NOVEMBER 9, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson celebrated Missouri's strong economic position as the number of Missourians on unemployment decreases, businesses continue to invest and expand in Missouri, and the state earns several economic recognitions. 

"Throughout the pandemic, we took a balanced approach that protected the health and safety of Missourians without sacrificing their livelihoods," Governor Parson said. "We didn't force businesses to shut their doors or Missourians out of the workforce. Thanks to our common sense measures, Missouri is now in a strong economic position with a 3.8 percent unemployment rate, thousands of new jobs created, and billions of dollars in business investment." 

In September 2021, Missouri's unemployment rate fell to 3.8 percent from a high of 12.5 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic. Missouri's unemployment rate prior to the pandemic was 3.7 percent.

Only 15,000 Missourians are currently drawing unemployment benefits, down from 124,000 at the beginning of 2021 and 385,000 in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. 

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, Missouri's metropolitan areas experienced sharp job losses. Since then, Missouri has recovered 77 percent of all jobs lost during the pandemic, outpacing five of Missouri's bordering states. Several metro areas are outperforming the statewide rate with Joplin at 108 percent, Jefferson City at 97 percent, Springfield at 97 percent, Kansas City at 90 percent, Cape Girardeau at 87 percent, and Columbia at 82 percent.

Governor Parson and his administration have reshaped economic and workforce development in the state of Missouri and the state has earned top recognitions because of these efforts. 

• • Missouri is 1st in the United States for on-the-job training participants
  • Missouri is 3rd in the United States for apprenticeships
  • Missouri is 3rd in the United States for pandemic proof small businesses
  • Missouri is 3rd in the United States for business tax index – outranking all neighboring states
  • Missouri is 4th in the United States for opportunity
  • Missouri is 4th in the United States for new manufacturing facilities
  • Missouri is 4th in the United States for the best place to retire
  • Missouri is 5th in the United States for low cost of doing business
  • Missouri is 7th in the United States for people relocating to the state
  • Missouri is 7th in the United States for tech manufacturing growth
  • Missouri is 8th in the United States for housing affordability
  • Missouri is 8th in the United States for economic recovery
  • Missouri is 8th in the United States for best place to work for nurses
  • Missouri is 9th in the United States for military retirees
  • Missouri is 9th in the United States for tech hubs
  • Missouri is 10th in the United States for automotive and aerospace industries
  • Missouri is 10th in the United States for new business expansion
  • Missouri is 10th in the United States for women in tech
  • Missouri is 10th in the United States for site selection
  • Missouri is 11th in the United States for business environment
  • Missouri is 11th in the United States for defense spending 
  • Missouri is 12th in the United States for best overall tax climate 
  • Missouri One Start – a brand new training program, created through Talent for Tomorrow – ranked 9th in the nation

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, companies continued to invest and expand in Missouri, with over $3.6 billion in new business investment and more than 12,500 new jobs created. 

"Our general revenues are up and businesses are investing in Missouri, showing producers and consumers alike are confident in the direction of Missouri's economy," Governor Parson said. "Even though we are seeing success, with more than 129,000 job openings across the state, we still have work to do. We are continuing our investments in our talent pipeline that drives Missouri's economy and brings opportunity to all Missourians. We are moving forward in this state."

NOVEMBER 5, 2021

Today, state team members from the Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Office of Administration’s Information Technology Services Division (ITSD) continue to provide reliable and responsive service to Missouri citizens while temporarily relocated as a result of the fire on 1621 E. Elm Street. 

On Monday evening, the Jefferson City Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 1621 E. Elm Street, which is a leased facility for the State of Missouri. The fire was an isolated incident, and there have been no reports of injury or fatalities. 

"Above all, we remain thankful that no one was injured during the Elm Street fire," Governor Mike Parson said. "I could not be prouder of the dedicated public servants who have continued to serve Missourians in spite of these circumstances. Whether it is recovering from a tornado, fire, or navigating a global pandemic, our state team members remain committed to Missourians." 

The damage assessment and estimated loss amount from the privately owned building and contents is $2.5 million; however, this does not reflect the state's total equipment loss. On Thursday, a contractor began recovery and disposal of state owned equipment. The Office of Administration continues to work with the impacted state agencies to replace equipment, and damage estimates are still under review as the state further determines what is salvageable. 

“I am very grateful that no one was harmed during this tragic event,” said Ken Zellers, Acting Commissioner, Office of Administration. “Though I am saddened by the difficulties many of our teammates are experiencing, I’m grateful for how our state team members have responded, worked together as a team, and kept government operations and customer services from being disrupted. This week has been a challenge for many of us, but it is inspiring knowing that we will overcome this obstacle together.”

Today, the Missouri Division of Fire Safety (DFS) completed and delivered its cause and origin report on the fire to the Governor’s Office and the Office of Administration. The Jefferson City Fire Department had requested DFS assistance in the fire investigation.

