The SAVE America Act to require proof of citizenship nationwide to register to vote will be voted on soon by the United States Senate after earning approval from the House.  

The proposal would require citizens to present documents such as a passport or birth certificate to register to vote or update their registration. 

US Senator Roger Marshall says he and his fellow Republicans believe its reasonable to ask citizens to show an ID when coming to vote or register 

“We think that’s the way the founding fathers meant it to be, unfortunately no Democrats are going to support that,” Marshall tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, it will take 60 votes to get it through on the Senate, and we don’t have 60 votes, if every Republican voted for it we still would be seven short.” 

Marshall says what is interesting to him however is the issue is an 80-20 issue 

"That 80% of Americans, Republicans, Democrats, Independents, would like election integrity, they think it’s a very reasonable for people to show an ID when they go vote,” Marshall explains.  “You know I can’t get a hotel room, I can’t rent a car, I can’t get on an airplane without an ID, I think the value, how important I value voting is every bit as important, probably more important, than those and that would be a reasonable request, but I’m just afraid we don’t have the votes to get it through in the Senate because no Democrat is going to vote for it.” 

Many stand against the measure, claiming it would cause a suppression of voters, requiring documents such as a passport or birth certificate to register to vote or update their registration.  It also would require a photo ID to vote.  

To those claims, Marshall says people should value the ability to vote 

“These same people that we’re talking about have an ID so that they can, like I said, go get a hotel room, rent a car, or get on an airplane, so that’s a reasonable expectation, I think it’s a reasonable expectation to do this as well,” Marshall says.  “I think that we should value elections even more, and again 80% of Americans agree with me.” 

Republicans control 53 seats of the Senate, however some have not signed onto the measure.  

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

As SAVE America Act hits Senate floor, US Senator Marshall calls expectations reasonable

St. Joseph Memorial Park Cemetery is scheduled for a semi-annual grounds cleanup on Monday, March 2. 

Starting at daybreak, cemetery staff will begin removing all flowers, decorations, and personal items from every grave. This site-wide clearing is a necessary step to allow our team to begin seasonal mowing and essential maintenance of the cemetery grounds.

There are no exceptions to this policy. Community members are asked to retrieve any items they wish to keep by the evening of Sunday, March 1. Any items remaining on the gravesites at daybreak on Monday will be subject to disposal.

Given the unseasonably mild weather, families are encouraged to visit the park and remove their personal items ahead of the deadline to avoid the last-minute rush.

As a reminder, Memorial Park Cemetery conducts two general cleanups each year to keep the grounds in order:

Semi-Annual cleanup scheduled at St. Joseph Memorial Park

KFEQ Morning Sports

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Legislation creating a state-run video lottery system to replace and regulate “gray market” slot machines that have proliferated for years in gas stations, bars and fraternal halls across the state narrowly cleared the Missouri House Wednesday, winning passage by just one vote.&nbsp;

The bill, which now heads to the Missouri Senate for consideration, is the culmination of years of efforts by lawmakers to rein in the burgeoning industry that has operated in a legal gray area of state law.&nbsp;

Under the legislation, the Missouri Lottery would have authority to license video games for installation in retail locations across the state. The licensed machines would have to pay out at least 80% of the money wagered as prizes and about one-third of the profits would be dedicated to state education programs.

The bill would also impose a 3% tax on video lottery profits to aid local governments and would increase the fee casinos pay for each patron who enters the gaming floor from $2 to $4. On Monday, the House adopted several amendments to the bill, including one adding an&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/amendpdf/6459H03.18H.pdf" target="_blank">annual $250 fee per machine</a>&nbsp;to go towards disability services.&nbsp;

Companies profiting from unregulated convenience store slot machines would have one year to pull their games off the market.&nbsp;

“I think this is the right thing to do for our state,” said state Rep. Bill Hardwick, a Republican from Dixon sponsoring the legislation.

Supporters pitched the bill as a trade: tighter rules, centralized oversight and tax revenue in exchange for a phased removal of the unregulated machines. And the bill gives local governments the authority to ban the games from their communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Opponents warned it would legitimize companies that have profited in the shadows and further expand gambling into everyday retail spaces — even as courts and law enforcement have moved to declare many of the existing games illegal outside casinos.

“Why are we changing our laws to help an industry that thumbed their nose at the State of Missouri?” said state Rep. Dean Van Schoiack, a Republican from Savannah.

But even those who don’t agree with the expansion of gambling in the state said Wednesday that the legislation is likely needed.&nbsp;

“I hate these machines with a passion. I don’t like what they do to our communities,” said state Rep. Darin Chappell, a Republican from Rogersville, adding: “But I don’t want them to continue to be gray, which is a misnomer. They’re illegal. But most prosecutors have been unable or unwilling to prosecute the illegal machines.”

