KANSAS CITY—At 1:46p.m. Friday, the United State's Geological Survey reported a 3.5 magnitude earthquake near Ferrelview, just east of Kansas City International Airport. 

According to the airport on social media, "some airport personnel reported feeling the tremor."

The airport also said there was no observed damage and they were conducting inspections of the airfield and terminal.&nbsp; Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710548165595.png" alt="Location of the earthquake on Friday near Kansas City International Airport-USGS image&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Location of the earthquake on Friday near Kansas City International Airport-USGS image&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—At 1:46p.m. Friday, the United State's Geological Survey reported a 3.5 magnitude earthquake near Ferrelview, just east of Kansas City International Airport. According to the airport on social media, "some airport personnel reported feeling the tremor."The airport also said there was no observed damage and they were conducting inspections of the airfield and terminal.&nbsp; Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Earthquake near Kansas City International Airport

A seat on the St. Joseph City Council is now vacant as District II Councilmember Taylor Crouse has announced his resignation.  

Due to changes in his family life Crouse will soon move outside his council district, making him no longer eligible to represent District II.  Crouse's resignation is effective immediately.   

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve the residents of District II. I plan to continue my presence in St. Joseph through my insurance business and as a real estate agent,” Crouse said in a written statement released by the city. 

“On behalf of the City Council, I want to express my thanks to Taylor for his service to the community and wish him well in his future endeavors,” Mayor John Josendale added. 

More information on how the vacancy will be filled will be announced at a later date. 

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA seat on the St. Joseph City Council is now vacant as District II Councilmember Taylor Crouse has announced his resignation. Due to changes in his family life Crouse will soon move outside his council district, making him no longer eligible to represent District II. Crouse's resignation is effective immediately. “It has been my honor and privilege to serve the residents of District II. I plan to continue my presence in St. Joseph through my insurance business and as a real estate agent,” Crouse said in a written statement released by the city. “On behalf of the City Council, I want to express my thanks to Taylor for his service to the community and wish him well in his future endeavors,” Mayor John Josendale added. More information on how the vacancy will be filled will be announced at a later date.

Vacancy on the St. Joseph City Council

Midland Empire Hotline host Barry Birr has been honored as the
2023 Conservation Communicator of the Year by the Conservation Federation of
Missouri.

Former Missouri Conservation Agent Kyle Carroll, a regular on
the program, presented the award to Birr during the program Friday morning on
KFEQ.

“Twenty, twenty-three Conservation Communicator of the Year
presented to Barry Birr, in recognition of dedicated service and significant
contribution in the wise use of natural resources by the Conservation
Federation of Missouri,” Carroll read off the award presented to Birr.

Carroll actually accepted the award earlier during the
Conservation Federation banquet at the Lake of the Ozarks. Birr could not
attend due to illness. Carroll, who nominated Birr, returned to present the
award in person during his regularly scheduled appearance on the Hotline.

“On behalf of the Conservation Federation and all of us that
listen and participate, congratulations,” Carroll said as he presented the
award to Birr.

“I’m really touched, Kyle,” Birr said. “It’s just awfully
nice.”

The two joked that it was quite appropriate that the award
came with a small statue of a mountain lion, because for years on the program
the two discussed mountain lion sightings in northwest Missouri long before the
Missouri Conservation Department acknowledged their existence in the state.

You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710520157457.jpeg" alt="Former Conservation Agent Kyle Carroll (left) presents KFEQ's Barry Birr with the Conservation Communicator of the Year award/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Former Conservation Agent Kyle Carroll (left) presents KFEQ's Barry Birr with the Conservation Communicator of the Year award/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMidland Empire Hotline host Barry Birr has been honored as the
2023 Conservation Communicator of the Year by the Conservation Federation of
Missouri.Former Missouri Conservation Agent Kyle Carroll, a regular on
the program, presented the award to Birr during the program Friday morning on
KFEQ.“Twenty, twenty-three Conservation Communicator of the Year
presented to Barry Birr, in recognition of dedicated service and significant
contribution in the wise use of natural resources by the Conservation
Federation of Missouri,” Carroll read off the award presented to Birr.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710520253146.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Carroll actually accepted the award earlier during the
Conservation Federation banquet at the Lake of the Ozarks. Birr could not
attend due to illness. Carroll, who nominated Birr, returned to present the
award in person during his regularly scheduled appearance on the Hotline.“On behalf of the Conservation Federation and all of us that
listen and participate, congratulations,” Carroll said as he presented the
award to Birr.“I’m really touched, Kyle,” Birr said. “It’s just awfully
nice.”The two joked that it was quite appropriate that the award
came with a small statue of a mountain lion, because for years on the program
the two discussed mountain lion sightings in northwest Missouri long before the
Missouri Conservation Department acknowledged their existence in the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710520299012.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ personality Birr named Conservation Communicator of Year

WORTH COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:45p.m. Thursday in Worth County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Colorado driven by Matthew D. Marshall, 25, Princeton, was eastbound on State Route M at Vintage Avenue four miles east of Denver, Missouri.

The pickup began to skid, traveled off the south side of the road down an embankment and struck multiple trees.

Mercy Air transported Marshall to Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

WORTH COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:45p.m. Thursday in Worth County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Colorado driven by Matthew D. Marshall, 25, Princeton, was eastbound on State Route M at Vintage Avenue four miles east of Denver, Missouri.The pickup began to skid, traveled off the south side of the road down an embankment and struck multiple trees.Mercy Air transported Marshall to Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Mo. man airlifted to hospital after pickup strikes multiple trees

BETHANY, OK - When the Missouri Western women's basketball team watched the NCAA tournament selection show on March 6, 2022, there was a sense of uncertainty in the room.

It seemed like that Griffon team, which won 21 regular season games and finished fifth in the MIAA, had done just enough to get to the big dance.

 Beating Central Missouri three times helped.

Sure enough, the Griffons were the No. 7 seed and went onto win the Central Region championship at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kansas, making the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995.

That run started with a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d4d3afca-6d7c-495a-8e5c-ef6a7c0bdcab">111-77 walloping of the No. 2 seed</a> and Great American Conference champion Southwestern Oklahoma State.

"We got in and were probably better than what people knew," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker recalled, "but with our record and our finish (in the MIAA standings), where else would you have put us, but a 7?"

In 2024, roles are reversed. Missouri Western was a lock this year. The Griffons (25-5) reeled off 15 straight wins to secure an MIAA regular season title and a No. 2 seed in the Central Region.

Their-first round challenge - No. 7 seed Minnesota State-Mankato. The Mavericks (26-5), though, are no Cinderella.

Minnesota State won the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference regular season and conference tournament championship, going 20-2 in league play and rattling off 19 straight wins at one point.

Missouri Western, the No. 2 seed in the region, is ranked No. 20 in the coaches' poll. Minnesota State? They're 13th. The No. 1 seed and regional host Southern Nazarene, is ranked 10th.

"It's very different when you're a (conference) tournament champion and conference (regular season) champion and you get a seven seed," Whitaker said of Minnesota State.

"With the WBCA (coaches' poll), they're 13th. We're 20th. It's interesting. I think DII is interesting. Regionalization is interesting. I think every game is tough, so I don't know if there's an advantage of what seed you're in. Everyone is 0-0 and you have to go compete."

Minnesota State and Missouri Western match up on Friday at 2:30 p.m. central at the Sawyer Center in Bethany, Oklahoma on the campus of Southern Nazarene University.

Should the Griffons win Friday, they'd play either No. 3 Fort Hays State (24-7) or No. 6 Northwest Missouri State (23-7) in regional semifinals Saturday.

But, this first-round game is as scary as they come for the Griffons.

 Minnesota State's lead scorer and first-team all-region guard Joey Batt, missed the first five games of the season, and the Mavs started 2-4.

Batt came back, won NSIC Defensive Player of the Year for a third time in her career and the Mavs have gone 24-2 since November 21.

 Minnesota State ranks fourth in the nation in scoring (83.3), first in turnover margin (+13.52), second in made field goals (976) second in takeaways per game (28), fourth in scoring margin (+20.4) and seventh in offensive rebounding (16.5 per game).

