Greetings Friends of the 155th District!
This week, we’ve been busy! I am hard at work on critical pieces of legislation that impact our community and the economy. Notably, I presented my first bill to the Commerce Committee focused on our tort reform legislation, which aims to balance citizens’ rights to fair compensation with the regulatory certainty businesses need to thrive and grow in Missouri. As highlighted by Governor Kehoe in his State of the State address, prioritizing tort reform is essential to making Missouri’s economy more business friendly and competitive with other states. I am committed to collaborating with Gov. Kehoe and members of the House to ensure that our laws support both our citizens and the businesses that propel our local economies forward.
Additionally, I’m consulting on school choice legislation, and other reforms, to ensure that we are doing our best to support both our students and our schools while fostering an environment where every child has access to quality education. Thank you for your continued support.
General Assembly Convenes as Governor Kehoe Delivers First State of the State Address
Members of the Missouri General Assembly gathered in the House Chamber Tuesday afternoon to listen to the annual State of the State Address delivered by Governor Mike Kehoe. Missouri’s new governor presented his first State of the State Address to the Missouri General Assembly, outlining his legislative and budgetary priorities for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). Emphasizing collaboration as a cornerstone of his administration, Governor Kehoe drew inspiration from his mentor, Dave Sinclair, and pledged to work with lawmakers to secure a prosperous future for Missouri.
In addressing public safety, Governor Kehoe introduced the “Safer Missouri” initiative through six executive orders aimed at supporting law enforcement. His budget proposal includes $10 million for the Blue Shield Program, funding for the Missouri Blue Scholarship Program, and $2.5 million for the sheriff’s retirement system. He further advocated for a comprehensive crime bill that includes increasing penalties for crimes like violent rioting and fleeing from law enforcement in a vehicle, cracking down on criminals who participate in reckless stunt driving and street racing, and efforts to increase oversight and accountability of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. He also proposed a $4 million investment in fentanyl testing to enhance school safety and called on the legislature to take action to increase penalties for fentanyl trafficking.
Governor Kehoe also stressed economic development as a priority. He expressed a commitment to eliminating Missouri’s individual income tax and reducing regulations to foster growth. Additionally, $100 million was reappropriated to address rural road improvements.
To address childcare needs, the Governor issued an executive order to streamline childcare regulations. He proposed $10 million to support partnerships aimed at expanding access to childcare, alongside funding for timely provider payments and career development initiatives.
In the realm of education and workforce development, Governor Kehoe called for voluntary open enrollment in public schools and proposed $50 million for the Educational Savings Account (ESA) program. His budget recommendations included $200 million for the Foundation
Formula, $370 million for school transportation, $33 million for teacher salaries, $30 million for Small School Grants, and $15 million for career and technical education centers.
Agriculture, a vital part of Missouri’s economy, was another focal point of the address. Governor Kehoe proposed $800,000 in permanent funding for Missouri FFA and $55 million for new livestock facilities at the Missouri State Fair, reflecting his commitment to supporting the agricultural community.
The Governor also addressed government efficiency and veterans’ affairs. His proposals included pay plan increases for state employees, $4 million for alternatives to abortion programs, and $10 million for Missouri Veterans Homes. In closing, Governor Kehoe honored veterans and emphasized the importance of ensuring adequate funding to prevent closures of veteran homes. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to working with legislators to achieve shared goals and secure a brighter future for Missouri.
Governor Kehoe Presents FY2026 Budget Recommendations
Governor Mike Kehoe’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget focuses on strategic investments in public safety, economic development, agriculture, education, healthcare, mental health, and services for veterans and military personnel. These initiatives aim to strengthen Missouri’s infrastructure, enhance the quality of life for its residents, and promote long-term growth across the state. Here is a look at some of the proposals:
Public Safety
· Crime Laboratory: $12.8 million allocated for a new crime lab in Cape Girardeau to improve investigative capabilities.
· Blue Shield Program: $10 million dedicated to police training and equipment enhancements.
· Victim Assistance: $25 million to bolster programs that support crime victims.
· Executive Actions: Multiple executive orders targeting crime reduction, law enforcement support, and community safety improvements.
Economic Development
· Child Care Initiatives: $161.5 million for childcare subsidies and innovation grants to expand access for working families.
· Rural Infrastructure: $60 million earmarked for rural road improvements to ensure safe and efficient transportation.
· World Cup Investments: $40.5 million to support preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting Missouri’s role on the global stage.
Agriculture
· State Fair Facilities: $55 million in bonding to modernize livestock facilities at the Missouri State Fair.
· Inspection Programs: Funding to expand meat and poultry inspection programs, ensuring food safety and supporting local producers.
Education
· Increased Funding: $200 million in new funding for public schools.
· Teacher Salaries: Enhanced compensation to attract and retain high-quality educators.
· Small School Grants: Additional resources to support smaller districts.
· Workforce Development: Expanded Fast Track Scholarships, targeting adults in high-demand fields to bolster the state’s workforce.
Healthcare and Mental Health
· Developmental Disabilities: $149 million allocated to eliminate waitlists for developmental disability services.
· Behavioral Health: $71.6 million to expand behavioral health services statewide.
· Early Intervention: $17.9 million for programs addressing early childhood intervention needs.
Veterans and Military Services
· Veterans’ Services: $10 million to improve veterans’ homes and healthcare systems, ensuring quality care for those who have served.
The House Budget Committee has begun its work on the upcoming fiscal year, receiving presentations from the Office of Administration and key departments. Discussions have included supplemental funding requests and an overview of the FY 2026 Governor’s recommended budget, with in-depth reviews of the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Corrections. For updates on the committee’s progress and ongoing budget discussions, visit house.mo.gov/Budget.aspx.
If you ever have, any questions or concerns feel free to call me at 573-751-2042 or email me at Matthew.Overcast@house.mo.gov. Our office is always here for you.
