FEBRUARY 23, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, in coordination with the Missouri National Guard (MONG) and the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (DHEWD), Governor Mike Parson announced the establishment of the Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program, to qualify military training and experience towards a federally-recognized apprenticeship certification.

“We are so proud of our military men and women here in Missouri. This program, which takes military training and turns it into a nationally recognized credential, is just one more way we can show our support for the folks who serve and support us,” Governor Parson said. “The Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program allows service members to earn a credential that can translate into career advancements, helping bridge the gap between military and civilian life.”

With this new partnership, the Missouri National Guard has been able to register as an apprenticeship sponsor as a result of collaboration between the Office of Apprenticeship & Work-based Learning, the U.S. Department of Labor, and military partners. This certification will be a no-cost benefit to service members, who will receive an apprenticeship credential upon completion of their on-the-job learning hours. Learning occurs during duty hours under the direction of the service members’ supervisors. The programs are tailored to fit any enlisted Military Occupational Specialty or Air Force Specialty Code (MOS/AFSC) in the Missouri National Guard.

A kickoff celebration of the Project Eagle Apprenticeship Program was held today at the Ike Skelton Training Site, Missouri National Guard Headquarters in Jefferson City. Governor Parson, Major General Levon Cumpton, and Director of Workforce Development Dr. Mardy Leathers all shared their support for the new program during today’s celebration. Specialist Kirkland Maneth and Master Sgt. Chase Jenkins are the first two Guardsmen to enroll and participate in the Registered Apprenticeship Program.

The new apprenticeship program, through MONG, is the largest and most comprehensive program of its kind in the nation. It includes 170 occupations with every unit within MONG Air and Army participating in the program – which is the only of its kind.

“The Apprenticeship Program aligns with our culture of taking care of each other,” said Maj. Gen. Levon Cumpton. “It does so by providing national certification, which demonstrates the compatibility between military training and required skills for civilian employment. I am exceptionally proud of our partnership with DHEWD and the hard work of the team who made this opportunity possible."

Registered Apprenticeships are an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where workers gain experience, classroom instruction, and a transferable credential. Apprenticeships are a flexible training model and a viable tool for the state to use to give Missourians the tools and credentials to advance in their careers.

“The successful work of matching over 170 Missouri National Guard occupations to approved apprenticeship occupations is due to the experience, and dedication of our Missouri Office of Apprenticeships’ Apprenticeship and Training Representatives, who are all retired guardsmen,” said Dr. Mardy Leathers. “They all have a passion to assist those who serve, and I believe this new program will be a lasting legacy to future service members.”

Missouri currently ranks third in the nation for completed apprenticeships, fourth in the nation for new apprentices, and sixth for active apprentices.

In FY 2021, Missouri had 14,520 active apprentices across 460 registered programs. Missouri ranks in the top 10 in the nation across four out of five categories for Registered Apprenticeships.

Service members can learn more about this apprenticeship opportunity on the MONG website:  https://www.moguard.ngb.mil/Programs/MONG-Apprenticeship-Program/

FEBRUARY 23, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, on behalf of nearly 26,000 members of Missouri FFA, Governor Mike Parson proclaimed February 19-26, 2022, to be National FFA Week in Missouri. Missouri FFA President Kaitlin Kleiboeker of Pierce City received the proclamation on behalf of the 2021-2022 Missouri FFA State Officer team. Nearly 300 Missouri FFA members joined the Governor on the steps of the Missouri Capitol to celebrate.

“Every year it is a pleasure to get to recognize National FFA Week in the Show-Me State and to take the opportunity to demonstrate our agricultural roots by driving a tractor to work,” Governor Parson said. “The First Lady and I both come from farm families and truly believe our state’s future leaders are part of this exceptional group of young people in the Missouri FFA. We are always impressed by their determination, work ethic, and innovative outlook, and it is an honor to stand with them today.”

For the fourth consecutive year, Governor Parson drove a John Deere tractor to the Capitol in honor of the FFA tradition of students driving their tractor to school during National FFA Week. Along with the Governor, Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe joined in on the tradition again this year, demonstrating their ties to agriculture and commitment to FFA students. 

In 1928, 33 young men met at the Baltimore Hotel in Kansas City and began the National Future Farmers of America Organization (FFA). Today, the organization’s official name is the National FFA Organization and now, 94 years later, is represented locally by 8,700 FFA chapters and 760,000 members nationwide. Missouri is home to more than 350 chapters and nearly 26,000 members.