If these games are going to exist, Chappel said, they should be regulated and taxed.&nbsp;

Last week, in a civil lawsuit, a federal judge declared slot machines operated by Wildwood-based Torch Electronics are illegal gambling devices under state law. And Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway filed lawsuits against retail shops in Dunklin County alleging the businesses were operating illegal gambling machines on their premises.

Hardwick said his bill would enhance the attorney general’s efforts to go after illegal gambling by clarifying Missouri law and giving Hanaway’s office criminal jurisdiction to go after violators.&nbsp;

The bill’s chances in the Senate remain unclear. On Tuesday, Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, a Shelbina Republican, questioned the need for the legislation.

“The federal courts have issued a decision that the machines are illegal,” she wrote. “Why are we not just clearing them out?”

Missouri House narrowly passes bill to regulate gray-market slot machines

The St. Joseph Police Department and the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office have announced an upcoming eight-week academy running from March 31st through May 26th.

This program is designed to be both informative and engaging, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the day-to-day operations within local law enforcement agencies.

Classes will be held every Tuesday evening from 6:00 pm to approximately 9:00 pm at the Law Enforcement Center, located at 501 Faraon, unless otherwise specified. Each session will be led by certified Law Enforcement Officers from both the City and County departments, offering a look at how teams serve the community.

Buchanan Sheriff Bill Puett says class members will be able to tour the jail as part of the academy. "Typically no on gets to tour the jail. We lock everything down so people can walk though."

It was noted that this is not a candidate school for aspiring officers. Instead, it is a community outreach program intended to provide a hands-on experience of departmental operations. Active discussion and mutual learning is encouraged, but this program is not a forum for debating personal grievances or previous enforcement contacts.

St. Joseph Police Chief Paul Luster says, "This is really a flagship program for our community engagement efforts. Everyone I've talked to who has been through the academy couldn't say enough good things about it."

Due to the interactive nature of the academy, class size is limited to 30 participants. Law enforcement is requesting that only those who can commit to the full eight-week schedule apply. To graduate, participants must attend at least six of the nine scheduled sessions.

Reasons for not being accepted may include (but are not limited to); Any felony arrest or conviction, any misdemeanor arrest or conviction within the last year, and arrests related to drugs, domestic violence, or other violent acts.

Only the first thirty qualified candidates will be selected.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be honored at a graduation ceremony and presented with a diploma by Chief of Police Paul Luster and Sheriff Bill Puett.

Registration is available <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfs14RD-gP-J0PrYmz_4-Zz7oxmz4xXKgwNboxrVLQQ7_Ghpg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawP4iqxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFUbW5VTnJSRnZOdDB1cDVVc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrzazT36bifo0hqi94PcjIbWl55nnUedTVLVVs28-ZfcjgI1tONiEd5LDzaQ_aem__w4u1byh00edOd99YfS6kQ">here</a>.

Joint Citizens Law Enforcement Academy begins next month in St. Joseph

Northwest Missouri State University continues to see steady enrollment numbers this spring, bolstered by a significant rise in undergraduate students and strong retention figures, according to recently released census data.

The university’s total spring enrollment reached 7,674 students. This figure includes 4,315 undergraduates, marking a 4% increase in that demographic compared to the previous year. While spring totals are traditionally lower than fall numbers, Northwest has consistently surpassed the 7,000-student threshold since 2022, following a record high of 8,817 students in 2024.

Student retention remains a high point for the institution, with a fall-to-spring retention rate of 88%. The university also reported a 94% persistence rate, which tracks students who either remain enrolled or have successfully completed their degree programs.

“The entire Northwest campus community is focused on recruiting, enrolling, retaining and graduating students,” said Dr. Allison Hoffmann, associate provost of enrollment management and student success. Hoffmann noted that the university is particularly pleased with the undergraduate growth and the marginal increases in retention and persistence.

The university’s geographic footprint remains largely regional, with 5,183 students originating from Missouri. However, the student body includes domestic representatives from 49 states—with strong draws from Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas—and international students from 46 different countries.

International students account for 3% of the total population. The university reported that the majority of its international enrollment comes from India, France, and Nepal.

Spring enrollment at Northwest crosses 7,000 mark for fifth consecutive year

The Western Farm Show will take place in Kansas City this week at the American Royal Complex.

