

Governor Kehoe's speech focused on the policy priorities that have remained a central focus at the start of his administration, beginning with public safety.

"Any efforts we may make to improve the lives of Missourians–whether it be education opportunities, cutting taxes, or expanding childcare–none of it matters if Missourians aren’t safe," Governor Kehoe said. "Securing Missouri’s future begins with public safety."

Public Safety

During his speech, Governor Kehoe discussed the actions his administration took on Inauguration Day, signing six executive orders developed based on input from law enforcement to launch the Safer Missouri initiative.

To support law enforcement recruitment and retention efforts, Governor Kehoe's budget recommends funding to bolster the existing Missouri Blue Scholarship Program for law enforcement basic training and $10 million in new funding to assist local communities who prioritize public safety with equipment and training needs through the Blue Shield Program.

The budget also includes $2.5 million to support the sheriff’s retirement system for another year, and funding for a new crime lab in Cape Girardeau, serving the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E region.

As part of the Safer Missouri initiative, Governor Kehoe urged the General Assembly to pass a comprehensive crime bill that includes increasing penalties for crimes like violent rioting and fleeing from law enforcement in a vehicle, cracking down on criminals who participate in reckless stunt driving and street racing, and efforts to increase oversight and accountability of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

To combat the fentanyl crisis and identify areas of high fentanyl use in schools across the state, Governor Kehoe's budget includes a $4 million investment for fentanyl testing in wastewater systems at schools. Governor Kehoe also encouraged the legislature to take action on increasing penalties for fentanyl trafficking.

Economic Development

Governor Kehoe emphasized his efforts to make Missouri a welcoming state for business investment. From manufacturers, to retail, to Missouri’s sports teams: businesses who provide jobs and opportunities to Missourians are an important part the state's economic success.

In order to compete with other states, the Kehoe Administration will focus on reducing taxes and cutting regulations, so families keep more of their own money, and so job creators look at our state to expand and hire more hard-working Missourians.

Governor Kehoe announced that he has directed the Missouri Department of Revenue to work with his staff on a sustainable and comprehensive plan to eliminate the individual income tax once and for all.

And, knowing that infrastructure and economic development go hand in hand, Governor Kehoe's budget includes a reappropriation of last year’s 100 million dollars for rural road improvements to ensure all of those funds are invested in rural infrastructure.

Governor Kehoe's speech focused largely on solving the biggest challenge to the child care crisis: addressing the current regulatory environment.

In an effort to make the child care regulations easier to understand and navigate, Governor Kehoe issued Executive Order 25-15, charging the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education-Office of Childhood with a complete re-write of the child care regulations.

The budget also includes $10 million to offer grant funding opportunities to support partnerships between employers, community partners, and the child care industry to make more child care slots available for Missouri families.

In an effort to provide timely payments for the child care providers who partner with the state to provide care, providers will receive payments from the state at the beginning of the month on enrollment, starting in fiscal year 2026.

To build on Missouri's career and technical education opportunities, Governor Kehoe's budget includes $15 million in new funding to address equipment, space, and operational needs of career and technical centers across the state, as well as an increase of $5 million on an annual basis to support increased operational costs.

The budget includes increased funding to expand career counseling to more high schools across the state, so that students can talk to school counselors about their future career path, whether that includes college or not.

Governor Kehoe also signed Executive Order 25-16 establishing the Governor’s Workforce of the Future Challenge, instructing DESE to put a plan in place for better coordination among key stakeholders, including K-12 schools, local business and industry, and higher education to improve the state’s career and technical education programs and infrastructure.

Agriculture

Securing the future of agriculture also means investing in the next generation. Governor Kehoe's budget includes $800,000 in permanent funding for Missouri FFA.

Additionally, the budget includes $55 million in new bonding to support the construction of a 40,000 square foot covered multi-use livestock barn and 80,000 square foot stalling barn to house equine and other livestock at the Missouri State Fair’s new arena, which was previously supported by the legislature and is now under construction.

Education

Governor Kehoe is a proud supporter of education in all of its forms–public schools, private schools, charter schools–as long Missouri’s children are getting a quality education that best meets their needs.

