The legislation allows drinks but prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp edibles outside of marijuana dispensaries

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Legislation allowing low-dose intoxicating hemp drinks to continue to be sold in grocery and liquor stores won the approval of committees in both the Missouri House and Senate this week.&nbsp;

A House committee advanced a bill 12 to 5 on Wednesday afternoon, followed the next morning by a 5 to 1 by a Senate committee.

While the bills carve out a place for hemp-THC seltzers to remain on store shelves, both bills ban intoxicating hemp edibles and vapes from being sold outside of marijuana dispensaries.&nbsp;

That point caused some reluctance from House public safety committee members who worried it would harshly impact a number of current Missouri companies that sell those products.&nbsp;

“This is a tough bill to vote on,” said Democratic state Rep. Mark Sharp of Kansas City, who voted in favor. “On the one hand, you’re regulating to the point where you want to keep children safe, especially in our urban areas. But on the other hand, you’re maybe over regulating.”

Sharp and several other lawmakers said they voted in favor to get “more eyes” on the bill when it reaches the full House, while others voted against because they’d prefer other legislation that has been filed this year.&nbsp;

Among the other proposals is the beer wholesalers’&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/hlrbillspdf/0718H.01I.pdf" target="_blank">legislation</a>, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Barry Hovis of Whitewater, which lays out regulations only for hemp beverages. Like both the bills approved this week, it would also establish the same three-tier distribution system that the alcohol industry has long abided by.

“I’m against monopolies, always have been,” said Hovis at the Wednesday House committee meeting, “and I still think that with the unknown of what it’s going to cost an independent business has been selling stuff that’s legal under the farm bill already. It could be tripling, quadrupling…”&nbsp;

Under both bills approved this week, all retailers must get a license to sell the beverages. But a key difference is which state agency is tasked with issuing and regulating the licenses.&nbsp;

The Senate bill, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Nick Schroer of Defiance, puts the job in the hands of the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which already regulates liquor retailers, distributors and manufacturers.&nbsp;

The House bill, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Chad Perkins of Bowling Green, will ask the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which already houses the state’s cannabis regulating agency.

“This isn’t a final product,” Schroer said of his bill in the Senate committee Thursday. “If we’re going to have a regulated industry, implement consumer protections to make sure that the potency that’s on the packaging is exactly what it is. The main point is making sure that our kids don’t have access to this stuff.”

Schroer’s original&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/BillText.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=292" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;proposed to treat hemp-derived THC edibles, vapes and beverages the same as marijuana — meaning under the Division of Cannabis Regulation’s rules and exclusively sold in dispensaries.&nbsp;

The Missouri Cannabis Trade Association&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/22/missouri-cannabis-trade-group-offers-compromise-in-fight-over-regulating-intoxicating-hemp/">proposed an amendment</a>&nbsp;last month to carve out an exception for beverages, such as THC seltzers sold in cans. It capped the amount of THC at five milligrams per can and excluded drinks made with “synthetic” THC, or THC that has been converted from CBD using a chemical process.

That language is in both the House and Senate bills.&nbsp;

However, Brooklyn Hill, president of the Missouri Hemp Trade Association, said MoCann’s carve out is “not a solution to the problem.”

“This bill will still, even with the hemp beverage carve out, shut down hundreds of Missouri businesses and cost hundreds of Missourians their jobs,” Hill said.

Currently, Delta-8 THC products — including a large variety of drinks that are popular at bars and available at gas stations throughout the state — can be sold in Missouri stores because the intoxicating ingredient is derived from hemp, not marijuana.

Hemp is&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/11/farm-bill-debate-includes-hemp-regulation-as-issue-takes-center-stage-in-missouri-recall/">federally legal</a>, though several states have passed laws to prohibit intoxicating hemp products.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/04/14/missouri-lawmakers-take-aim-at-unregulated-delta-8-thc-hemp-products/">Missouri legislators have tried</a>&nbsp;for the past two years to do that as well.&nbsp;

There’s no state or federal law saying teenagers or children can’t buy them or stores can’t sell them to minors — though some stores and vendors have taken it upon themselves to impose age restrictions of 21 and up.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=860121" target="_blank">proposal backed by the hemp association</a>&nbsp;would limit beverages and edibles to 100 mg of THC per serving, saying that some people who use the products medicinally require a higher dose. It directs the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to regulate hemp licensees.

