BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 11:30a.m. March 8,&nbsp;a Brown County Deputy responded toa call of a reckless driver complaint involving a white sedan on U,.S. 36 Highway, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

A traffic stop was initiated near Goldfinch.&nbsp; Upon completion of the interdiction with the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, the deputy arrested 61-year-old Daniel Schaefer of Kansas City, Missouri, on requestd charges of DUI and Transport Open Container.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773188495173.png" alt="Schaefer photo Brown County" />
 <figcaption>Schaefer photo Brown County</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 11:30a.m. March 8,&nbsp;a Brown County Deputy responded toa call of a reckless driver complaint involving a white sedan on U,.S. 36 Highway, according to Sheriff John Merchant.A traffic stop was initiated near Goldfinch.&nbsp; Upon completion of the interdiction with the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, the deputy arrested 61-year-old Daniel Schaefer of Kansas City, Missouri, on requestd charges of DUI and Transport Open Container.

Missouri man accused of DUI, transporting an open container

Missouri Western State University, the Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph (CAP St. Joe), and the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday morning at Wilson Hall to celebrate the expansion of the campus-based Head Start facility.

The expansion, funded by more than $630,000 in grants, introduces two new Early Head Start classrooms for children ages birth to 3, an upgraded food service area, and an enhanced outdoor learning environment. President of Missouri Western State University, Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, says, "There is kind of a child care desert in St. Joe, so this is expansion is beneficial to the community."

Since moving to the MoWest campus in 2023, the program has served as a dual-purpose hub for regional family support and collegiate training.

"This program represents the best of what MoWest strives to do," said Kennedy. "We are supporting young children and families in our region while creating real-world learning opportunities for our future professionals."

The February expansion was designed to meet a growing demand for early childhood services in the St. Joseph area. According to Kayla Marmaud of CAP St. Joe, the new facilities strengthen the infrastructure for the region's youngest residents.

"This ribbon cutting celebrates the growth of the program since coming to campus," Marmaud said. "With expanded classrooms and new improvements, we’re continuing to strengthen services for local children and families."

Families interested in Head Start or Early Head Start services can call CAP St. Joe at 816-233-8281.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773162946188.jpeg" alt="CAP St. Joe Head Start" />
 <figcaption>CAP St. Joe Head Start</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKATIHMissouri Western State University, the Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph (CAP St. Joe), and the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday morning at Wilson Hall to celebrate the expansion of the campus-based Head Start facility.The expansion, funded by more than $630,000 in grants, introduces two new Early Head Start classrooms for children ages birth to 3, an upgraded food service area, and an enhanced outdoor learning environment. President of Missouri Western State University, Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, says, "There is kind of a child care desert in St. Joe, so this is expansion is beneficial to the community."Since moving to the MoWest campus in 2023, the program has served as a dual-purpose hub for regional family support and collegiate training.<ul>
 <li>Applied Learning: Students in MoWest’s nursing, education, social work, and psychology programs gain hands-on experience by working directly within the classrooms.</li><li>Comprehensive Care: Beyond early childhood education, the program provides prenatal support for expecting mothers and health and nutrition services for families.</li>
 </ul>"This program represents the best of what MoWest strives to do," said Kennedy. "We are supporting young children and families in our region while creating real-world learning opportunities for our future professionals."The February expansion was designed to meet a growing demand for early childhood services in the St. Joseph area. According to Kayla Marmaud of CAP St. Joe, the new facilities strengthen the infrastructure for the region's youngest residents."This ribbon cutting celebrates the growth of the program since coming to campus," Marmaud said. "With expanded classrooms and new improvements, we’re continuing to strengthen services for local children and families."Families interested in Head Start or Early Head Start services can call CAP St. Joe at 816-233-8281.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773162975178.jpeg" alt="CAP St. Joe Head Start" />
 <figcaption>CAP St. Joe Head Start</figcaption>
 </figure>

MoWest and CAP St. Joe celebrate Head Start expansion

(Radio Iowa) - The fundraising leaders in Iowa's race for governor have filed the paperwork to qualify for the June primary ballots. 

Candidates for governor are required to submit at least 35-hundred signatures from eligible Iowa voters on petitions -- and have at least 100 signatures from 19 of Iowa's 99 counties. Democrat Rob Sand says the 24-thousand signatures his campaign submitted is a record -- and one-fifth of them came from independents and Republicans. Sand describes it as a 99 county operation to show that no matter where you live in Iowa, you've got neighbors who signed to help get his name on the ballot. 

Republican Randy Feenstra says people from all 99 counties signed his nominating petitions and he submitted over 75-hundred signatures, more than double the number necessary. Feenstra is likely to face four other Republicans in the June 2nd G-O-P Primary. Candidates have until 5 p.m. this Friday to submit nominationg petitions for the primary.

(Radio Iowa) - The fundraising leaders in Iowa's race for governor have filed the paperwork to qualify for the June primary ballots. Candidates for governor are required to submit at least 35-hundred signatures from eligible Iowa voters on petitions -- and have at least 100 signatures from 19 of Iowa's 99 counties. Democrat Rob Sand says the 24-thousand signatures his campaign submitted is a record -- and one-fifth of them came from independents and Republicans. Sand describes it as a 99 county operation to show that no matter where you live in Iowa, you've got neighbors who signed to help get his name on the ballot. Republican Randy Feenstra says people from all 99 counties signed his nominating petitions and he submitted over 75-hundred signatures, more than double the number necessary. Feenstra is likely to face four other Republicans in the June 2nd G-O-P Primary. Candidates have until 5 p.m. this Friday to submit nominationg petitions for the primary.

Two of the candidates for Iowa governor file for 2026 primary ballot

The proposal would base funding on the number of students enrolled and some state schools could lose 40% or more of their state support. The plan is part of a budget proposal that cuts $300 million from general revenue spending requested by Gov. Mike Kehoe

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A push to shift hundreds of millions of dollars among Missouri state colleges and universities ran into bipartisan skepticism Monday during a hearing of the House Budget Committee.

State Rep. Dirk Deaton, chairman of the House Budget Committee, said he wants to overhaul state support for community colleges and universities by reallocating funding based on the number of full-time students on each campus. Current funding is too tied to past appropriations, he said, and gives the 10 four-year universities and 12 community colleges widely varying amounts for each student educated.

“The money follows the student, it is really as simple as that,” said Deaton, a Republican from Seneca.

State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Moberly Republican, was among members skeptical about the massive reallocation. Truman State University in Kirksville would lose more than half of its funding under Deaton’s plan.&nbsp;

“That would be a tremendous hit to that university, and would probably cause that university to close within two years,” said Lewis, who is a candidate for state Senate in the district that includes Kirksville.

Deaton led the committee through a discussion Monday of his proposed changes to appropriations for state government operations in the coming year. The committee will meet again Wednesday for further changes before sending the 12 spending bills to the full House for debate.

Budget figures compiled by The Independent show the proposals Deaton discussed Monday would use $15.4 billion of general revenue, about $420 million less than&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/missouri-revenue-surplus-nearly-gone-as-gov-mike-kehoe-unveils-his-budget-plan/">Gov. Mike Kehoe requested</a>&nbsp;in January. All spending on operations, including federal funds and earmarked taxes, would be $50.6 billion, or about $1.4 billion less than requested by Kehoe.

Some of the money cut from operations will be shifted to the capital construction budget. Deaton said his spending plan, overall, uses about $300 million less general revenue than the $16.2 billion total sought by Kehoe.

He said he will unveil his proposals for building construction and major renovations after lawmakers return from next week’s legislative Spring Break.

The budget still leaves a huge gap between anticipated revenue and proposed spending. For the coming year, that gap of about $2.6 billion would be covered by accumulated surpluses.

One way Deaton saves general revenue is by tapping other funds that can be spent instead of general revenue. He’s using a constitutional directive to take $64.7 million from the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++38(b)&amp;bid=31786&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">Blind Pension Fund</a>&nbsp;for public schools and taking&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/01/missouri-lawmakers-grill-treasurer-over-interest-earned-on-i-70-funds/">interest earned</a>&nbsp;since lawmakers set aside $1.6 billion for highway projects on&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/04/missouri-budget-negotiations-conclude-with-i-70-expansion-child-care-funding-intact/">Interstate 70</a>&nbsp;and Interstate 44, about $160 million total.