"I'm excited about the matchup," Whitaker said. "(Minnesota State) plays a unique style which is a little like (Southwestern Oklahoma State) a couple years ago."

I think (Minnesota State) is better (than SWOSU) as far as depth, motor, relentlessness. They're going to press you for 40 minutes, they're going to run and jump. It's a bit chaotic."

These teams have a lot in common. Missouri Western also overcame a slow start, going 19-2 down the stretch after starting 5-3.

The Griffons are seventh in the country in scoring margin (+18.3), fifth in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.27), 14th in field goal percentage (45%) and field goal percentage defense (35.3%), 20th in scoring (74.8) and 17th in turnover margin (+5.27).

The Griffons also have a player in Connie Clarke, who's won multiple Defensive Player of the Year honors in her respective league. She's done it the last two years.

These teams are equally impressive on paper and play comparable styles. Fast, transition offense. Stellar, takeaway-heavy defense. High shooting percentage. Both teams play a lot of people.

Missouri Western has nine players who average 15 minutes or more per game. Minnesota State has 10.

Missouri Western freshman Tiani Ellison knows the Mavs are a big challenge and it's a solid matchup, but she has full faith the Griffons can get it done.

"They're pretty good," Ellison said of the next opponent. "I watched them, but we're definitely better and I know we can be better. (Minnesota State) doesn't take possessions off. They 'run-and-jump' press the whole game. We've never seen that. It's unique, but if we go out there and take care of the ball, we know what we need to do to get the job done."

No one, at least on the outside, expected Missouri Western to cut down nets in Hays as the No. 7 seed two years ago.

Minnesota State might feel slighted this year after winning one of the toughest DII leagues in the nation, and getting seeded seventh.

The Central Region is always stout. This year is no exception, with half of the field, four of the eight teams, being MIAA members.

But, as is the case with any postseason tournament, it's quite literally the start of a new season. And in this Central Region bracket, any of these eight teams are plenty capable of getting to Civic Arena and the Elite Eight.

"It's a new opportunity and season," Whitaker said. "We all know we're win and advance, or lose and go home. You always see people play with more sense of urgency in their prep and in games this time of year. I think our group is excited about the opportunity in front of them."

Friday's game will be heard on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app). Coverage will start at 2 p.m. Tip-off at 2:30.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710466048622.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western, the MIAA regular season champion in 2024, enters this NCAA tournament as a potential regional favorite after making a Cinderella-type run to the Elite Eight in 2022. Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western, the MIAA regular season champion in 2024, enters this NCAA tournament as a potential regional favorite after making a Cinderella-type run to the Elite Eight in 2022. Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBETHANY, OK - When the Missouri Western women's basketball team watched the NCAA tournament selection show on March 6, 2022, there was a sense of uncertainty in the room.It seemed like that Griffon team, which won 21 regular season games and finished fifth in the MIAA, had done just enough to get to the big dance. Beating Central Missouri three times helped.Sure enough, the Griffons were the No. 7 seed and went onto win the Central Region championship at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kansas, making the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995.That run started with a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d4d3afca-6d7c-495a-8e5c-ef6a7c0bdcab">111-77 walloping of the No. 2 seed</a> and Great American Conference champion Southwestern Oklahoma State."We got in and were probably better than what people knew," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker recalled, "but with our record and our finish (in the MIAA standings), where else would you have put us, but a 7?"In 2024, roles are reversed. Missouri Western was a lock this year. The Griffons (25-5) reeled off 15 straight wins to secure an MIAA regular season title and a No. 2 seed in the Central Region.Their-first round challenge - No. 7 seed Minnesota State-Mankato. The Mavericks (26-5), though, are no Cinderella.Minnesota State won the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference regular season and conference tournament championship, going 20-2 in league play and rattling off 19 straight wins at one point.Missouri Western, the No. 2 seed in the region, is ranked No. 20 in the coaches' poll. Minnesota State? They're 13th. The No. 1 seed and regional host Southern Nazarene, is ranked 10th."It's very different when you're a (conference) tournament champion and conference (regular season) champion and you get a seven seed," Whitaker said of Minnesota State."With the WBCA (coaches' poll), they're 13th. We're 20th. It's interesting. I think DII is interesting. Regionalization is interesting. I think every game is tough, so I don't know if there's an advantage of what seed you're in. Everyone is 0-0 and you have to go compete."Minnesota State and Missouri Western match up on Friday at 2:30 p.m. central at the Sawyer Center in Bethany, Oklahoma on the campus of Southern Nazarene University.Should the Griffons win Friday, they'd play either No. 3 Fort Hays State (24-7) or No. 6 Northwest Missouri State (23-7) in regional semifinals Saturday.But, this first-round game is as scary as they come for the Griffons. Minnesota State's lead scorer and first-team all-region guard Joey Batt, missed the first five games of the season, and the Mavs started 2-4.Batt came back, won NSIC Defensive Player of the Year for a third time in her career and the Mavs have gone 24-2 since November 21. Minnesota State ranks fourth in the nation in scoring (83.3), first in turnover margin (+13.52), second in made field goals (976) second in takeaways per game (28), fourth in scoring margin (+20.4) and seventh in offensive rebounding (16.5 per game).And they're the No. 7 seed?"I'm excited about the matchup," Whitaker said. "(Minnesota State) plays a unique style which is a little like (Southwestern Oklahoma State) a couple years ago."I think (Minnesota State) is better (than SWOSU) as far as depth, motor, relentlessness. They're going to press you for 40 minutes, they're going to run and jump. It's a bit chaotic."These teams have a lot in common. Missouri Western also overcame a slow start, going 19-2 down the stretch after starting 5-3.The Griffons are seventh in the country in scoring margin (+18.3), fifth in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.27), 14th in field goal percentage (45%) and field goal percentage defense (35.3%), 20th in scoring (74.8) and 17th in turnover margin (+5.27).The Griffons also have a player in Connie Clarke, who's won multiple Defensive Player of the Year honors in her respective league. She's done it the last two years.These teams are equally impressive on paper and play comparable styles. Fast, transition offense. Stellar, takeaway-heavy defense. High shooting percentage. Both teams play a lot of people.Missouri Western has nine players who average 15 minutes or more per game. Minnesota State has 10.Missouri Western freshman Tiani Ellison knows the Mavs are a big challenge and it's a solid matchup, but she has full faith the Griffons can get it done."They're pretty good," Ellison said of the next opponent. "I watched them, but we're definitely better and I know we can be better. (Minnesota State) doesn't take possessions off. They 'run-and-jump' press the whole game. We've never seen that. It's unique, but if we go out there and take care of the ball, we know what we need to do to get the job done."No one, at least on the outside, expected Missouri Western to cut down nets in Hays as the No. 7 seed two years ago.Minnesota State might feel slighted this year after winning one of the toughest DII leagues in the nation, and getting seeded seventh.The Central Region is always stout. This year is no exception, with half of the field, four of the eight teams, being MIAA members.But, as is the case with any postseason tournament, it's quite literally the start of a new season. And in this Central Region bracket, any of these eight teams are plenty capable of getting to Civic Arena and the Elite Eight."It's a new opportunity and season," Whitaker said. "We all know we're win and advance, or lose and go home. You always see people play with more sense of urgency in their prep and in games this time of year. I think our group is excited about the opportunity in front of them."Friday's game will be heard on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app). Coverage will start at 2 p.m. Tip-off at 2:30.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710466177809.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---31424-e2h3oqh" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Johnni Gonzalez interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-senior-Johnni-Gonzalez-e2h3on7/a-ab2ng9k" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Tiani Ellison interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-freshman-Tiani-Ellison-e2h3ooh/a-ab2ngc2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Season highlight reel<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-WBB-2023-24-radio-montage-e2gp1rj/a-ab1s81v" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU WBB enter NCAA tournament as potential favorites after Cinderella run in 2022

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon who was caught after a chase and scooter crash.

Shortly after 11a.m. Tuesday, a police officer attempted to stop a Suzuki motor scooter in the area of 17th and Kansas Avenue in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. 

The scooter fled for several blocks and&nbsp;crashed. The driver, later identified as 31-year-old Christopher Edwards fled ran from the crash and officers chased.