The Missouri Hemp Trade Association believes vehemently opposes establishing the three-tier system, saying it would create a monopoly on behalf of the distributors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738932671240.jpeg" alt="Delta-8 THC products like this pineapple seltzer can be sold in stores in Missouri because the intoxicating ingredient, THC, is derived from hemp, not marijuana which is a controlled substance (Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Delta-8 THC products like this pineapple seltzer can be sold in stores in Missouri because the intoxicating ingredient, THC, is derived from hemp, not marijuana which is a controlled substance (Rebecca Rivas/The Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The legislation allows drinks but prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp edibles outside of marijuana dispensaries</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Legislation allowing low-dose intoxicating hemp drinks to continue to be sold in grocery and liquor stores won the approval of committees in both the Missouri House and Senate this week.&nbsp;A House committee advanced a bill 12 to 5 on Wednesday afternoon, followed the next morning by a 5 to 1 by a Senate committee.While the bills carve out a place for hemp-THC seltzers to remain on store shelves, both bills ban intoxicating hemp edibles and vapes from being sold outside of marijuana dispensaries.&nbsp;That point caused some reluctance from House public safety committee members who worried it would harshly impact a number of current Missouri companies that sell those products.&nbsp;“This is a tough bill to vote on,” said Democratic state Rep. Mark Sharp of Kansas City, who voted in favor. “On the one hand, you’re regulating to the point where you want to keep children safe, especially in our urban areas. But on the other hand, you’re maybe over regulating.”Sharp and several other lawmakers said they voted in favor to get “more eyes” on the bill when it reaches the full House, while others voted against because they’d prefer other legislation that has been filed this year.&nbsp;Among the other proposals is the beer wholesalers’&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/hlrbillspdf/0718H.01I.pdf" target="_blank">legislation</a>, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Barry Hovis of Whitewater, which lays out regulations only for hemp beverages. Like both the bills approved this week, it would also establish the same three-tier distribution system that the alcohol industry has long abided by.“I’m against monopolies, always have been,” said Hovis at the Wednesday House committee meeting, “and I still think that with the unknown of what it’s going to cost an independent business has been selling stuff that’s legal under the farm bill already. It could be tripling, quadrupling…”&nbsp;Under both bills approved this week, all retailers must get a license to sell the beverages. But a key difference is which state agency is tasked with issuing and regulating the licenses.&nbsp;The Senate bill, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Nick Schroer of Defiance, puts the job in the hands of the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which already regulates liquor retailers, distributors and manufacturers.&nbsp;The House bill, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Chad Perkins of Bowling Green, will ask the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which already houses the state’s cannabis regulating agency.“This isn’t a final product,” Schroer said of his bill in the Senate committee Thursday. “If we’re going to have a regulated industry, implement consumer protections to make sure that the potency that’s on the packaging is exactly what it is. The main point is making sure that our kids don’t have access to this stuff.”Schroer’s original&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/BillText.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=292" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;proposed to treat hemp-derived THC edibles, vapes and beverages the same as marijuana — meaning under the Division of Cannabis Regulation’s rules and exclusively sold in dispensaries.&nbsp;The Missouri Cannabis Trade Association&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/22/missouri-cannabis-trade-group-offers-compromise-in-fight-over-regulating-intoxicating-hemp/">proposed an amendment</a>&nbsp;last month to carve out an exception for beverages, such as THC seltzers sold in cans. It capped the amount of THC at five milligrams per can and excluded drinks made with “synthetic” THC, or THC that has been converted from CBD using a chemical process.That language is in both the House and Senate bills.&nbsp;However, Brooklyn Hill, president of the Missouri Hemp Trade Association, said MoCann’s carve out is “not a solution to the problem.”“This bill will still, even with the hemp beverage carve out, shut down hundreds of Missouri businesses and cost hundreds of Missourians their jobs,” Hill said.Currently, Delta-8 THC products — including a large variety of drinks that are popular at bars and available at gas stations throughout the state — can be sold in Missouri stores because the intoxicating ingredient is derived from hemp, not marijuana.Hemp is&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/11/farm-bill-debate-includes-hemp-regulation-as-issue-takes-center-stage-in-missouri-recall/">federally legal</a>, though several states have passed laws to prohibit intoxicating hemp products.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/04/14/missouri-lawmakers-take-aim-at-unregulated-delta-8-thc-hemp-products/">Missouri legislators have tried</a>&nbsp;for the past two years to do that as well.&nbsp;There’s no state or federal law saying teenagers or children can’t buy them or stores can’t sell them to minors — though some stores and vendors have taken it upon themselves to impose age restrictions of 21 and up.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=860121" target="_blank">proposal backed by the hemp association</a>&nbsp;would limit beverages and edibles to 100 mg of THC per serving, saying that some people who use the products medicinally require a higher dose. It directs the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control to regulate hemp licensees.The Missouri Hemp Trade Association believes vehemently opposes establishing the three-tier system, saying it would create a monopoly on behalf of the distributors.

Bills adding regulations to hemp-derived THC beverages advance in Missouri legislature

DICKINSON COUNTY —A triple murder suspect captured in central Kansas is now being held in a jail in Missouri.

According to online jail record, 50-year-old Armondo Navarro was transferred on Wednesday and booked into the Platte County jail.

On Sunday morning, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle in the ditch in the area of K-15 Highway and 2900 Avenue, north of Abilene, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.

A deputy responded to the motorist assist and made contact with a man later identified as Navarro of Kansas City, Missouri.

The vehicle was out of the roadway and Navarro advised he was waiting for a tow truck. The deputy then left the scene but told Navarro he would check on him later.

The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office was later notified that Navarro was a suspect in a triple homicide that occurred on February 2, in Kansas City. Deputies returned to the area and confirmed the suspect was still with the vehicle.

Additional deputies arrived as well as troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol. While awaiting the arrival of an armored vehicle from the Junction City Police department, deputies observed Navarro leaving the area on 2900 Road and heading towards K-15 Highway.

The Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and another deputy contacted Navarro at 2900 Avenue and K-15 Highway. A brief foot pursuit ensued and the K-9 was deployed.&nbsp; Navarro surrendered to the K-9 unit and was taken into custody by deputies.

He is being held in the Platte County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, armed criminal action, first degree assault and animal abuse, according to online records.&nbsp;KCPD Captain Jake Becchina identified the homicide victims as 73-year-old Sherri Duncan; 49-year-old Jodie Hopcus and 24-year-old Hailey Hopcus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738861731859.png" alt="Navarro photo Platte Co." />
 <figcaption>Navarro photo Platte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —A triple murder suspect captured in central Kansas is now being held in a jail in Missouri.According to online jail record, 50-year-old Armondo Navarro was transferred on Wednesday and booked into the Platte County jail.On Sunday morning, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle in the ditch in the area of K-15 Highway and 2900 Avenue, north of Abilene, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.A deputy responded to the motorist assist and made contact with a man later identified as Navarro of Kansas City, Missouri.The vehicle was out of the roadway and Navarro advised he was waiting for a tow truck. The deputy then left the scene but told Navarro he would check on him later.The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office was later notified that Navarro was a suspect in a triple homicide that occurred on February 2, in Kansas City. Deputies returned to the area and confirmed the suspect was still with the vehicle.Additional deputies arrived as well as troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol. While awaiting the arrival of an armored vehicle from the Junction City Police department, deputies observed Navarro leaving the area on 2900 Road and heading towards K-15 Highway.The Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and another deputy contacted Navarro at 2900 Avenue and K-15 Highway. A brief foot pursuit ensued and the K-9 was deployed.&nbsp; Navarro surrendered to the K-9 unit and was taken into custody by deputies.He is being held in the Platte County jail on requested charges of first degree murder, armed criminal action, first degree assault and animal abuse, according to online records.&nbsp;KCPD Captain Jake Becchina identified the homicide victims as 73-year-old Sherri Duncan; 49-year-old Jodie Hopcus and 24-year-old Hailey Hopcus.

Triple-murder suspect captured in Kan. moved to Platte Co. jail

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Thursday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy S10 driven by an 18-year-old&nbsp; from Trenton was westbound on Route A three and one half miles northwest of Trenton. The driver lost control on an ice covered bridge. The pickup traveled off the road and struck a tree.&nbsp;

Grundy County ambulance transported the driver to Wright Memorial Hospital and he was later transported to St. Lukes in Kansas City. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol no longer releases the identity of accident victims.

