MAY 3, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Missouri from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, May 4, 2024, as a mark of respect for Sergeant Colin Arslanbas.

Sergeant Arslanbas was a United States Marine assigned to the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, Alpha Company. He was tragically killed in the line of duty while conducting a training exercise off the coast of North Carolina.

“We owe a tremendous debt to those who are willing to put their lives on the line to serve our state and country,” Governor Parson said. “Sergeant Arslanbas was a young Missourian who dedicated his life to serving his fellow man, while earning several commendation medals and advancing to the rank of Sergeant. His dedication to upholding our Constitution and the freedoms we hold dear will never be forgotten. The First Lady and I extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time."

Sergeant Arslanbas was a 2019 graduate of Fort Zumwalt West High School. His Marine Corps accolades included the Marine Corps' Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.

To view the proclamation click here.

MAY 2, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-06 activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to severe weather and flooding. Parts of Missouri have already sustained storm and flood damage with additional storms and rain forecast over the next several days.

“We have seen the tremendous power and destruction of this past weekend’s storms in neighboring states, and with areas of Missouri already impacted, we want to ensure state resources are available should significant disruptions or damage occur,” Governor Parson said. “This action enables the state to be better prepared and ready to assist our communities. We encourage Missourians to follow their local forecasts, heed all weather warnings, and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Executive Order 24-06 will expire on May 30, 2024, unless otherwise terminated or extended. To view Executive Order 24-06, click here. 

MAY 2, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, in honor of Missouri’s fallen law enforcement officers, Governor Mike Parson ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial to be lit blue from sunset on Friday, May 3, 2024, until sunrise on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

“We owe a tremendous debt to the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while enforcing the law and answering the call to service,” Governor Parson said. “Each year, we hold these ceremonies to remember and honor those who lost their lives in service to our state. We are proud to light the Capitol Dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial blue, as we stand alongside the families and colleagues of our fallen heroes to express our gratitude for their selfless service to our state."

The annual ceremonies honoring fallen Missouri law enforcement officers will be held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial on the grounds of the Capitol overlooking the Missouri River.

The 2024 Candlelight Vigil will be held on May 3 at 8 p.m., and the Memorial Service will take place at 10 a.m. on May 4.

“Each year, as we honor our fallen comrades, they and their heroic deeds are indelibly connected to the more than 700 officers whose names have already been enshrined on the Law Enforcement Memorial’s Wall of Honor,” Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten said. “Their service is now part of Missouri’s law enforcement legacy of valor and selfless service that extends back to 1836.”

The names of three law enforcement and corrections officers who died in the line of duty in 2023 and one officer who died in 2021 have been added to the memorial’s Wall of Honor in advance of this year’s ceremonies.

APRIL 26, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-05, extending Missouri’s drought alert to September 1, 2024. The action directs continued coordination of resources and combined response efforts across state government until conditions improve in drought-impacted areas. 

“Issuing a drought alert last spring was quite unprecedented, and unfortunately, the reality is we’re facing conditions worse now than a year ago,” Governor Parson said. “We welcome what rain Missouri has received in recent weeks, but this drought alert will continue so long as Missouri’s farmers and ranchers are struggling from the effects of prolonged dryness and concerns persist over commercial navigation along our riverways.” 

Lack of precipitation and below normal streamflow over the past year have kept Missouri under a drought alert continuously since May 31, 2023. Prior to that, a drought alert was active from July 2022 to March 2023.

In accordance with the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, today’s executive order will continue the drought alert in Missouri counties with areas experiencing moderate or greater drought conditions. It will also extend to any other county that begins experiencing drought conditions consistent with the drought plan’s phases and triggers table.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Drought Assessment Committee coordinates a combined state and federal response to the drought. At its April 17 meeting, the committee recommended the drought alert’s extension after hearing expert testimony that conditions within the state haven’t significantly improved due to unseasonably warm weather and continued dry conditions. Low streamflow within Missouri and a lack of plains and mountain snowpack were also cited as points of concern warranting the committee to continue its work into summer.

To date this year, Missouri has experienced fairly typical precipitation based on historical trends. However, groundwater, streamflow, and precipitation levels are not where they need to be to lift the state out of drought conditions, given the multi-year drought Missouri and other states to our northwest whose snow pack melts feed the Missouri and Mississippi rivers have experienced. 

As of April 25, 11 Missouri counties are experiencing severe drought, 71 counties are experiencing moderate drought, and 86 counties are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.