Edwards entered an occupied residence in the 1400 block Atchison Street. He entered that home through the front door and pushed several residents out of his way as he fled out the back door. 

Police officers located him&nbsp;a short time later hiding under a porch in the 1400 block Santa Fe.

Edwards received minor injuries from the scooter crash.  After he was taken into custody, police took him to Amberwell Hospital for examination. He was treated and released, and then taken to the County Jail. He is being held on requested charges of fleeing and attempting to elude and other traffic charges, interference with law enforcement, battery, criminal trespass, and criminal possession of a firearm.&nbsp;

Police found a handgun on the scooter.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for a sex crime and criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710345595264.png" alt="Edwards-Atchison Co.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Edwards-Atchison Co.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon who was caught after a chase and scooter crash.Shortly after 11a.m. Tuesday, a police officer attempted to stop a Suzuki motor scooter in the area of 17th and Kansas Avenue in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. The scooter fled for several blocks and&nbsp;crashed. The driver, later identified as 31-year-old Christopher Edwards fled ran from the crash and officers chased.Edwards entered an occupied residence in the 1400 block Atchison Street. He entered that home through the front door and pushed several residents out of his way as he fled out the back door. Police officers located him&nbsp;a short time later hiding under a porch in the 1400 block Santa Fe.Edwards received minor injuries from the scooter crash. After he was taken into custody, police took him to Amberwell Hospital for examination. He was treated and released, and then taken to the County Jail. He is being held on requested charges of fleeing and attempting to elude and other traffic charges, interference with law enforcement, battery, criminal trespass, and criminal possession of a firearm.&nbsp;Police found a handgun on the scooter.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for a sex crime and criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Kansas felon crashed scooter during police chase

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Students across Missouri could have access to scholarships for private schooling through an expanded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-government-and-politics-education-michael-brown-school-vouchers-fb1afe39b572359cc4f1d2b0f9397556">tax credit program</a>&nbsp;passed Thursday in the GOP-led state Senate.

Senators voted 19-10 to pass the sweeping education bill, an approval earned after weeks of bipartisan negotiation. The measure now heads to the Republican-led House for approval.

The legislation represents a win for advocates of greater access to non-traditional K-12 education, such as private, religious, charter and virtual schooling. Part of the proposal would allow charter schools to open in Boone County, for example.

“We were focusing on providing choices beyond just public school,” Republican bill sponsor Sen. Andrew Koenig said.

But the measure also includes concessions for ardent public school supporters opposed to using public funding to support charters and private schools.

Compromises included in the bill include hundreds of millions of dollars in added funding for K-12 public schools and more money for districts that keep a five-day school week.

“Senate Democrats have always held the position that we’re going to oppose privatization of education through the siphoning-off of taxpayer funding,” Democratic Sen. Lauren Arthur said. “So, yes, we strongly oppose vouchers and the expansion of charters. I will say there was a lot in the bill that made it very tempting to vote for.”

The heart of the legislation is the expansion of Missouri Empowerment Scholarships Accounts, a voucher-like program that offers education grants to low-income families. The scholarships are funded by private donors, who in turn receive tax credits.

The current program limits recipients to residents of the state's largest cities and to families who make 200% of the federal poverty level, which is $62,400 a year for a family of four.

Supporters want to offer the scholarships statewide to families that make as much as 300% of the federal poverty level, or $93,600 for a family of four.

The legislation would increase the cap on tax credits from $50 million to $75 million per year.

Unrelated, the proposal would require a local vote for large-city school districts to go to four-day weeks.

In total, Republican and Democratic Senate leaders estimated the bill would cost the state between $400 million and $450 million a year once fully implemented.

In Missouri, the issue of so-called school choice has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c8965cac8b27cb87e99bb2dab244fa4e">divided lawmakers</a>&nbsp;beyond typical Republican-Democrat lines.

GOP legislators from rural Missouri have pushed back for years against allowing charter schools in their areas for fear that the institutions could draw students away from traditional public schools and undermine what’s seen as the backbone of their communities. And some Democrats want more options for students in cities with underperforming schools.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Students across Missouri could have access to scholarships for private schooling through an expanded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-government-and-politics-education-michael-brown-school-vouchers-fb1afe39b572359cc4f1d2b0f9397556">tax credit program</a>&nbsp;passed Thursday in the GOP-led state Senate.Senators voted 19-10 to pass the sweeping education bill, an approval earned after weeks of bipartisan negotiation. The measure now heads to the Republican-led House for approval.The legislation represents a win for advocates of greater access to non-traditional K-12 education, such as private, religious, charter and virtual schooling. Part of the proposal would allow charter schools to open in Boone County, for example.“We were focusing on providing choices beyond just public school,” Republican bill sponsor Sen. Andrew Koenig said.But the measure also includes concessions for ardent public school supporters opposed to using public funding to support charters and private schools.Compromises included in the bill include hundreds of millions of dollars in added funding for K-12 public schools and more money for districts that keep a five-day school week.“Senate Democrats have always held the position that we’re going to oppose privatization of education through the siphoning-off of taxpayer funding,” Democratic Sen. Lauren Arthur said. “So, yes, we strongly oppose vouchers and the expansion of charters. I will say there was a lot in the bill that made it very tempting to vote for.”The heart of the legislation is the expansion of Missouri Empowerment Scholarships Accounts, a voucher-like program that offers education grants to low-income families. The scholarships are funded by private donors, who in turn receive tax credits.The current program limits recipients to residents of the state's largest cities and to families who make 200% of the federal poverty level, which is $62,400 a year for a family of four.Supporters want to offer the scholarships statewide to families that make as much as 300% of the federal poverty level, or $93,600 for a family of four.The legislation would increase the cap on tax credits from $50 million to $75 million per year.Unrelated, the proposal would require a local vote for large-city school districts to go to four-day weeks.In total, Republican and Democratic Senate leaders estimated the bill would cost the state between $400 million and $450 million a year once fully implemented.In Missouri, the issue of so-called school choice has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c8965cac8b27cb87e99bb2dab244fa4e">divided lawmakers</a>&nbsp;beyond typical Republican-Democrat lines.GOP legislators from rural Missouri have pushed back for years against allowing charter schools in their areas for fear that the institutions could draw students away from traditional public schools and undermine what’s seen as the backbone of their communities. And some Democrats want more options for students in cities with underperforming schools.

Missouri Senate passes sweeping education funding bill

Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek visited St. Joseph
Christian School this morning, promoting the recently created MOScholars
program.

The program provides scholarships of up to $6,500 for a
school-age student to attend a private school. It depends on donations. It
currently is capped at $25 million. 

Malek says MOScholars has grown quickly since the legislature
created it in 2021.

“So, the first year we received about $9 million in donations
toward the program,” Malek tells reporters after the assembly at St. Joseph
Christian. “This year, we received $17 million.”

Legislation in Jefferson City this session would raise the
program’s cap to $75 million and lift its geographic restrictions. At present,
the scholarships are only available for Missouri families living in the state’s
four largest counties or in cities of at least 30,000. MOScholars scholarships
are available to families earning below 200% of the federal poverty level or for
students with an individualized education plan.

Malek says because of how MOScholars is constructed, it doesn’t
undermine public school funding.

“Even if it gets to $75 million that’s just peanuts compared
to what DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) gets,” Malek
says. “Second, I would say, the public schools are not losing any money because
of this. If a kid decides to leave a public school system and go to a private
school like St. Joe here, the funding, as per the statute, will not be
diminished from the state or the fed.”

St. Joseph Christian has 59 students receiving money through MOScholars.

Malek says the program is specifically designed to not
undermine public education.

“Per capita, the school will actually be richer, even if a kid
leaves that school and goes to a private school,” according to Malek. “So, in
no way, is it taking away money from the public school system. I think it’s a
win-win for everybody and it just gives parents a different choice.”

