In a significant legislative move, the Missouri House of Representatives has passed House Bill 495, aiming to transfer control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) back to a state-appointed board. This decision seeks to reverse the 2012 voter-approved measure that granted local authorities oversight of the police force. The bill now awaits consideration … Read more
In a remarkable act of courage, 6-year-old Steven Langley saved his family from a devastating house fire in University City, Missouri, on February 13, 2025. The blaze destroyed nearly all of the family’s possessions, but thanks to Steven’s quick thinking, everyone escaped unharmed. The Incident The fire began when Steven’s mother, Shiann Langley, lit a … Read more
In November 2024, Missouri voters approved Proposition A, introducing mandatory paid sick leave and incrementally increasing the state’s minimum wage. However, Republican lawmakers are now challenging these provisions, citing concerns over potential misuse and economic impact. Overview of Proposition A Proposition A mandates that employers with annual gross receipts exceeding $500,000 provide paid sick leave … Read more
In February 2025, Missouri Republicans reignited efforts to implement work and reporting requirements for Medicaid recipients. State Senator Jill Carter of Joplin introduced a proposed constitutional amendment mandating that able-bodied adults aged 19 to 49 engage in qualifying activities to receive health coverage. Proposed Amendment Details The amendment stipulates that eligible Medicaid participants must complete … Read more
In a significant financial fraud case, a woman from Washington, Missouri, has been indicted for allegedly embezzling more than $100,000 from her former employer. The accused, 44-year-old Victoria Isgriggs, also known as Victoria Denise Missey, faces multiple charges, including bank fraud and wire fraud. Details of the Allegations According to the indictment, Isgriggs was employed … Read more
In the early hours of Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the Columbia community was shaken by the tragic loss of 18-year-old Kaidynce Payne. Around 1 a.m., Columbia Police Department officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 3200 block of Clark Lane, an area encompassing establishments such as KFC, McDonald’s, and the Super 8 hotel. … Read more
Jefferson City’s public transportation system, JeffTran, is actively seeking solutions to its persistent bus driver shortage by proposing a shift differential pay increase. This initiative aims to attract and retain drivers, ensuring reliable service for the community. Current Pay Structure and Proposed Changes As of now, JeffTran drivers earn a starting hourly wage of $18.24. … Read more
The City of Columbia has temporarily halted plans to rename the basketball courts at Douglass Park following significant community feedback. The proposed dedication to the late University of Missouri women’s basketball assistant coach Willie Cox met with resistance from local residents who felt the renaming did not reflect the park’s historical significance and the individuals … Read more
In a significant move to support educational choice, Missouri lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at providing tax credits to families with children in homeschools and private schools. This initiative seeks to alleviate the financial burdens associated with alternative education and offer parents more flexibility in their children’s learning environments. Overview of the Proposed Legislation The … Read more
In a decisive move, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed Executive Order 25-18, effectively eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs across all state agencies. This order, signed on February 18, 2025, prohibits the allocation of state funds to DEI initiatives and bars the consideration of DEI factors in hiring decisions within state departments. Key … Read more