NOVEMBER 26, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson requested that President Joe Biden approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in 14 counties in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred November 3 - 9, 2024, resulting in significant damage to public infrastructure.

“For the past week, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been working in close coordination with our federal and local partners to document damage in the impacted areas,” Governor Parson said. “We are confident that federal assistance will be forthcoming and appreciate all the work that’s already been done by SEMA, local responders, and partner agencies to help these communities recover.”

Joint damage assessments conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), SEMA, and local emergency managers estimate nearly $45 million in infrastructure damage and emergency response costs eligible for federal assistance.

Governor Parson is requesting Public Assistance for the following counties: Carter, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, Texas, Washington, and Wright.

If approved, Public Assistance would allow 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.

On Tuesday, November 5, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 24-14 declaring a state of emergency and activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions in order to provide assistance.

SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, fellow state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. 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, please visit recovery.mo.gov.

NOVEMBER 22, 2024

Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson cordially invite families to attend this year’s Candlelight Tours and annual tree lighting ceremony at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion on Friday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. The annual lighting of the tree will be followed by this year’s Candlelight Tours. The Candlelight Tours will run until 8:00 p.m.

The Governor's Mansion Christmas tree will arrive on Monday, December 2, 2024, between 7 - 8 a.m. A portion of Madison Street will be closed during this time. The tree that will be displayed on the Mansion lawn is a 40-ft Norway Spruce donated by the family of Daryl and Sherry Richardson of Boone County.

Missouri Department of Conservation staff and Missouri Office of Administration staff will install the Mansion lawn tree. Members of the media are invited to cover the arrival and placement of the tree on the lawn.

In addition to the Governor's Mansion, this year, the Governor's Gardens and the Maus House will also be decorated. The Governor's Gardens will feature a 30-ft Christmas tree, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be hosted at the Maus House from 5:30 -7:30 p.m. on December 11th, 13th, 17th, and 19th. Families are encouraged to bring their children to meet Santa Claus.

This year's theme is "A Christmas Hug: The Farewell to the Parson Family." During the Candlelight Tours, visitors will be able to walk through the festively decorated ground floor of the Governor's Mansion.

The Candlelight Tours are free and open to the public. Visitors will enter through the Madison Street gate.

NOVEMBER 22, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced judicial appointments to the 14th, 16th, and the 21st Judicial Circuits.

Garreth Cooksey, of Hannibal, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Randolph County in the 14th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Cooksey is an assistant prosecuting attorney in Marion County. He holds Bachelors of Arts in English and business administration from Truman State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia. He will fill the vacancy created by retirement of the Honorable James M. Cooksey.

Patrick C. Edwards, of Kansas City, was appointed as Circuit Judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Edwards is an Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri. He holds Bachelors of Arts in political science and history from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Justine E. Del Muro.

Jason K. Lewis, of Wildwood, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Lewis is general counsel to Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Juris Doctor from Washington University in St. Louis. He will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Lorne J. Baker as Circuit Judge.

NOVEMBER 13, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that the state has begun the process of obtaining federal disaster assistance in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred November 3 - 9, 2024.

“Last week’s severe weather system brought damaging storms, heavy rain, and major flooding, significantly impacting roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure in 14 Missouri counties,” Governor Parson said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been working closely with local officials to document damage, and initial reports clearly warrant the need for a formal review by FEMA as part of the federal disaster declaration process.”

The state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) in the following counties: Carter, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, Texas, Washington, and Wright.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, and local emergency managers who document storm damage and estimate recovery costs. Four teams will jointly verify documented damage in order 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.

Requesting joint PDAs is one of the first steps the state must take in order to request a major federal disaster declaration. For Public Assistance, both state and county thresholds must be met in order for a county to be included in the request.

On Tuesday, November 5, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 24-14 declaring a state of emergency and activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions in order to provide assistance.

SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, fellow state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. 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, please visit recovery.mo.gov.

NOVEMBER 8, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced judicial appointments to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District, and the 21st Judicial Circuit.

The Honorable Virginia W. Lay, of Clayton, will be appointed to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District.

Judge Lay is a circuit judge in the 21st Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in American studies from Columbia University and a Juris Doctor from Washington University in St. Louis. She will fill the vacancy created by retirement of the Honorable Kurt S. Odenwald.