Other significant items in Deaton’s budget proposal include:

Deaton’s proposals for higher education funding shift about $250 million among four-year universities and $26 million among two-year community colleges.

Deaton said he’s not spending any more than Kehoe requested but by changing the method for its distribution, he makes big winners and losers within that limit.

The state’s largest institution, the four-campus University of Missouri System, would receive $542.2 million, up from the $521 million in Kehoe’s budget. The second-largest, Missouri State University, would receive $145.2 million, up from $115.7 million.

Meanwhile, Truman State University would see its funding cut by more than half, to $23.8 million from $50.9 million. Harris-Stowe State University and Lincoln University, the four-year schools receiving the smallest current amounts would each have their core funding cut by almost 40%.

There is no political favoritism being shown in the funding overhaul, Deaton said. He noted that Missouri Southern State University in Joplin near his southwest Missouri district would see a cut.

Missouri’s Southern’s allocation would be reduced by about $6.4 million, to $25.3 million.

“I wish it were different but they do a little bit worse under this plan than their current core model,” Deaton said.

Missouri State and Ozarks Technical College in Springfield would both receive funding boosts, but state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, the ranking Democrat on the budget committee, said she isn’t satisfied the change is equitable.

“That makes me happy, to see Missouri State getting additional investments and Ozark Technical College getting additional investments,” Fogle said. “But I do have significant concerns with how this will impact my students to go to other public universities and community colleges throughout the state.”

Some lawmakers were enthusiastic in their support of changing how higher education is funded.

“We have subsidized really bad decisions for a very long time,” said state Rep. Louis Riggs, a Hannibal Republican.

But many members were concerned that they have been asked to vote for major building projects and new programs in recent years. The schools need the money to operate those buildings and programs, they said, asking if Deaton would agree to a phased switch.

“Is this something that we just cut the puppy dog’s tail off right away,” asked state Rep. Cathy Jo Loy, a Carthage Republican, “or snip it off a little bit of time?”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773137057709.png" alt=" State Rep. Dirk Deaton, R-Seneca and chairman of the House Budget Committee, explains his spending proposals during a Monday hearing. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Dirk Deaton, R-Seneca and chairman of the House Budget Committee, explains his spending proposals during a Monday hearing. (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The proposal would base funding on the number of students enrolled and some state schools could lose 40% or more of their state support. The plan is part of a budget proposal that cuts $300 million from general revenue spending requested by Gov. Mike Kehoe</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A push to shift hundreds of millions of dollars among Missouri state colleges and universities ran into bipartisan skepticism Monday during a hearing of the House Budget Committee.State Rep. Dirk Deaton, chairman of the House Budget Committee, said he wants to overhaul state support for community colleges and universities by reallocating funding based on the number of full-time students on each campus. Current funding is too tied to past appropriations, he said, and gives the 10 four-year universities and 12 community colleges widely varying amounts for each student educated.“The money follows the student, it is really as simple as that,” said Deaton, a Republican from Seneca.State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Moberly Republican, was among members skeptical about the massive reallocation. Truman State University in Kirksville would lose more than half of its funding under Deaton’s plan.&nbsp;“That would be a tremendous hit to that university, and would probably cause that university to close within two years,” said Lewis, who is a candidate for state Senate in the district that includes Kirksville.Deaton led the committee through a discussion Monday of his proposed changes to appropriations for state government operations in the coming year. The committee will meet again Wednesday for further changes before sending the 12 spending bills to the full House for debate.Budget figures compiled by The Independent show the proposals Deaton discussed Monday would use $15.4 billion of general revenue, about $420 million less than&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/missouri-revenue-surplus-nearly-gone-as-gov-mike-kehoe-unveils-his-budget-plan/">Gov. Mike Kehoe requested</a>&nbsp;in January. All spending on operations, including federal funds and earmarked taxes, would be $50.6 billion, or about $1.4 billion less than requested by Kehoe.Some of the money cut from operations will be shifted to the capital construction budget. Deaton said his spending plan, overall, uses about $300 million less general revenue than the $16.2 billion total sought by Kehoe.He said he will unveil his proposals for building construction and major renovations after lawmakers return from next week’s legislative Spring Break.The budget still leaves a huge gap between anticipated revenue and proposed spending. For the coming year, that gap of about $2.6 billion would be covered by accumulated surpluses.One way Deaton saves general revenue is by tapping other funds that can be spent instead of general revenue. He’s using a constitutional directive to take $64.7 million from the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++38(b)&amp;bid=31786&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">Blind Pension Fund</a>&nbsp;for public schools and taking&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/01/missouri-lawmakers-grill-treasurer-over-interest-earned-on-i-70-funds/">interest earned</a>&nbsp;since lawmakers set aside $1.6 billion for highway projects on&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/04/missouri-budget-negotiations-conclude-with-i-70-expansion-child-care-funding-intact/">Interstate 70</a>&nbsp;and Interstate 44, about $160 million total.Other significant items in Deaton’s budget proposal include:<ul>
 <li>Reversing Kehoe’s proposed cuts to services for&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/27/missouri-lawmakers-explore-options-to-restore-disability-services-funding/">people with developmental disabilities</a>. Kehoe wanted to cut $6.2 million in state spending for a program allowing individuals with disabilities or their families to hire and train specialized care staff, plus $21.9 million in general revenue funding from structured group day programs, with lost federal funding bringing the total to $80.7 million.</li><li>Barring the state from paying child care providers based on enrollment and sending checks at the beginning of each month. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education was preparing to launch those changes, from paying based on attendance and paying at the end of the month, in May.</li><li>Keeping a $250,000 allocation, split between general revenue and federal welfare funds, for a grant to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/29/democrats-question-250k-budget-earmark-for-former-missouri-governors-foundation/">the 57 Foundation</a>, set up in late 2024 to “educate the public on the history of Gov. (Mike) Parson’s life and administration.”</li>
 </ul>Deaton’s proposals for higher education funding shift about $250 million among four-year universities and $26 million among two-year community colleges.Deaton said he’s not spending any more than Kehoe requested but by changing the method for its distribution, he makes big winners and losers within that limit.The state’s largest institution, the four-campus University of Missouri System, would receive $542.2 million, up from the $521 million in Kehoe’s budget. The second-largest, Missouri State University, would receive $145.2 million, up from $115.7 million.Meanwhile, Truman State University would see its funding cut by more than half, to $23.8 million from $50.9 million. Harris-Stowe State University and Lincoln University, the four-year schools receiving the smallest current amounts would each have their core funding cut by almost 40%.There is no political favoritism being shown in the funding overhaul, Deaton said. He noted that Missouri Southern State University in Joplin near his southwest Missouri district would see a cut.Missouri’s Southern’s allocation would be reduced by about $6.4 million, to $25.3 million.“I wish it were different but they do a little bit worse under this plan than their current core model,” Deaton said.Missouri State and Ozarks Technical College in Springfield would both receive funding boosts, but state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, the ranking Democrat on the budget committee, said she isn’t satisfied the change is equitable.“That makes me happy, to see Missouri State getting additional investments and Ozark Technical College getting additional investments,” Fogle said. “But I do have significant concerns with how this will impact my students to go to other public universities and community colleges throughout the state.”Some lawmakers were enthusiastic in their support of changing how higher education is funded.“We have subsidized really bad decisions for a very long time,” said state Rep. Louis Riggs, a Hannibal Republican.But many members were concerned that they have been asked to vote for major building projects and new programs in recent years. The schools need the money to operate those buildings and programs, they said, asking if Deaton would agree to a phased switch.“Is this something that we just cut the puppy dog’s tail off right away,” asked state Rep. Cathy Jo Loy, a Carthage Republican, “or snip it off a little bit of time?”

Budget leader proposes massive overhaul of Missouri higher education funding

Mosaic Life Care is set to expand its footprint in St. Joseph with the phased opening of its new Plaza 4 Medical Office, a three-story, 90,000-square-foot facility designed to streamline regional healthcare. 

