MAY 8, 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 six counties following the severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes that heavily damaged areas of southwest and southeast Missouri from April 28 to 29.  

“Last week, intense severe storms once again brought destruction to areas of Missouri, further burdening families, businesses, and communities already dealing with the aftermath of previous damaging severe weather,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been on the ground for days, helping local officials document damage. Our local partners and SEMA believe the emergency response costs and damage to roads, bridges, and other important public infrastructure warrant a formal review by FEMA and meet the levels required for a federal disaster declaration for Public Assistance.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton and Washington. 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, May 13, five 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.

SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, other state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. If you have damage, you should contact your insurance company and file a claim as soon as possible.

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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MAY 6, 2025

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine green beginning at sunrise on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, until sunrise on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month and May 4 - 10, 2025, as Children’s Mental Health Week.

“It’s important to talk about mental health and the resources that are available for Missourians who need help and support,” Governor Kehoe said. “You are not alone if you struggle with mental health challenges. Our administration, in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Mental Health, is focused on sharing resources and improving access to treatment.”

This week, Governor Kehoe will proclaim May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Missouri, and May 4 - 10, 2025, as Children’s Mental Health Week. Approximately one in six children and youth have a diagnosable mental illness, and around 50 percent of individuals with lifetime mental health challenges first experience symptoms by age 14.

“May is a great time to shine a light on the importance of mental health,” said Missouri Department of Mental Health Director, Valerie Huhn. “We're proud to see the Capitol dome lighted green this year for mental health awareness as we continue to share resources and support for Missourians.”

If you are thinking about suicide, are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or are worried about a friend or loved one, call, text, or chat with the Missouri 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Photos of the Capitol lighted green will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr Page.

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MAY 1, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in a total of 26 Missouri counties in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that caused widespread destruction across the state from March 30 to April 8. Six deaths were confirmed due to severe storms during the period.   

“Missouri has repeatedly been hit hard by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding this year and the result has been widespread damage and destruction of homes, private property, and public infrastructure,” Governor Kehoe said. “While Missourians and faith-based and volunteer organizations have been supporting their neighbors and local and state government are working hard at recovery, the cost of these efforts – often because of repeated damage in the same counties – is beyond the capacity of local communities and the state to bear in full.”

Eighteen of the 26 counties included in this request for a federal disaster declaration were also included in a federal disaster request made by Governor Kehoe on April 2, 2025.

Based on the documented damage, Governor Kehoe is requesting FEMA Individual Assistance for the following 20 counties: Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Vernon, Washington, and Wayne.

Individual Assistance would allow eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.  

Based on the documented damage and emergency response costs, Governor Kehoe is also requesting FEMA Public Assistance for the following 25 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.

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.

Joint damage assessments conducted by FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local officials estimate more than $25.5 million in emergency response costs and damage to public infrastructure.

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.

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MAY 1, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Kansas City Fire Department Firefighter/Paramedic Graham Hoffman, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Cass, Clay, Jackson, and Platte counties, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Friday, May 2, 2025, from sunrise to sunset.

“Graham Hoffman was a young man who was full of compassion, a desire to help others, and a dedication to saving lives,” Governor Kehoe said. “This past weekend, as he worked an overtime shift, Firefighter/Paramedic Hoffman’s life was tragically cut short by senseless violence as he treated a patient. We pray for Graham’s loved ones and the entire Kansas City Fire Department family as we mourn the loss of this young first responder."

Early on the morning of April 27, Firefighter/Paramedic Hoffman, 29, was stabbed and mortally wounded by a patient as she was being transported to a local hospital.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Firefighter/Paramedic Hoffman is laid to rest. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

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APRIL 30, 2025

Jefferson City — In honor of Missouri’s fallen law enforcement officers, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial to shine blue beginning at sunset on Friday, May 2, 2025, until sunrise on Sunday, May 4, 2025.

“The Missouri Capitol dome will shine blue this weekend as we honor and remember the law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice,” Governor Kehoe said. “It takes great courage, strength, and commitment for law enforcement officers to put on their uniform each day knowing that their duty requires them to run toward the dangers that others flee. We have a responsibility to honor the fallen and ensure they are never forgotten.”

The annual ceremonies honoring fallen Missouri law enforcement officers will be held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial on the north side of the State Capitol. The 2025 Candlelight Vigil will be held on Friday, May 2, and the Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, May 3.

The names of four law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty during 2024 have been added to the memorial’s Wall of Honor in advance of this year’s ceremonies, as well as two  historical officer deaths for which the line of duty circumstances have recently been confirmed through research. The Wall of Honor now includes 752 fallen officers.