The Honorable Amanda B. McNelley, of Kirkwood, was appointed as Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit.

Judge McNelley is an associate circuit judge in the 21st Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from St. Louis University and a Juris Doctor from Washburn University. She will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Dean P. Waldemer. 

NOVEMBER 8, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that he has publicly posted an application for individuals seeking appointment as the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney. Qualified individuals may apply at boards.mo.gov.

"We truly want the best person for the job who can improve law and order in St. Louis County," Governor Parson said. "Similar to our historic opportunity to appoint a new St. Louis City Circuit Attorney, the St. Louis County Prosecutor will be tasked with the responsibility to bring meaningful and lasting change that strengthens public safety in our state's largest metro area. We encourage any qualified person who is committed to the rule of law and thinks they have what it takes for this challenge ahead to apply for consideration."

With current St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell's election to Congress and his anticipated swearing-in date of January 3, 2025, it is Governor Parson's intention to make an appointment to fill the pending vacancy. The expectation will be for the next Prosecuting Attorney to be able to take over on January 3. Due to this short timeline, the application will close on November 22 at 5 p.m. so that names can be considered and an appointment announced prior to January 3. In addition to the statutory requirements, Section 56.010, RSMo, qualities being sought for the position can be found below:

• Commitment to the written rule of law.
• Strong managerial experience.
• Record of fair and just application of state and local law.
• Member of the St. Louis metropolitan community.

Governor Parson continues to hold conversations with community leaders to assess the Prosecutor Office's needs and how best to ensure and improve law and order in St. Louis County moving forward.

The Governor's Office has communicated Governor Parson's intention to select this appointment to St. Louis County Executive Sam Page's Office on multiple occasions. Attorney General Andrew Bailey has sent a letter to Executive Page's Office outlining the Governor's legal authority to make this appointment. A copy of the letter can be found in the attachment

• 2024.11.07 Sam Page, St. Louis County Letter.pdf

NOVEMBER 7, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-15 closing state offices on Friday, November 29, 2024, the day after the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

The statement that Governor Parson provided to all Missouri state team members is copied below:

"Today, I signed Executive Order 24-15 closing state offices on Friday, November 29, 2024, the day after the Thanksgiving Day holiday. Every year, our administration has directed this additional day off. As Teresa and I prepare to leave office and spend more time with our own family and friends, we understand the importance and joy for all of you in doing the same over the holiday weekend.

Friends, family, and the next generations are what it's all about. We hope this well-earned day off allows you an opportunity to remember the good in your lives and reflect on all that you do in service to our state. Thanks to the work you do, our economy is strong, our state is strong, and Missourians are strong.

As you are aware, this past Tuesday, Missourians elected their next Governor and a talented group of statewide officeholders to continue serving this state and our people once Teresa and I leave office. I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Governor-elect Mike Kehoe and the next First Lady, Claudia Kehoe. Trust me when I say that you and the people of our great state are in good hands with their leadership. The Kehoes are honest, God-fearing people who put faith, family, and freedom at the forefront. Teresa and I are excited for their vision for our state and are confident they will continue to value and support our state team members.

Over six years ago, Teresa and I came into office during turbulent times. Our main focus was to right the ship, provide stability, transform state government, and leave things better than we've found them. We've made historic strides and are beyond grateful for your efforts in our collective success, and we've done it all by continuing to put the people of our state first.

This Thanksgiving holiday, as we spend time with our kids, grandkids, and, now, great-grandkids, the First Lady and I will also be giving thanks for you, our fellow state team members. Each and every day, we count ourselves lucky to get to serve Missourians alongside you. Serving as your Governor and First Lady has been the honor of our lives, and it's thanks in large part to the challenges you have helped us overcome and successes you have helped us achieve on behalf of all Missourians.

May you and your families have a safe and joyful holiday and receive many blessings in the coming year. Teresa and I continue to pray for the safety, health, and happiness of you and your family.

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!"

To view Executive Order 24-15, click here.

NOVEMBER 5, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-14 activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to flooding and severe weather. Parts of Missouri have already sustained flood and storm damage with additional impacts expected as river levels begin to crest and floodwaters recede.  