Located directly across from the main campus at Faraon Street and Riverside Road, this $12.5 million project aims to improve patient access by consolidating a wide array of services. The building features 130 exam rooms and advanced diagnostic technology, all intended to provide a more efficient and centralized experience for visitors.

The grand opening will occur in multiple stages, beginning with Phase 1A on April 20. This initial launch will introduce imaging services and a first-floor coffee shop, followed closely by the opening of the laboratory in Phase 1B on April 27. These early phases establish the diagnostic foundation of the building before the clinical specialty groups begin their transition.

Throughout the month of May, the facility will rapidly scale up its clinical offerings. From May 4 to May 11, Phase 2 will bring specialty clinics into the fold, including Podiatry, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nephrology, and Endocrinology. Shortly after, on May 18, Phase 3 will see the opening of the Primary Care clinics. The rollout concludes in early June with Phase 4, which marks the opening of the retail and specialty pharmacy.

Patients can expect a modernized environment designed for convenience, featuring on-site valet services and a centralized check-in system. The infrastructure is equipped with six outpatient blood draw bays, an MRI suite, two CT scanners, and three X-ray suites. Additionally, the facility includes specialized spaces such as two hearing sound booths and a dedicated rehab gym. Mosaic has already begun notifying patients via mail and other digital communications to ensure they are aware of which clinics are moving to the new Plaza 4 location.

Mosaic Life Care is set to expand its footprint in St. Joseph with the phased opening of its new Plaza 4 Medical Office, a three-story, 90,000-square-foot facility designed to streamline regional healthcare. Located directly across from the main campus at Faraon Street and Riverside Road, this $12.5 million project aims to improve patient access by consolidating a wide array of services. The building features 130 exam rooms and advanced diagnostic technology, all intended to provide a more efficient and centralized experience for visitors.The grand opening will occur in multiple stages, beginning with Phase 1A on April 20. This initial launch will introduce imaging services and a first-floor coffee shop, followed closely by the opening of the laboratory in Phase 1B on April 27. These early phases establish the diagnostic foundation of the building before the clinical specialty groups begin their transition.Throughout the month of May, the facility will rapidly scale up its clinical offerings. From May 4 to May 11, Phase 2 will bring specialty clinics into the fold, including Podiatry, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Nephrology, and Endocrinology. Shortly after, on May 18, Phase 3 will see the opening of the Primary Care clinics. The rollout concludes in early June with Phase 4, which marks the opening of the retail and specialty pharmacy.Patients can expect a modernized environment designed for convenience, featuring on-site valet services and a centralized check-in system. The infrastructure is equipped with six outpatient blood draw bays, an MRI suite, two CT scanners, and three X-ray suites. Additionally, the facility includes specialized spaces such as two hearing sound booths and a dedicated rehab gym. Mosaic has already begun notifying patients via mail and other digital communications to ensure they are aware of which clinics are moving to the new Plaza 4 location.

Phased opening announced for new Mosiac expansion

Travis Kelce isn’t ready to hang up the cleats just yet. The future Hall of Fame tight end is expected to return to the Kansas City Chiefs for his 14th NFL season, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

The report, shared via X (formerly Twitter), indicates that the Chiefs have signaled their intentions to rival teams interested in the veteran All-Pro. Despite speculation regarding a potential retirement or move, the message from Kansas City is clear: Kelce remains a cornerstone of their offense.

While no longer at his statistical peak, the 36-year-old remained a vital target for Patrick Mahomes during the 2025 season.

Travis Kelce isn’t ready to hang up the cleats just yet. The future Hall of Fame tight end is expected to return to the Kansas City Chiefs for his 14th NFL season, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.The report, shared via X (formerly Twitter), indicates that the Chiefs have signaled their intentions to rival teams interested in the veteran All-Pro. Despite speculation regarding a potential retirement or move, the message from Kansas City is clear: Kelce remains a cornerstone of their offense.While no longer at his statistical peak, the 36-year-old remained a vital target for Patrick Mahomes during the 2025 season.

Travis Kelce to return for 14th season in Kansas City

(Radio Iowa) - Backers of a bill introduced in the Iowa House say it could make Iowa an attractive home for video game developers.

 The bill would set up state grant and loan programs for Iowa-based gaming companies and it would make up to 20 million dollars in state tax credits available to companies that set up game development studios in Iowa - if at least 75 percent of the people on the payroll are Iowa residents. Douglas Cloven - a manager of social media strategy for PlayStation's M-L-B the Show - moved from California back home to Marion during the pandemic. 

Cloven says Atlanta became an e-sports hub after Georgia set up state programs for the industry and he believes Iowa could become an attractive site for gaming developers if the incentives outlined in the bill become reality.

(Radio Iowa) - Backers of a bill introduced in the Iowa House say it could make Iowa an attractive home for video game developers. The bill would set up state grant and loan programs for Iowa-based gaming companies and it would make up to 20 million dollars in state tax credits available to companies that set up game development studios in Iowa - if at least 75 percent of the people on the payroll are Iowa residents. Douglas Cloven - a manager of social media strategy for PlayStation's M-L-B the Show - moved from California back home to Marion during the pandemic. Cloven says Atlanta became an e-sports hub after Georgia set up state programs for the industry and he believes Iowa could become an attractive site for gaming developers if the incentives outlined in the bill become reality.

Iowa bill would create state incentives for video game industry

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a boy for an alleged aggravated assault

Just after 9p.m. Saturday, police responded to a disturbance at an apartment complex in the 1200 Block of North 6th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

A 30-year-old victim reported that a group of individuals came to his door to confront a family member and as the group was leaving one of them displayed a firearm. 

Officers located the 14 year old suspect at a nearby apartment where he was taken into custody for alleged aggravated assault. The firearm was an airsoft gun which was located and seized by police. The juvenile was later released to a parent.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a boy for an alleged aggravated assaultJust after 9p.m. Saturday, police responded to a disturbance at an apartment complex in the 1200 Block of North 6th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.A 30-year-old victim reported that a group of individuals came to his door to confront a family member and as the group was leaving one of them displayed a firearm. Officers located the 14 year old suspect at a nearby apartment where he was taken into custody for alleged aggravated assault. The firearm was an airsoft gun which was located and seized by police. The juvenile was later released to a parent.

Police seize boy's gun after alleged threat

Here is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work that MoDOT has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of March 9 - 15.

There may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.&nbsp;

U.S. Route 169 – Shoulder work from County Line Road to Route D, March 9-13.

U.S. Route 136 – Resurfacing project March 10 through July 2026. The road will be narrowed to one lane, and a 10-foot width restriction will be in place.

Gene Field Road Bridge –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project through July 2026.

U.S. Route 59/Route 752/Route U – Intersection improvement project through spring 2027.

U.S. Route 169 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for an intersection improvement project at Southeast Riverside Terrace beginning March 9 at approximately 9 a.m. through mid-July 2026.

Route 759 – Shoulder work from Cedar Street to Lower Lake Road, March 9-13.

U.S. Route 169 – Utility/permit work at Route FF, March 9-22. The road will be narrowed to one lane during daytime hours with flaggers guiding motorists through the work zone.

Route 10 – Pavement repair and resurfacing project from Route FF to Route C in Ray County, through May 15. The road will be narrowed to one lane with flaggers guiding motorists through the work zone.

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026.

Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026.

Route O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Little Chariton River Bridge for a deck replacement project through March 2026.

Route F –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 330th Street to Southwest 90th Ave, March 13, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Route N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from East 280th Avenue to East Diamond Road, March 9, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Route N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from East Diamond Road to Route O, March 11-13, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.

Route 11 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Badger Creek Bridge, north of New Boston, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.

Route 139 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Parson Creek Bridge, north of Meadville, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.

Route U –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Long Branch Bridge, northwest of Bucklin, through early May for a deck replacement project.

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the North Fork Crooked Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route W –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from County Road 506 to County Road 508, March 9, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Route JJ –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a deck replacement project through early April 2026.

Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through July 2026.