This is the 64th annual Western Farm Show, which is the Midwest’s largest indoor agricultural event. The show features over 400 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations in farm equipment, technology, and a wide array of agricultural products and services across more than 400,000 square feet of exhibit space.&nbsp;

A highlight of the event is the Women’s Event, themed “Empower, Connect, Thrive!” This gathering aims to inspire and connect women in agriculture, offering insights and strategies to enhance their impact in the industry. 

The Western Farm Show also hosts educational seminars, interactive demonstrations, and networking opportunities, making it a unique experience for farmers, ranchers, and agriculture enthusiasts.&nbsp;

FFA Day is another significant feature, attracting over 4,500 students from Missouri and Kansas who participate in seminars, competitions, and explore career opportunities in agriculture. 

Overall, the Western Farm Show serves as a pivotal platform for showcasing agricultural advancements, fostering community engagement, and providing educational resources to support the growth and development of the farming and ranching sectors in the Midwest.

Tickets are $10 daily for adults. Children age 12 and under get in free.&nbsp;

The American Royal Complex is located at&nbsp;1701 American Royal Ct, Kansas City, MO. 680 KFEQ will have a booth on site.

Find more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westernfarmshow.com/">westernfarmshow.com</a>.

Western Farm Show in KC begins Thursday

Officials with Buchanan County hope to break ground soon on an expansion to&nbsp;the&nbsp; Juvenile&nbsp;Justice&nbsp;Academy&nbsp;adding more space to the facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Currently, the facility houses just six beds.&nbsp;&nbsp;The expansion will add 18 more, upping capacity to 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Nelson says the upgrade is big in helping keep the community&nbsp;safe, and&nbsp;helps save resources for law enforcement who previously may have&nbsp;no had a&nbsp;place to put youth taken off the street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You’re wasting a lot of resources, a lot of police deputies and things like that, picking up people and knowing that they’re not going anywhere,&nbsp;they’re just going to go in, process, they’re going to be out, because there’s no space, and guess what&nbsp;they’re going to do, you think they’re going to stop? No,” Nelson says on the&nbsp;KFEQmunnity&nbsp;show. &nbsp;“They’ve&nbsp;got it figured it, which is sad too, so the idea of being able to house them now and get them off the street is big.”&nbsp;

Nelson says the project has been talked about for some time now, starting to hear about it himself his second year in his seat&nbsp;

"So&nbsp;then you start saying are we just going to talk about this or can we facilitate a project? &nbsp;And I can only speak for the county, we don’t like taxes, we don’t like to&nbsp;produce a new tax or promote a new tax, we want to be able to, I call it, be able to do it in house, and sometimes we have to stretch that out a little bit,” Nelson explains. &nbsp;“But, instead of just talking about it,&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;like ok do&nbsp;we want to do it and we decided we did, and that got the ball rolling.”&nbsp;

Nelson says the once the construction begins it will happen in two phases&nbsp;

“They're going to build the new stuff, which is the 24 beds, get that ready to go and then there’s going to be a transfer time of the people and the workers and administration&nbsp;stuff like that,&nbsp;they’ll&nbsp;move those people into the new facility,” Nelson says. &nbsp;“And then they’ll start reworking a little bit of the space in the old facility to match up in that regard.”&nbsp;

The project is set to take around&nbsp;18 months&nbsp;to complete, being finished around late 2027, if construction begins around that May&nbsp;timeframe.&nbsp;

Officials hopeful expansion of Buchanan County  Juvenile Justice Academy can begin in May

The Missouri State Highway Patrol Dive Team recovered a body and a vehicle from Smithville Lake on Tuesday. 

The recovery operation was conducted in coordination with the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, which had requested the dive team’s specialized assistance at the scene.

According to the MSHP, the recovery was tied to an ongoing investigation currently being led by the sheriff’s office. Officials have not yet disclosed the specific nature of that investigation or how the vehicle was first identified beneath the water’s surface.

As of Tuesday evening, the Platte County Sheriff’s Office has not identified the deceased individual. The investigation remains active, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Dive team recovers body and vehicle from Smithville Lake

The intent, the sponsor says, is to move property tax questions to higher turnout elections. As written, it could also put school board and city council races on ballots with partisan candidates

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://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/11/missouri-house-moves-ahead-on-bill-to-silo-property-tax-rates-move-tax-elections-to-november/">property tax overhaul</a>&nbsp;moving through the Missouri House includes provisions that would potentially push all elections to August and November. The bill’s sponsor, however, said that’s not his intent and will make any changes necessary to prevent it.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?year=2026&amp;bill=HB2780&amp;code=R%20&amp;cal=1" target="_blank">measure</a>&nbsp;that would require taxing districts to set separate rates for each type of property also requires all property tax elections to be on an August or November ballot. But the language that would accomplish the change in election dates, critics warn, is far broader than necessary.