The report states that a passerby on Highway 50 reported the fire at about 8:51 p.m. on November 1. The caller reported seeing fire on the roof of the building, according to the Jefferson City Fire Department. The report lists the cause of the fire as undetermined, and states that investigators could not eliminate that the fire originated on the roof or within the attic portion of the structure. Investigators determined that fire damage to the interior of the building was caused by “fall down burning from the attic level” of the structure.

NOVEMBER 5, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson appointed the Honorable Virginia W. Lay as Circuit Judge for Division 16 of the 21st Judicial Circuit in St. Louis County. She will fill the Circuit Judge vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Michael D. Burton.

Judge Lay, of Clayton, currently serves as an Associate Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with honors from Columbia University in New York, New York, and a Juris Doctor from Washington University School of Law.

Judge Lay is active within the Missouri Bar Association and volunteers her time with several organizations, including the Missouri High School Mock Trial Competition, Washington University Negotiation Competition, Unleashing Potential Governance Committee, and Missouri Botanical Garden.

NOVEMBER 2, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 21-11 closing state offices on Friday, November 26, 2021. 

“Thanksgiving is an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends, and it reminds us to always count our blessings and remember all the good in our lives,” Governor Parson said. “Teresa and I are so thankful for our state team members for their hard work and dedication to serving Missourians every day. From our family to yours, we wish all Missourians a happy Thanksgiving Day weekend and pray that you will continue to be blessed throughout the coming year.”

To view Executive Order 21-11, click here. 

NOVEMBER 2, 2021

Jefferson City — Yesterday evening, the Jefferson City Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 1621 E. Elm Street, which is a leased facility for the State of Missouri. There have been no reports of injury or fatalities. It has been confirmed that no one was in the building at the time fire crews arrived.

The impacted building holds around 100 state team members who make up the Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Office of Administration’s Information Technology Services Division (ITSD). The ITSD staff who work in 1621 E. Elm support DSS.

"First and foremost, we are happy to report that no state team member, first responder, or citizen was hurt as a result of this fire," Governor Mike Parson said. "It is important for Missourians to know that state operations and services will continue uninterrupted thanks to our dedicated team members across state government who are stepping up to assist their teammates at DSS and ITSD." 

Currently, the Office of Administration is working with impacted state agencies to relocate team members to alternative work locations and replace equipment that has been destroyed from this isolated incident.

“We are incredibly relieved that no one was injured during last night’s fire,” said Robert Knodell, Acting Director of the Department of Social Services. “Material items and equipment can be replaced, but our team is invaluable. We will continue to work closely with those who were impacted to make sure they have the resources and support they need to not only continue serving Missouri citizens, but also to take care of their personal health and wellbeing at this time.”

“The well-being of our state team members who have been impacted during this incident remains our number one concern,” said Ken Zellers, Acting Commissioner, Office of Administration. “Overall state operations have not been hindered, but please keep our team members in your thoughts as we work through this challenge together.”

The State Fire Marshall is working with the Jefferson City Fire Department to inspect the damage today and will submit a report to the Governor’s Office. A contractor will be on site this afternoon to begin recovery and disposal of state owned equipment. Capitol Police are on site to restrict access for safety reasons. The State of Missouri is assessing the situation and will provide more information as it becomes available.

NOVEMBER 1, 2021

Jefferson City — On Friday, October 29, 2021, Governor Mike Parson granted 18 pardons and approved two commutations 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. 

10-29-2021 Pardons and Commutations.pdf

NOVEMBER 1, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced four appointments to various boards and commissions and filled three county office vacancies. 

Kerry Casey, of Chesterfield, was appointed to the State Board of Education. 

Ms. Casey is a Vice President at EXEGY, a global leader in financial market data, trading platforms, and predictive signals. She has served in this capacity since 2009 and leads global sales operations and enablement for EXEGY. Previously, she was Senior Vice President Customer Administration for Thomson Reuters. Ms. Casey serves on the Board of Directors for the Knowledge Is Power Program St. Louis (KIPP STL), Lift for Life Gym, and the Patriot Training Foundation. She also has been a Big Sister in her local Big Sister/Little Sister program and has previously served on the organization's local advisory board. Ms. Casey earned a certificate in Executive Leadership from the University of Michigan School of Business as well as a certificate in Business Process Reengineering from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management.

Tom Gorsline, of Macks Creek, was appointed as the Camden County Public Administrator. 

Mr. Gorsline has served as a Detective for the City of Osage Beach Police Department since 2013. He served as a Patrolman for the Police Department for seven years prior to his promotion to Detective. Mr. Gorsline is the president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 101 and is a member of Kids Harbor, Missouri Coalition for Mental Health, the International Crisis Intervention Team, and the Missouri Crisis Intervention Team. He holds certifications in hostage and crisis negotiation, crisis intervention, and peer support. Mr. Gorsline earned an associate degree in criminal justice from Eastern Gateway Community College and graduated from the Missouri Western State College Police Academy.  

Florence Hill, of Bellefontaine, was appointed to the St. Louis County Board of Election Commissioners. 

Ms. Hill has worked for CIGNA since 2003 and is currently an Operations Lead Analyst. Previously, she worked as a programmer for Vestcom Inc. Ms. Hill attended St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley and has continued her education through on-the-job programs with the University of Missouri– St. Louis. 