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Thursday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy S10 driven by an 18-year-old&nbsp; from Trenton was westbound on Route A three and one half miles northwest of Trenton. The driver lost control on an ice covered bridge. The pickup traveled off the road and struck a tree.&nbsp;Grundy County ambulance transported the driver to Wright Memorial Hospital and he was later transported to St. Lukes in Kansas City. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.The Missouri State Highway Patrol no longer releases the identity of accident victims.

Mo. teen injured after pickup slides on icy bridge, strikes a tree

It's time to take the plunge into freezing cold water to help a good cause, during the Polar Plunge in St. Joseph.  

The plunge helps benefit Special Olympics Missouri athletes.   Last year's event raised nearly $3,400.  

Development Director for Special Olympics of north Missouri Melody Prawitz says this event is one of the largest fundraisers for the organization. 

"I have three plunges in the north area, we have one in Chillicothe, one in St. Joseph, and one in Kirksville,” Prawitz tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  “And so, with those three combined it’s a pretty big part of our budget that we raise.” 

The Polar Plunge in St. Joseph will be held on February 15th.  Registration for the event is online; participants must raise a minimum of 75 dollars by event day 

Prawitz says while some people use this event as a bucket list item, there are several teams that participate every year 

"We have a few teams that really vie with each other trying to get the number one position in fundraising,” Prawitz explains.  “Like for this weekend we have Freezin for a Reason, we’ll have volunteers at Sam’s Club, at Hyvee, and then we’ll do a boot block at Noyes and Mitchell, where they’re standing out in the cold collecting funds for their teams.” 

 Prawitz says the theme of this year’s plunge is Glow 

"So you know, glow, neon, anything like that,” Prawitz says.  “We have a lot of people that come in different costumes, we give out the golden plunger award for the best costume, first, second, and third, and then we give out awards for the highest fundraisers and the higest team fundraisers.” 

Registered individuals must raise a minimum of $75 dollars by event day.  The event on February 15th will begin with registration at 11am, with the plunge at 1pm at 402 S Noyes Boulevard. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706722062936.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Polar Plunge/ File Photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Polar Plunge/ File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post It's time to take the plunge into freezing cold water to help a good cause, during the Polar Plunge in St. Joseph. The plunge helps benefit Special Olympics Missouri athletes. Last year's event raised nearly $3,400. Development Director for Special Olympics of north Missouri Melody Prawitz says this event is one of the largest fundraisers for the organization. "I have three plunges in the north area, we have one in Chillicothe, one in St. Joseph, and one in Kirksville,” Prawitz tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. “And so, with those three combined it’s a pretty big part of our budget that we raise.” The Polar Plunge in St. Joseph will be held on February 15th. Registration for the event is online; participants must raise a minimum of 75 dollars by event day Prawitz says while some people use this event as a bucket list item, there are several teams that participate every year "We have a few teams that really vie with each other trying to get the number one position in fundraising,” Prawitz explains. “Like for this weekend we have Freezin for a Reason, we’ll have volunteers at Sam’s Club, at Hyvee, and then we’ll do a boot block at Noyes and Mitchell, where they’re standing out in the cold collecting funds for their teams.” Prawitz says the theme of this year’s plunge is Glow "So you know, glow, neon, anything like that,” Prawitz says. “We have a lot of people that come in different costumes, we give out the golden plunger award for the best costume, first, second, and third, and then we give out awards for the highest fundraisers and the higest team fundraisers.” Registered individuals must raise a minimum of $75 dollars by event day. The event on February 15th will begin with registration at 11am, with the plunge at 1pm at 402 S Noyes Boulevard. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738876370162.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Missouri" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Missouri</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Take the plunge to raise money for Special Olympics Missouri

State representatives argue their bills would give school districts say in crafting a cell-phone policy that may be required or recommended by the state

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri lawmakers are hoping to reduce cell-phone usage in schools with bipartisan legislation that would require school districts make a policy restricting mobile devices during instructional time.

State Reps. Kathy Steinhoff, a Columbia Democrat, and Jamie Gragg, a Republican from Ozark, presented similar bills in the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee Wednesday afternoon. The committee’s chair, GOP state Rep. Ed Lewis of Moberly, also has legislation that is nearly identical to Steinhoff’s.

“This is not a partisan issue,” Steinhoff told committee members. “When you look around our country, there are eight states that have initiated some kind of restriction on cell phones already. Some of them are red states. Some of them are blue states.”

<a href="https://www.edweek.org/technology/which-states-ban-or-restrict-cellphones-in-schools/2024/06" target="_blank">According to Education Week</a>, three states have a law restricting cell-phone use during instructional time, and five states have requirements that districts set policies restricting use. An additional 11 states have recommended policies and incentive programs for districts to establish restrictions.

Steinhoff and Gragg plan to combine their bills into a version that recommends or requires school districts to set policies prohibiting cell-phone use during instructional hours while allowing exceptions, like for students who use a mobile device for health reasons.

“I do believe in local control,” Gragg said. “I believe our school districts are all unique in their own special way, just like our communities are, and they need to make the policy that fits them the best.”

Gragg said he heard from teachers that have cell-phone policies in their classrooms that test scores improved.

Steinhoff, a retired math teacher, believes the bill will lead to “better engagement.”

“As somebody who was leading a classroom just two years ago, I can attest to the fact that some of our students really are almost addicted to their cell phones,” she said.

Administrators from the Cape Girardeau School District told committee members they established a zero-tolerance policy for cell phones in high schools in 2024.

James Russell, assistant superintendent of academic services for the district, said it has provided a “culture shift.”

“This year, after a full year of implementation at the high school, kids really came back ready to learn,” he said.

Lewis said the districts who have already established the policies can assist others.

“We aren’t going to be the ones that are going to be telling what policies those local school districts should implement,” Lewis said. “We’ve already got multiple pilots around the state that are already doing this, and that’s where they’re going to get those pilot policies from.”

State Rep. Ann Kelley, a Republican from Lamar, said the state should allow the districts leniency to create their own policies while giving support when needed.