“It is just rife with drafting errors,” said Boone County Clerk Brianna Lennon. “This is what concerns me.”

Under&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=115.121&amp;bid=5978&amp;hl=" target="_blank">current law</a>, partisan primary and general elections are held in August and November of even numbered years. The first Tuesday after the first Monday of April every year is set aside as the general municipal election day, when mostly non-partisan local offices are filled and measures such as tax and bond elections are held.

The bill given first-round approval last week, however, states that all primaries “for local, state and national offices” would be in August and “all general elections for local, state and national offices and issues” would be in November.

“I don’t see how they are reading that April is not gone,” Lennon said.

The 165-page bill sponsored by state Rep. Tim Taylor, a Republican from Bunceton, moved forward on a voice vote and is scheduled for a committee hearing Monday afternoon on its fiscal impact. If the bill is approved in the committee, Taylor said he expects a final House vote later in the afternoon.

In an interview Friday with The Independent, Taylor said he only wants to move property tax elections from April to November.

“The intent is absolutely not to move all elections from April,” Taylor said.

The benefit of moving property tax elections to November is the greater voter turnout, Taylor said. There were 160 property tax ballot proposals before voters in 2024 from 2,811 taxing districts, Taylor said.

“It does not seem insurmountable to move that to November,” he said.

Lennon’s concerns echo those of state Rep. Peggy McGaugh, a Republican from Carrollton who was Carroll County Clerk for nearly 24 years. During debate, McGaugh said she was certain the bill, if passed unchanged, would end April elections.

The November ballot would become longer, she said, and major national and statewide races and issues in November elections would make it more difficult to educate voters on local questions and candidates.

“If you shift all elections to November, your ballot is going to be so long that voter fatigue is an issue, and the very taxes that you may want to have passed or failed are going to get lost in all the issues before it or behind it,” McGaugh said.

Taylor said he’s not convinced voters will tire before they get to local issues and leave the ballot for those issues blank.

“I am not going to insinuate they don’t have the stamina and the strength and the fortitude to read the whole ballot,” Taylor said.

In Boone County, turnout in the past five April elections ranged from 14% to 25% of registered voters. Approximately 70% of voters cast ballots in the 2020 and 2024 presidential elections, while 50% came to the polls for the 2022 off-year election.

The money spent to energize voters for a November election is one reason turnout is so high, Lennon said.

Local governments trying to get voters’ attention would have to “break through the noise” of a November election where candidates and issue campaigns are spending millions, Lennon said.

Local taxing districts can distribute material describing how money from a tax levy would be used but are barred by state law from using that material to advocate for a favorable vote. Organized spending for a local ballot measure is often less than $10,000.

“Which, again, is why we see lower turnout in April, because that amount of money is not being spent on issues in the April elections,” Lennon said.

There would be some cost savings associated with moving all elections from April to November, Lennon said. It would reduce outlays to rent locations for polling stations and payroll for election judges, she said.

But the savings, she said, would come at the cost of potentially using two-page ballots. The equipment she uses can accommodate a ballot of up to 19 inches long, she said.&nbsp;

The November 2024 ballot was 17 inches long and covered two sides of the paper, she said.

Two-page ballots bring extra challenges for verifying results, Lennon said.

“Reconciliation of the number of voters who check in to the number of ballots received gets really difficult,” Lennon said. “It is after the fact difficult to match up if voters choose not to cast both ballots.”

The changes Taylor wants to enact for property tax elections is not limited to the date when votes are cast. The ballot would also include an estimate of how much a proposed tax would cost property owners for every $100,000 of the base value used for assessments.&nbsp;

And every ballot question would state the percentage increase in taxes from an increased levy, the reason the taxing district needs the money and the length of time the tax would be in place.

The uncertainty about the way the bill is drafted is not enough to back up and revise it, Taylor said.

The election provision will be studied, Taylor said, and if necessary, he would recommend changes as the bill is revised in the state Senate. It’s already too late for the bill to be revised any further in the House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He wants to work with local election authorities to refine the bill, he said.

“I want to make this right,” Taylor said. “This bill is just getting off the ground and there is going to be a lot of massaging along the way.”

The tax bill was moved too quickly, House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, said last week at a news conference. Most of the time used during debate was on an amendment that standardized the ballot questions for property tax measures. Other important issues in the bill were not discussed, she said.

“Democrats are on board with providing Missourians much needed property tax relief, but details matter, and we barely scratched the surface of how this bill impacts local governments and their ability to serve residents,” Aune said.

To move to the Senate, the bill needs 82 votes. The bill has supporters and critics in both parties, Taylor said.