U.S. Route 71 – Shoulder work from U.S. Route 136 to the Iowa state line, March 9-13. The road will be narrowed to one lane, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 210th Street to 220th Street, March9, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 220th Street to 230th Street, March 10-11, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 245th Street to 250th Street, March 12, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. &nbsp;

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 250th Street to U.S. Route 136, March 13, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. &nbsp;

Route N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Turkey Creek Bridge through July 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Locust Creek Bridge through June 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the East Locust Creek bridge through July 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at Marlowe Branch Creek for a bridge replacement project March 11 through May 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704585565260.png" alt="MoDot" />
 <figcaption>MoDot</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHHere is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work that MoDOT has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of March 9 - 15.There may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.&nbsp;Andrew CountyU.S. Route 169 – Shoulder work from County Line Road to Route D, March 9-13.Atchison CountyU.S. Route 136 – Resurfacing project March 10 through July 2026. The road will be narrowed to one lane, and a 10-foot width restriction will be in place.Buchanan CountyGene Field Road Bridge –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project through July 2026.U.S. Route 59/Route 752/Route U – Intersection improvement project through spring 2027.U.S. Route 169 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for an intersection improvement project at Southeast Riverside Terrace beginning March 9 at approximately 9 a.m. through mid-July 2026.Route 759 – Shoulder work from Cedar Street to Lower Lake Road, March 9-13.U.S. Route 169 – Utility/permit work at Route FF, March 9-22. The road will be narrowed to one lane during daytime hours with flaggers guiding motorists through the work zone.Carroll CountyRoute 10 – Pavement repair and resurfacing project from Route FF to Route C in Ray County, through May 15. The road will be narrowed to one lane with flaggers guiding motorists through the work zone.Chariton CountyRoute PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026.Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026.Route O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Little Chariton River Bridge for a deck replacement project through March 2026.Daviess CountyRoute F –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 330th Street to Southwest 90th Ave, March 13, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Harrison CountyRoute N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from East 280th Avenue to East Diamond Road, March 9, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Route N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from East Diamond Road to Route O, March 11-13, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily.Linn CountyRoute 11 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Badger Creek Bridge, north of New Boston, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.Route 139 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Parson Creek Bridge, north of Meadville, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.Route U –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Long Branch Bridge, northwest of Bucklin, through early May for a deck replacement project.Livingston CountyRoute K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the North Fork Crooked Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.Route W –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from County Road 506 to County Road 508, March 9, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Mercer CountyRoute JJ –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a deck replacement project through early April 2026.Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through July 2026.Nodaway CountyU.S. Route 71 – Shoulder work from U.S. Route 136 to the Iowa state line, March 9-13. The road will be narrowed to one lane, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 210th Street to 220th Street, March9, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 220th Street to 230th Street, March 10-11, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 245th Street to 250th Street, March 12, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. &nbsp;Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 250th Street to U.S. Route 136, March 13, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. &nbsp;Putnam CountyRoute N –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Turkey Creek Bridge through July 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.Sullivan CountyRoute PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Locust Creek Bridge through June 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the East Locust Creek bridge through July 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.Worth CountyRoute 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at Marlowe Branch Creek for a bridge replacement project March 11 through May 2026.

Planned roadwork for Northwest Missouri, March 9 - 15

Lawmakers say the bill may have room for improvement but pushed it forward as ‘the best product we have in the Capitol right now’

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2026/eo1" target="_blank">request</a>&nbsp;to grade public schools on an “A” through “F” scale is pushing House lawmakers to approve legislation some think isn’t quite ready.

With approval and dissent on both sides of the aisle, the House voted a&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB%202710" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;to create a new school accountability system through to the Senate 96-53 Thursday despite concerns the letter grades could be a “scarlet letter” for underperforming schools.

“Will this labeling system actually improve schools or will it mostly brand communities, destabilize staffing and incentivize gaming rather than learning?” asked state Rep. Kem Smith, a Democrat from Florissant, during House debate Tuesday morning.

She said the key metrics that determine the grade, performance and growth, are volatile.

“The label itself can become a self-fulfilling prophecy,” she said. “The bill doubles down on high stakes metrics that are known to be unstable.”

The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Dane Diehl, a Republican from Butler, told lawmakers that a performance-based school report card with “A” through “F” grades is inevitable. The details, though, are negotiable.

“The governor’s executive order, it is going to happen either way,” he said. “I think we tried to make that process a little better for school districts.”

Kehoe’s order directs the state’s education department to draw up a plan for the report cards and present it to the State Board of Education. The board could reject the idea, but with a board with primarily new members appointed by Kehoe, lawmakers have accepted the system as fate.

State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly and chair of the House’s education committee,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/28/bill-creating-a-f-ratings-for-missouri-schools-set-for-edits-as-lawmakers-debate-path-forward/">told the committee in January</a>&nbsp;that he prioritized the bill as a way to give lawmakers influence over the final outcome. He is happy with the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/18/key-differences-emerge-in-missouri-house-senate-bills-to-create-a-f-school-grades/">edits the committee made</a>, which gives the education department more leeway to determine grade thresholds and removes a provision that would raise expectations once 65% of schools achieve “A” or “B” grades.

The House also approved an amendment Tuesday that would grade schools’ environment. This would be based on the rates of student suspension, seclusion and restraint incident rates and satisfaction surveys given to students, parents and teachers.

The Senate’s version, which passed out of its education committee last week, does not include those changes.

“I think (the House bill) is the best product we have in the Capitol right now,” Lewis said. “I am not saying it’s complete, but it is the best we have right now.”

The changes have softened some skeptics of the legislation, like state Rep. Brad Pollitt.

Pollitt, a Sedalia Republican, said he didn’t support the legislation “for a number of years.” But with the edits, he sees potential for the legislation to usher in changes to the way the state accredits public schools.

The current process, he said, “nobody seems to like,” pointing to widespread concerns with the state’s standardized test.

Some of these changes are already happening quietly. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education received a grant from the federal government to develop a state assessment based on through-year testing, which would measure student growth throughout the school year, instead of a single summative assessment.

The department is poised to pilot the new test in 14 classrooms this spring, hoping to eventually offer it statewide within a few years. But the estimated startup cost of $2 million is one of many department requests cut from the governor’s proposed budget as the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/missouri-revenue-surplus-nearly-gone-as-gov-mike-kehoe-unveils-his-budget-plan/">state grapples with declining revenue</a>.

Creating the “A” through “F” report cards is estimated to cost a similar amount, if not more, according to the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/fiscal/fispdf/6102H.07C.ORG.pdf" target="_blank">fiscal note</a>. The expense is largely frontloaded, going to the programming and technology support required to create the grade cards’ interface.

When The Independent asked Kehoe’s office about the fiscal note, the governor’s communications director Gabby Picard said he would work with “associated agencies” to determine appropriate funding “while remaining mindful of the current budget constraints and maintaining fiscal responsibility.”

The House’s version of the legislation includes an incentive program for high-performing schools, giving bonuses to go toward teacher recruitment and retention, if the legislature appropriates funding for the program.

The bill originally proposed incentives of $50-100 per student to subsidize teacher pay. This had large fiscal implications, and Lewis surmised that it would violate a section of the State Constitution prohibiting bonuses for public employees.

Making the funding optional and directing it to the school’s teacher recruitment and retention fund remedied those concerns. The Senate Education Committee removed the incentive program in its version of the legislation.