To expand school choice, Governor Kehoe urged the General Assembly to pass voluntary open enrollment in public schools.

Governor Kehoe's budget also includes $50 million in general revenue funding to bolster the ESA program.

This year, Governor Kehoe's budget recommends a $200 million increase for the Foundation Formula, the largest increase since the current Formula was created. And, over $370 million to fully fund the state’s commitment for school transportation needs. For teachers, the budget includes $33 million to fund teacher salaries. Additionally, the budget includes $30 million for Small School Grants to support the continued success of our small rural school districts, the heartbeat of their communities.

Governor Kehoe also signed Executive Order 25-14 establishing the School Funding Modernization Task Force to recommend changes to the Foundation Formula to better serve students and families.

Government Improvements 
To continue to recruit and retain quality state team members, Governor Kehoe announced a statewide time of service pay plan increase for state employees.

Governor Kehoe also previewed action on DEI programs in state government and support for creating Missouri's own version of a DOGE initiative. He committed to working with the General Assembly on these efforts in the coming weeks.

During his speech, Governor Kehoe recognized special guests for their achievements and commitment to the people of Missouri:

Special Guests of the Governor

• Lizzy Schott
• Safer Missouri Initiative Group
• Alena Malone
• Adeline Thessen
• USS Missouri Crew Members  

Governor Kehoe emphasized there are safer choices than abortion in Missouri and committed to helping pregnant women know these exist, including the Pregnancy Resource Centers across the state. The budget includes support for alternatives to abortion with $4 million  in additional funding to benefit expecting and new mothers, a more than 50% increase to existing services.

Governor Kehoe closed the speech thanking veterans and service members, adding that his proposed budget includes an additional $10 million of general revenue funding to our Missouri Veterans Homes.

"Our work in this building is only possible because of those who came before us: the sacrifices of our brave service men and women," said Governor Kehoe. "Under the Kehoe Administration, NO veterans home will close due to a lack of state funding."

To view a full transcript of Governor Kehoe’s speech and special guest bios, please see attachments. To view the FY2026 Budget in Brief, please see attachment.

The FY26 Executive Budget will be available here at 3:00 p.m. To view the executive orders signed by Governor Kehoe, visit this link.

Pictures from today's events, including special guests, will be available on Flickr. An archived video of the 2025 State of the State is available at mo.gov/live.

###

• 2025 State of the State Address Media Copy.pdf
• 2025 State of the State Special Guests.pdf
• Budget In Brief FY2026.pdf

JANUARY 24, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Howard County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Sunday, January 26, 2025, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Howard County Firefighter Larry Roland Duncan.

“Larry Roland Duncan dedicated 23 years of his life to the fire service and answering the call no matter the emergency, including responding to Ground Zero as a member of Missouri Task Force 1,” Governor Mike Kehoe said. “At the New York City site where the Twin Towers once stood, Firefighter Duncan and his Task Force 1 colleagues spent days exposed to toxic contaminants as they scoured the rubble looking for survivors of the terrorist attack. We honor his relentless commitment to serving others, regardless of the risk to himself.”

Duncan was a Heavy Rigging Specialist with Task Force 1 from 1998 to 2003. Beginning in 1984, he also served as a member of the Cooper County Fire Protect District, Boone County Fire Protection District, and the Howard County Fire Protection District. He died on January 15, 2025, after a long and courageous battle against 9/11-related cancer.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Duncan is laid to rest. To view the proclamation, click here.

###

JANUARY 23, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed three executive orders aimed at streamlining government operations, improving stakeholder engagement, and ensuring ethical conduct within the Kehoe administration. The orders reflect the Governor's commitment to fostering more effective, transparent, and accountable government.

"These executive orders demonstrate our administration's commitment and dedication to responsible governance and meaningful reform," said Governor Kehoe.

The executive orders are as follows:

Executive Order 25-11 delegates supervisory authority over specific departments, divisions, and agencies to designated members of the Governor’s staff. This measure is intended to enhance oversight and ensure that critical state functions are managed efficiently.

Executive Order 25-12 establishes a comprehensive code of conduct for the Office of the Governor’s staff, setting clear ethical standards to ensure integrity and professionalism throughout the administration.