His appeal to colleagues will be to keep the bill moving, Taylor said. The bill is certain to be revised in the Senate, and if it clears that chamber the House will have another vote later.

“My job is to convince them this process is far from over,” Taylor said, “and we are going to have ample opportunity to get something across the finish line.”

Missouri property tax overhaul bill may inadvertently move municipal elections to November

March corn closed down 1 1/4 cents and May corn was down 1/2 cent. March soybeans closed up 7 1/2 cents and May soybeans were up 7 cents. March KC wheat closed up 14 1/2 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 12 1/2 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 8 1/2 cents.

Row-crop futures were mixed Thursday with wheat and soybeans higher while corn futures remained sluggish. USDA's early forecasts for 2026-27 were largely as traders anticipated, featuring a switch from corn acres to soybean acres expected to occur this spring. Otherwise, there was very little news Thursday to break markets out of their weekly trends. Outside markets continue to reflect increased risk surrounding tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with crude oil futures hitting their highest mark since early August. Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar Index has strung together positive sessions this week to climb from four-year lows hit in late January. The index has been resistant at 98 through February, however.

The live cattle complex traded mixed into Thursday's close, as the market is currently seeing its nearby contracts trading higher while the deferred months scale lower. It would appear as though the nearby contracts are trading higher, although no trade has developed yet in the fed cash cattle market, as traders know that supplies of market-ready cattle are going to be thin through the first quarter and potentially partway through the second quarter, which may be part of the reason why the February through June contracts were higher. Absolutely nothing has developed yet in the fed cash cattle market, and there's a chance that trade could be delayed until after Friday's Cattle on Feed report. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.30 ($365.10) and select up $0.05 ($360.68) with a movement of 54 loads (36.97 loads of choice, 9.47 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 7.16 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle contracts weren't as bullish, as traders yearn to see continued fundamental support before they'll likely push the contracts much higher. And another part of the market's cautiousness could be stemming from the fact that traders are holding a slightly more cautious position ahead of the Cattle on Feed report.

The lean hog complex was trading mostly higher into Thursday's closing bell, as once again, trades aren't feeling pressured by any resistance thresholds following the past week's sharp downturn. Pork cutout values were up slightly, but not enough to make any impactful difference for traders.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/19140859/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Farmers are always interested in growing more resilient crops that can survive tough conditions. Researchers at the University of Missouri may have literally gotten to the root of the challenge. Researchers have discovered how a specific protein known as SRFR1 plays a critical role in how deeply plant roots grow underground. What’s even more promising is that they unlocked a way to manipulate this protein to encourage longer root growth, which is a trait that can potentially help plants better withstand drought. 

This breakthrough could pave the way for genetically engineered seeds that produce more resilient crops. “Depending on the environment, plants sometimes need a longer or shorter root, and we discovered the protein that helps regulate the outcome,” said Walter Gassman of the Missouri College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. ‘Now that we have learned what this protein does, we can manipulate it to help the plant thrive in various environments.” 

Mizzou researchers uncover key to growing more resilient crops

Over one million FFA members, alumni, and supporters will celebrate National FFA Week from February 21 to February 28. It’s an annual tradition coordinated by the National FFA Organization to share the real value of FFA and the impact it has on members every day. “National FFA Week is a time when we showcase the collective impact of FFA nationwide,” said National FFA Advisor, Dr. Travis Park. “Throughout FFA, we see our members stepping up as leaders, innovators, and advocates for agriculture.”

 Park also said this happens through the dedication of agriculture teachers, FFA Alumni, and Supporters. The six National FFA Officers will travel across the country to connect with members during the week, leading workshops, delivering keynote talks, and interacting with students on a more personal level. Trey Myers, National FFA President said, “I’m really looking forward to being in North Carolina and seeing FFA show up in so many different ways.” 

National FFA Week brings students, communities, and agriculture together

March corn closed up 3/4 cent and May corn was up 1 cent. March soybeans closed down 1/2 cent and May soybeans were up 1/4 cent. March KC wheat closed up 12 1/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 9 1/4 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 5 3/4 cents.

U.S. crop markets traded almost uniformly higher overnight before turning mixed through the day session Wednesday. Two-sided trade was especially prevalent in the soybean market with futures technically overbought and feeling top heavy ahead of the USDA Ag Outlook Forum (with balance sheets unveiled early Thursday), which is expected to show higher soybean area to be planted in 2026. Wheat futures held to a nice recovery after an ugly session on Tuesday, while corn futures were stagnant and caught between influences from wheat and soybean markets. Outside markets for Wednesday were mixed with the U.S. Dollar Index moving higher for the third straight session and five of the past six. Crude oil futures have surged higher at midweek, back among the highest levels of 2026 thus far amid risk with negotiations between the U.S. and Iran ongoing but thus far reportedly yielding little in the way of a clear nuclear deal.