“It needs to be in the school district’s hands. It should not be the state dictating anything, just offering a suggestion that they have a plan in place and offering them that support,” she said. “Because it is a big thing whenever school districts do this, and they get a lot of grief from parents and students.”

State Rep. Kem Smith, a Democrat from Florissant and a former English teacher, said parents often have valid points, like security concerns in case of a school shooting.

“I’ve been on lockdown with students who have survived that, and their parents have wanted to talk to them while we were in lockdown,” she said.

Gragg said schools would be able to decide “what they feel is best for their community,” so cell phones do not necessarily have to be out of the students’ possession.

The committee plans to combine the three lawmakers’ bills before voting to send them to the full House in a future hearing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738804885460.png" alt=" State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly, chairs the House Elementary and Secondary Education committee (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Ed Lewis, a Republican from Moberly, chairs the House Elementary and Secondary Education committee (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>State representatives argue their bills would give school districts say in crafting a cell-phone policy that may be required or recommended by the state</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri lawmakers are hoping to reduce cell-phone usage in schools with bipartisan legislation that would require school districts make a policy restricting mobile devices during instructional time.State Reps. Kathy Steinhoff, a Columbia Democrat, and Jamie Gragg, a Republican from Ozark, presented similar bills in the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee Wednesday afternoon. The committee’s chair, GOP state Rep. Ed Lewis of Moberly, also has legislation that is nearly identical to Steinhoff’s.“This is not a partisan issue,” Steinhoff told committee members. “When you look around our country, there are eight states that have initiated some kind of restriction on cell phones already. Some of them are red states. Some of them are blue states.”<a href="https://www.edweek.org/technology/which-states-ban-or-restrict-cellphones-in-schools/2024/06" target="_blank">According to Education Week</a>, three states have a law restricting cell-phone use during instructional time, and five states have requirements that districts set policies restricting use. An additional 11 states have recommended policies and incentive programs for districts to establish restrictions.Steinhoff and Gragg plan to combine their bills into a version that recommends or requires school districts to set policies prohibiting cell-phone use during instructional hours while allowing exceptions, like for students who use a mobile device for health reasons.“I do believe in local control,” Gragg said. “I believe our school districts are all unique in their own special way, just like our communities are, and they need to make the policy that fits them the best.”Gragg said he heard from teachers that have cell-phone policies in their classrooms that test scores improved.Steinhoff, a retired math teacher, believes the bill will lead to “better engagement.”“As somebody who was leading a classroom just two years ago, I can attest to the fact that some of our students really are almost addicted to their cell phones,” she said.Administrators from the Cape Girardeau School District told committee members they established a zero-tolerance policy for cell phones in high schools in 2024.James Russell, assistant superintendent of academic services for the district, said it has provided a “culture shift.”“This year, after a full year of implementation at the high school, kids really came back ready to learn,” he said.Lewis said the districts who have already established the policies can assist others.“We aren’t going to be the ones that are going to be telling what policies those local school districts should implement,” Lewis said. “We’ve already got multiple pilots around the state that are already doing this, and that’s where they’re going to get those pilot policies from.”State Rep. Ann Kelley, a Republican from Lamar, said the state should allow the districts leniency to create their own policies while giving support when needed.“It needs to be in the school district’s hands. It should not be the state dictating anything, just offering a suggestion that they have a plan in place and offering them that support,” she said. “Because it is a big thing whenever school districts do this, and they get a lot of grief from parents and students.”State Rep. Kem Smith, a Democrat from Florissant and a former English teacher, said parents often have valid points, like security concerns in case of a school shooting.“I’ve been on lockdown with students who have survived that, and their parents have wanted to talk to them while we were in lockdown,” she said.Gragg said schools would be able to decide “what they feel is best for their community,” so cell phones do not necessarily have to be out of the students’ possession.The committee plans to combine the three lawmakers’ bills before voting to send them to the full House in a future hearing.

Missouri lawmakers seek to restrict cell-phone use in high schools statewide

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Wednesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2006 Ford F250 driven by a 51-year-old Oakwood, Oklahoma, man was southbound on Interstate 35. The pickup and another southbound vehicle sideswiped each other near the center of the road.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After impact, the pickup traveled off the east side of the road, rolled and came to rest on top of a guardrail. The other vehicle failed to stop.

North Harrison EMS transported the pickup driver to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Wednesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2006 Ford F250 driven by a 51-year-old Oakwood, Oklahoma, man was southbound on Interstate 35. The pickup and another southbound vehicle sideswiped each other near the center of the road.&nbsp;&nbsp;After impact, the pickup traveled off the east side of the road, rolled and came to rest on top of a guardrail. The other vehicle failed to stop.North Harrison EMS transported the pickup driver to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.The Missouri State Highway Patrol no longer releases the identity of accident victims.

Driver fled crash that left pickup on top of guardrail

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Wednesday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Mac Truck driven by a 60-year-old Plattsburg man was southbound on Interstate 35. Due to slick conditions, the truck traveled off the west side of the road and overturned.

Daviess County EMS transported the driver to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Wednesday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Mac Truck driven by a 60-year-old Plattsburg man was southbound on Interstate 35. Due to slick conditions, the truck traveled off the west side of the road and overturned.Daviess County EMS transported the driver to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.The Missouri State Highway Patrol no longer releases the identity of accident victims.

Mo. man injured after truck overturns on icy road

A St. Joseph state
representative hopes this year’s legislative session in Jefferson City can
prove more productive than the last two.

Rep. Bill Falkner,
a Republican, says the lack of productivity the last two legislative sessions
has been frustrating and has prevented the legislature from tackling some
simple items that have been put off too long.

“They don’t get
the big headlines, because they’re not glamorous bills, but they are bills that
affect small communities and mid-size communities, and they affect our
community,” Falkner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

As an example,
Falkner says he has carried a bill that would amend the state Sunshine Law to
protect the identities of juveniles, which now are made public. Falkner also
says bills some consider minor include streamlining sewage disposal regulations
and easing the budget publication requirements for cities and counties.

Political
infighting in the Missouri Senate, primarily Republican clashes between the
Senate Freedom Caucus and Senate leadership, flared up during floor debate,
tying up the legislative sessions the past two years, preventing much
legislation from passing. The disagreements have been over major legislation,
but the tactics don’t discriminate. Minor bills fail along with major legislation.