A MOScholars scholarship can be used to attend a Christian
school, a parochial school, a charter school, or to receive therapeutic
services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710441060883.jpeg" alt="Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek speaks at St. Joseph Christian School/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek speaks at St. Joseph Christian School/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek visited St. Joseph
Christian School this morning, promoting the recently created MOScholars
program.The program provides scholarships of up to $6,500 for a
school-age student to attend a private school. It depends on donations. It
currently is capped at $25 million. Malek says MOScholars has grown quickly since the legislature
created it in 2021.“So, the first year we received about $9 million in donations
toward the program,” Malek tells reporters after the assembly at St. Joseph
Christian. “This year, we received $17 million.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710441144060.jpeg" alt="Malek speaks to an assembly at St. Joseph Christian School gym/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Malek speaks to an assembly at St. Joseph Christian School gym/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Legislation in Jefferson City this session would raise the
program’s cap to $75 million and lift its geographic restrictions. At present,
the scholarships are only available for Missouri families living in the state’s
four largest counties or in cities of at least 30,000. MOScholars scholarships
are available to families earning below 200% of the federal poverty level or for
students with an individualized education plan.Malek says because of how MOScholars is constructed, it doesn’t
undermine public school funding.“Even if it gets to $75 million that’s just peanuts compared
to what DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) gets,” Malek
says. “Second, I would say, the public schools are not losing any money because
of this. If a kid decides to leave a public school system and go to a private
school like St. Joe here, the funding, as per the statute, will not be
diminished from the state or the fed.”St. Joseph Christian has 59 students receiving money through MOScholars.Malek says the program is specifically designed to not
undermine public education.“Per capita, the school will actually be richer, even if a kid
leaves that school and goes to a private school,” according to Malek. “So, in
no way, is it taking away money from the public school system. I think it’s a
win-win for everybody and it just gives parents a different choice.”A MOScholars scholarship can be used to attend a Christian
school, a parochial school, a charter school, or to receive therapeutic
services.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

State Treasurer Malek visits St. Joseph Christian, promoting MOScholars program

Max’s Law has returned and, again, is in good
position to pass the Missouri legislature this year.

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville has
succeeded in getting an omnibus crime bill through the Senate and onto the
House. It contains Max’s Law, the provision that increases the penalty for
killing a police animal, named after K-9 Max, the St. Joseph police dog killed by
a suspect he was chasing in 2021.

“I think this is important,” Luetkemeyer tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “These dogs put their lives on the line to protect not
only the public, but their human partners from harm. They’re very expensive and
they’re difficult to train and I think that the law needs to adequately protect
them. And if we get Max’s Law passed this year then it will.”

This is the third consecutive year Luetkemeyer
has sponsored the bill after coming ever so close to getting it passed and into
law the last two legislative sessions. He first sponsored it in 2022, the year
after K-9 Max was shot and killed.

“We actually had the bill through the House and
on the Senate floor during the last day of session and because of some
filibusters that were occurring over Congressional redistricting, we ended up
not being able to bring the bill back up on the last day of session to pass it,”
Luetkemeyer explains.

Luetkemeyer succeeded in adding it to an omnibus
crime package, one that contained numerous provisions, last legislative
session. He then succeeded in getting it through the legislature and onto Gov.
Mike Parson’s desk. Parson, though, vetoed the bill, objecting to a provision
in the bill that would require the state to compensate those unjustly incarcerated.

“The governor actually said in his veto message
that he wanted to sign Max’s Law, he wanted to sign some of the other
provisions that were contained in that bill, but vetoed it for unrelated
reasons,” Luetkemeyer says. “So, this is the third year we’re back.”

Luetkemeyer, chair of the Senate Judiciary
Committee, removed the offending provision and sent the measure on to the
House, which he hopes will send it to the governor.

Luetkemeyer says he has explained to House leadership
that it would be a mistake to return the bill to the Senate, because it could fall
victim to the filibusters which have stalled action in the upper chamber.

Luetkemeyer doesn’t see any need for the House to
change provisions in the bill.

“I think there’s a good justification for that,”
Luetkemeyer says. “Number one, it’s substantively identical to the bill that we
passed last year, which passed out of both the House and the Senate on a large,
bipartisan vote. So, the things that are in the legislation are all things that
we know the House agrees with, that the House supported last year.” 

Secondly, Luetkemeyer warns the House would be
playing with fire to return it to a Senate that has had trouble moving
legislation.

The omnibus crime bill sponsored by Luetkemeyer
also contains Blair’s Law, named after an 11-year-old Independence girl killed by
celebratory gunfire on Independence Day 2011. It would create a felony for
shooting off celebratory gunfire that results in the death of someone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710432552404.jpeg" alt="Officer Lucas Winder, K-9 Max's handler, testifying in favor of Max's Law in 2022/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Officer Lucas Winder, K-9 Max's handler, testifying in favor of Max's Law in 2022/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMax’s Law has returned and, again, is in good
position to pass the Missouri legislature this year.State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville has
succeeded in getting an omnibus crime bill through the Senate and onto the
House. It contains Max’s Law, the provision that increases the penalty for
killing a police animal, named after K-9 Max, the St. Joseph police dog killed by
a suspect he was chasing in 2021.“I think this is important,” Luetkemeyer tells
KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “These dogs put their lives on the line to protect not
only the public, but their human partners from harm. They’re very expensive and
they’re difficult to train and I think that the law needs to adequately protect
them. And if we get Max’s Law passed this year then it will.”This is the third consecutive year Luetkemeyer
has sponsored the bill after coming ever so close to getting it passed and into
law the last two legislative sessions. He first sponsored it in 2022, the year
after K-9 Max was shot and killed.“We actually had the bill through the House and
on the Senate floor during the last day of session and because of some
filibusters that were occurring over Congressional redistricting, we ended up
not being able to bring the bill back up on the last day of session to pass it,”
Luetkemeyer explains.Luetkemeyer succeeded in adding it to an omnibus
crime package, one that contained numerous provisions, last legislative
session. He then succeeded in getting it through the legislature and onto Gov.
Mike Parson’s desk. Parson, though, vetoed the bill, objecting to a provision
in the bill that would require the state to compensate those unjustly incarcerated.“The governor actually said in his veto message
that he wanted to sign Max’s Law, he wanted to sign some of the other
provisions that were contained in that bill, but vetoed it for unrelated
reasons,” Luetkemeyer says. “So, this is the third year we’re back.”Luetkemeyer, chair of the Senate Judiciary
Committee, removed the offending provision and sent the measure on to the
House, which he hopes will send it to the governor.Luetkemeyer says he has explained to House leadership
that it would be a mistake to return the bill to the Senate, because it could fall
victim to the filibusters which have stalled action in the upper chamber.Luetkemeyer doesn’t see any need for the House to
change provisions in the bill.“I think there’s a good justification for that,”
Luetkemeyer says. “Number one, it’s substantively identical to the bill that we
passed last year, which passed out of both the House and the Senate on a large,
bipartisan vote. So, the things that are in the legislation are all things that
we know the House agrees with, that the House supported last year.” Secondly, Luetkemeyer warns the House would be
playing with fire to return it to a Senate that has had trouble moving
legislation.The omnibus crime bill sponsored by Luetkemeyer
also contains Blair’s Law, named after an 11-year-old Independence girl killed by
celebratory gunfire on Independence Day 2011. It would create a felony for
shooting off celebratory gunfire that results in the death of someone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710432659604.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/The-Return-of-Maxs-Law-e2h37bd" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Max's Law returns, again, with hopes the 3rd time is the charm

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect on alleged child sex crimes have included a new charge.

On Thursday,&nbsp;Atchison Police arrested Osias W. Everson, 20, Deer Lodge Montana, on a State of Missouri warrant charging him with ‘child kidnapping," according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Everson remains in the Atchison County Jail, already in custody on a charge of rape in connection to an investigation by Atchison Police.

Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, police in Kansas were notified that the Phelps County Missouri Sheriff’s Department was looking for a 13-year-old girl who had been missing since Monday night, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Law enforcement had developed information that the girl was with a 20-year-old suspect and they were believed to be in the Atchison, Kansas, area.

Atchison Police officers located the suspect’s vehicle parked at a local hotel and subsequently located the 13-year-old runaway and the suspect at the hotel.