Executive Order 25-13 directs all executive department directors and commissioners to dedicate a minimum of eight hours per month to engaging with their agency’s stakeholders. This initiative seeks to ensure that decision-making processes are informed by input from those directly impacted by government actions. Additionally, the order prohibits the issuance of new rules without prior approval from the Governor’s office, a move designed to reduce red tape, improve government efficiency, and ensure regulatory decisions align with the needs of stakeholders and the state’s overall priorities.

To view the executive orders,  visit this link.

###

JANUARY 15, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in an act of respect and patriotism, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-09, ordering U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at full-staff on Monday, January 20, 2025, at all state buildings and grounds in honor of Inauguration Day.

This directive aligns with federal statute, which states that flags should be prominently displayed during specific occasions, especially for the inauguration of a U.S. President.

“While Missouri continues to mourn the passing of former President Jimmy Carter and remembers his remarkable legacy of service to our nation by displaying our flags at half-staff, we will also celebrate the promise of a new chapter for our country and the opportunities that lie ahead,” said Governor Kehoe. “To commemorate the democratic transition of power, I have directed all flags to be raised to full-staff for the inauguration of the 47^th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.”

To view Executive Order 25-09,  visit this link.

###

JANUARY 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Sarah Willson as Director of Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).Willson will assume the role of DHSS Director effective February 14, 2025, and awaits Missouri Senate confirmation.

“I am proud to have Sarah join my Cabinet as a key leader in our efforts to improve the health of Missourians across the state,” said Governor Kehoe. “Sarah’s background as a healthcare professional brings a deep understanding of the critical issues facing our healthcare systems today. I look forward to working together to strengthen the systems that support public health and well-being of all Missourians.”

Willson has served as Vice President of Clinical and Regulatory Affairs for the Missouri Hospital Association (MHA) since 2016. In that role, she provided clinical and regulatory guidance to over 140 hospitals across the state, serving as a key expert on licensing, survey processes and compliance for acute care, critical access, long-term care, rehabilitation, and psychiatric facilities. She also collaborated with lawmakers to develop healthcare legislation at both the state and federal levels.

“I am truly humbled at the opportunity to serve the people of Missouri in the Kehoe Administration,” said Willson. “As a nurse and a small business owner, I understand the impact of health and regulation from a personal and public perspective. I look forward to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the departments programs and services help all Missourians live healthy and safe lives.”

Prior to MHA, Willson held leadership roles with Compassus Hospice and Palliative Care, where she oversaw operations in multiple states, and at Capital Region Medical Center, directing patient care services across several departments. Her work has focused on advancing quality care, developing efficiencies, and improving outcomes for patients.

Willson earned her Master of Business Administration in health management from William Woods University and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and has been recognized with several awards throughout her career. A headshot of Willson is attached.

Willson.jpg

###

JANUARY 13, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, as his first official act in office, Governor Mike Kehoe took decisive action to prioritize public safety by signing six executive orders and officially launching his comprehensive Safer Missouri public safety initiative.

Developed in close collaboration with law enforcement partners and representatives across all levels of law enforcement within the state, the Safer Missouri plan sets the stage for immediate and impactful action. The measures introduced today represent the first steps in a comprehensive, multi-phase plan that focuses on reducing crime, supporting law enforcement, and fostering community partnerships to achieve lasting change.

Further steps requiring General Assembly action are slated for implementation in the coming weeks, with additional details to be unveiled during Governor Kehoe’s 2025 State of the State address.

"By standing with the brave officers who protect us every day and implementing strategic, forward-thinking measures, we are working to make Missouri a safer place to live, work and raise a family," said Governor Kehoe. "In the coming weeks, months, and years, my administration will be relentless in our pursuit to make Missouri a place where it’s easier to be a cop than a criminal."

Governor Kehoe was joined by Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety Mark James, and leaders from statewide law enforcement associations, including the Missouri State Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri State Troopers Association, Missouri Police Chiefs Association, and the Missouri Sheriffs Association.

"I applaud Governor Kehoe for taking action less than an hour after being sworn into office," said Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. "Today is a bold move toward restoring law and order, backing Missouri law enforcement as they protect our families, and reaffirming our commitment to obtaining justice for victims."