Falkner says some
of the legislation that would help local communities has languished the past
six to seven years.

“It’s very
frustrating at times when you’ve got bills that would help certain areas of the
state or certain political subdivisions and you can’t get the basic bills
passed, because of either somebody’s personal agenda or trying to get you to
vote on a bill you don’t want to vote on and trying to get you to change your
vote,” Falkner says.

Missouri lawmakers
likely again will vote on whether there should be changes to the initiative
petition process.

Falkner has long
been a proponent of changing how the Missouri constitution can be amended
through popular vote. Falkner would like to see the voter threshold raised from
the current simple majority. Falkner, though, would keep simple majority in
effect for enacting state laws through the ballot box. 

“If this body down
here fails to do its job on certain things, then the citizens should have a way
to try to get something passed, if we fail to act. I don’t have a problem with
that,” Falkner says. “But constitutional changes I think it needs to be a
higher threshold.”

Falkner says he
will wait to see what types of voter thresholds will be proposed before
endorsing any.

The Missouri
General Assembly meets from the first of January to mid-May. It is very early
in the session, but Falkner says it appears this year will be different with
the possibility of a more productive session.

The legislature
passed on 28 non-budget bills during the legislative session last year in
Jefferson City. In comparison, the legislature approved 31 bills during the
session cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph state
representative hopes this year’s legislative session in Jefferson City can
prove more productive than the last two.Rep. Bill Falkner,
a Republican, says the lack of productivity the last two legislative sessions
has been frustrating and has prevented the legislature from tackling some
simple items that have been put off too long.“They don’t get
the big headlines, because they’re not glamorous bills, but they are bills that
affect small communities and mid-size communities, and they affect our
community,” Falkner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.As an example,
Falkner says he has carried a bill that would amend the state Sunshine Law to
protect the identities of juveniles, which now are made public. Falkner also
says bills some consider minor include streamlining sewage disposal regulations
and easing the budget publication requirements for cities and counties.Political
infighting in the Missouri Senate, primarily Republican clashes between the
Senate Freedom Caucus and Senate leadership, flared up during floor debate,
tying up the legislative sessions the past two years, preventing much
legislation from passing. The disagreements have been over major legislation,
but the tactics don’t discriminate. Minor bills fail along with major legislation.Falkner says some
of the legislation that would help local communities has languished the past
six to seven years.“It’s very
frustrating at times when you’ve got bills that would help certain areas of the
state or certain political subdivisions and you can’t get the basic bills
passed, because of either somebody’s personal agenda or trying to get you to
vote on a bill you don’t want to vote on and trying to get you to change your
vote,” Falkner says.Missouri lawmakers
likely again will vote on whether there should be changes to the initiative
petition process.Falkner has long
been a proponent of changing how the Missouri constitution can be amended
through popular vote. Falkner would like to see the voter threshold raised from
the current simple majority. Falkner, though, would keep simple majority in
effect for enacting state laws through the ballot box. “If this body down
here fails to do its job on certain things, then the citizens should have a way
to try to get something passed, if we fail to act. I don’t have a problem with
that,” Falkner says. “But constitutional changes I think it needs to be a
higher threshold.”Falkner says he
will wait to see what types of voter thresholds will be proposed before
endorsing any.The Missouri
General Assembly meets from the first of January to mid-May. It is very early
in the session, but Falkner says it appears this year will be different with
the possibility of a more productive session.The legislature
passed on 28 non-budget bills during the legislative session last year in
Jefferson City. In comparison, the legislature approved 31 bills during the
session cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.

St. Joseph state rep. hopes frustration of past 2 years melts away this year

Maryville voters overwhelmingly approved a $50 million bond issue to finance building a new water plant.

The Nodaway County Clerk’s office reports
slightly more than 80% of voters during the special election approved of
the bond issue. The vote allows Maryville to move forward with an application
for a low-interest loan through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

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

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMaryville voters overwhelmingly approved a $50 million bond issue to finance building a new water plant.The Nodaway County Clerk’s office reports
slightly more than 80% of voters during the special election approved of
the bond issue. The vote allows Maryville to move forward with an application
for a low-interest loan through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Overwhelming approval to move forward on new Maryville water plant

Freezing rain
throughout the Midland Empire has shut down schools throughout the region and
made driving hazardous.

The St. Joseph
School District canceled classes today due to the ice as did the St. Joseph
Catholic Academy and St. Joseph Christian School.

The Savannah R3
School District canceled classes and used an AMI Day, virtual learning. 

The northeast
Kansas school districts of Riverside USD 114, Kansas - Doniphan West USD 111,
and Kansas- Atchison USD 409 canceled classes today.

Missouri Western State
University shut down its St. Joseph campus.

The Missouri State
Highway Patrol reports northbound I-29 at the 43 mile marker in Buchanan County closed due to a semi tractor trailer jackknifing. The patrol reports the passing lane has been re-opened and northbound traffic is no longer being diverted to I-229. The patrol advises drivers to proceed with caution. The tow crew is on the scene, cleaning up the wreckage.

Troop H reports that between 4:28am and 2:00pm they responded to 57 calls with a total of 33 crashes, 30 with no injuries reported and three with injury.&nbsp; The patrol also assisted 24 stranded drivers.

The St. Joseph
Police Department has issued an alert, asking drivers to use extreme caution
due to extremely slick conditions on the roadways.

The National Weather
Service expects the freezing rain to turn to a light drizzle later today as the
temperatures rise. The Weather Service forecasts a high of 37 today. The
Weather Service did issue a winter weather advisory until six this evening.
There could be a total of a tenth of an inch of ice. The weather brightens
quite a bit tomorrow with sunny skies expected with a high of 45.

