Jefferson City

APRIL 24, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in a move that underscores his commitment to both the protection of individual rights and legal efficiency, Governor Mike Kehoe signed into law two pieces of legislation: Senate Bills (SB) 22 and 47.

“While these bills differ in subject matter—one focused on electoral procedures and the other on tort reform—each reflects a broader effort to bring efficiency, structure, and fairness to our civic and legal processes,” said Governor Kehoe. “I am proud to sign legislation into law that streamlines complex procedures while protecting the rights of every Missourian.”

SB 22, sponsored by Senator Rick Brattin and Representative Ben Keathley, modifies provisions relating to statewide ballot measures.

• Establishes a timely revision process to ensure summary statements are clear, accurate, and informative for voters, protecting against judicial overreach.
• Sets a clear deadline for filing legal challenges to ballot measures ahead of the general election.
• Empowers the attorney general to appeal certain preliminary injunctions, ensuring prompt review of overreaching rulings.

SB 47, sponsored by Senator Curtis Trent and Representative Dane Diehl, amends Supreme Court Rule 52.08 relating to class actions.

• Aligns Missouri’s civil procedures with federal rules, promoting efficiency and fairness in the judicial process.
• Protects Missourians from predatory legal practices through stricter rules for counsel appointments, improving effective representation in class actions.
• Supports businesses by reducing litigation costs and limiting frivolous class actions through earlier certification and stronger defense appeal options.

For additional provisions and more information on the legislation signed into law, visit senate.mo.gov. To view photos from the bill signing, click this link.

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APRIL 24, 2025

Jefferson City — With less than two weeks until the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe is encouraging Missourians do their part in improving the security of state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards by obtaining a REAL ID-compliant identification card.

"Starting on May 7, a REAL ID, passport, or another approved identification will be required to fly and enter federal buildings," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This is about keeping our state and country safe by preventing fraud and and enhancing security. We appreciate the Trump Administration and Secretary Noem for enforcing federal law to help keep American travelers safe. The Missouri Department of Revenue stands ready to assist Missourians with obtaining a REAL ID."

Beginning May 7, 2025, residents of every U.S. state and territory will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of ID accepted by the Transportation Security Administration, to board federally regulated domestic flights. Also beginning May 7, 2025, individuals must present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of acceptable ID, to access federal facilities and to enter nuclear power plants.

Currently, just over 45 percent of the Missouri Department of Revenue’s total document holders have a REAL ID. A Missouri-issued REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card will have a star, in the upper right-hand corner. A driver license or ID card that is noncompliant with REAL ID will have “NOT FOR REAL ID PURPOSES” in the upper right-hand corner.

The Missouri Department of Revenue continues to provide resources and information to Missourians ahead of the May 7 enforcement deadline. Refer to the questions and answers below to learn more:

Who will need a REAL ID?

Under Missouri law, applying for a REAL ID is a choice, and is not mandatory. However, individuals will soon be required to present a REAL ID-compliant document for official purposes including, but not limited to, entering nuclear power plants, accessing federal facilities, and boarding federally regulated domestic flights.  If you plan on flying in the future but do not want to apply for a REAL ID, you can present another Transportation Security Administration approved acceptable form of ID such as your U.S. passport.

A noncompliant driver license or ID card is, and will continue to be, acceptable for verification of identity, driving privileges, verification of age, voting and registering to vote, and other purposes not limited by the REAL ID Act.

What documents do I need to obtain a REAL ID?

To apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, Missourians will need to submit valid, original documents verifying their identity, lawful status, Social Security number, proof of residency, and official name change if needed. For a full list of acceptable documents, click here. Anyone wishing to apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card must notify the person assisting them at the start of their transaction.

When will REAL ID requirements start being enforced?

REAL ID will start being enforced on May 7, 2025.

Where can I apply for a REAL ID?