"Governor Kehoe’s actions reflect his unwavering resolve to enhance safety and security in Missouri," said Mark James, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. "These executive orders will equip law enforcement with much-needed resources and support to effectively address crime."

Exercising his constitutional authority, Governor Kehoe enacted the following measures:

Executive Order 25-02 establishes "Operation Relentless Pursuit", a regional anti-crime effort that emphasizes intelligence-led policing and cross-jurisdiction collaboration in order to collectively pursue and apprehend dangerous fugitives. The strategies employed in this enforcement initiative will include:

The designation of full time Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) investigators within each of the nine troop regions; and

Allocation of budgetary funds to support one new deputy sheriff within each MSHP troop who will be dedicated to task force operations, including targeted operations against criminal activities.

Executive Order 25-03 launches the Blue Shield Program to recognize local governments for their dedication to effective law enforcement and community safety. A Blue Shield designation highlights initiatives that enhance public safety, strengthen support for law enforcement and build lasting partnerships with the community. Issuance of the Blue Shield designation enables law enforcement agencies to access specific state grant opportunities.

Executive Order 25-04 establishes a 287(g) designation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to allow state and local law enforcement to assist in enforcing immigration laws. The executive order directs the Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) designate specific MSHP troopers to undergo immigration enforcement training with an emphasis on preventing illegal immigration, apprehending criminal offenders, and interdicting drug trafficking activities as an integral part of their regular responsibilities within Missouri.

Executive Order 25-05 charges DPS and MSHP with the collection of immigration status within the statewide uniform crime data reporting system for those charged with crimes in Missouri.

Executive Order 25-06 tasks DPS with modifying the Patrol’s salary schedule by reducing the time of service required to reach the top salary tier from 15 years of service to 12 years of service.

Executive Order 25-07 directs the Department of Corrections and Parole to assemble a working group comprised of stakeholders to assess the existing rules with regard to the eligibility of offenders for parole, conduct of parole hearings and the conditions to imposed on paroled offenders. Once the group’s recommendations have been received, the Board will present amended rules to the governor’s office by October 1, 2025. The current rules, as set by Section 217.690.4 RSMo., have not been amended since 2017. By enhancing guidelines and processes through formal rulemaking, Missouri can continue to refine its approach to offender management while reducing criminal relapses.

Additionally, in order to enhance communication and strengthen the relationships between law enforcement agencies and the governor's office,  Governor Kehoe also took administrative action to establish a designated staff member in his office as the contact for law enforcement agencies and issues. This liaison will serve as the intermediary between field operations and state resources available to assist in law enforcement efforts.

The executive orders will be posted at this link.

###

JANUARY 13, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, at a ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Mike Kehoe was sworn in as the 58^th Governor of Missouri, marking a new chapter of leadership for the state.

Building on his distinguished record of public service, successful business career, and an unwavering commitment to Missouri’s communities, Governor Kehoe vowed to honor the state’s rich legacy while forging an ambitious path toward a brighter future. With a focus on public safety, education, economic development, and agriculture, he outlined his administration’s goal to tackle the most pressing challenges and seize the opportunities for growth.

“My life—growing up in the inner city, moving to a small town, building businesses, operating a ranch—these experiences have taught me one thing: Missourian’s are more alike than we are different,” said Governor Kehoe. "It will take each of us, working together, to secure an even safer, stronger, and more prosperous Missouri.”

Governor Kehoe was sworn in by former U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, using a Bible that belonged to his mother, Lorriane Kehoe.

Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, State Treasurer Vivek Malek, and Attorney General Andrew Bailey were also sworn in during today’s inauguration ceremony. Oaths were administered by the following individuals:

• Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary Rhodes Russell for Lieutenant Governor Wasinger;
• Judge Thomas N Chapman of the 43^rd Judicial Circuit for Secretary of State Denny Hoskins;
• Judge Thomas C. Clark II of the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District for State Treasurer Vivek Malek; and
• Missouri Supreme Court Judge Kelly Broniec for Attorney General Andrew Bailey.