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a complete list of cancelations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738771452204.jpeg" alt="An accident in Buchanan County blocked northbound I-29/Photo courtesy of the Missouri State Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>An accident in Buchanan County blocked northbound I-29/Photo courtesy of the Missouri State Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFreezing rain
throughout the Midland Empire has shut down schools throughout the region and
made driving hazardous.The St. Joseph
School District canceled classes today due to the ice as did the St. Joseph
Catholic Academy and St. Joseph Christian School.The Savannah R3
School District canceled classes and used an AMI Day, virtual learning. The northeast
Kansas school districts of Riverside USD 114, Kansas - Doniphan West USD 111,
and Kansas- Atchison USD 409 canceled classes today.Missouri Western State
University shut down its St. Joseph campus.The Missouri State
Highway Patrol reports northbound I-29 at the 43 mile marker in Buchanan County closed due to a semi tractor trailer jackknifing. The patrol reports the passing lane has been re-opened and northbound traffic is no longer being diverted to I-229. The patrol advises drivers to proceed with caution. The tow crew is on the scene, cleaning up the wreckage.Troop H reports that between 4:28am and 2:00pm they responded to 57 calls with a total of 33 crashes, 30 with no injuries reported and three with injury.&nbsp; The patrol also assisted 24 stranded drivers.The St. Joseph
Police Department has issued an alert, asking drivers to use extreme caution
due to extremely slick conditions on the roadways.The National Weather
Service expects the freezing rain to turn to a light drizzle later today as the
temperatures rise. The Weather Service forecasts a high of 37 today. The
Weather Service did issue a winter weather advisory until six this evening.
There could be a total of a tenth of an inch of ice. The weather brightens
quite a bit tomorrow with sunny skies expected with a high of 45.Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for a complete list of cancelations.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Freezing rain cancels classes, makes driving hazardous (UPDATED)

St. Joseph public
schools have closed today.

The St. Joseph
School District reports it is suspending all operations due to the icy
conditions. All schools will be closed, including all elementary, middle, and
high schools.&nbsp; Hillyard Technical Center,
Webster, Keatley, and the Early Learning Centers are also closed due to
inclement weather.

The district
reports this will not be an AMI day.

St. Joseph School District
employees should refer to the district’s inclement weather policy, Scenario B,
regarding their work schedule.

St. Joseph Catholic Academy has canceled classes today.

The St. Joseph Christian School has canceled classes today.

Missouri Western State University closed its St. Joseph campus today.

Savannah has canceled
classes today and will use an AMI Day, virtual learning. All campuses in the
Savannah R3 School District are closed today.

Kansas -&nbsp;Doniphan West USD 111 has canceled classes today.

Kansas- Atchison USD 409	School has canceled classes today.

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for winter weather cancelations today.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph public
schools have closed today.The St. Joseph
School District reports it is suspending all operations due to the icy
conditions. All schools will be closed, including all elementary, middle, and
high schools.&nbsp; Hillyard Technical Center,
Webster, Keatley, and the Early Learning Centers are also closed due to
inclement weather.The district
reports this will not be an AMI day.St. Joseph School District
employees should refer to the district’s inclement weather policy, Scenario B,
regarding their work schedule.St. Joseph Catholic Academy has canceled classes today.The St. Joseph Christian School has canceled classes today.Missouri Western State University closed its St. Joseph campus today.Savannah has canceled
classes today and will use an AMI Day, virtual learning. All campuses in the
Savannah R3 School District are closed today.Kansas -&nbsp;Doniphan West USD 111 has canceled classes today.Kansas- Atchison USD 409	School has canceled classes today.Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for winter weather cancelations today.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph, Savannah public schools, MWSU closed today due to icy conditions

Click <a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/closing/#!/">HERE</a> for winter weather cancelations today.

Winter weather cancelations

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Mustang driven by a 20-year-old Maryville woman was eastbound on 282nd Street.&nbsp; The driver was unfamiliar with the road and failed to observe a T intersection at Jett Road.&nbsp; The car began to skid, crossed Jett Road, traveled off the east side of the road and struck an embankment.

A private vehicle transported the driver and a 19-year-old passenger to Mosaic in Maryville. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Mustang driven by a 20-year-old Maryville woman was eastbound on 282nd Street.&nbsp; The driver was unfamiliar with the road and failed to observe a T intersection at Jett Road.&nbsp; The car began to skid, crossed Jett Road, traveled off the east side of the road and struck an embankment.A private vehicle transported the driver and a 19-year-old passenger to Mosaic in Maryville. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.The Missouri State Highway Patrol no longer releases the identity of accident victims.

Two Missouri women hospitalized after car strikes embankment

Cup of Joe is celebrating 10 years of bringing together area entrepreneurs to discuss their businesses and receive ideas of how to enhance them.  

Annette Weeks of Aspire Business Consulting says the program began in 2015, the idea borrowing inspiration from the One Million Cups program out of Kansas City.  

Weeks says the program works in St. Joseph because it's a weekly gathering of business owners and entrepreneurs. . . 

"We have two entrepreneurs present about their business, so they have 10 minutes to tell us about their business, and then the audience has 20 minutes to ask them questions, give them suggestions, and it's all about connecting with them then," Weeks tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  "Because the audience then will follow up with leads, they have or suggestions, so it's a very nurturing, cultivating situation for our business owners." 

During the month of February, Cup of Joe will bring back speakers that presented about their businesses in the very first year of the program.   

"They're coming back and they're going to tell us their entrepreneur journey," Weeks explains.  "So, we've got three each week, usually we do two but we're going to do three each week, they're coming in from all over the region for this so it's so exciting." 

The first session tomorrow will feature Susan Campbell, Kaitlyn Paxton, and Ben Kittrell. 

Weeks says each Wednesday will also feature another special event, starting tomorrow with a business showcase 

"So, there's going to be business owners there that set up promoting their businesses," Weeks says.  "Next week is a really good one, and it's a hot topic panel, so we've got four experts that's going to be talking about the really relevant things that are going on in businesses right now." 