Police arrested Everson on requested charges of&nbsp; rape and contributing to a child’s misconduct.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The 25th Judicial Circuit Court in Phelps County Missouri filed the child kidnapping charge on Wednesday. The bond on the Missouri warrant was set at $500,000.&nbsp; -------

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710346370479.png" alt="Everson-photo Atchison" />
 <figcaption>Everson-photo Atchison</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect on alleged child sex crimes have included a new charge.On Thursday,&nbsp;Atchison Police arrested Osias W. Everson, 20, Deer Lodge Montana, on a State of Missouri warrant charging him with ‘child kidnapping," according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Everson remains in the Atchison County Jail, already in custody on a charge of rape in connection to an investigation by Atchison Police.Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, police in Kansas were notified that the Phelps County Missouri Sheriff’s Department was looking for a 13-year-old girl who had been missing since Monday night, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Law enforcement had developed information that the girl was with a 20-year-old suspect and they were believed to be in the Atchison, Kansas, area.Atchison Police officers located the suspect’s vehicle parked at a local hotel and subsequently located the 13-year-old runaway and the suspect at the hotel.Police arrested Everson on requested charges of&nbsp; rape and contributing to a child’s misconduct.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 25th Judicial Circuit Court in Phelps County Missouri filed the child kidnapping charge on Wednesday. The bond on the Missouri warrant was set at $500,000.&nbsp; -------

Suspect charged in Mo. with kidnapping after teen found at motel

Officials with the City of St. Joseph are still hard at work to get a new animal shelter built.  

Mayor John Josendale says on top of the$ 3.4 million the city is dedicating to the new building; Friends of the Animal Shelter is contributing the $1.6 million it raised for the project.  

"To help us do the animal shelter a little bigger, a little better," Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, we're working with the architects, and it will help fund the entire project and that's what the plan is at this point." 

Josendale says with the need for a new shelter at an all-time high, the city is very committed to getting this project done. 

"Go down to the current shelter it's there but it's landlocked, it's overcrowded, so the new facility and where we're going to put it I think it will be more easily accessible, I think it will have more room, we've got some green space with it, so everything about it is very positive," Josendale explains. 

Josendale says the collaboration with Friends of the Animal Shelter on the project has been vitally important. 

"We really appreciate them again coming back with the funds that they had raised and going out to the people they had originally collected that from to make sure they were in agreement with moving forward in this direction," Josendale says. "So, it's a very positive collaboration with them." 

The city will now begin searching for an architect to design the building which will be located at 3405 South Belt Highway.

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

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Officials with the City of St. Joseph are still hard at work to get a new animal shelter built. Mayor John Josendale says on top of the$ 3.4 million the city is dedicating to the new building; Friends of the Animal Shelter is contributing the $1.6 million it raised for the project. "To help us do the animal shelter a little bigger, a little better," Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, we're working with the architects, and it will help fund the entire project and that's what the plan is at this point." Josendale says with the need for a new shelter at an all-time high, the city is very committed to getting this project done. "Go down to the current shelter it's there but it's landlocked, it's overcrowded, so the new facility and where we're going to put it I think it will be more easily accessible, I think it will have more room, we've got some green space with it, so everything about it is very positive," Josendale explains. Josendale says the collaboration with Friends of the Animal Shelter on the project has been vitally important. "We really appreciate them again coming back with the funds that they had raised and going out to the people they had originally collected that from to make sure they were in agreement with moving forward in this direction," Josendale says. "So, it's a very positive collaboration with them." The city will now begin searching for an architect to design the building which will be located at 3405 South Belt Highway.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph City officials say they are committed to building a new animal shelter

The St. Louis University/YouGov poll found many undecided voters as ballot campaign gathers signatures. The poll also found strong support for repealing the sales tax on food and sports wagering

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

A new poll shows plurality of Missourians support&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/08/initiative-petition-abortion-rights-rape-incest-missouri/">restoring abortion rights</a>&nbsp;as they existed under Roe v. Wade, but a large undecided group holds the key to victory.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.slu.edu/research/research-institute/big-ideas/slu-poll/index.php">St. Louis University/YouGov Poll</a>&nbsp;conducted in February found that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.slu.edu/research/research-institute/big-ideas/slu-poll/data-archive/february-2024-poll/slu-poll-february-2024-crosstab-results.pdf">44% of those surveyed</a>&nbsp;would vote for abortion rights after hearing the ballot language, while 37% were opposed. The support was held across income, education and racial subgroups. Almost one-fifth of voters, 19%, said they were unsure how they would vote.

Along partisan lines, Democrats showed the strongest support, at 71%, while only 24% of Republicans support the proposal.

The U.S. Supreme Court in June overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that found federal constitutional protections for abortion. Under&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/25/abortion-is-illegal-in-missouri-providers-look-to-next-frontier-to-ensure-access/">current Missouri law</a>, abortions are only allowed to save the life of the mother or when “a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.”

A group called Missourians for Constitutional Freedom is collecting signatures to put abortion rights on the November ballot. They must gather at least 171,000 signatures from registered voters by early May.

If the measure makes the ballot, poll director Steven Rogers said, there are enough undecided voters to sway the result.&nbsp;

“Voters probably do have opinions about abortion, but they’re going to need a little bit of education about this ballot initiative,” he said.

And with Missouri unlikely to be in play for the presidential election, he said, abortion will dominate the campaign.

A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/12/st-louis-cardinals-lead-missouris-major-teams-to-launch-initiative-on-sports-betting/">sports wagering initiative</a>&nbsp;campaign is also underway and the poll found 60% of those surveyed back legal betting on professional sports.

“The initiative petitions are gonna be a big aspect of (the campaign) because that’s going to affect turnout and, in fact, a lot of down ballot races,” Rogers said.&nbsp;

The poll surveyed 900 likely Missouri voters between Feb. 14 and Feb. 26, with a 3.74% margin of error. Along with the major initiatives, the poll included questions tracking attitudes toward President Joe Biden, Congress, major Missouri political figures and the General Assembly.

The poll also questioned voters about their choices for governor and their views on the biggest issues confronting the state as well as current legislative debates like school choice.Only 37% of those surveyed said they approve of the job Biden is doing, a rating similar to the findings in four previous surveys dating to July 2021. But Missourians’ views toward Congress and the General Assembly have grown decidedly more negative.

Only 14% said they approve of the job Congress is doing, the worst rating in any poll dating to October 2020 and down&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/03/02/new-poll-shows-broad-support-in-missouri-for-gun-controls-school-safety-measures/">8 percentage points in the past year</a>.

The disapproval rating for Congress, 78%, is much higher than that for Biden, at 62%

“Congress has always been unpopular, but now they’re really unpopular,” Rogers said.

The legislature, while receiving higher marks with a 35% approval rating, also has its lowest rating since the poll was launched and is down 16 percentage points from a year ago.

Gov. Mike Parson, who will leave office at the end of the year due to term limits, has an approval rating of 52%, among the highest ever found by the poll. U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican seeking re-election this year, has an approval rating of 50%.

The race to succeed Parson is wide open, at least for the August primaries. Without named candidates, the poll found 52% of those surveyed will vote for the Republican candidate for governor while 38% selected the Democrat.

“It’s going to be very surprising to me if we don’t have a Republican win the governorship,” Rogers said.

When those who said they would vote Republican were asked which candidate they preferred, “not sure” was selected by almost half of those polled. Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft had the largest number of committed voters, with 28%, followed by Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe at 10% and state Sen. Bill Eigel at 8%.

On the Democratic side, “not sure” was selected by 66% of respondents, with House Minority Leader Crystal Quade chosen by 21% and Springfield businessman Mike Hamra chosen by 4%.

“I would not be surprised if for Ashcroft it isn’t a lot of name recognition due to himself or also his father, as compared to Mike Kehoe or Crystal Quade,” Rogers said. “I don’t think it’s settled at all.”

On issues under consideration by lawmakers, the most popular idea was eliminating the sales tax on groceries. Currently, shoppers do not pay the state’s 3% general revenue sales tax on food products that can be bought with federal food stamp benefits but the remaining state and local taxes can add 6% or more to grocery tabs.

Eliminating the 1.225% state sales tax on groceries was supported by 81%, eliminating local taxes on grocery sales received support from 72% of respondents. Even if the state treasury had to reimburse local governments for the revenue loss of eliminating the food taxes, 60% of those surveyed said they support it.