Residents can apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or non-driver identification card at one of Missouri’s many contract license office locations. The transaction and processing fees for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, new or renewal, are the same as for a license or ID card that is noncompliant with REAL ID. Detailed fee information can be found at dor.mo.gov/driver-license/resources/license.html#fees.  Duplicate transaction fee waiver provisions may apply for an otherwise eligible first-time REAL ID-compliant card applicant, currently holding a valid document with more than six-months remaining until expiration.

Why are these changes being made?

The REAL ID Act was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2005 after the 9/11 Commission recommended the federal government set new standards for the issuance of identification to achieve enhanced security. Missourians can learn more about REAL ID at dor.mo.gov/driver-license/issuance/real-id/. Information is also available on the TSA website at tsa.gov/real-id and on the DHS website at dhs.gov/real-id.

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APRIL 22, 2025

Jefferson City — Today marks 100 days of the Kehoe Administration, a milestone defined by decisive leadership, principled action, and meaningful progress on the issues that matter to Missouri families.

Since taking the oath of office on January 13, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe has pursued a conservative, forward-thinking agenda focused on strengthening public safety, expanding educational opportunities and workforce availability, stimulating economic growth, and bolstering agricultural resilience. 

Governor Kehoe's inaugural State of the State Address outlined his administration's priorities, setting the tone for a results-driven, people-first approach. The Governor proposed a conservative and fiscally responsible budget that leaves a significant balance of funds while providing historic support for K-12 education and school choice, public safety, child care, and state team members.

“As we reach this milestone of 100 days in the Governor's Office, I am humbled by and proud of the progress we’ve made in a short time,” said Governor Kehoe. “Our focus remains on delivering practical, commonsense solutions that improve the lives of Missourians across our state—and we’re just getting started.” 

Highlights from Governor Kehoe’s first 100 days include:

Executive Actions: Governor Kehoe moved quickly to establish key priorities through executive action, reinforcing public safety and streamlining operations to better serve Missourians.

• Signed six executive orders on Day One, including efforts to combat illegal immigration and support law enforcement to officially launch his comprehensive Safer Missouri initiative and reaffirming the administration’s commitment to public safety.
• Eliminated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Missouri state agencies, ensuring compliance with the constitutional principle of equal protection under the law.
• Launched the forward-thinking School Funding Modernization Task Force and Workforce of the Future Challenge to align educational pathways with Missouri’s evolving workforce needs.
• Coordinated response and recovery efforts to ensure statewide readiness and support for communities affected by severe weather.

Legislative Achievements: Working in partnership with the General Assembly, the Kehoe Administration has already secured several legislative wins to enhance the lives of Missourians across the state.

• Signed House Bill 495, equipping law enforcement with the tools they need to crack down on crime and illegal immigration, while establishing a citizen board to oversee the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.
• Signed Senate Bill 4, ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable power is generated right here in Missouri and supporting long-term economic development efforts.
• Approved the supplemental budget bill for Fiscal Year 2025, allowing current operations of state government to continue, while also strengthening education and special needs services and supporting law enforcement and senior care.

Gubernatorial Appointments: In his first 100 days, Governor Kehoe has made nearly 100 appointments to boards, commissions, the judiciary, and county-level positions—demonstrating a commitment to experienced leadership, efficient governance, and balanced representation. 

• Appointed 74 Missourians to serve on various boards and commissions, including 12 appointments to university governing boards.
• Built out his administration's Cabinet, with nine department leaders confirmed by the Missouri Senate.
• Filled eight vacant county offices.
• Appointed six judicial positions.

Governor Kehoe and his administration will continue to advance policies grounded in accountability, opportunity, and service to all Missourians.

For more information on Governor Kehoe’s initiatives and accomplishments, visit governor.mo.gov.

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APRIL 17, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced nine appointments to various boards and commissions.

Scott Boswell Sr., of Kansas City, was appointed to the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners.