After rallying to highs not seen since October, the live cattle complex ended the session trading mixed to mostly lower as traders look for reassurance from the market's fundamentals. The cash cattle market remains absolutely silent, with no bids or asking prices having been noted yet. It's most likely that trade will be delayed until Friday again this week, and it is assumed that fed cash cattle prices will be higher again this week. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice down $1.26 ($363.50) and select up $0.99 ($361.21) with a movement of 58 loads (43.87 loads of choice, 6.35 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 8.12 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex traded slightly more optimistically into midday Wednesday than the live cattle complex, and its contracts end the session mixed. Helping keep the feeder cattle contracts elevated is the strong demand in the countryside, as buyers know that supplies are going to remain thin and that if they want to fill their orders, they have to buy aggressively.

The lean hog complex was trading fully higher into Wednesday's closing bell as the market is pleased to have found some technical support after its straining downturn over the last week. Fundamental support remains lagging, and traders will eventually desire to see more support in pork demand.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/18142504/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The National FFA Organization said it will cooperate with a congressional inquiry examining one of its corporate sponsors, while emphasizing its nonpartisan mission and independence from donor influence. 

At question is FFA’s alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party through a partnership with Chinese-owned Syngenta Group. FFA declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The inquiry comes amid heightened scrutiny from some members of Congress over partnerships between U.S.-based nonprofits and companies with foreign ownership ties.

The youth agricultural education group released a statement exclusively to the NAFB News Service that included: "While FFA accepts support from generous donors and sponsors throughout the agricultural and agri-business community, it does not and cannot advocate the views for any donor or sponsor. FFA has received a Congressional inquiry about one of our sponsors, and it intends to cooperate fully."

FFA says it will cooperate with congressional inquiry

The number of farms in the United States fell by 15,000 in 2025, continuing a long-term decline in the nation’s agricultural landscape, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported. According to USDA’s annual Land in Farms report, the total number of farms dropped to about 1.865 million last year, down from roughly 1.88 million in 2024. The decline spanned nearly all size and sales categories, with smaller operations — particularly those reporting $1,000 to $9,999 in annual sales — posting the largest losses, USDA data showed. 

Only operations with annual sales above $1 million saw a slight increase of about 50 farms. Total land in farms also edged lower, decreasing about 0.3% to 873.9 million acres, even as average farm size ticked upward, reflecting a consolidation trend. Analysts said economic pressures, including slim profit margins, rising costs and generational turnover, continue to challenge smaller producers and reshape the structure of U.S. agriculture.

U.S. farm numbers decline for second straight year

March corn closed down 5 1/2 cents and May corn was down 6 1/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 1 cents and May soybeans were up 1/4 cent. March KC wheat closed down 3 3/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 11 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 3 1/2 cents.

It was a day of mostly lower price action for row-crop futures with soybeans standing alone on the positive side of the fence. Corn futures were lower and posted a poor close from a technical standpoint despite relatively little in the way of news Tuesday. Most of the bearish pressure for corn came via wheat, with Chicago futures falling sharply just two sessions removed from hitting three-month highs on upward revisions to forecasts for Russia's 2026 crop. Outside markets leaned bearish to ag futures on Tuesday, with a firm U.S. dollar trading counter to continued selling pressure in precious metals. Crude oil (and other energy futures) was lower as well Tuesday, despite early reports of Iran's "partial and temporary" closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for world oil trade. Risks in this regard were seemingly offset in the eyes of traders by positive feedback following the latest round of nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran in Switzerland on Tuesday.

It's was a solidly successful day for the live cattle complex as the market is seeing immense support from traders, which is helped the contracts scale well over $1.00 higher into Tuesday's closing bell. More than anything, the robust fundamental support from last week's cash cattle market, mixed with the bullish long-term trajectory, seemed to have traders' full attention this morning. New showlists appear to be mixed, higher in Nebraska/Colorado, about steady in Kansas, and lower in Texas. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice up $0.86 ($366.91) and select up $0.14 ($361.37) with a movement of 62 loads (45.85 loads of choice, 5.50 loads of select, 3.48 loads of trim and 6.86 loads of ground beef).

Upon noting the strength of last week's fed cash cattle trade and seeing how traders are energetically supporting the live cattle contracts, it's been an easy decision for traders to push the feeder cattle contracts higher. So long as the live cattle complex continues to trade higher, the feeder cattle contracts will likely follow in the same direction.