Cup of Joe is held every Wednesday at the East Hills Library, beginning at 8:30am.  Everyone is welcome to attend the free events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738691622290.jpeg" alt="Cup of Joe is celebarting 10 years during the month of February/ Photo courtesy of Cup of Joe on Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Cup of Joe is celebarting 10 years during the month of February/ Photo courtesy of Cup of Joe on Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Cup of Joe is celebrating 10 years of bringing together area entrepreneurs to discuss their businesses and receive ideas of how to enhance them. Annette Weeks of Aspire Business Consulting says the program began in 2015, the idea borrowing inspiration from the One Million Cups program out of Kansas City. Weeks says the program works in St. Joseph because it's a weekly gathering of business owners and entrepreneurs. . . "We have two entrepreneurs present about their business, so they have 10 minutes to tell us about their business, and then the audience has 20 minutes to ask them questions, give them suggestions, and it's all about connecting with them then," Weeks tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "Because the audience then will follow up with leads, they have or suggestions, so it's a very nurturing, cultivating situation for our business owners." During the month of February, Cup of Joe will bring back speakers that presented about their businesses in the very first year of the program. "They're coming back and they're going to tell us their entrepreneur journey," Weeks explains. "So, we've got three each week, usually we do two but we're going to do three each week, they're coming in from all over the region for this so it's so exciting." The first session tomorrow will feature Susan Campbell, Kaitlyn Paxton, and Ben Kittrell. Weeks says each Wednesday will also feature another special event, starting tomorrow with a business showcase "So, there's going to be business owners there that set up promoting their businesses," Weeks says. "Next week is a really good one, and it's a hot topic panel, so we've got four experts that's going to be talking about the really relevant things that are going on in businesses right now." Cup of Joe is held every Wednesday at the East Hills Library, beginning at 8:30am. Everyone is welcome to attend the free events.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cup of Joe is celebrating 10 years

St. Joseph is asking trash haulers to
voluntarily reduce tonnage by 30% in an effort to extend the life of the
portion of the landfill in use as it attempts to prepare the next section.

The city is also asking state regulators
for some wiggle room to give it more time to expand the landfill.

Mayor John Josendale says the city hopes
to extend the life of Cell 7 as preparations continue to open Cell 8. He says
this doesn’t mean trash won’t be picked up.

“What we’re asking is, in some of the
larger haulers and ourselves included, but if you can take one load or a couple
of your loads, which would equate out to up to 30% we’d like, to a different
landfill then that would help alleviate the pressure on our landfill at this
point in time until we can get Cell 8 open,” Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph
Post.

St. Joseph has also asked the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources for a temporary expansion of Cell 7 to give the
city more time to open Cell 8. According to the city, DNR is working closely
with it on several approaches to maximize capacity of the active area of the
landfill. The city expects DNR to decide by the end of the month on its request
to expand Cell 7. St. Joseph hopes to receive DNR approval to open Cell 8 as
soon as possible.

The St. Joseph City Council during its
meeting Monday approved a $1.1 million contract for M-CON to prepare Cell 8 as
soon as possible. Groundwork will also begin to prepare Cell 9 at the landfill.

Josendale says a new tier rate structure
is in effect and rate increases are likely coming. The city says rates at the
landfill have increased only $2 in the past 20 years.

“If you look at the economy as a whole,
there’s not anyone that would tell you that we haven’t had increases in 20
years and to say that we have not had any increases in our dumping costs would
not make sense,” according to Josendale.

Josendale says the city finds itself at
the crossroads with the landfill.

“One of the things we stress over and
over again, we being the current council, is long-term sustainability,”
Josendale says. “And, unless we set stuff up to where we all know where it’s
going and where it needs to go so that we don’t get hit with these emergencies
or situations where we’re behind the Eight Ball.”

After controversy arose over proposed
hikes in landfill fees, the city council formed the Landfill Task Force to
advise it on landfill operations and fee structure.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph is asking trash haulers to
voluntarily reduce tonnage by 30% in an effort to extend the life of the
portion of the landfill in use as it attempts to prepare the next section.The city is also asking state regulators
for some wiggle room to give it more time to expand the landfill.Mayor John Josendale says the city hopes
to extend the life of Cell 7 as preparations continue to open Cell 8. He says
this doesn’t mean trash won’t be picked up.“What we’re asking is, in some of the
larger haulers and ourselves included, but if you can take one load or a couple
of your loads, which would equate out to up to 30% we’d like, to a different
landfill then that would help alleviate the pressure on our landfill at this
point in time until we can get Cell 8 open,” Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph
Post.St. Joseph has also asked the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources for a temporary expansion of Cell 7 to give the
city more time to open Cell 8. According to the city, DNR is working closely
with it on several approaches to maximize capacity of the active area of the
landfill. The city expects DNR to decide by the end of the month on its request
to expand Cell 7. St. Joseph hopes to receive DNR approval to open Cell 8 as
soon as possible.The St. Joseph City Council during its
meeting Monday approved a $1.1 million contract for M-CON to prepare Cell 8 as
soon as possible. Groundwork will also begin to prepare Cell 9 at the landfill.Josendale says a new tier rate structure
is in effect and rate increases are likely coming. The city says rates at the
landfill have increased only $2 in the past 20 years.“If you look at the economy as a whole,
there’s not anyone that would tell you that we haven’t had increases in 20
years and to say that we have not had any increases in our dumping costs would
not make sense,” according to Josendale.Josendale says the city finds itself at
the crossroads with the landfill.“One of the things we stress over and
over again, we being the current council, is long-term sustainability,”
Josendale says. “And, unless we set stuff up to where we all know where it’s
going and where it needs to go so that we don’t get hit with these emergencies
or situations where we’re behind the Eight Ball.”After controversy arose over proposed
hikes in landfill fees, the city council formed the Landfill Task Force to
advise it on landfill operations and fee structure.

City asks for help as it looks to expand St. Joseph landfill

Two train engines
derailed Monday in south St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police
report the Union Pacific engines derailed around 8:30pm south of Highway
759 and Oak Street. No one was injured in the derailment.

The intersection
had been closed while clean up continue. It is back open.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo train engines
derailed Monday in south St. Joseph.St. Joseph police
report the Union Pacific engines derailed around 8:30pm south of Highway
759 and Oak Street. No one was injured in the derailment.The intersection
had been closed while clean up continue. It is back open.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

No one injured in south St. Joseph train derailment

Maryville city
officials are asking voters to approve a $50 million bond issue today to finance replacing its 1958 water treatment plant with new plant.

The city must
obtain voter approval to tap the Missouri Clean Water State Revolving Fund,
which provides below-market interest rates and flexible financing for water
infrastructure projects.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMaryville city
officials are asking voters to approve a $50 million bond issue today to finance replacing its 1958 water treatment plant with new plant.The city must
obtain voter approval to tap the Missouri Clean Water State Revolving Fund,
which provides below-market interest rates and flexible financing for water
infrastructure projects.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Maryville asking voters to approve $50M water plant bonds

Measure modeled after federal legislation responding to Trump agenda item

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — State and federal lawmakers from Kansas convened Monday at the Celtic Fox pub to celebrate legislation to exempt tipped earnings of service and hospitality workers from income taxation.