The House’s approval Thursday does not stop discussion and possible amendments. Next, the bill will go to the Senate for consideration, and if any changes are made, it will return to the House for more discussion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729623891347.jpg" alt="Image Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Lawmakers say the bill may have room for improvement but pushed it forward as ‘the best product we have in the Capitol right now’</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2026/eo1" target="_blank">request</a>&nbsp;to grade public schools on an “A” through “F” scale is pushing House lawmakers to approve legislation some think isn’t quite ready.With approval and dissent on both sides of the aisle, the House voted a&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB%202710" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;to create a new school accountability system through to the Senate 96-53 Thursday despite concerns the letter grades could be a “scarlet letter” for underperforming schools.“Will this labeling system actually improve schools or will it mostly brand communities, destabilize staffing and incentivize gaming rather than learning?” asked state Rep. Kem Smith, a Democrat from Florissant, during House debate Tuesday morning.She said the key metrics that determine the grade, performance and growth, are volatile.“The label itself can become a self-fulfilling prophecy,” she said. “The bill doubles down on high stakes metrics that are known to be unstable.”The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Dane Diehl, a Republican from Butler, told lawmakers that a performance-based school report card with “A” through “F” grades is inevitable. The details, though, are negotiable.“The governor’s executive order, it is going to happen either way,” he said. “I think we tried to make that process a little better for school districts.”Kehoe’s order directs the state’s education department to draw up a plan for the report cards and present it to the State Board of Education. The board could reject the idea, but with a board with primarily new members appointed by Kehoe, lawmakers have accepted the system as fate.State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly and chair of the House’s education committee,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/28/bill-creating-a-f-ratings-for-missouri-schools-set-for-edits-as-lawmakers-debate-path-forward/">told the committee in January</a>&nbsp;that he prioritized the bill as a way to give lawmakers influence over the final outcome. He is happy with the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/18/key-differences-emerge-in-missouri-house-senate-bills-to-create-a-f-school-grades/">edits the committee made</a>, which gives the education department more leeway to determine grade thresholds and removes a provision that would raise expectations once 65% of schools achieve “A” or “B” grades.The House also approved an amendment Tuesday that would grade schools’ environment. This would be based on the rates of student suspension, seclusion and restraint incident rates and satisfaction surveys given to students, parents and teachers.The Senate’s version, which passed out of its education committee last week, does not include those changes.“I think (the House bill) is the best product we have in the Capitol right now,” Lewis said. “I am not saying it’s complete, but it is the best we have right now.”The changes have softened some skeptics of the legislation, like state Rep. Brad Pollitt.Pollitt, a Sedalia Republican, said he didn’t support the legislation “for a number of years.” But with the edits, he sees potential for the legislation to usher in changes to the way the state accredits public schools.The current process, he said, “nobody seems to like,” pointing to widespread concerns with the state’s standardized test.Some of these changes are already happening quietly. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education received a grant from the federal government to develop a state assessment based on through-year testing, which would measure student growth throughout the school year, instead of a single summative assessment.The department is poised to pilot the new test in 14 classrooms this spring, hoping to eventually offer it statewide within a few years. But the estimated startup cost of $2 million is one of many department requests cut from the governor’s proposed budget as the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/missouri-revenue-surplus-nearly-gone-as-gov-mike-kehoe-unveils-his-budget-plan/">state grapples with declining revenue</a>.Creating the “A” through “F” report cards is estimated to cost a similar amount, if not more, according to the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/fiscal/fispdf/6102H.07C.ORG.pdf" target="_blank">fiscal note</a>. The expense is largely frontloaded, going to the programming and technology support required to create the grade cards’ interface.When The Independent asked Kehoe’s office about the fiscal note, the governor’s communications director Gabby Picard said he would work with “associated agencies” to determine appropriate funding “while remaining mindful of the current budget constraints and maintaining fiscal responsibility.”The House’s version of the legislation includes an incentive program for high-performing schools, giving bonuses to go toward teacher recruitment and retention, if the legislature appropriates funding for the program.The bill originally proposed incentives of $50-100 per student to subsidize teacher pay. This had large fiscal implications, and Lewis surmised that it would violate a section of the State Constitution prohibiting bonuses for public employees.Making the funding optional and directing it to the school’s teacher recruitment and retention fund remedied those concerns. The Senate Education Committee removed the incentive program in its version of the legislation.The House’s approval Thursday does not stop discussion and possible amendments. Next, the bill will go to the Senate for consideration, and if any changes are made, it will return to the House for more discussion.

A-F rating system for public schools clears Missouri House despite bipartisan concerns

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/emilyskidmore/">Emily Skidmore</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kjdrazen/">KJ Drazen</a>

The Missouri Senate passed a criminal and juvenile justice bill Thursday on a 20-9 vote after hours of negotiations.

Introduced by state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, the legislation seeks to classify older juveniles who commit felonies as adults and share fingerprints of juveniles involved in felonies to a central database.

The bill also allows an increase in the number of juvenile detention centers in the state and solidifies mandatory prison time for adults before parole eligibility.

While Missouri law allows inmates to serve a range of time before being eligible for parole, the bill sets fixed percentages of time served for each felony category:

Class A: 70%Class B: 50%Class C: 40%Class D: 25%Class E: 25%

Senators worked on finalizing the bill language and amendments as part of an ongoing effort this week with negotiations held until early Thursday before the vote.

State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Democrat from Kansas City, expressed concerns over the hasty manner of passing the bill. She stated that the Senate Committee of Fiscal Oversight was not able to do a thorough investigation of the fiscal note attached to the bill because of the late night and early morning meetings.

“No other agency had the opportunity to respond to this fiscal note,” Nurrenbern said. “We don’t know the fiscal impact of this legislation.”

Under the bill, any county wanting to place a juvenile detention center may place “a sales tax up to one percent on all retail sales” for its establishment. Nurrenbern said that 1% of sales tax will result in about $1 billion annually for the state.

Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck, a Democrat from Affton, also expressed concerns over the lack of information with the fiscal note during Senate debate.

“I guess we’re in a position now in the Senate where you vote up something that (you) don’t even know what the fiscal impact is,” Beck said sarcastically.

In addition to the fiscal note, there were concerns from Democratic senators on the vote excluding state Sen. Steven Roberts, a St. Louis Democrat, from participation as he is serving with Missouri’s Air Force National Guard overseas.

Roberts has been a vocal member from the Democratic Caucus regarding criminal justice reform in Missouri.

Beck emphasized this by stating that Roberts has been a part of every negotiation on a crime bill since he started in his position in 2021.

“He truly wanted to be involved in negotiations on this bill,” Beck said.

All the Democrats who spoke on the floor regarding the bill asked to delay the vote until next week when Roberts would be back.

Democratic state Sens. Barbara Washington of Kansas City and Karla May of St. Louis expressed concerns with certain issues getting prioritized in the bill as it seeks to change criminal justice in Missouri by creating more juvenile detention centers and stricter processing for juveniles committing felonies.

The bill was passed with opposition from Democrats and two Republicans, state Sens. Mike Moon of Ash Grove and Mary Elizabeth Coleman of Arnold. It now heads to the Missouri House.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/senate-passes-criminal-system-changes-for-juvenile-detention-centers/article_a018f06c-e787-41da-af57-2a17e36e4748.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/emilyskidmore/">Emily Skidmore</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kjdrazen/">KJ Drazen</a>The Missouri Senate passed a criminal and juvenile justice bill Thursday on a 20-9 vote after hours of negotiations.Introduced by state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, the legislation seeks to classify older juveniles who commit felonies as adults and share fingerprints of juveniles involved in felonies to a central database.The bill also allows an increase in the number of juvenile detention centers in the state and solidifies mandatory prison time for adults before parole eligibility.While Missouri law allows inmates to serve a range of time before being eligible for parole, the bill sets fixed percentages of time served for each felony category:Class A: 70%Class B: 50%Class C: 40%Class D: 25%Class E: 25%Senators worked on finalizing the bill language and amendments as part of an ongoing effort this week with negotiations held until early Thursday before the vote.State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Democrat from Kansas City, expressed concerns over the hasty manner of passing the bill. She stated that the Senate Committee of Fiscal Oversight was not able to do a thorough investigation of the fiscal note attached to the bill because of the late night and early morning meetings.“No other agency had the opportunity to respond to this fiscal note,” Nurrenbern said. “We don’t know the fiscal impact of this legislation.”Under the bill, any county wanting to place a juvenile detention center may place “a sales tax up to one percent on all retail sales” for its establishment. Nurrenbern said that 1% of sales tax will result in about $1 billion annually for the state.Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck, a Democrat from Affton, also expressed concerns over the lack of information with the fiscal note during Senate debate.“I guess we’re in a position now in the Senate where you vote up something that (you) don’t even know what the fiscal impact is,” Beck said sarcastically.In addition to the fiscal note, there were concerns from Democratic senators on the vote excluding state Sen. Steven Roberts, a St. Louis Democrat, from participation as he is serving with Missouri’s Air Force National Guard overseas.Roberts has been a vocal member from the Democratic Caucus regarding criminal justice reform in Missouri.Beck emphasized this by stating that Roberts has been a part of every negotiation on a crime bill since he started in his position in 2021.“He truly wanted to be involved in negotiations on this bill,” Beck said.All the Democrats who spoke on the floor regarding the bill asked to delay the vote until next week when Roberts would be back.Democratic state Sens. Barbara Washington of Kansas City and Karla May of St. Louis expressed concerns with certain issues getting prioritized in the bill as it seeks to change criminal justice in Missouri by creating more juvenile detention centers and stricter processing for juveniles committing felonies.The bill was passed with opposition from Democrats and two Republicans, state Sens. Mike Moon of Ash Grove and Mary Elizabeth Coleman of Arnold. It now heads to the Missouri House.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/senate-passes-criminal-system-changes-for-juvenile-detention-centers/article_a018f06c-e787-41da-af57-2a17e36e4748.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Missouri Senate approves mandatory minimums, juvenile justice legislation