“With several areas of Missouri already impacted by this week’s storms and heavy rainfall, we want to ensure state resources are available should further disruptions or damage occur,” Governor Parson said. “This action enables the state to be better prepared and ready to assist our communities with response and recovery. We urge Missourians to follow the direction of local authorities and emergency managers, use extra caution on the roads, and never drive into floodwaters.”

Executive Order 24-14 will expire on December 5, 2024, unless otherwise terminated or extended. To view Executive Order 24-14, click here.

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson congratulated four Missouri higher education institutions upon advancing, as part of teams, in the U.S. National Science Foundation's Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) program. The advancing institutions include the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T), University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL), and Washington University in St. Louis (WashU).

"We are excited that out of 71 teams advancing in this national competition, Missouri is home to four of them," Governor Parson said. "Missouri's technology sector is budding and growing, and these teams will help us continue the exceptional work we have done to develop our workforce, strengthen our infrastructure, and emerge as a technological leader. We congratulate our higher education institutions, as well as their application partners, on the incredible work that has gotten them to this point, and we trust that Missouri innovation will win the day, potentially securing these NSF Engine designations for our state."

“We are proud that researchers at UMKC, S&T, and UMSL are among just 71 teams across the country invited to submit full proposals for the NSF Engines program,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “Key to their success is Governor Parson and his incredible commitment to innovation, workforce development, and infrastructure growth. We are grateful for his strong support and for this opportunity to impact our state and region.”

“WashU and our partner BioSTL are proud of our long-standing relationship with the NSF and pleased to be among the Missouri institutions invited to submit a full proposal for the engines competition," WashU Chancellor Andrew Martin said. "We’re grateful to the NSF for its consideration, as well as to Governor Parson and our partners in Jefferson City whose support allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible to benefit all Missourians. We’re excited for the opportunity to contribute to our regional workforce ecosystem with this potential federal funding.”

“We are proud that these four institutions are proposing innovative approaches to meet emerging technological needs of key industries," Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development, said. "Their creative efforts support our employers and present expanded opportunities for Missourians to access family-sustaining jobs.”

The four Missouri proposals are listed below:

• Missouri S&T – Engine for Midwest Mobility Innovation and Technology
• UMKC – Critical Materials Crossroads Energy Materials Ecosystem
• UMSL – Reshoring KSM and API Manufacturing Through Innovation
• WashU – Neuroscience Engine to Unlock Regional Opportunity

Under the current NSF Engines funding opportunity, organizations were required to submit a letter of intent to demonstrate their interest in applying. NSF published data from the letters in July 2024. Teams were then required to submit preliminary proposals by August 6, describing how their proposed NSF Engines aim to build partnerships that will advance use-inspired and translational research in key technology areas and address pressing challenges while creating new pathways for the workforce in their regions. The 71 NSF Engines teams that have advanced will submit full proposals by February 2025.

The NSF Engines program aims to foster cross-sector connections, particularly engaging organizations that may not typically work together or submit to NSF funding opportunities. Nonprofits, foundations, state and local governments, tribal nations, community organizations and investors have all expressed interest in connecting with emerging NSF Engines. By publishing the 71 invited teams, NSF aims to create opportunities across the U.S. for additional individuals and organizations to connect with prospective submitters (within one's region of service and beyond) to share expertise, exchange resources, provide capital and more.

About NSF Engines

Launched by the NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, the NSF Engines program envisions flourishing regional innovation ecosystems all across the country, providing a unique opportunity to accelerate technology development and spur economic growth in regions that have not fully participated in the technology boom of the past few decades. Each NSF Engine comprises robust partnerships rooted in scientific and technological innovation to positively impact the economy within a geographic region, address societal, national, and geostrategic challenges, and ultimately advance U.S. competitiveness and security.

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson granted seven pardons pursuant to Article IV, Section 7 of the Constitution of the State of Missouri. Official documents have been filed with the appropriate government agencies and have been sent to the individuals.

In addition to granting seven pardons, Governor Parson denied 25 clemency applications. The Governor's Office holds fewer than 100 pending clemency applications. When Governor Parson was sworn into office, he inherited a clemency backlog of more than 3,500 and has received hundreds more since. Governor Parson has prioritized providing individuals an answer, whether approved or denied.

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11-01-2024 Pardons.pdf