The approach at the state level would be modeled after congressional bills promoted by President Donald Trump that ditch the federal income tax on tips received by restaurant workers, servers, valets as well as bellhops, bartenders or caddies.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and state Sen. Caryn Tyson joined U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, also a Republican, at the pub to talk about ending taxation of tips received in the form of cash, debits or credit cards.

“The intention is to take tax off tips in Kansas,” said Masterson, of Andover. “We love that idea from the federal government. Gratuity is gratitude, right? It’s not ordinary income to somebody.”

Tyson, the Parker chair of the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, said matching state law to federal reform made sense. She estimated the reduction in state tax revenue could range from $4 million to $10 million annually.

“It helps simplify the tax code,” she said. “We need to help those in need, and we did that last year with legislation that we passed, especially exempting state income tax from Social Security. I look forward to getting this passed.”

Marshall, an ally of Trump in Washington, D.C., said the federal tipped-income bill should be regarded as a vehicle for making Kansas affordable again. He said the federal measure — likely to pass Congress sometime between March and June — was part of Trump’s broader strategy to promote domestic prosperity and security.

“What he’s done from the security standpoint is very self-evident on his impetus to control the border and get the illegal criminal aliens out of this country,” the U.S. senator said. “We’re here today to talk about the prosperity part of this.”

He said the federal tipped income initiative was one piece of an effort to lend a hand to hard-working taxpayers.

Overall, he said, the congressional priority in 2025 would be renewal of federal tax cuts initiated during Trump’s first term. He also said Congress and the president should consider ending the federal income tax on Social Security income.

“And, how about no taxes on overtime?” Marshall said.

The nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimated enactment of a federal exemption on tips would cost $150 billion to $250 billion over a 10-year period. The organization indicated the exemption could prompt employers and employees to reclassify ordinary income as tips to avoid paying federal income taxes.

A pending bill in the U.S. Senate would incluce a yearly $25,000 deduction cap as well as occupational limits to the exemption. The U.S. House version would limit the tipped-income exclusion from federal taxes to $20,000 annually.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738673045321.png" alt=" Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said during a Monday news conference in Topeka that tip income ought to be exempt from state and federal income tax collections. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said during a Monday news conference in Topeka that tip income ought to be exempt from state and federal income tax collections. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Measure modeled after federal legislation responding to Trump agenda item</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — State and federal lawmakers from Kansas convened Monday at the Celtic Fox pub to celebrate legislation to exempt tipped earnings of service and hospitality workers from income taxation.The approach at the state level would be modeled after congressional bills promoted by President Donald Trump that ditch the federal income tax on tips received by restaurant workers, servers, valets as well as bellhops, bartenders or caddies.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and state Sen. Caryn Tyson joined U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, also a Republican, at the pub to talk about ending taxation of tips received in the form of cash, debits or credit cards.“The intention is to take tax off tips in Kansas,” said Masterson, of Andover. “We love that idea from the federal government. Gratuity is gratitude, right? It’s not ordinary income to somebody.”Tyson, the Parker chair of the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, said matching state law to federal reform made sense. She estimated the reduction in state tax revenue could range from $4 million to $10 million annually.“It helps simplify the tax code,” she said. “We need to help those in need, and we did that last year with legislation that we passed, especially exempting state income tax from Social Security. I look forward to getting this passed.”Marshall, an ally of Trump in Washington, D.C., said the federal tipped-income bill should be regarded as a vehicle for making Kansas affordable again. He said the federal measure — likely to pass Congress sometime between March and June — was part of Trump’s broader strategy to promote domestic prosperity and security.“What he’s done from the security standpoint is very self-evident on his impetus to control the border and get the illegal criminal aliens out of this country,” the U.S. senator said. “We’re here today to talk about the prosperity part of this.”He said the federal tipped income initiative was one piece of an effort to lend a hand to hard-working taxpayers.Overall, he said, the congressional priority in 2025 would be renewal of federal tax cuts initiated during Trump’s first term. He also said Congress and the president should consider ending the federal income tax on Social Security income.“And, how about no taxes on overtime?” Marshall said.The nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimated enactment of a federal exemption on tips would cost $150 billion to $250 billion over a 10-year period. The organization indicated the exemption could prompt employers and employees to reclassify ordinary income as tips to avoid paying federal income taxes.A pending bill in the U.S. Senate would incluce a yearly $25,000 deduction cap as well as occupational limits to the exemption. The U.S. House version would limit the tipped-income exclusion from federal taxes to $20,000 annually.

Kansas GOP senators promoting bill to exempt tips from state income tax

ANDREW COUNTY— The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control&nbsp; is investigating a suspect on child sex crime allegations.

In September 2024, investigators with the Special Victims Unit were notified of a social media account tied to 32-year-old Ross S. Rutherford of Savannah, according to a media release from the patrol.

 Rutherford had allegedly contacted a 13-year-old via a messaging app and engaged in sexually charged conversations with the juvenile, including sending pornographic images and videos.

On January 29, 2025, investigators located Rutherford in Maryville, Missouri. After questioning, investigators arrested and transported Him to the Andrew County Jail. On January 30 the Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Rutherford with one count of 2nd-degree sexual trafficking of a child. Rutherford is being held at the Andrew County Jail without bond.

&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol was assisted by the Maryville Department of Public Safety and the Jackson Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738615022421.png" alt="Rutherford-photo Andrew Co." />
 <figcaption>Rutherford-photo Andrew Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ANDREW COUNTY— The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control&nbsp; is investigating a suspect on child sex crime allegations.In September 2024, investigators with the Special Victims Unit were notified of a social media account tied to 32-year-old Ross S. Rutherford of Savannah, according to a media release from the patrol. Rutherford had allegedly contacted a 13-year-old via a messaging app and engaged in sexually charged conversations with the juvenile, including sending pornographic images and videos.On January 29, 2025, investigators located Rutherford in Maryville, Missouri. After questioning, investigators arrested and transported Him to the Andrew County Jail. On January 30 the Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Rutherford with one count of 2nd-degree sexual trafficking of a child. Rutherford is being held at the Andrew County Jail without bond.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol was assisted by the Maryville Department of Public Safety and the Jackson Police Department.

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