“There’s vast support to repeal state grocery taxes along with the local grocery tax,” Rogers said.

Voters aren’t as sold on school choice questions, but strong majorities do back measures that would give parents more options. Almost three-fifths, 56%, rate their local schools as fair or poor and almost three-fourths, 73%, say that about schools statewide, numbers that show little change from past surveys.

Nearly three in five, 59%, said they support giving parents the right to enroll their children in other public school districts. They oppose general transportation subsidies for transfering students, with 83% saying that is the responsibility of parents, but support it for students living near the poverty level who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches.

The survey also found 50% of Missourians oppose allowing districts to opt-out by limiting transfers out of the district or and 43% oppose allowing districts to refuse transfers into their schools.

“They’re in the ballpark of what we had (in a poll) about a year and a half ago,” Rogers said. “Voters want students to be able to go to other schools, but they’re less accepting of schools being able to put limits on transferring in and transferring out or what students they accept.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710414303817.png" alt=" Supporters sign an initiative petition in support of a ballot measure that would legalize abortion up to the point of fetal viability in Missouri. during an event on Feb. 6, 2024, in Kansas City hosted by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Supporters sign an initiative petition in support of a ballot measure that would legalize abortion up to the point of fetal viability in Missouri. during an event on Feb. 6, 2024, in Kansas City hosted by Missourians for Constitutional Freedom (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The St. Louis University/YouGov poll found many undecided voters as ballot campaign gathers signatures. The poll also found strong support for repealing the sales tax on food and sports wagering</h2>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A new poll shows plurality of Missourians support&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/08/initiative-petition-abortion-rights-rape-incest-missouri/">restoring abortion rights</a>&nbsp;as they existed under Roe v. Wade, but a large undecided group holds the key to victory.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.slu.edu/research/research-institute/big-ideas/slu-poll/index.php">St. Louis University/YouGov Poll</a>&nbsp;conducted in February found that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.slu.edu/research/research-institute/big-ideas/slu-poll/data-archive/february-2024-poll/slu-poll-february-2024-crosstab-results.pdf">44% of those surveyed</a>&nbsp;would vote for abortion rights after hearing the ballot language, while 37% were opposed. The support was held across income, education and racial subgroups. Almost one-fifth of voters, 19%, said they were unsure how they would vote.Along partisan lines, Democrats showed the strongest support, at 71%, while only 24% of Republicans support the proposal.The U.S. Supreme Court in June overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that found federal constitutional protections for abortion. Under&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/25/abortion-is-illegal-in-missouri-providers-look-to-next-frontier-to-ensure-access/">current Missouri law</a>, abortions are only allowed to save the life of the mother or when “a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.”A group called Missourians for Constitutional Freedom is collecting signatures to put abortion rights on the November ballot. They must gather at least 171,000 signatures from registered voters by early May.If the measure makes the ballot, poll director Steven Rogers said, there are enough undecided voters to sway the result.&nbsp;“Voters probably do have opinions about abortion, but they’re going to need a little bit of education about this ballot initiative,” he said.And with Missouri unlikely to be in play for the presidential election, he said, abortion will dominate the campaign.A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/12/st-louis-cardinals-lead-missouris-major-teams-to-launch-initiative-on-sports-betting/">sports wagering initiative</a>&nbsp;campaign is also underway and the poll found 60% of those surveyed back legal betting on professional sports.“The initiative petitions are gonna be a big aspect of (the campaign) because that’s going to affect turnout and, in fact, a lot of down ballot races,” Rogers said.&nbsp;The poll surveyed 900 likely Missouri voters between Feb. 14 and Feb. 26, with a 3.74% margin of error. Along with the major initiatives, the poll included questions tracking attitudes toward President Joe Biden, Congress, major Missouri political figures and the General Assembly.The poll also questioned voters about their choices for governor and their views on the biggest issues confronting the state as well as current legislative debates like school choice.Only 37% of those surveyed said they approve of the job Biden is doing, a rating similar to the findings in four previous surveys dating to July 2021. But Missourians’ views toward Congress and the General Assembly have grown decidedly more negative.Only 14% said they approve of the job Congress is doing, the worst rating in any poll dating to October 2020 and down&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/03/02/new-poll-shows-broad-support-in-missouri-for-gun-controls-school-safety-measures/">8 percentage points in the past year</a>.The disapproval rating for Congress, 78%, is much higher than that for Biden, at 62%“Congress has always been unpopular, but now they’re really unpopular,” Rogers said.The legislature, while receiving higher marks with a 35% approval rating, also has its lowest rating since the poll was launched and is down 16 percentage points from a year ago.Gov. Mike Parson, who will leave office at the end of the year due to term limits, has an approval rating of 52%, among the highest ever found by the poll. U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican seeking re-election this year, has an approval rating of 50%.The race to succeed Parson is wide open, at least for the August primaries. Without named candidates, the poll found 52% of those surveyed will vote for the Republican candidate for governor while 38% selected the Democrat.“It’s going to be very surprising to me if we don’t have a Republican win the governorship,” Rogers said.When those who said they would vote Republican were asked which candidate they preferred, “not sure” was selected by almost half of those polled. Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft had the largest number of committed voters, with 28%, followed by Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe at 10% and state Sen. Bill Eigel at 8%.On the Democratic side, “not sure” was selected by 66% of respondents, with House Minority Leader Crystal Quade chosen by 21% and Springfield businessman Mike Hamra chosen by 4%.“I would not be surprised if for Ashcroft it isn’t a lot of name recognition due to himself or also his father, as compared to Mike Kehoe or Crystal Quade,” Rogers said. “I don’t think it’s settled at all.”Other poll results show:<ul>
 <li>The top issue for Missourians is the economy, selected by 42% of respondents, with healthcare and infrastructure needs tied in second place at 17%.</li><li>Views about the economy show most are pessimistic, with more than three-quarters of those surveyed saying both state and national economic conditions are fair or poor. Among those who view the economy as good or excellent, however, more say the national economy is in good shape, 24%, than say the same about the Missouri economy. The rating of the national economy is up 5 percentage points in the past year.</li><li>Missourians are divided on whether race relations are improving, with 49% saying race relations are good in their community while 46% say they are not. Among whites, 53% say race relations are good while among Black Missourians, only 20% agree.</li>
 </ul>On issues under consideration by lawmakers, the most popular idea was eliminating the sales tax on groceries. Currently, shoppers do not pay the state’s 3% general revenue sales tax on food products that can be bought with federal food stamp benefits but the remaining state and local taxes can add 6% or more to grocery tabs.Eliminating the 1.225% state sales tax on groceries was supported by 81%, eliminating local taxes on grocery sales received support from 72% of respondents. Even if the state treasury had to reimburse local governments for the revenue loss of eliminating the food taxes, 60% of those surveyed said they support it.“There’s vast support to repeal state grocery taxes along with the local grocery tax,” Rogers said.Voters aren’t as sold on school choice questions, but strong majorities do back measures that would give parents more options. Almost three-fifths, 56%, rate their local schools as fair or poor and almost three-fourths, 73%, say that about schools statewide, numbers that show little change from past surveys.Nearly three in five, 59%, said they support giving parents the right to enroll their children in other public school districts. They oppose general transportation subsidies for transfering students, with 83% saying that is the responsibility of parents, but support it for students living near the poverty level who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches.The survey also found 50% of Missourians oppose allowing districts to opt-out by limiting transfers out of the district or and 43% oppose allowing districts to refuse transfers into their schools.“They’re in the ballpark of what we had (in a poll) about a year and a half ago,” Rogers said. “Voters want students to be able to go to other schools, but they’re less accepting of schools being able to put limits on transferring in and transferring out or what students they accept.”

Missourians back initiative to restore abortion rights by small margin, new poll finds

KANSAS CITY — Three Kansas City men have been charged in federal court for illegal firearms trafficking and straw purchases of firearms as a result of the investigation into the mass shooting at Union Station during the celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory on Feb. 14, 2024, according the U.S. Department of Justice.