“Every time I see students in their FFA jackets, I am excited for the future of agriculture,” Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn said. “These future leaders will feed, clothe, and fuel a growing world. They will be leaders in their communities, innovators of technology and the generation who drive the next great wave of agriculture production. It is a privilege to recognize these students and the hardworking advisors who lead them each day." 

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. To learn more about the Missouri FFA Association, visit MissouriFFA.org.

FEBRUARY 4, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced four judicial appointments to the 3rd, 11th, and 20th Judicial Circuits. 

Anthony Horvath, of Linn, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Putnam County in the 3rd Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Horvath currently serves as the Deputy Judge Advocate General for the Missouri National Guard. He earned a Bachelor of Science in justice systems from Truman State University and a Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law. Mr. Horvath will fill the Associate Circuit Judge vacancy created by the death of the Honorable Samuel D. Frank.

The Honorable Chris McDonough, of Weldon Springs, was appointed as Circuit Judge for Division 5 of the 11th Judicial Circuit.

Judge McDonough currently serves as an Associate Circuit Judge for the 11^th Judicial Circuit. He holds a Bachelor of Science in management from Maryville University, a Master of Science in Business Administration from Fontbonne University, and a Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law. Judge McDonough will fill the Circuit Judge vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Jon A. Cunningham.

Robert W. Cornejo, of St. Peters, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Division 13 of the 11th Judicial Circuit. 

Mr. Cornejo, of St. Peters, currently serves as the Chairman of the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission. He holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from Washington University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia School of Law. Mr. Cornejo will fill the Associate Circuit Judge vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Chris McDonough to Circuit Judge.

Mathew Houston, of Pacific, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Franklin County in the 20th Judicial Circuit. 

Mr. Houston currently serves as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Franklin County. He earned a Bachelor of Science in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and a Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law. Mr. Houston will fill the Associate Circuit Judge vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable David L. Hoven.

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Jefferson City — On Monday, January 31, 2022, Governor Mike Parson granted 17 pardons and approved one commutation 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 are being sent to the individuals.

To review the names of the individuals granted clemency, please see attached. Governor Parson has instructed his legal team to continue reviewing clemency files and working to reduce the backlog inherited by his administration. 

1-31-2022 Pardons and Commutation.pdf

FEBRUARY 1, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson accepted the resignation of Department of Health and Senior Services Director Don Kauerauf.

Governor Parson has temporarily appointed Richard Moore to lead the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) as Acting Director. Richard serves as General Counsel for DHSS. The Governor will further evaluate the state's options in the coming days.

Governor Parson released the following statement regarding the Missouri Senate failing to seriously consider Don Kauerauf's qualifications and credentials to appease the political ambitions of a few members:

"It's unfortunate that we now have to disrupt state operations and the leadership at an entire department because the Missouri Senate chose to indulge a few men's egos.

The events that have transpired over the past few days surrounding Don's Senate confirmation hearing are nothing short of disgraceful, unquestionably wrong, and an embarrassment to this state and the people we serve.

I've been a conservative Republican my entire life and contrary to what some Senators believe, tarnishing a man's character by feeding misinformation, repeating lies, and disgracing 35 years of public health experience is not what it means to be conservative. 

Don is a public health expert that is on record opposing masking requirements and COVID-19 vaccine mandates. He is outspokenly pro-life and morally opposed to abortion. Missourians know that I share these beliefs and would not have nominated someone who does not share the same Christian values. Yet, Senators chose to believe baseless rumors and outright lies on social media rather than the facts in front of them.

Throughout this process, more care was given to political gain than the harm caused to a man and his family. Don is a devoted public servant who did not deserve this, and Missourians deserve better. I pray that honor, integrity, and order can be returned to the Missouri Senate and that it comes sooner rather than later."

FEBRUARY 1, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 22-02 declaring a State of Emergency in Missouri and activating the Missouri National Guard in preparation for the severe winter storm forecasted to affect most of the state over the next two days, including significant accumulations of snow, sleet, and ice. 

"Severe winter weather isn't something we are strangers to here in the State of Missouri, but we must be prepared for the worst," Governor Parson said. "By signing this Order, we enable our emergency management professionals to have every tool and resource available to aid Missourians, protect lives, and respond to this winter storm. We encourage all Missourians to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid hazardous road conditions and keep themselves and their families safe."