Dr. Boswell is a recently retired chairman of Commerce Trust and currently serves as a professor for the Executive Master of Business Administration program at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC). In addition to his professional career, he is an active member of several boards and organizations including the Heart of America Council for the Boy Scouts of America, the UMKC Board of Trustees, the Kansas City Symphony Board, and more. Dr. Boswell earned his Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago, and Bachelor of Arts from Westminster College.

Alphonso Hogan II, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.

Mr. Hogan has served as a police officer with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department since 2015. Prior to entering into law enforcement, he served in the United States Air Force, earning a rank of E-3 Airman 1st Class before his honorable discharge. Hogan is a legal board member and representative of the St. Louis Police Officers Association. He earned his Missouri Peace Officer license in 2008.

Thomas Leasor, of Wentzville, was appointed to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.

Dr. Leasor is the executive director of the Eastern Missouri Police Academy, overseeing the training of police officer recruits and continued education courses for current police officers as well. He is also a Subject Matter Expert for the Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission. Dr. Leasor worked in law enforcement before 25 years before retiring and later assuming his current role. He currently sits on the Eastern Missouri Peer Support Council and Lindenwood University Criminal Justice Advisory Board. Dr. Leasor holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Leadership from Maryville University, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Lindenwood University.

Tracey Lewis, of Kansas City, was reappointed to the Missouri Housing Development Commission.

Mr. Lewis is the president and chief executive officer of Economic Development Corporation. Previously, he served as the senior vice president at the Commerce Trust Company. Lewis was previously appointed to the Missouri Housing Development Commission in 2019. Lewis also sits on the boards of the Truman Medical Center and SchoolSmartKC. Mr. Lewis earned a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications from Boston College.

Pat McCuthen, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

Mr. McCuthen is a captain at the Jefferson City Police Department with over 20 years of experience in police instruction, leadership, and operational management. He is highly active in his community, serving on the Council for Drug-Free Youth, Community Resource Counseling Committee, Jefferson City Day Care Center board, Disproportionate Minority Committee, and the Jefferson City Youth Hockey Club board. Mr. McCuthen holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration from Columbia College and a graduate certificate from the University of Virginia School of Public Safety. He also earned his Missouri Peace Officer license in 1998.

Paul Ogier, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Health and Educational Facilities Authority of the State of Missouri.

Mr. Ogier currently serves as a board member of LeadingAge Missouri and as treasurer of Nursing Facility Agency Corporation (NFAC). Prior to retirement, Mr. Ogier spent over 40 years in the finance industry. He previously served as chief financial officer for Lutheran Senior Services in Brentwood. Mr. Ogier holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Missouri State University.

Brian Strider, of Richmond, was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority.

Mr. Strider is a fifth-generation farmer and business development manager for Holganix. With deep roots in the farming community and a career built on  hands-on experience, Strider's focuses on advancing sustainable farming practices and helping make farmers for profitable and resilient. He earned his bachelor's degree in agricultural science from Northwest Missouri State University.

William "Billy" Thiel, of Marshall, was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority.

Mr. Thiel is a partner of more than 40 years in a family farm that produces corn and soybeans. Thiel was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority in 2016. He is a past president of the Missouri Corn Growers Association and has been active in the National Corn Growers Association. Thiel also served as chairman of the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, is a director on the Board of the Rural Electric Association, and a member of the Mid-Missouri Energy Board.

Tom Werdenhause, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Mr. Werdenhause previously served as the general manager and chief executive officer for Three Rivers Electric Cooperative prior to his retirement in 2019. He is the current president of the State Technical College of Missouri Foundation, and past president of the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Central Electric Power Cooperative, and Missouri Institute of Cooperatives. Mr. Werdenhause earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Central Missouri State University. 

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APRIL 16, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) of public infrastructure in 25 counties following the deadly severe storms and flooding that began March 30 and that continues to affect much of the state.