“These cases underscore the importance of enforcing federal firearms laws,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “Stopping straw buyers and preventing illegal firearms trafficking is our first line of defense against gun violence. At least two of the firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station were illegally purchased or trafficked. We work diligently with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals by investigating and prosecuting those who illegally buy and sell dangerous weapons.”

“The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act has given ATF additional tools needed to go after straw purchasers and firearms traffickers who flood our streets with weapons that pose a threat to every single person in Kansas City,” said ATF Kansas City Field Division Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “These arrests serve as a notice to those who think they can illegally traffic guns into our communities or straw purchase firearms. The men and women of ATF will never waiver on our commitment to protect the public and to aggressively target firearms traffickers. The proliferation of illegal guns represents a grave danger to the public, but law enforcement is united and strong. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all our law enforcement partners for their diligent work and tireless dedication to our shared public safety mission.”

“While the events of February 14, will forever weigh heavy on our hearts, the effort of our federal partners and KCPD detectives is a testament to their service to Kansas City,” said Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves. “We will continue to hold those responsible for violence in our city accountable.”

One person was killed and more than 20 people were injured in the mass shooting at Union Station. According to court documents, 12 individuals brandished firearms and at least six individuals fired their weapons. The Kansas City, Mo., Police Department recovered several firearms, spent shell casings, and other items of evidentiary value from the scene.

Two Firearms Recovered from Scene of Mass Shooting

Two firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting are cited in two separate federal criminal complaints filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Monday, March 11. Those complaints were unsealed and made public today following the arrests of the defendants.

Fedo Antonia Manning, 22, was charged in a 12-count criminal complaint. Ronnel Dewayne Williams, Jr., 21, and Chaelyn Hendrick Groves, 19, were charged in a four-count federal criminal complaint.

One of the firearms recovered from the scene of the shooting was an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber pistol. The loaded pistol was found along the wall with a backpack next to two AR-15-style firearms and backpacks. Because the pistol was in “fire” position and there were 26 live rounds in the magazine, which is capable of holding 30 rounds, it may have fired several rounds before it was discarded.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, the AM-15 pistol was purchased by Manning from Frontier Justice in Lee’s Summit, Mo., on Aug. 7, 2022. The affidavit alleges that Manning illegally trafficked dozens of firearms, including many Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms.

The second firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting was a Stag Arms 300-caliber pistol. According to an affidavit filed in the second federal criminal complaint, the pistol was purchased by Williams from The Ammo Box during a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023. Williams allegedly purchased the firearm for Groves, who accompanied him to the gun show but was too young to legally purchase the firearm himself.

The federal criminal complaints do not make any allegations that Manning, Williams, or Groves were among the shooters at Union Station on Feb. 14, 2024. Rather, the federal charges involve the illegal straw purchases and trafficking of firearms.

Manning and Williams are alleged to have purchased firearm receivers, or frames, which house the firing mechanism and other internal parts of a firearm. The receiver can be loaded and fired, or built into a complete firearm by adding components that may not be regulated under federal law. By federal definition, a receiver is a firearm and is the only controlled component of a firearm.

Manning, who is not a licensed federal firearms dealer, allegedly purchased dozens of firearms. Fifteen of the firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement officers in the possession of individuals other than Manning, including several individuals who were legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

The firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station is one of seven firearms originally purchased by Manning that have been recovered during investigations of crimes. According to the affidavit, Manning purchased two Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 pistols from Frontier Justice on Aug. 7, 2022. In addition to the firearm recovered at Union Station, the second firearm purchased by Manning that day was later recovered from a stolen vehicle during the investigation of an armed robbery. Firearms also were recovered during investigations into a murder in Columbia, Mo., and the armed robbery of a local convenience store. Three firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement from individuals who were prohibited from legally possessing firearms.

Manning also allegedly was the straw purchaser of seven firearms that were later sold to a confidential informant during a separate federal criminal investigation. The confidential informant, who was known to be a felon and therefore prohibited from possessing firearms, purchased a total of 27 firearms from two of Manning’s family members and their co-conspirators, who have been indicted in a separate federal case. In addition to those seven firearms, says the affidavit, federal investigators traced Manning’s purchase of 40 firearms over a nine-month period, including 33 Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms, all of which were purchased as receivers.

The federal criminal complaint charges Manning with one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms, one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and 10 counts of making a false statement on a federal form. In each of these 10 purchases, Manning represented that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, but in fact these firearms were transferred to other persons shortly after he purchased them.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The federal criminal complaint charges Williams and Groves together in one count of conspiracy to make false statements in the acquisition of firearms and in one count of aiding and abetting making false statements in the acquisition of firearms. Williams and Groves are each charged separately in one count each of making a false statement to a federal agent.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, Williams and Groves attended a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023, looking for receivers to buy. Groves, who was under the age of 21 and therefore too young to legally purchase a firearm receiver, allegedly gave money to Williams. Williams allegedly purchased the Stag Arms receiver for Groves.

Groves told investigators he purchased a 300-blackout upper to complete the firearm at another gun show about a month later. Groves also claimed the Stag Arms firearm was stolen during a “shootout.” Rather than report the firearm stolen, Groves said he just went to a gun show with a different friend who bought him another one. Groves showed investigators a video on his cell phone that included the firearm. According to the affidavit, the cell phone video showed an AR pistol lying on a flat surface, then panned out to show five other handguns.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jess Michaelsen. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The charges contained in these complaints are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707958028584.jpeg" alt="File photo . (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>File photo . (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — Three Kansas City men have been charged in federal court for illegal firearms trafficking and straw purchases of firearms as a result of the investigation into the mass shooting at Union Station during the celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory on Feb. 14, 2024, according the U.S. Department of Justice.“These cases underscore the importance of enforcing federal firearms laws,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “Stopping straw buyers and preventing illegal firearms trafficking is our first line of defense against gun violence. At least two of the firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station were illegally purchased or trafficked. We work diligently with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals by investigating and prosecuting those who illegally buy and sell dangerous weapons.”“The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act has given ATF additional tools needed to go after straw purchasers and firearms traffickers who flood our streets with weapons that pose a threat to every single person in Kansas City,” said ATF Kansas City Field Division Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “These arrests serve as a notice to those who think they can illegally traffic guns into our communities or straw purchase firearms. The men and women of ATF will never waiver on our commitment to protect the public and to aggressively target firearms traffickers. The proliferation of illegal guns represents a grave danger to the public, but law enforcement is united and strong. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all our law enforcement partners for their diligent work and tireless dedication to our shared public safety mission.”“While the events of February 14, will forever weigh heavy on our hearts, the effort of our federal partners and KCPD detectives is a testament to their service to Kansas City,” said Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves. “We will continue to hold those responsible for violence in our city accountable.”One person was killed and more than 20 people were injured in the mass shooting at Union Station. According to court documents, 12 individuals brandished firearms and at least six individuals fired their weapons. The Kansas City, Mo., Police Department recovered several firearms, spent shell casings, and other items of evidentiary value from the scene.Two Firearms Recovered from Scene of Mass ShootingTwo firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting are cited in two separate federal criminal complaints filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Monday, March 11. Those complaints were unsealed and made public today following the arrests of the defendants.Fedo Antonia Manning, 22, was charged in a 12-count criminal complaint. Ronnel Dewayne Williams, Jr., 21, and Chaelyn Hendrick Groves, 19, were charged in a four-count federal criminal complaint.One of the firearms recovered from the scene of the shooting was an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber pistol. The loaded pistol was found along the wall with a backpack next to two AR-15-style firearms and backpacks. Because the pistol was in “fire” position and there were 26 live rounds in the magazine, which is capable of holding 30 rounds, it may have fired several rounds before it was discarded.According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, the AM-15 pistol was purchased by Manning from Frontier Justice in Lee’s Summit, Mo., on Aug. 7, 2022. The affidavit alleges that Manning illegally trafficked dozens of firearms, including many Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms.The second firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting was a Stag Arms 300-caliber pistol. According to an affidavit filed in the second federal criminal complaint, the pistol was purchased by Williams from The Ammo Box during a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023. Williams allegedly purchased the firearm for Groves, who accompanied him to the gun show but was too young to legally purchase the firearm himself.The federal criminal complaints do not make any allegations that Manning, Williams, or Groves were among the shooters at Union Station on Feb. 14, 2024. Rather, the federal charges involve the illegal straw purchases and trafficking of firearms.Manning and Williams are alleged to have purchased firearm receivers, or frames, which house the firing mechanism and other internal parts of a firearm. The receiver can be loaded and fired, or built into a complete firearm by adding components that may not be regulated under federal law. By federal definition, a receiver is a firearm and is the only controlled component of a firearm.USA v. ManningManning, who is not a licensed federal firearms dealer, allegedly purchased dozens of firearms. Fifteen of the firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement officers in the possession of individuals other than Manning, including several individuals who were legally prohibited from possessing firearms.The firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station is one of seven firearms originally purchased by Manning that have been recovered during investigations of crimes. According to the affidavit, Manning purchased two Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 pistols from Frontier Justice on Aug. 7, 2022. In addition to the firearm recovered at Union Station, the second firearm purchased by Manning that day was later recovered from a stolen vehicle during the investigation of an armed robbery. Firearms also were recovered during investigations into a murder in Columbia, Mo., and the armed robbery of a local convenience store. Three firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement from individuals who were prohibited from legally possessing firearms.Manning also allegedly was the straw purchaser of seven firearms that were later sold to a confidential informant during a separate federal criminal investigation. The confidential informant, who was known to be a felon and therefore prohibited from possessing firearms, purchased a total of 27 firearms from two of Manning’s family members and their co-conspirators, who have been indicted in a separate federal case. In addition to those seven firearms, says the affidavit, federal investigators traced Manning’s purchase of 40 firearms over a nine-month period, including 33 Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms, all of which were purchased as receivers.The federal criminal complaint charges Manning with one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms, one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and 10 counts of making a false statement on a federal form. In each of these 10 purchases, Manning represented that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, but in fact these firearms were transferred to other persons shortly after he purchased them.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.USA v. Williams, et alThe federal criminal complaint charges Williams and Groves together in one count of conspiracy to make false statements in the acquisition of firearms and in one count of aiding and abetting making false statements in the acquisition of firearms. Williams and Groves are each charged separately in one count each of making a false statement to a federal agent.According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, Williams and Groves attended a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023, looking for receivers to buy. Groves, who was under the age of 21 and therefore too young to legally purchase a firearm receiver, allegedly gave money to Williams. Williams allegedly purchased the Stag Arms receiver for Groves.Groves told investigators he purchased a 300-blackout upper to complete the firearm at another gun show about a month later. Groves also claimed the Stag Arms firearm was stolen during a “shootout.” Rather than report the firearm stolen, Groves said he just went to a gun show with a different friend who bought him another one. Groves showed investigators a video on his cell phone that included the firearm. According to the affidavit, the cell phone video showed an AR pistol lying on a flat surface, then panned out to show five other handguns.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jess Michaelsen. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.The charges contained in these complaints are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Federal charges filed in connection to deadly shooting at Chiefs rally 