A&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2014&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">supplemental spending bill</a>&nbsp;pushing total state appropriations for the fiscal year to almost $55 billion was the first legislation sent to Gov. Mike Kehoe in this year’s session when the Missouri House voted 137-13 for final passage.

The $3.1 billion spending package was pushed quickly through the General Assembly to speed distribution of $59.5 million of federal security funding for the FIFA World Cup matches this summer in Kansas City.&nbsp;

Lawmakers can cut items requested by the governor in a supplemental spending bill but they cannot add new items. Kehoe received most of the money he requested, but a few items were cut because of objections from lawmakers or political disputes of the Capitol.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/03/03/missouri-senate-axes-funds-for-attorney-generals-new-st-louis-offices/">state Senate cut</a>&nbsp;just under $15 million set aside to hire an “owners representative” for a proposed expansion of the state Capitol Building and $150,000 to send a Missouri delegation to Washington D.C. this summer for the Great American State Fair that is part of the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The Senate also cut $972,000 to build out and furnish space for&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/14/missouri-attorney-general-wants-1-million-to-furnish-new-st-louis-offices/">the attorney general’s office</a>&nbsp;at a new state building in Chesterfield.

The funding for the Capitol construction project will come back in the budget for the coming fiscal year, said state Rep. Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Seneca who is chairman of the House Budget Committee.

The money comes from a fund holding $595 million for the project, money that could be transferred back to the general revenue fund to alleviate the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/29/missouri-auditor-warns-of-vanishing-state-general-revenue-surplus-as-spending-rises/">state’s cash crunch</a>.

“My understanding is they will have some difficult conversations about what that looks like,” Deaton said of the plans for capitol construction.

Some of the biggest individual items in the spending bill are:

Much of the bill is routine, seen every year, to make sure the state has enough money to keep major programs like Medicaid running for the remainder of the fiscal year, Deaton said.

“It is,” he said, “a very conventional supplemental.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772885247056.png" alt=" House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Seneca Republican, speaks during budget debate in 2025. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)" />
 <figcaption> House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Seneca Republican, speaks during budget debate in 2025. (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2014&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">supplemental spending bill</a>&nbsp;pushing total state appropriations for the fiscal year to almost $55 billion was the first legislation sent to Gov. Mike Kehoe in this year’s session when the Missouri House voted 137-13 for final passage.The $3.1 billion spending package was pushed quickly through the General Assembly to speed distribution of $59.5 million of federal security funding for the FIFA World Cup matches this summer in Kansas City.&nbsp;Lawmakers can cut items requested by the governor in a supplemental spending bill but they cannot add new items. Kehoe received most of the money he requested, but a few items were cut because of objections from lawmakers or political disputes of the Capitol.The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/03/03/missouri-senate-axes-funds-for-attorney-generals-new-st-louis-offices/">state Senate cut</a>&nbsp;just under $15 million set aside to hire an “owners representative” for a proposed expansion of the state Capitol Building and $150,000 to send a Missouri delegation to Washington D.C. this summer for the Great American State Fair that is part of the 250th anniversary of American independence.The Senate also cut $972,000 to build out and furnish space for&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/14/missouri-attorney-general-wants-1-million-to-furnish-new-st-louis-offices/">the attorney general’s office</a>&nbsp;at a new state building in Chesterfield.The funding for the Capitol construction project will come back in the budget for the coming fiscal year, said state Rep. Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Seneca who is chairman of the House Budget Committee.The money comes from a fund holding $595 million for the project, money that could be transferred back to the general revenue fund to alleviate the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/29/missouri-auditor-warns-of-vanishing-state-general-revenue-surplus-as-spending-rises/">state’s cash crunch</a>.“My understanding is they will have some difficult conversations about what that looks like,” Deaton said of the plans for capitol construction.Some of the biggest individual items in the spending bill are:<ul>
 <li>$1 billion for disaster recovery efforts in St. Louis and other locations for tornadoes and storms in 2025.</li><li>$635 million for the Department of Transportation road program.</li><li>$100 million of the $216 million Missouri received for the Rural Health Transformation Program.</li>
 </ul>Much of the bill is routine, seen every year, to make sure the state has enough money to keep major programs like Medicaid running for the remainder of the fiscal year, Deaton said.“It is,” he said, “a very conventional supplemental.”

Missouri House sends $3.2B supplemental spending bill to governor’s desk

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on child sex crimes.

On March 5,&nbsp;Alexander Holmes, 35 of Maryville, Missouri was booked into the Brown County jail on requested charges of Rape, Aggravated Sodomy and AggravatedIndecent Liberties with a Child, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

The requested charges are based on the suspect being over 18 years of age and victim less than 14 years of age.&nbsp;&nbsp; This was determined after a lengthy investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's office and upon sending reports to the County Attorney for review, a warrant was&nbsp; issued&nbsp; for Holmes arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772814178150.png" alt="Holmes photo Brown County" />
 <figcaption>Holmes photo Brown County</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on child sex crimes.On March 5,&nbsp;Alexander Holmes, 35 of Maryville, Missouri was booked into the Brown County jail on requested charges of Rape, Aggravated Sodomy and AggravatedIndecent Liberties with a Child, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.The requested charges are based on the suspect being over 18 years of age and victim less than 14 years of age.&nbsp;&nbsp; This was determined after a lengthy investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's office and upon sending reports to the County Attorney for review, a warrant was&nbsp; issued&nbsp; for Holmes arrest.

Missouri man accused of violent child sex crimes

The Andrew County Sheriff’s Office has officially been notified by the Missouri Department of Public Safety that it has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026. 

This honor marks the second consecutive year the office has been recognized, following its initial designation in 2025. The Blue Shield program serves as a formal recognition of Missouri communities that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to enhancing public safety, investing in law enforcement resources, and fostering strong partnerships between officers and the citizens they serve.

Originally established by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, the program was designed to highlight local governments making significant strides in crime reduction. In its inaugural year, 201 communities across the state met the rigorous standards required for the designation. For 2026, the application process reopened on February 4, requiring previously honored communities to reapply and prove their continued alignment with the program’s public safety goals.

Governor Kehoe emphasized that the program’s success is rooted in the prioritization of law enforcement. Following the distribution of $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities last year, the state is continuing this momentum by welcoming new participants and renewing the status of existing partners. Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety, noted that the program has already facilitated the acquisition of essential equipment, including hundreds of body cameras, mobile data terminals, and ballistic vests, as well as dozens of new patrol vehicles and interoperable radios.

For Andrew County, this designation translates into tangible benefits for both deputies and taxpayers. The 2025 grant funding allowed the Sheriff’s Office to outfit every deputy with new, advanced ballistic vests. This critical safety upgrade was completed at no cost to local residents, saving the community $49,346.30 in equipment expenses. The 2026 designation ensures that the county remains eligible for further grant funding for training and equipment, supported by Governor Kehoe’s recommended $10 million budget for the 2027 fiscal year.