Over the past year, the Drought Assessment Committee has overseen and helped coordinate multiple actions to mitigate the drought that will continue under this Executive Order: 

• Bringing together subject matter experts across public and private agencies to collect information and promote collaboration to find solutions to drought-related issues.
• Emergency water pumping and haying opportunities have been made available to farmers on public lands, including select state parks and conservation areas. 
• Variances have been approved by the Soil and Water Districts Commission from its regular grazing school requirements, pond cleanout practices, and cover crop and livestock exclusion practices. Money has also been allocated to each Soil and Water Conservation District to help with soil and water resiliency. 
• The Department of Natural Resources is monitoring drinking water reservoir systems to ensure drinking water capacity remains unaffected. 
• The Department of Transportation continues to offer permits for over-width loads to allow hay to be transported.
• The Missouri Hydrology Information Center partnership is also working to expand the soil moisture and stream gauge networks to provide a more accurate account of water resources across Missouri.
• The Soil and Water Conservation Commission have obligated over $3.6M to landowners and cooperators in communities to help mitigate the effects of drought.
• The University of Missouri and Missouri Department of Agriculture have both developed hay directories to help farmers and ranchers locate hay. 

Local condition reports are crucial to understanding drought impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. The public can submit information about local drought conditions at Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR).

In addition, a variety of helpful resources are online at www.dnr.mo.gov/drought. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features links to CMOR, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought monitor maps, the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause. For more information on how best to prevent wildfires, visit MDC's wildfire prevention website: www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.

To view Executive Order 24-05, click here. 

APRIL 19, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Conservation Commission has selected Jason Sumners as the next director of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), effective June 1, 2024. Sumners currently serves as the deputy director of resource management for MDC and will succeed Sara Parker Pauley, who will retire after 30 years of public service. Sumners will become the tenth director in the Conservation Department’s 87-year history.

"We congratulate Jason on being named the new MDC Director and thank the Conservation Commission for its thoughtful and thorough search to replace Director Pauley," Governor Parson said. "While we'll miss Sara's leadership, we look forward to Jason using his unique qualifications to build upon Missouri's rich history of fish, forest, and wildlife preservation. MDC is one of the best departments in the nation, and we thank Jason for his commitment to continuing that legacy as a member of our cabinet." 

“I am excited and humbled by this opportunity the Commission has entrusted me with and the conservation team I get to work with across the state and country,” Sumners said. “The Missouri outdoors have defined my personal and professional life, so getting to serve in this capacity and continue to tackle the ever-evolving challenges in conservation is an exciting endeavor.”

“The Commission did a national search for the director position because we knew we had tough shoes to fill with Sara leaving,” said Missouri Conservation Commission Chair Steven Harrison. “Jason is uniquely poised for this director role with his background, experience, and national connections in conservation. We are looking forward to a smooth transition with Jason at the helm with high expectations with him as the next director.”

“Jason brings a wealth of leadership experience in conservation, both at the state and national level, as well as a diverse background in wildlife management,” Pauley said. “I’m confident he will continue that exceptional leadership he has exemplified during his career at MDC as he becomes your next director, including working collaboratively with partners and the public to carry out the conservation mission.”

As deputy director of resource management, Sumners had responsibility and oversight for the resource management efforts of the agency, including statewide resource management, regional resource management, and protection. He also led the regulations committee. Prior to his deputy director role, Sumners served as Science Branch chief, leading a team of more than 80 scientists that specialize in fish, forest, and wildlife research and management. He began his career at MDC in 2008 as a private lands deer biologist and later became the head of the state’s deer management program.

During Sumners’ tenure at MDC, he has been instrumental in developing the agency’s strategic and operational direction, served as chief of the Wildlife Division, led the state’s white-tailed deer management program, took part in Missouri’s elk reintroduction efforts, developed a private lands deer management program, and led the Department’s effort to develop and implement a chronic wasting disease (CWD) management and surveillance strategy. Jason also worked at the national level on the Relevancy Roadmap for state fish and wildlife agencies to enhance conservation efforts through broader engagement. 

Jason received a Bachelor of Science in fisheries and wildlife from the University of Missouri and a Master of Science in Biology from Mississippi State University. He is a National Conservation Leadership Institute fellow, professional member of the Boone and Crockett Club, active with many non-government organization partners, represents MDC on numerous regional and national committees, and has been recognized by the Conservation Federation of Missouri and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for his leadership in science-based approaches to wildlife conservation. He has published popular and scientific articles on wildlife, natural resources management, and conservation relevancy. 