Executive Order 22-02 activates the State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to assist local jurisdictions with emergency preparation and response. In anticipation of potential travel disruptions, members of the Missouri National Guard are activated to be positioned around the state and assist the Missouri State Highway Patrol with stranded motorists if the need arises.

More than half of the state is currently under a Winter Storm Warning. Wintry precipitation is forecasted to begin in northern Missouri by early Tuesday evening and spread southeastward through the night and into early Wednesday. The National Weather Service is forecasting central Missouri could see localized amounts of 8-15 inches in accumulation.

The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency continues to work closely with the National Weather Service (NWS), the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), and the Missouri State Highway Patrol to coordinate response as well as plan for potential resource requests. The State Emergency Operations Center will activate at a Level 3 at 5 p.m. tonight, with key personnel on duty overnight, including an embedded NWS meteorologist.

A list of precautionary measures Missourians should take to stay safe during extreme winter weather is below:

• Follow their local weather forecast for updates, along with news coverage of local conditions and the MoDOT Traveler Information Map.
• Avoid travel if at all possible over the next couple days.
• If travel is necessary, allow extra time, slow down, and increase following distance. Ensure the gas tank is full, dress appropriately for the conditions, and have an emergency kit that contains snacks, water, phone chargers, blankets, flashlights, etc.
• If stranded, plan for potential response delays. Stay in the vehicle while waiting for help.
• Beware of black ice, particularly on bridges and overpasses as well as other elevated surfaces.
• Regularly check on the elderly and those who may need additional help.

Missourians can learn more winter weather safety tips at www.mo.gov/winter-weather-safety. To stay up to date on changing roads conditions, visit MoDOT’s Traveler Map at traveler.modot.org/map/.

Executive Order 22-02 will terminate on March 3, 2022, unless otherwise extended. For more information and to view Executive Order 22-02, click here.

FEBRUARY 1, 2022

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Parson has granted 17 pardons and approved one commutation 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 are being sent to the individuals.

In the interest of privacy, the Governor's Office will not immediately release the names of the individuals granted clemency so that appropriate communications can be made to families. The information will be made available once families are notified.  

JANUARY 31, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson released the following statement refuting the misinformation surrounding Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) Director Don Kauerauf's confirmation hearing before the Missouri Senate. 

"Back in July, after months of careful vetting and interviews, we selected Don to lead DHSS because he was the best qualified candidate for the job. He is an experienced public health professional with a disciplined moral compass that is guided by our Missouri principles: Christian values, family values, and love for this nation. 

During Don's six months leading DHSS, he has shown nothing but dignified public service to the people of Missouri, and during this same period, Missouri has always resisted COVID-19 mandates, prevented federal government overreach, and fought COVID-19 vaccine requirements. 

Don has helped lead our state through this final chapter of the COVID-19 pandemic and has respected Missourians' constitutional rights every step of the way. During these past 22 months, my administration has never wavered in our opposition to COVID-19 mandates and will always stand for Missourians' rights and freedoms, and Don is no exception. 

To set the record straight, Don is strongly pro-life and anti-abortion and against government mandating mask wearing and COVID-19 vaccinations. Those were his views and beliefs when I appointed him, and they remain today. 

It's concerning to see certain Missouri officials grandstanding for purely political reasons and fueling fears without any regard for the truth. I implore Missouri Senators to assess the qualities of the person, not let themselves fall victim to misinformation repeated on social media.

If Senators or Missourians alike have any questions regarding why Don is the right choice to continue leading DHSS, my office is ready and available to address any concerns."

JANUARY 28, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson appointed the Honorable Corey K. Herron as Circuit Judge for the 4th Judicial Circuit, which includes Nodaway, Atchison, Holt, Gentry, and Worth counties. He will fill the Circuit Judge vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Roger M. Prokes.

Judge Herron, of Rock Port, currently serves as an Associate Circuit Judge for the 4th Judicial Circuit in Atchison County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

JANUARY 28, 2022

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson appointed the Honorable Heather R. Cunningham as Circuit Judge for Division 3 of the 21st Judicial Circuit. She will fill the Circuit Judge vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Sandra Farragut-Hemphill.

Judge Cunningham, of Ballwin, is currently an Associate Circuit Judge in the 21st Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois and a Juris Doctor from St. Louis University School of Law.