Eligibility for the Blue Shield designation is based on a community's proactive efforts in officer recruitment, substantial law enforcement funding, and active collaboration with community stakeholders. By meeting these criteria, the Andrew County Sheriff’s Office continues to demonstrate its dedication to creating a secure environment. In addition to financial support, recognized communities are featured on the Department of Public Safety website and the Governor’s social media platforms to highlight their leadership in public safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611248292267.jpeg" alt="Andrew Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe Andrew County Sheriff’s Office has officially been notified by the Missouri Department of Public Safety that it has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026. This honor marks the second consecutive year the office has been recognized, following its initial designation in 2025. The Blue Shield program serves as a formal recognition of Missouri communities that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to enhancing public safety, investing in law enforcement resources, and fostering strong partnerships between officers and the citizens they serve.Originally established by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, the program was designed to highlight local governments making significant strides in crime reduction. In its inaugural year, 201 communities across the state met the rigorous standards required for the designation. For 2026, the application process reopened on February 4, requiring previously honored communities to reapply and prove their continued alignment with the program’s public safety goals.Governor Kehoe emphasized that the program’s success is rooted in the prioritization of law enforcement. Following the distribution of $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities last year, the state is continuing this momentum by welcoming new participants and renewing the status of existing partners. Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety, noted that the program has already facilitated the acquisition of essential equipment, including hundreds of body cameras, mobile data terminals, and ballistic vests, as well as dozens of new patrol vehicles and interoperable radios.For Andrew County, this designation translates into tangible benefits for both deputies and taxpayers. The 2025 grant funding allowed the Sheriff’s Office to outfit every deputy with new, advanced ballistic vests. This critical safety upgrade was completed at no cost to local residents, saving the community $49,346.30 in equipment expenses. The 2026 designation ensures that the county remains eligible for further grant funding for training and equipment, supported by Governor Kehoe’s recommended $10 million budget for the 2027 fiscal year.Eligibility for the Blue Shield designation is based on a community's proactive efforts in officer recruitment, substantial law enforcement funding, and active collaboration with community stakeholders. By meeting these criteria, the Andrew County Sheriff’s Office continues to demonstrate its dedication to creating a secure environment. In addition to financial support, recognized communities are featured on the Department of Public Safety website and the Governor’s social media platforms to highlight their leadership in public safety.

Andrew Co. Sheriff’s Office secures 2026 Missouri Blue Shield Designation for second consecutive year

(Radio Iowa) - With the switch to Daylight Saving Time coming this weekend, some Iowans may be starting next week out sleepy from that lost hour of shut-eye. 

Triple-A Iowa spokesman Brian Ortner says a motor club study finds driving while drowsy can be dangerous, and even deadly. Ortner says drowsy drivers were involved in 18-percent of all traffic fatalities in recent years, accounting for nearly 30-thousand deaths nationwide. Ortner suggests Iowans try to get a nap on Sunday afternoon to help catch up on their sleep before Monday morning, especially if they have a lengthy commute. He says sleep deprivation increases a driver’s risk of making mistakes that can lead to crashes. 

The Triple-A study finds those deprived of sleep by four or more hours have an impairment similar to those who are over the legal blood-alcohol limit.

(Radio Iowa) - With the switch to Daylight Saving Time coming this weekend, some Iowans may be starting next week out sleepy from that lost hour of shut-eye. Triple-A Iowa spokesman Brian Ortner says a motor club study finds driving while drowsy can be dangerous, and even deadly. Ortner says drowsy drivers were involved in 18-percent of all traffic fatalities in recent years, accounting for nearly 30-thousand deaths nationwide. Ortner suggests Iowans try to get a nap on Sunday afternoon to help catch up on their sleep before Monday morning, especially if they have a lengthy commute. He says sleep deprivation increases a driver’s risk of making mistakes that can lead to crashes. The Triple-A study finds those deprived of sleep by four or more hours have an impairment similar to those who are over the legal blood-alcohol limit.

AAA-Iowa warns drowsy driving can be deadly after time change

The minimum levy has been $2.75 since 1993, districts must meet it to qualify for state school aid. The 63 districts at the minimum would have to roll back taxes as assessed values increase

A revised&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/16/missouri-property-tax-overhaul-bill-may-inadvertently-move-municipal-elections-to-november/">property tax overhaul</a>&nbsp;proposes to lower the minimum school levy — the lowest tax a district can impose and still qualify for state aid — by up to 20%, the first cut since Missouri law began mandating a minimum in 1988.

Under&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2780&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;sent to the Missouri Senate on Thursday by the House, tax rates currently at the minimum levy of $2.75 per $100 assessed value would would have to roll back their tax rates as property values rise — but only until they hit the proposed new floor of $2.20 per $100.

The bill passed on a bipartisan 133-13 vote.

The bill seeks to control property tax bill increases by&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/21/missouri-house-committee-eyes-plan-to-silo-property-classes-for-taxation/">“siloing” property classes</a>&nbsp;with separate rates for residential, commercial, agricultural and personal property. A&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2668&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">separate bill</a>&nbsp;that would move all property tax elections to November in even numbered years is awaiting House debate.&nbsp;

The minimum levy is the lowest rate that can be charged by a school district and still receive state aid&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/missouri-school-funding-formula" target="_blank">through the foundation formula</a>. No district would be required to cut taxes immediately and no rollbacks that would have resulted from previous reassessment cycles would be imposed, the bill’s sponsor, Republican state Rep. Tim Taylor of Bunceton, said during debate on Tuesday.

That will protect current revenue, Taylor said, while promising future relief. School districts currently at the minimum would be subject to the same rules governing other taxing districts, which must reduce rates to avoid a windfall of revenue when assessments increase faster than inflation,&nbsp;

“The schools would remain whole, even with the rollbacks, but they’re not receiving that,” Taylor said. “That has been my goal this whole time, is to allow those districts to lower that floor so that those districts, those folks in the districts, can get that Hancock provision rollback.”

State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Columbia Democrat and former teacher, had been skeptical of the provision lowering the minimum levy during committee debate and voted against the bill. Provisions protecting current revenue make it more palatable, she said.

The issue, she said, is how much should local taxpayers contribute to maintain state support.

“It was kind of that social contract of, you have a minimum levy set to this, and then you will be able to participate in the foundation formula,” Steinhoff said.

During debate Tuesday on the property tax bill, no House member knew why there is a minimum school levy at all.

“As far as I understand it, it’s because of the federal funding, the federal reimbursement” that districts receive, Taylor said. “And I’m going to be completely honest, I can’t go into the foundation formula with any knowledge.”

Prior to 1988, there was no minimum local property tax levy for school districts.&nbsp;