Sumners grew up in Lincoln, Missouri, where his love for the outdoors began. His interests include hunting, fishing, and camping. He and his family live in Hartsburg, Missouri.

APRIL 16, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Lafayette County and all police stations in Missouri on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, in honor of Lake Lafayette Police Department Chief Steven A. Singer.

“Chief Singer devoted 20 years of his life to protecting his community and was committed to advancing professional development among law enforcement investigators as an active member of the Missouri Investigators Association,” Governor Parson said. “We are grateful for his public service, and Teresa and I send our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”

On the evening of April 7, Chief Singer was on duty with the Lake Lafayette Police Department when he responded to a report of subjects trespassing near the dam of Lake Lafayette. When he arrived, the subjects fled on UTVs. Chief Singer searched for the subjects before clearing the call. He then suffered a fatal heart attack in the early morning hours of April 8.

Singer, 48, was a 20-year law enforcement veteran. He graduated from the University of Central Missouri's Police Academy on March 31, 2004, and in June 2004 joined the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy and the Lake Lafayette Police Department as chief. He served as a deputy sheriff until June 2015. 

Chief Singer had been a member of the Missouri Investigators Association since 2005 and had served as a member of the organization’s Membership Committee, Training Committee, and as vice president and president. He had also served in the Lafayette County Assessor’s Office, where he rose to the position of deputy assessor in September 2017 and continued to serve in that capacity.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day of Chief Singer’s memorial service. To view the proclamation click here. 

APRIL 12, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced 23 appointments to various boards and commissions. 

Victoria Babb, of St. Peters, was appointed to the Missouri Community Service Commission. 

Ms. Babb currently serves as community resource director for Cunningham Recreation and runs the Play 4 ALL division. She previously served in the National Civilian Community Corps and Americorps St. Louis Partners. Ms. Babb is a board member of the St. Charles Community College Foundation and the Center for Autism Education. Ms. Babb holds a Bachelor of Arts in social science, economics, and public policy from Stephens College.

Ann Marie Baker, of Springfield, was appointed to the State Highways and Transportation Commission.

Ms. Baker currently serves as executive vice president of UMB Bank in Springfield. She is a member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce as well as a past president and current board member of Junior League of Springfield. Ms. Baker holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration with an emphasis in finance and banking from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Taylor Burks, of Hartsburg, was appointed to the Truman State University Board of Governors.

Mr. Burks currently serves as director of strategic planning in the U.S. Navy Reserves. He previously served as president and general manager of ROST Inc., as director of the Missouri Division of Labor Standards, and as Boone County Clerk. Mr. Burks holds a Master of Accounting from Washington University in Saint Louis, a Master of Arts in administrative leadership from the University of Oklahoma, and a Bachelor of Science in justice systems from Truman State University.

Winston Calvert, of University City, was appointed to the Bi-State Development Agency of the Missouri-Illinois Metropolitan District. 

Mr. Calvert manages a private consulting firm providing solutions to the complex challenges business and nonprofit leaders face. He also serves as director of the Boy Scouts of America's Greater St. Louis Area Council and Heat Up St. Louis Inc. Mr. Calvert has worked as an attorney at Armstrong Teasdale LLP,  as chief executive officer of Community Impact Network, and as chief of staff to the St. Louis County Executive. Mr. Calvert holds a Juris Doctor from Washington University in St. Louis and a Bachelor of Music from Southern Illinois University–Carbondale.

Dr. Maureen Clancy-May, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Southeast Missouri State University Board of Governors. 

Dr. Clancy-May currently serves as state supervisor for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Office of Quality Schools. She previously served as superintendent of the Bayless School District. Dr. Clancy-May holds a Ph.D. in education administration from Saint Louis University, a Master of Science in education administration from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, and a Bachelor of Science in teaching exceptional children from Southeast Missouri State University.

Ed Elder, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners. 

Mr. Elder currently serves as president of Colliers in Kansas City. He previously served as treasurer for the Kansas City Missouri Police Foundation and is a board member of the Kansas City Area Development Council, University of Kansas Cancer Funding Partners, and United Way of Greater Kansas City. Mr. Elder holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Kansas State University.

Dr. Tawni Ferrarini, of St. Charles, was appointed to the State Board of Education. 