After a tumultuous downturn over the last seven trading days, the lean hog complex finally found some technical support as traders potentially believe that the contracts have created enough space from the contract highs scored in early February. Pork cutout values were a tick lower this morning, but that did not seem to be affecting traders through today's session.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/17135609/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The National FFA Organization is proud to announce a new way for people to support the next generation for this year’s Give FFA Day. It’s called ChapterBoost. The ChapterBoost program showcases local FFA chapters and their goals for hands-on learning, leadership development, and agricultural education, giving donors the opportunity to make an immediate impact by selecting a project to support directly through crowdfunding for an individual chapter. 

The annual Give FFA Day will be held on Thursday, February 26, during National FFA Week. “We’re setting our most ambitious goal yet to raise $1.75 million on Give FFA Day,” said Kimberly Coveney, senior manager of individual giving for the National FFA Foundation. “Every dollar donated helps open doors for our more than one million members by funding programs, leadership development, and experiences that prepare them for careers in agriculture and beyond.” 

A new way to give back on 'National Give FFA Day'

The USDA announced the enrollment periods for agricultural producers and landowners to submit offers for the Continuous and General Conservation Reserve Program. The Farm Service Agency is accepting offers for Continuous CRP starting this Thursday, February 12, through March 20, 2026. Enrollment for the General CRP will run from March 9, 2026, through April 17, 2026. FSA will announce the dates for the Grassland CRP signup in the near future. 

“We’re still very close to the 27-million-acre statutory cap, with 1.9 million acres available for all CRP enrollments this fiscal year, so enrollment is likely to be competitive,” said Richard Fordyce, USDA Undersecretary for Farm Programs and Conservation. “It’s not about the total number of enrolled acres, it’s about producers and landowners offering the acres that can best deliver real and lasting benefits to soil, water, and wildlife.” Producers and landowners interested in participating in CRP should contact their local FSA county office. 

USDA announces enrollment periods for 2026 continuous and general CRP 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Thursday launched the Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework — a policy initiative designed to shield producers from what the department calls politically motivated legal actions and regulatory overreach. Secretary Brooke Rollins described the four-pillar plan as a cornerstone for defending agricultural heritage and providing fairness in rural America. The framework formalizes existing USDA efforts to streamline regulations, reduce compliance burdens and enhance protections for farmers and ranchers facing litigation or enforcement actions. 

Agricultural stakeholders welcomed the announcement, though critics argue it could weaken environmental and consumer safeguards. The policy echoes recent USDA moves to end “agricultural lawfare,” which has been discussed by advocacy groups and within USDA strategy briefings. The initiative also comes amid broader debates over farm profitability, market pressures and federal intervention in agriculture.

USDA unveils plan to cut red tape, legal pressures on Farmers

BEAVER COUNTY —On Tuesday, troopers in Troop I of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol responded to an overturned Rosston fire truck during the Ranger Road wildfire between Rosston and Englewood, Kansas, according to a statement from the patrol.. 

Three firefighters were on board. Two were riding on the back of the truck as they navigated a smoke-filled pasture with extremely limited visibility.

The driver, unable to see through the dense smoke, drove into a burning canyon. The truck overturned, trapping the driver and ejecting the two firefighters who were riding on the rear.

After noticing a missing fire truck, fellow first responders searched for the fireman as every second counted. Once located, all three men were rescued from the burning canyon and transported by ambulance to a hospital. Each sustained serious injuries. The trapped driver suffered second-degree burns to his upper body.

"We are grateful for the fellow first responders who, like these brave Rosston firefighters, came from across the state to assist Oklahomans as this massive wildfire spread. They pushed flames back from homes, evacuated residents, and moved livestock for people they may never meet." the OHP wrote.

"Please keep these three firefighters in your thoughts as they recover, along with the men and women who continue responding to the ongoing wildfire threat."

Injured firefighters rescued after crash in burning canyon

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;On Wednesday,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger&nbsp;Marshall, M.D. praised President Trump’s nominations of Kansas Bureau of Investigations Director Tony Mattivi, Great Bend Attorney Jeffrey M. Kuhlman, and Kansas Solicitor General Anthony J. Powell as judges on the United States District Court for the District of Kansas.