“Our state and local public works crews have been doing an incredible job reopening roads and making initial repairs to bridges, low water crossings and other infrastructure, but it is clear that the extent of the damage across the state will require federal disaster assistance,” Governor Kehoe said. “Our State Emergency Management Agency, local and FEMA teams began assessing damage to homes and private property yesterday and will be working through the week. Next week, we will begin joint PDAs to document and tally the damage to public infrastructure and validate what we believe is a clear need for federal Public Assistance.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Douglas, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Texas, Vernon, Wayne, and Webster counties. Additional counties may be added as damage information is received from local officials.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, and local emergency management officials. Beginning Tuesday, April 22, six teams will verify documented damage to determine if Public Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Public Assistance allows local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure.

These PDAs will be in addition to those that began yesterday for Individual Assistance, which allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles and other qualifying expenses.

To assist Missouri farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, Governor Kehoe sent a letter last week to United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins requesting the assistance of the Missouri Farm Service Agency in conducting agricultural damage assessments.

Earlier this week, Governor Kehoe also signed Executive Order 25-22, extending Executive Orders 25-19, 25-20, and 25-21 until May 14, 2025,  allowing resources of the State of Missouri to continue assisting affected communities.

SEMA is coordinating with local officials, other state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners as clean-up and recovery efforts continue across the state. If you have damage, contact your insurance company and file a claim as soon as possible.

Individuals interested in helping those in need are encouraged to direct donations to trusted disaster relief organizations such as those found at National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. Financial contributions are the fastest and most flexible method of donating as it allows these organizations to quickly address urgent or emerging needs. If you wish to donate supplies, first check to see what items have been identified as high need and where.

Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

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APRIL 14, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced four appointments to the State Board of Education. As his first appointments to the Board, these individuals reflect Governor Kehoe's vision and commitment to supporting education.

Michael Matousek, of Kansas City, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

Mr. Matousek currently serves as the director of the Government Freight Conference at the American Trucking Association. He has previous experience as the state legislative affairs director for the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association and legislative director in the Office of Congressman Sam Graves. Mr. Matousek earned his bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Florida.

Kenneth "Brooks" Miller Jr., of Sunrise Beach, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

Mr. Miller previously served as the president and CEO of Jordan Valley Community Health Center. In addition to his professional career, he has served as the vice president of the Springfield Board of Public Utilities and was most recently on the Truman State University Board of Governors. Mr. Miller earned his master's degree in education administration and bachelor's degree in business administration from Northeast Missouri State University.

Jon Otto, of Kansas City, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

Mr. Otto serves as corporate counsel for Evergy, Inc. focusing on corporate governance, SEC compliance, corporate finance, and real estate transactions. Prior to joining Evergy, he was an attorney at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, LLP and Polsinelli, PC law firms. Mr. Otto has served as a board member for Académie Lafayette charter school, University Health KC, Missouri Charter Public School Association, Child Protection Center, Minddrive, and the UMKC Law Alumni Association. Mr. Otto earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law and his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Clark Atlanta University.

Dr. Thomas Prater, of Springfield, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

Dr. Prater is a physician and partner at Mattax-Neu-Prater Eye Center in Springfield. From 2016 to 2020, he served as the Zone 2 Councilman on the Springfield City Council. He was also a member of the Springfield R-12 Board of Education from 1998 to 2014. Dr. Prater is an active member of the Missouri State Medical Society and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

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APRIL 11, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced the state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) participate in joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) in 20 counties following the severe storms and flooding that began impacting Missouri on March 30. This request begins the process of obtaining a federal disaster for the second time in less than a month.

“Missouri has again been battered by severe storms and significant flooding, causing widespread destruction and disrupting the lives of many families and businesses across the state,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and local emergency management officials have been working tirelessly to assess impacts, and we believe the extent of the damage clearly meets the threshold for FEMA to again participate in joint damage assessments.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Cooper, Carter, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Vernon, Washington and Wayne. Additional counties may be added as more damage information is received from local officials.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and local emergency management officials. Beginning Tuesday, April 15, six teams will survey and verify documented damage to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.

Damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, likely resulting in a request for additional PDAs for Public Assistance next week.