Dr. Ferrarini currently serves as a professor of economic education at Lindenwood University.  She previously served as professor and director of economic education and entrepreneurship for Northern Michigan University. Dr. Ferrarini has been a member of the National Association of Economic Education since 2000 and has numerous peer reviewed publications. Dr. Ferrarini holds a Ph.D. in economics and a Master of Arts in economics from Washington University in St. Louis and a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics from Southern Illinois University–Carbondale.

Reverend Darryl Gray, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Missouri Workforce Development Board. 

Reverend Gray currently serves as a pastor at Greater Fairfax Baptist Church and as a consultant at Gray and Gray Associates LLC. He further serves as a political advisor for the St. Louis Metropolitan Clergy Coalition and as chair of the St. Louis Detention Facilities Oversight Board. Reverend Gray holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Benedict College and completed two years of study toward a Bachelor of Theology and Religious Studies and a Masters of Science in divinity from McGill University. 

Rodney Hendricks, of Jerico Springs, was appointed to the Missouri Southern State University Board of Governors. 

Mr. Hendricks currently owns and operates a cow-calf operation in Jerico Springs. He previously served as operations project manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's Stockton Lake management office. Mr. Hendricks holds a Bachelor of Science in fish and wildlife management from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Tracy Henke, of Chesterfield, was appointed to the Missouri Workforce Development Board. 

Ms. Henke currently serves as deputy executive director and COO of St. Louis Regional Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Center (AMICSTL). Her extensive career spans roles such as chief policy officer and president of Chamber/STL at Greater St. Louis Inc., legislative director for former U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, and various leadership positions within the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Ms. Henke holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Dr. Daniel Isom, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Bi-State Development Agency of the Missouri-Illinois Metropolitan District.

Dr. Isom currently serves as a professor at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. He previously served as chief of police for the City of St. Louis from 1988-2013. Dr. Isom holds a Ph.D. in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and a Master of Arts in public administration from Saint Louis University. 

Lyda Krewson, of St. Louis, was appointed to the University of Missouri Board of Curators.

Ms. Krewson previously served as mayor of the City of St. Louis from 2017-2021 and as an alderman for the City of St. Louis from 1997-2017. Ms. Krewson holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and a Bachelor of Science in education, psychology, and special education from Truman State University.

Dudley McCarter, of Clayton, was appointed to the Coordinating Board for Higher Education.

Mr. McCarter has served as a principal of Behr, McCarter & Potter, P.C. since 1992 and as a member of the Coordinating Board for Higher Education since 2019. Mr. McCarter also served in the United States Army Reserves from 1972 - 1980, receiving an honorable discharge at the rank of captain. He previously served as president of the Missouri Bar Association and is a current fellow of the American Bar Foundation. Mr. McCarter further serves on Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital's Foundation Board. Mr. McCarter holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois.

Mattea Miller, of Springfield, was appointed as the student representative to the Missouri State University Board of Governors.

Ms. Miller is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in communication, political science, and press politics. She has completed several internships with state and federal officials and organizations while pursuing her higher education degree. 

John Mitchell, of Kansas City, was appointed to the Public Service Commission. 

Mr. Mitchell served as a civil engineer at Burns and McDonnell Engineering Co., Inc., for 34 years before retiring in 2022. He served four years as a member of the Board of Directors for the Design Build Institute of America’s Mid America Region from 2018-2022. Mr. Mitchell holds a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology.

Jerel Poor II, of Bonne Terre, was appointed to the Administrative Hearing Commission.

Mr. Poor currently serves as circuit judge for the 24^th Judicial Circuit. He previously served as a technical assistant and attorney at JEDMED Instrument Company in St. Louis. Mr. Poor holds a Bachelor of Arts in theater and a Master of Business Administration from Lindenwood University and a Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University.

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

Dr. Prater currently serves as a partner physician at Mattax, Neu, and Prater Eye Center in Springfield. He is a member of the Missouri State Medical Society and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He previously served on the Springfield City Council representing zone 2. Dr. Prater holds a Doctor of Medicine from Washington University’s School of Medicine and a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry from Southern Methodist University.

Senator Greg Razer, of Kansas City, was appointed to the State Tax Commission. 

Senator Razer currently serves as a Missouri State Senator for the 7th District. His previous service includes serving as a Missouri State Representative for the 25th House District and as deputy regional director for former U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill's northwestern Missouri office. Senator Razer holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Missouri–Columbia. 