Line-of-Duty Deaths

• Cody R. Allen – On Feb. 29, 2024, Independence Police Department Officer Cody Allen was shot and killed while responding to the shooting of Jackson County Civil Process Server Drexel Mack, who had been serving an eviction notice.
• Stephen A. Singer – Early on the morning of April 8, 2024, Lake Lafayette Police Department Chief Steven Singer died in his home as a result of a heart attack. The evening before, he had pursued several suspects who were trespassing with utility task vehicles (UTV) near the dam at Lake Lafayette.
• Phylicia Carson – On Aug. 31, 2024, Osage Beach Police Department Officer Phylicia Carson was killed in a vehicle crash while responding to assist another officer involved in a vehicle pursuit.
• David Lee III – On Sept. 22, 2024, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Officer David Lee III was struck by a vehicle and killed while assisting at the scene of a motor vehicle crash on eastbound I-70. Officer Lee was setting out flares when a speeding drunk driver lost control of his vehicle and struck him.
• Noah Bowles – On Feb. 8, 1904, Lewistown Marshal Noah Bowles was attempting to arrest a man for public intoxication on a railway platform in Lewistown. The suspect, who had allegedly been harassing passengers on a recently arrived train, fatally shot Marshal Bowles with a revolver.
• George D. Hooper – On March 17, 1918, Webb City Police Department Chief George Hooper was shot and killed in an exchange of gunfire. He had approached a gunman who had been firing a handgun and pursuing a woman on foot near railroad tracks. The gunman shot Chief Hooper, who returned fire. A deputy sheriff shot and killed the gunman.

The families of the fallen and representatives of law enforcement agencies from across Missouri will participate in the ceremonies.

Friday May 2, 2025

Candlelight vigil honoring Missouri law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty

When: 8:00 p.m.

Where: Law Enforcement Memorial at the Missouri State Capitol, located on North Capitol Drive

Media: Open

Saturday, May 3, 2025

Governor Kehoe and Attorney General Bailey to deliver remarks at memorial service honoring Missouri law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty

When: 10:00 a.m.

Where: Law Enforcement Memorial at the Missouri State Capitol, located on North Capitol Drive

Media: Open (Saturday’s service will be livestreamed on the Missouri Department of Public Safety Facebook page)

Photos of the Capitol lighted blue will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr Page.

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APRIL 29, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Kehoe announced a judicial appointment to the 21^st Judicial Circuit.

Kelly Snyder, of St. Louis, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Saint Louis County in the 21^st Judicial Circuit.

Ms. Snyder currently serves as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Missouri. She earned her Juris Doctor from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis and holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Notre Dame. Snyder is a member of the Women Lawyers' Association of Greater St. Louis, the St. Louis County Bar Association, and the Missouri Bar Association. She also serves as the vice president of the executive board for the Police Athletic League of St. Louis County and is a guest lecturer for the University of Missouri–St. Louis child advocacy studies course. Snyder will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Ellen W. Dunne to the circuit bench.

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APRIL 28, 2025

Jefferson City — Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine blue beginning at sunset on Monday, April 28, 2025, until sunrise on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in recognition of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

"Every child deserves to grow up safe, loved, and supported. Throughout Child Abuse Prevention Month, we renew our commitment to safeguard our most vulnerable, build stronger families, and create safer communities,” Governor Kehoe said. "Preventing child abuse is a cause that belongs to all of us. Together, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

National Child Abuse Prevention Month is a time to raise public awareness of the critical importance of protecting children and supporting families. The color blue, symbolized by the blue pinwheel, is the national symbol for child abuse prevention, which represents the hope and bright futures that every child deserves.

“This gesture serves as a powerful symbol of Missouri’s shared commitment to raising awareness and supporting efforts to protect our most vulnerable,” said Director Jess Bax, Department of Social Services. “Every effort we make to educate, support, and intervene early helps lay the foundation for healthier futures for Missouri’s children. By fostering safe and supportive communities, we are reaffirming our commitment to give every child the chance to grow, dream, and succeed."

Reporting abuse is everyone’s responsibility. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please call the Department of Social Services' Child Abuse and Neglect toll-free hotline at 1-800-392-3738. The DSS team will be available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you are hearing or speech impaired, call Relay Missouri at 1-800-735-2466 (voice) or 1-800-735-2966 (text).

Photos of the Capitol lighted blue will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr Page.

• April 2025 Child Abuse Prevention Month.pdf

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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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