“President Trump has selected three exceptional Kansans who bring to the bench deep legal experience, strong judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law,”&nbsp;said Senator&nbsp;Marshall.&nbsp;“Tony Mattivi’s career as a federal prosecutor and as a leader in the fight against terrorism, violent crime, and drug trafficking speaks volumes about the depth of his expertise; Jeff Kuhlman’s experience clerking for Federal judges and representing Kansas communities demonstrate his strong commitment to our State; and Anthony Powell’s decades of service as a legislator, judge and now Kansas Solicitor General exemplify his steadfast commitment to justice and public service. While there were many options from which to choose, these three Kansans will bring a rare depth of professional experience to the District Court, ensuring that justice is served and our constitutional principles are steadfastly upheld.

“These nominees understand the Constitution, respect the law as written, and have dedicated their careers to serving and protecting Kansans. I’m grateful to President Trump for selecting such highly qualified individuals, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to confirm them swiftly.”

President Trump nominates KBI Director for vacancy on U.S. District Court

Secretary of War makes an important stop in Missouri

KANSAS CITY —When the call came in Sunday afternoon for someone drowning in a lake near Pittman Road and E 43rd, Officers Manley and Hawley raced to the scene, according to a social media report from the Kansas City Missouri Police Department.

The officers found two people in the water, with one deep in the lake, struggling for survival.

Manley and Hawley shed their gear and entered the water, rescuing a young woman.

Manley has been with the department 26 years, while Hawley started her KCPD career four years ago.

🎥KCPD officers rescue woman from drowning 

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kathrynleverenz/">Kathryn Leverenz</a>

A major property tax reform bill in the Missouri House was sent back to a special committee Tuesday over concerns that the bill needed more changes.

Sponsored by state Rep. Tim Taylor, a Republican from Bunceton, the wide-ranging bill would change how property taxes are calculated and when property tax measures are voted on.

“There have been concerns with this bill, and from the very beginning we have strived to try to do the very best we can,” Taylor said. “It was finally decided, after many meetings, that we’re going to bring it back to our committee.”

The Special Committee on Property Tax Reform was formed last June to examine Missouri’s property tax system and recommend solutions. Six informational hearings were held across the state last summer by the committee to allow Missouri residents to share their perspectives on rising property taxes.

State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, a Democrat from Columbia, who is also the ranking minority member for the committee, commended Taylor for his leadership and his decision to send the bill back to the committee.

“I want to thank you for your leadership and having it go back,” Steinhoff said. “I think that is a good place for it to go.”

Steinhoff said that she believes the bill was sent back to committee because of needed clarification over a provision of the bill that would change when voters approve property tax levies from April to November.

Steinhoff also said that because the House did not thoroughly debate the bill on the floor, she believes the move back to committee is a wise decision.

The House initially voted to move the bill forward last Wednesday.

Currently, the assessed value used to determine if property tax rollbacks are required is being diluted because the assessed values on all property classes — residential, commercial and agricultural — in a taxing district are lumped together.

The central provision of the bill is the “siloing” of tax subclasses. This would stop increases in assessed value in one subclass from being diluted by stagnant values in another, allowing the state constitution’s Hancock Amendment to take effect and limit how much personal property taxes can increase.

The bill would also move voting for property tax measures from April elections to November, something that drew concerns from representatives when the bill was brought to the floor last week.

As the bill returns to committee, it will revert to its original form, removing all amendments made on the House floor last week, Taylor said. He added that another public hearing will be held for the bill. On Tuesday, Taylor indicated that he is open to including other amendments.

“He said ‘Bring everything you’ve got,’” Steinhoff said. “I think he is open to hearing some other ideas of what could be included.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/major-property-tax-bill-sent-back-to-house-committee/article_3fe2c9a4-8a2b-44f1-b5fd-4656bb350c72.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Missouri House sends property tax overhaul bill back to committee

WASHINGTON – Carter Camacho, 18,&nbsp; of Smyrna, Georgia,&nbsp;was charged in a complaint Wednesday with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm within the United States Capitol Buildings or Grounds in connection to carrying a loaded shotgun onto federal property, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

Camacho made his first appearance in U.S. District Court Wednesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey who scheduled a detention hearing for March 2, 2026.

According to the charging documents, on Feb. 17, 2026, Camacho parked a white Mercedes SUV on Maryland Ave. SE, between First and Third Streets. About 12:07 p.m., Camacho exited the vehicle and ran toward the United States Capitol carrying a firearm while wearing a tactical-style vest and camouflage-style clothing.

Camacho reached the steps on the western side of the Capitol. A uniformed officer with the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) asked Camacho what he was carrying. Camacho produced the firearm. The officer ordered Camacho to halt and lie down on the ground.

Once Camacho was on the ground, USCP officers recovered a Mossberg Model 88 12-gauge shotgun loaded with seven rounds in the tube and one in the chamber, with the safety off. An additional 17 rounds of ammunition were held in a carrier attached to the shotgun’s stock.

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