The Missouri Constitution at the time allowed school districts to set the rate at $1.25 per $100 assessed value without a public vote but did not require it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772795491616.png" alt=" State Rep. Tim Taylor, a Republican from Bunceton, speaks during Missouri House debate on Feb. 12 (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Tim Taylor, a Republican from Bunceton, speaks during Missouri House debate on Feb. 12 (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The minimum levy has been $2.75 since 1993, districts must meet it to qualify for state school aid. The 63 districts at the minimum would have to roll back taxes as assessed values increase</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A revised&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/16/missouri-property-tax-overhaul-bill-may-inadvertently-move-municipal-elections-to-november/">property tax overhaul</a>&nbsp;proposes to lower the minimum school levy — the lowest tax a district can impose and still qualify for state aid — by up to 20%, the first cut since Missouri law began mandating a minimum in 1988.Under&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2780&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;sent to the Missouri Senate on Thursday by the House, tax rates currently at the minimum levy of $2.75 per $100 assessed value would would have to roll back their tax rates as property values rise — but only until they hit the proposed new floor of $2.20 per $100.The bill passed on a bipartisan 133-13 vote.The bill seeks to control property tax bill increases by&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/21/missouri-house-committee-eyes-plan-to-silo-property-classes-for-taxation/">“siloing” property classes</a>&nbsp;with separate rates for residential, commercial, agricultural and personal property. A&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2668&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">separate bill</a>&nbsp;that would move all property tax elections to November in even numbered years is awaiting House debate.&nbsp;The minimum levy is the lowest rate that can be charged by a school district and still receive state aid&nbsp;<a href="https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/missouri-school-funding-formula" target="_blank">through the foundation formula</a>. No district would be required to cut taxes immediately and no rollbacks that would have resulted from previous reassessment cycles would be imposed, the bill’s sponsor, Republican state Rep. Tim Taylor of Bunceton, said during debate on Tuesday.That will protect current revenue, Taylor said, while promising future relief. School districts currently at the minimum would be subject to the same rules governing other taxing districts, which must reduce rates to avoid a windfall of revenue when assessments increase faster than inflation,&nbsp;“The schools would remain whole, even with the rollbacks, but they’re not receiving that,” Taylor said. “That has been my goal this whole time, is to allow those districts to lower that floor so that those districts, those folks in the districts, can get that Hancock provision rollback.”State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Columbia Democrat and former teacher, had been skeptical of the provision lowering the minimum levy during committee debate and voted against the bill. Provisions protecting current revenue make it more palatable, she said.The issue, she said, is how much should local taxpayers contribute to maintain state support.“It was kind of that social contract of, you have a minimum levy set to this, and then you will be able to participate in the foundation formula,” Steinhoff said.<h2>Minimum levy history</h2>During debate Tuesday on the property tax bill, no House member knew why there is a minimum school levy at all.“As far as I understand it, it’s because of the federal funding, the federal reimbursement” that districts receive, Taylor said. “And I’m going to be completely honest, I can’t go into the foundation formula with any knowledge.”Prior to 1988, there was no minimum local property tax levy for school districts.&nbsp;The Missouri Constitution at the time allowed school districts to set the rate at $1.25 per $100 assessed value without a public vote but did not require it.That constitutional limit without a vote became the&nbsp;<a href="https://cdm16795.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p16795coll26/id/221383/rec/78" target="_blank">floor for receiving state aid</a>&nbsp;because two things combined to convince lawmakers and then-Gov. John Ashcroft that it was needed — the enactment of the Hancock Amendment in 1980 and the passage of the 1-cent&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=144.701" target="_blank">Proposition C sales tax</a>&nbsp;in 1982.The Hancock Amendment’s property tax provisions address how local governments should change rates when assessed values rise faster than inflation. It allows the taxing district to capture enough revenue to match inflation and requires rates to be lowered so there is not a windfall of revenue.The sales tax revenue, which is distributed to schools on a per-pupil basis, had two purposes — half was earmarked as new funds for education, the other half was used to offset lower property tax rates.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772795454300.png" alt="State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Columbia Democrat, speaks during House debate about how property tax affects local schools (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Columbia Democrat, speaks during House debate about how property tax affects local schools (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By 1987, there were 86 districts below $1.25 per $100 assessed value. Three — two in Ripley County and one in Pulaski County — had no local levy at all, the state auditor’s 1988 annual report on property taxes shows.The minimum levy was increased five years later as part of a major education bill that revised the school-aid formula. That formula promised each district it would receive funding equal to what its local levy would produce in the district with property wealth equal to 90% of the property value of the state’s wealthiest district.The higher local voters set a levy, the more state aid the formula would provide.“It was a levy-driven formula,” said Otto Fajen, lobbyist for the Missouri National Education Association. Fajen was a Senate staffer when the formula revision passed in 1993.“It was the linchpin by which we addressed equity and adequacy,” Fajen said.To protect the minimum levy, first state law, then the constitution, were changed to allow districts to remain at $2.75 regardless of how much of a rollback was required by the Hancock Amendment or Proposition C revenue.The formula was changed again in 2005, but the minimum levy was retained. The local levy rate is no longer the basis for determining how much state aid a district receives.“The formula doesn’t really care about equity, and so what I would describe as tax rate indifferent to a degree,” Fajen said. “That’s an historical artifact.There’s no current real relevance of that number.”The state auditor’s&nbsp;<a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/AuditReport/ViewReport?report=2026006" target="_blank">annual report</a>&nbsp;on property tax rates shows there were 63 school districts that levied the $2.75 minimum on all property in 2025, and three at that rate on at least one type of property in St. Louis County, where there are separate rates for residential, commercial, agricultural and personal property.The provisions of the bill address only Hancock Amendment rollbacks, which districts charging above the minimum levy must make when needed.&nbsp;Most districts have asked — and received — voter permission to waive their Proposition C rollbacks. The bill does not change that and does not require districts to include new Proposition C revenue as part of their rollback calculation.That is important because Proposition C revenue has increased by about 40% in the past five years, from about $925 million in fiscal 2020 to $1.3 billion in the year that ended June 30.Proposition C rollbacks are required in statute and lawmakers can write a bill excluding the new minimum from that provision, Taylor said in an interview with The Independent.Hancock rollbacks are designed to maintain revenue and are part of the constitution, so the law must recognize that, he added.“The schools would remain whole, even with the rollbacks, but they’re not receiving that,” Taylor said. “That has been my goal this whole time, is to allow those districts to lower that floor so that those districts, those folks in the districts, can get that Hancock provision rollback.”Lawmakers are changing the minimum levy at the same time a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/23/missouri-school-funding-task-force-turns-its-attention-to-property-tax-inequities/">new foundation formula is being crafted</a>&nbsp;by a task force appointed last year by Gov. Mike Kehoe.During debate, Steinhoff said the interplay between legislation and the task force work is her biggest concern about the property tax bill.“I am worried that we are going to do something that could totally upset the apple cart that’s being created in another very important task force,” she said.Property tax increases are one of the biggest public concerns right now, Taylor said, and doing nothing is not an option.“Until somebody starts it, it’s not going to get done,” Taylor said. “And our taxpayers are asking us to get something done.”<h2>Revised bill</h2>The bill passed Thursday was debated in the House two times. It won&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/11/missouri-house-moves-ahead-on-bill-to-silo-property-tax-rates-move-tax-elections-to-november/">preliminary approval</a>&nbsp;in early February, but before it came up for a final vote, flaws in language on tax elections&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-house-sends-property-tax-overhaul-bill-back-to-committee/">forced a rewrite</a>, and the result was splitting off the election provisions to a separate bill.The key provision that will provide relief to taxpayers, Taylor said during Tuesday’s debate, is the change that would require separate tax rates for the various types of property.“It is truly the one thing that is going to bring some relief to our constituents back home, and even to us as individual taxpayers,” he said.The legislature tried to require separate rates in legislation passed in 2002, but only St. Louis County and the city of Gladstone adopted the voluntary move. Taylor’s bill would make it mandatory in the remaining 113 counties and the city of St. Louis.Because Hancock rollbacks look at total revenue from a tax levy, when assessed values in one type of property rise rapidly, it&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/30/diluting-the-rollback-missouris-tool-for-capping-property-tax-rates-gives-limited-relief/">shifts the burden</a>&nbsp;to those taxpayers.“If one of them skyrockets, which we’ve seen, it can be watered down by the other subclasses who may have gone down or remain level, and that says that Hancock shouldn’t kick in,” Taylor said during debate.&nbsp;The Missouri State Tax Commission has been pushing local assessors to increase appraised values to match market prices for residential and commercial property. At the same time, taxable value of farmland, set by the commission based on productive value, is below&nbsp;<a href="https://stc.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/07/Ag-Land-History-1985-2026.pdf" target="_blank">what it was in 1985</a>&nbsp;and values for railroad, pipeline and utility property, also set by the commission, have lagged behind other property.The additional taxes on residential property because of the shifting burden was one of the biggest concerns raised as Taylor’s committee studying property taxes toured the state last summer, said state Rep. Jim Murphy, a Republican from St. Louis County.“In the last few years, as we saw residential assessments go up and the other assessments didn’t, it just piled more and more tax burden onto our residential property owners,” Murphy said. “And that was the biggest thing we heard as we traveled this state. The biggest concern we heard from taxpayers…”“Was that people,” Taylor said as he finished Murphy’s sentence, “would be taxed out of their homes.”

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