Democrats critical of missed deadlines for this year’s budget as worries grow that Senate factions could derail passage of spending plan for coming fiscal year

The first – and perhaps only – chance for the public to tell Missouri House members what they think of Gov. Mike Parson’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/24/gov-mike-parson-proposes-record-52-7-billion-missouri-state-budget/">$52.7 billion budget proposal</a>&nbsp;will be Thursday.

The timing is upsetting Democrats on the House Budget Committee, who said public input should have occurred weeks ago. Scheduling&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://house.mo.gov/AllHearings.aspx?nid=8687">one hearing on all 17 spending bills</a>&nbsp;for the day before lawmakers take a week-long spring break doesn’t allow for adequate deliberation, they argue.

“Because we are so far along in the process, for anything to change in the budget because of public testimony would be highly unusual,” said Rep. Deb Lavender, a Manchester Democrat who began pushing for hearings at the end of January.

<h2>Democrats critical of missed deadlines for this year’s budget as worries grow that Senate factions could derail passage of spending plan for coming fiscal year</h2>By RUDI KELLER,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>The first – and perhaps only – chance for the public to tell Missouri House members what they think of Gov. Mike Parson’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/01/24/gov-mike-parson-proposes-record-52-7-billion-missouri-state-budget/">$52.7 billion budget proposal</a>&nbsp;will be Thursday.The timing is upsetting Democrats on the House Budget Committee, who said public input should have occurred weeks ago. Scheduling&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://house.mo.gov/AllHearings.aspx?nid=8687">one hearing on all 17 spending bills</a>&nbsp;for the day before lawmakers take a week-long spring break doesn’t allow for adequate deliberation, they argue.“Because we are so far along in the process, for anything to change in the budget because of public testimony would be highly unusual,” said Rep. Deb Lavender, a Manchester Democrat who began pushing for hearings at the end of January.At the hearing, Budget Committee Chairman Cody Smith will reveal how he wants to change Parson’s spending plan. Votes on the budget will be held the week of March 25 with floor debate tentatively scheduled for the following week.Smith defended the timing of the hearing. He’s heard from advocacy groups, other lawmakers and individuals in one-on-one meetings and will allow for more testimony after spring break if the Thursday hearing isn’t enough time for everyone who wants to speak, he said.“If we had an objection or concern raised in my office about the opportunity to testify publicly, and the short notice about that, I would be open to making more time for that,” Smith said.Parson’s budget includes raises for teachers, a 3% increase for higher education budget and childcare and funding to study improvements on Interstate 44. He’s also asking for a 3.2% pay raise for state workers, $1.5 billion in federal funds for broadband expansion and $314.7 million for new construction on college campuses.The state is in a strong financial position. While the record surplus that has built up over the past three years is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/30/missouri-surplus-peaking-at-8-billion-as-governor-prepares-to-act-on-state-budget/">down from its peak of $8 billion</a>, the treasury is holding $4.6 billion in surplus general revenue, with another $2 billion in funds that can be spent like general revenue.&nbsp;Surplus general revenue, under House rules, is off limits for budget committee members who want to push new or increased spending items. And Smith, who in past years has cut large sums from Parson’s spending plan, said he will do so again in his proposals coming tomorrow.“I’m going to be looking to limit as much spending as I can and the management of general revenue certainly will be a part of the committee substitute process,” Smith said.Smith has frustrated Democratic spending proposals in past years because they must cut in one place of the budget to increase spending on another line.“I have no reason to think he hasn’t continued to excel at his skills to lock all of the money behind doors I don’t have access to,” Lavender said.The timing of Thursday’s budget hearing isn’t unusual compared to past years, but it does represent a failure of an ambitious plan to move the budget along earlier in the year. House appropriations subcommittees began&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/missouri-house-getting-head-start-on-budget-talks-heading-into-2024/article_207534b2-8248-11ee-9433-7322f1406101.html">looking at department requests in December</a>, with a stated goal of holding votes in the full House this week.With factional fights tying up the Senate, timing could become critical. Lawmakers must pass spending bills through both chambers no later than May 10. Last year, the budget was finished only on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/05/missouri-lawmakers-approve-largest-budget-in-state-history-almost-51-billion/">final day allowed by the constitution</a>.Members of the Missouri Freedom Caucus, a group of six conservative Republican senators, have vowed to debate the budget line-by-line on the Senate floor.“That’s why they wanted to (finish earlier in the House) because everybody knows that there is a real risk that this has a problem in the Senate this year,” said state Rep. Peter Merideth, a St. Louis Democrat. “And we may find ourselves in a special session for the budget.”Smith, however, said he’s confident that the potential embarrassment of missing the constitutional deadline will help move the budget in the Senate.“Everyone on all sides of the warring factions within the Missouri Senate agree broadly that we should finish the budget on time, that that’s our one responsibility,” Smith said “That’s my impression.So, I’m hopeful that they’ll be able to get things together well enough to pass the budget on time.”Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Lincoln Hough said he will be rushed but will get a budget to the Senate floor in time to hold the debate if it proves lengthy.“With the House taking the amount of time that they’ve taken,” Hough said, “it puts us in a little bit of a jam on the Senate. So we’ve got to work a little more feverishly than I would really like to once we get their bills.”

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