Jeremy Schneider, of Atlanta, was appointed to the Missouri Ethics Commission. 

Mr. Schneider currently serves as director of aftermarket–sales for Sydenstricker Nobbe, also known as SN Partners, in Macon. He previously served as a territory manager for John Deere. Mr. Schneider holds a Bachelor of Science in agricultural systems management with a minor in agricultural economics from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Louise Secker, of Joplin, was appointed to the Missouri Community Service Commission. 

Ms. Secker currently serves as a realtor for the Carlin Team at Keller Williams Realty. She previously served as development director for Lafayette House in Joplin. Ms. Secker is a board member of the Joplin Regional Community Foundation and the Jasper County Court Appointed Special Advocates. Ms. Secker holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and political science from Westminster College.

Katie Sinquefield, of Columbia, was appointed to the Public Defenders Commission. 

Ms. Sinquefield currently serves as a board member of the Weldon Project, the Show-Me Defenders board, and the Advisory Board for the Show-Me Institute. She previously served on the Alumni Advisory Board for the Harry S. Truman School of Public Affairs at the University of Missouri–Columbia. Ms. Sinquefield holds a Bachelor of Arts in public administration and policy and a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Whitney Smith, of Des Peres, was appointed to the Missouri Ethics Commission. 

Ms. Smith served 11 years with the Boeing Company in St. Louis. She holds a Master of Arts in Russian studies from the European University and a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science from Miami University.

Amy Westermann, of Walnut Grove, was appointed to the Administrative Hearing Commission. 

Ms. Westermann currently serves as chief counsel for the State Tax Commission of Missouri. She previously served as in-house counsel and litigation and policy manager for the St. Louis County Assessor’s Office. Ms. Westermann holds a Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in communications and public relations from Maryville University. 

APRIL 12, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced judicial appointments to the 21st, 22nd, and 33rd Judicial Circuits. 

Chastidy R. Dillon-Amelung, of Creve Coeur, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for the 21st Judicial Circuit. 

Ms. Dillon-Amelung currently serves as a traffic court commissioner for the 21st Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy, law, and rhetoric from Stephens College, a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and a Master of Laws in taxation from Washington University in St. Louis. She will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Matthew H. Hearne as Circuit Judge. 

The Honorable David A. Roither, of St. Louis, was appointed as Circuit Judge for the 22nd Judicial Circuit. 

Judge Roither currently serves as an associate circuit judge for the 22nd Judicial Circuit. He holds Bachelors of Arts in philosophy and political science from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and a Juris Doctor from St. Louis University. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Steven R. Ohmer.

Amanda L. Oesch, of Scott City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Scott County in the 33rd Judicial Circuit.

Ms. Oesch is currently an assistant prosecuting attorney in Scott County and the owner of the Law Office of Amanda L. Oesch. She holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Missouri State University and a Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University. She will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Robert Z. Horack as Circuit Judge.

APRIL 12, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that he is naming Michelle Hataway as full status Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED). Hataway had been serving as DED Acting Director since June 2023. 

"Director Hataway has been a fantastic addition to our team, and we've greatly enjoyed having her leadership and experience among our Cabinet," Governor Parson said. "From main street businesses to billion dollar corporations, no project is too big or too small for Michelle or her team when it comes to growing Missouri's economy and creating jobs. She meets every opportunity with a welcoming spirit and Missouri grit to help secure an even brighter future for all Missourians. We congratulate Michelle and look forward to all the great things she'll continue to achieve on behalf of our state." 

“I’m honored by the trust Governor Parson has placed in me to continue leading our excellent team and helping Missourians prosper,” DED Director Hataway said. “Economic development takes collaboration, and we’re fortunate in Missouri to have a wide range of supportive partners across the public and private sectors. I look forward to continuing our work together while leading DED’s initiatives to strengthen businesses, communities, and our economy as a whole.”

In her more than eight years with DED, Hataway has served as regional manager, deputy director, and director of the Division of Regional Engagement. More recently, she served as deputy director of DED before being elevated to acting director on June 16, 2023. Prior to joining DED, Hataway held positions with her family’s 90-year-old business and at Netflix.

Hataway earned a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in communication studies from the University of Alabama. 

APRIL 11, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe will travel to McAllen, Texas, on Saturday, April 13, to meet with Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers, receive an in-person update on Operation Lone Star, and assess Missouri's ongoing MSHP deployment to the Southern Border. Lt. Governor Kehoe will be joined by Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Sandy Karsten and MSHP Colonel Eric Olson.