Following a performance of the National Anthem by St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer Eva Millar-Galván, the Most Reverend W. Shawn McKnight, Bishop of Jefferson City, gave the invocation. The swearing-in of state elected officials was followed by a 19-gun salute and flyover of military aircraft. Musical selections were performed by the 135th Army Band. The event concluded with a benediction offered by Reverend John Miles, Senior Pastor at Morning Star Baptist Church in Kansas City.

A copy of Governor Kehoe's inaugural address is attached below. Photos from today's ceremony will be available on Governor Kehoe’s Flickr page. 

Governor Kehoe Inaugural Address Media Copy .pdf

###

JANUARY 9, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of several additional individuals who will serve on his staff in the governor’s office. This announcement follows last week’s announcement of his senior staff appointments.

“As we approach Inauguration Day, I’m proud of the team we’ve built and the talent and dedication of these public servants,” Governor-Elect Kehoe said. “I’m confident this team will work to deliver results on the issues that matter to Missourians.”

###

JANUARY 8, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman as the next Adjutant General (TAG) of the Missouri National Guard (MONG), the state’s senior military officer.

The Adjutant General change of command will take place February 1, 2025, following the selection of Major General Levon E. Cumpton to serve as the U.S. Army Europe and Africa’s Chief of Staff and Deputy Commanding General for the Army National Guard.

“General Hausman’s distinguished career is underscored by his strong character, remarkable leadership, and solid dedication to our great state and nation,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “His record of excellence will be invaluable as he guides the Guard with an unwavering commitment to ensuring the Missouri National Guard is manned, trained, equipped and resourced for its dual state and federal missions.”

Brigadier General Hausman has over 36 years of service in the Missouri National Guard, and currently serves full time as an Army Assistant Adjutant General.

“I am humbled and honored by Governor-Elect Kehoe’s confidence in me, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to lead the Soldiers and Airmen of the Missouri National Guard. It is my great privilege to serve the people of Missouri,” Brigadier General Hausman said.

General Hausman has commanded at every level from company to brigade and held key staff positions such as Executive Officer of the 35th Combat Aviation Brigade, Deputy Director of Manpower and Personnel of Joint Force Headquarters, Deputy Commander of 70th Troop Command, and Director of Aviation and Safety of Joint Force Headquarters.

In addition to his assignments within the United States and Missouri, General Hausman has had several assignments abroad including in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan.

Throughout his extensive military career, General Hausman developed high-level expertise in operational leadership, military strategy, and interagency coordination.

A seasoned aviation officer and combat veteran, he has earned multiple military awards including the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and Master Army Aviator Badge among many other awards.

He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Technology from the University of Central Missouri in 1991 and a Master of Science degree in Aviation Safety from the University of Central Missouri in 1993. He completed a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies through the United States Naval War College in 2015.

General Hausman is a native of Saint Joseph, Missouri, and currently resides in Jefferson City with his wife, Julie, and has two adult children, Alex and Libby.

Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.

###

JANUARY 7, 2025

Jefferson City — Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced today the appointment of Angela L. Nelson as Director of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI). Nelson will assume the role of DCI Director effective March 1, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.

“I am pleased to have Angela joining my Cabinet to lead the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “With her extensive industry experience, she is uniquely equipped to lead the department. I am confident that, together, we can promote fairness, transparency, and protect Missouri consumers.”

Most recently, Nelson served as Vice President of Public Affairs and Government Relations for AAA Missouri, following an accomplished 18-year tenure at DCI.

“I am honored to accept this role and look forward to working alongside the Governor-Elect and the dedicated team at DCI to ensure that we continue to protect consumers, foster a fair and competitive business environment, and promote transparency across industries,” said Nelson.

Nelson’s professional background sets her apart in the industry, with a career spanning multiple facets of insurance and regulation. She began as an insurance agent before serving as an insurance regulator with DCI, then as the department’s Director of the Market Regulation Division and as the Director of the Consumer Affairs Division. Nelson also held roles with both health and property and casualty insurance companies, providing her with a broad and comprehensive perspective on the industry.

Nelson is a sixth generation Missourian and earned a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Management from William Woods University.

Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.

###