Shannon Landers, of Sikeston, was appointed as the New Madrid County Circuit Clerk. 

Ms. Landers has served as Chief Deputy Clerk and Principal Court Clerk for New Madrid County since 2012. Prior to her promotion as Chief Deputy Clerk, she served as a deputy clerk for the Office for more than 25 years. Ms. Landers holds a certificate in Court Management from the Missouri Court Management Institute and National Center for State Courts as well as a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Southeast Missouri State University. 

Denise Smith, of Ellington, was appointed as the Reynolds County Collector. 

Ms. Smith has served as Deputy Clerk in the Reynolds Country Clerk's Office since 2013. Prior to joining the Reynolds County Clerk's Office, she was the Assistant Night Shift Manger for Town and Country. 

Roger Walleck, of Columbia, was appointed to the Workers' Compensation Determinations Review Board.

Mr. Walleck has more than 40 years of experience in the insurance industry and is currently the Chief Underwriting Officer and Corporate Leader of Underwriting for Missouri Employers Mutual. Previously, he was the Chief Underwriting Officer for Meadowbrook Insurance Group. Mr. Walleck holds professional designations in Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and Associate in Insurance Services (AIS) from the Insurance Institute of America. He earned a Bachelor of Science in finance from Northern Illinois University. 

Katie Jo Wheeler, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Administrative Hearing Commission. 

Ms. Wheeler recently served as Deputy Director for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR), a position she held since 2018. Prior to becoming Deputy Director of DNR, she served as General Counsel for the Department. Ms. Wheeler is certified with the Missouri Bar and has completed The Missouri Way Advanced Management Training program. She received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Baylor University and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia School of Law. 

OCTOBER 29, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Bailey J. Tucker.

"We are saddened that Hospital Corpsman Tucker's life was cut so tragically short. The citizens of Missouri express our appreciation for our fellow Missourian's honorable service and sacrifice to this nation," Governor Parson said. "Teresa and I extend our condolences and will be praying for Bailey's family and friends during this difficult time." 

Hospital Corpsman Tucker was a graduate of Parkway North High School and joined the United States Navy in December 2019. He was stationed at Naval Air Station North Island, California, where he served as a Search and Rescue Medical Technician for Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8.

On August 31, 2021, Hospital Corpsman Tucker was killed in the line of duty when the helicopter he was aboard crashed while conducting at-sea training off the coast of California. 

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

OCTOBER 29, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson granted 18 pardons and commuted two sentences 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.  

OCTOBER 28, 2021

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that he has issued Executive Order 21-10 to protect the individual rights of Missourians against overreaching federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates. 

Governor Parson released the following statement regarding the Order:

"As the Governor of the State of Missouri, I stand with concerned Missourians and will do all I can to stop federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates." 

"When President Biden announced his initial plans to force unconstitutional vaccine mandates, we immediately began aligning state resources for legal action. While we hoped the Biden Administration would recognize these mandates as the abuse of authority that they are, they have not, and we must now use every tool we have available to fight this federal intrusion."

"The Constitution and its historical interpretations clearly leave public health decisions to the states. The federal government has no authority to issue COVID-19 vaccine mandates. The Biden Administration acting alone to dictate and mandate health requirements represents the kind of federal power grab the founding fathers warned us against." 

"In the State of Missouri, public health decisions are left to the people to either make their own personal decisions or speak through their elected representatives in the General Assembly. The Biden Administration's vaccine mandates undermine and deny Missourians their right to make personal health decisions and to speak through their elected representatives."

"More than three million Missourians are fully vaccinated. Nearly 70 percent of Missourians 18 and older and nearly 90 percent of Missourians 65 and older have initiated vaccination. Missouri's weekly positivity rate has decreased to 6.4 percent and the number of COVID-19 patients in Missouri hospitals has dramatically declined. Missourians are using common sense and our numbers have improved without federal mandates."

"Let me be clear, we continue to encourage all Missourians to get vaccinated. We can support vaccination without supporting mandates. We are issuing this order to protect our system of government and the individual rights of Missourians to make their own health care decisions."

"Never before since our nation's founding has a president unilaterally forced vaccinations onto the American people. Due process is a foundational principle of our democracy, and this unprecedented and dangerous action threatens our system of government and the individual freedoms we enjoy."

Executive Order 21-10 orders and directs the following actions to oppose the Biden Administration's overreaching federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates:

• All agencies, boards, commissions, and other entities within the executive branch of state government are directed to cooperate fully and timely with the Attorney General of the State of Missouri in litigation on behalf of the State of Missouri against any federally imposed COVID-19 vaccine mandate or requirement.
• No agency, board, commission, or other entity within the executive branch of state government shall compel any individual to receive the COVID-19 vaccine according to federal vaccine mandates if the individual objects for religious or medical reasons.
• No agency, board, commission, or other entity within the executive branch of state government shall penalize individuals or businesses for non-compliance with federally imposed COVID-19 vaccine mandates if the individual objects for religious or medical reasons.

To view Executive Order 21-10, click here.