Governor Parson will visit Missouri National Guard members deployed to the Southern Border in support of Operation Lone Star on May 8, 2024, near Eagle Pass, Texas. More information will be provided prior to the trip. 

"With millions of illegal immigrants and millions more lethal doses of fentanyl pouring into our nation across the Southern Border, Missouri is proud to stand with Texas as President Biden and the federal government fail to protect our communities," Governor Parson said. "We know Lt. Governor Kehoe shares our concerns and joins the vast majority of Missourians in demanding a secure Southern Border. We thank him for being a leader on this issue and for offering his assistance in going to Texas to assess current operations and learn how Missouri's MSHP resources can continue to help secure our Southern Border moving forward." 

“Missourians are incredibly proud of the MSHP troopers and Missouri National Guard soldiers who are supporting the State of Texas during this crisis,” Lt. Governor Kehoe said. “Until the Southern Border is secure, every state is a border state. I appreciate Governor Parson for stepping in where President Biden has failed and deploying Missouri’s resources to assist Governor Abbott in this mission."

Missouri's Southern Border Operations to Date:

On February 20, 2024, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 24-03 activating up to 200 MONG members and 22 MSHP troopers to support Operation Lone Star on the Sothern Border. A force of 11 Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers has been supporting the Texas Department of Public Safety on the Southern Border since March 1, 2024. Missouri National Guard (MONG) members, totaling 48 soldiers, began supporting border security efforts on March 14 after receiving official orders on March 11. 

Missouri State Highway Patrol Border Deployment:

On March 1, 2024, 11 MSHP troopers traveled to southern Texas to assist the Texas DPS in providing law enforcement services in the area of the U.S. border. The team briefed at the Texas DPS South Region Office (3) in Weslaco, Texas, on March 3 and reported to its first assigned shift on March 4. This team continued to serve in the border area until March 30, 2024.

On March 30, 2024, a second contingent of 11 Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) troopers traveled to southern Texas to assist Texas DPS in providing law enforcement services in the area of the U.S. border.  The team briefed at the Texas DPS South Region Office (3) in Weslaco, Texas, on April 1 and reported to its first assigned shifts on April 2. 

From March 3 through April 9, MSHP troopers assisting Texas DPS troopers in the area of the U.S. border provided assistance with the following incidents/encounters:  

• Traffic Stops – 1180         
• Undocumented Migrants – 447
• Undocumented Migrant Turn-Backs – 45
• Impaired Driver and Drug Arrests – 54     
• Other Law Enforcement Assists – 80

Currently, troopers from eight of the MSHP's nine troops are serving in Texas.  

Missouri troopers assigned to the detail work 12-hour shifts, with each working shifts alongside a Texas DPS trooper. This allows for officer safety and operational efficiency. Routine calls for service include general law enforcement calls, traffic stops, response to alarms and camera activations, and assisting with warrant arrests. Officers routinely intercept undocumented migrants on foot and in vehicles and observe them until U.S. Customs & Border Protection officers respond to take custody. At times, officers encounter undocumented migrants who turn and cross back over the border before interception.

Missouri National Guard:

Since March 15, soldiers from the 138th Infantry Regiment, 110th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade have been serving side by side with soldiers from the Texas Army National Guard. 

Missouri Soldiers were assigned to maintain 24-hour security surveillance operations, with each soldier working shifts alongside Texas Guardsmen. This allows for soldier safety and operational efficiency. Routine calls for service include detection of undocumented migrants coming across the border, helping turn back undocumented migrants to Mexico, and assisting with surrenders. Soldiers routinely intercept undocumented migrants on foot and in vehicles and observe them until U.S. Customs & Border Protection officers respond to take custody and process. 

Missouri soldiers have joined the Texas Army National Guard to conduct security patrols within their assigned area of operations on the Rio Grande River.

In addition to their surveillance operation duties, Missouri soldiers assisting Texas Army National Guard members in the area of the U.S. border have provided assistance with the following encounters:

• Undocumented Migrant Surrenders - 624
• Undocumented Migrant Detections & Turn Backs - 68

Photos from both the MONG and MSHP deployments can be found below: 

• MSHP 4.jpg
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• MONG 7.jpg
• MONG 1.jpg
• MONG 6.jpg
• MONG 4.jpg
• MSHP 1.jpg
• MONG 2.jpg
• MONG 8.jpg