SEMA continues to coordinate with volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals over the coming days. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

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APRIL 11, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District Firefighter Chevy Gall, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Franklin County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

“Chevy Gall dreamed of one day becoming a firefighter, and in November 2024 at the young age of 16 he joined the Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District,” Governor Kehoe said. “Chevy went through training and embraced the fire service with enthusiasm, seriousness, and dedication. Claudia and I pray for Chevy’s loved ones, extended fire service family, and all who knew this young man who tragically lost his life in service to others.”

On April 4, Firefighter Gall, 16, was responding to the Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District’s main fire station to deploy with other firefighters in response to a water rescue call when he was fatally injured in a motor vehicle collision.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day of Firefighter Gall’s memorial services. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

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APRIL 10, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced four appointments to various boards and commissions and filled one county vacancy.

Joseph Barbaglia, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners.

Mr. Barbaglia is the owner of Columbia Auto Parts and currently serves as secretary for the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners. He has been a member of the board since 2017. He is a dedicated member and volunteer with several community associations and civic organizations, including the Second District Police Business Association, St. Ambrose Athletic Association, Toys for Tots, and the Soap Box Derby.

Cary Corley, of Lee's Summit, was appointed to the Committee of Professional Counselors.

Dr. Corley is the clinical director and owner of Corley Counseling, LLC. Licensed in both Missouri and Kansas, he has earned the National Certified Counselor credential, awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors. In addition to his professional work, Corley is a member of the Election Committee for the Lakewood Homeowners Association and a ministry leader at Abundant Life Church in Lee's Summit. Dr. Corley earned his Doctor of Counseling from Midwestern College, a Master of Arts in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Alabama.

Kelly Marriott, of Calhoun, was appointed as the Henry County Clerk.

Ms. Marriott currently serves as the deputy county clerk and elections coordinator for Henry County, a position she has held for almost two decades. She is an active member of her community and has been a member of the Calhoun Colt Show Committee since 2015. Ms. Marriott is a graduate of Calhoun R-8 High School.

Dudley McCarter, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the Coordinating Board for Higher Education.

Mr. McCarter is a principal of Behr, McCarter, Neely & Gabris, P.C., specializing in civil and construction litigation. McCarter was first appointed to the Coordinating Board for Higher Education in 2019. A former president of both The Missouri Bar and the St. Louis County Bar Association, he has received several prestigious awards for his quality of work, leadership, and integrity, including the Spurgeon Smithson Award, the Purcell Professionalism Award, and Missouri Lawyers Media's prestigious ICON award. McCarter served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1972 to 1980, earning the rank of captain before being honorably discharged. Mr. McCarter received his bachelor’s degree from Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, and his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law.

Andrew Schwartz, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners.

Mr. Schwartz is the president of AJ Adhesives, Inc, and Mid-America Packaging. Schwartz first served on the St. Louis City Board of Elections from 2011 to 2016 and again in 2024. He is an active member of his community, serving as a voting member of the Forest Park Advisory Board, a local soccer, basketball and baseball coach, and an officer for the Entrepreneurs' Organization. Mr. Schwartz earned his bachelor's degree in finance from Southeast Missouri State University.

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APRIL 9, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Whitewater Fire Protection District Chief Garry Moore, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Cape Girardeau County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

“Garry Moore’s life was devoted to serving his community, state and nation,” Governor Mike Kehoe said. “He served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, during which he first joined the fire service. After retiring from the Navy, he joined the Whitewater Fire Protection District, was soon promoted to chief, and spent over three decades responding to fires and other emergencies. Selfless people like Chief Moore are the foundation upon which our strong Missouri communities are built. Claudia and I are keeping his family and community in our prayers during this difficult time.” 

On April 2, Chief Moore, 68, responded to the Delta, Missouri area after an EF-2 tornado caused widespread destruction. He was fatally injured while responding to a stranded vehicle.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day of Chief Moore’s memorial services. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

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