KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for a fatal shooting that took place in south Kansas City in 2023, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2569/Baker-Judgement-Redacted">Dinsmore Baker, 47, pled guilt</a>y&nbsp;to 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

He received 18 years for 2nd Degree Murder and five years for Armed Criminal Action, which will run consecutively. He also received a five-year sentence for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, which will be served at the same time as the other two counts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2568/BakerDinsmore---PCStatement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to East 85th Street and Holmes Road on June 15, 2023, on a sound of shots call. Witnesses told detectives the defendant shot into their vehicle and struck the passenger in the head, killing him. Witnesses said Baker was an ex-boyfriend of the driver.

Baker has a history of domestic assault, violating a protection order, and reported threatening, erratic, and violent behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744203480976.png" alt="Baker photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Baker photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for a fatal shooting that took place in south Kansas City in 2023, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2569/Baker-Judgement-Redacted">Dinsmore Baker, 47, pled guilt</a>y&nbsp;to 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. He received 18 years for 2nd Degree Murder and five years for Armed Criminal Action, which will run consecutively. He also received a five-year sentence for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, which will be served at the same time as the other two counts.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2568/BakerDinsmore---PCStatement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to East 85th Street and Holmes Road on June 15, 2023, on a sound of shots call. Witnesses told detectives the defendant shot into their vehicle and struck the passenger in the head, killing him. Witnesses said Baker was an ex-boyfriend of the driver.Baker has a history of domestic assault, violating a protection order, and reported threatening, erratic, and violent behavior.

Prison for murder of victim in car with his ex-girlfriend

WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas woman with illegally collecting more than $100,000 by defrauding a federal program aimed at helping people who lost their livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to court documents, Kylie Charles, 35, of Wichita is charged with 17 counts of wire fraud and 17 counts of aggravated identity theft, according to the United State's Attorney.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) provided financial relief to Americans dealing with the economic impacts of COVID-19 pandemic. The program expanded unemployment benefits to some people who would not typically qualify such as business owners, self-employed workers, independent contractors, those with a limited work history, and people who lost their business as a result of the pandemic.

Between May 2020 and August 2021, Charles is accused of stealing the identities of people she knew and using their information without their knowledge or consent to file false claims in multiple states for unemployment benefits under the CARES Act program.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744821348694.png" alt="Charles is being held in Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Charles is being held in Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas woman with illegally collecting more than $100,000 by defrauding a federal program aimed at helping people who lost their livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic.According to court documents, Kylie Charles, 35, of Wichita is charged with 17 counts of wire fraud and 17 counts of aggravated identity theft, according to the United State's Attorney.The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) provided financial relief to Americans dealing with the economic impacts of COVID-19 pandemic. The program expanded unemployment benefits to some people who would not typically qualify such as business owners, self-employed workers, independent contractors, those with a limited work history, and people who lost their business as a result of the pandemic.Between May 2020 and August 2021, Charles is accused of stealing the identities of people she knew and using their information without their knowledge or consent to file false claims in multiple states for unemployment benefits under the CARES Act program.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Indictment: Kan. woman collected $100K using stolen IDs

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 38-year-old Terry Jones, according to KCPD Officer Phil DiMartino.

Just after 3:30a.m. April 14, East Patrol officers were dispatched to a shooting in the area of Independence Avenue and Lawndale Avenue, according to KCPD officer&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

First responders located Jones on a sidewalk suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive. EMS responded to the scene and declared him deceased.

Preliminary investigation indicates that a vehicle may have been driving through the area and began firing shots, ultimately striking Jones.&nbsp; Police have not identified&nbsp; a suspect vehicle or a person of interest in the killing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744899464654.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 38-year-old Terry Jones, according to KCPD Officer Phil DiMartino.Just after 3:30a.m. April 14, East Patrol officers were dispatched to a shooting in the area of Independence Avenue and Lawndale Avenue, according to KCPD officer&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.First responders located Jones on a sidewalk suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive. EMS responded to the scene and declared him deceased.Preliminary investigation indicates that a vehicle may have been driving through the area and began firing shots, ultimately striking Jones.&nbsp; Police have not identified&nbsp; a suspect vehicle or a person of interest in the killing.

Police ID victim in Kansas City drive-by killing 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansans can expect to see more of their tax dollars at work within local communities when new rules go into effect next year at the agency in charge of investing state funds.

It’s a version of the “Shop Local” concept in the investment world, said Alex Orel, spokesman for the Kansas Bankers Association, one of the major backers of&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/HB2152/" target="_blank">House Bill 2152</a>, which makes multiple changes affecting banks statewide.

“I think long-term, this is going to be a proposal that’s going to benefit the local governments, our local communities and the state,” Orel said. “Our taxes should be invested here, or as much of them as we can anyway.”

The Pooled Money Investment Board is responsible for investing state general fund dollars and other money deposited with the state treasurer’s office. Among its programs is the Kansas Bank CD Program, which offers Kansas banks the opportunity to invest in certificates of deposit. Depending on the interest rate, which is set weekly, banks can determine whether they want to buy a CD and use those dollars to make loans in their local communities, said Mark Schifferdecker, chairman, president and CEO of GNBank in Girard.

PMIB has been required to get the highest rate of return possible for its CDs, Orel said.

While that makes good investment sense for state dollars, the CD rate was typically set using high-yielding investments, which are above U.S. treasuries, he said. That left Kansas banks no incentive to participate when they could get lower rates elsewhere.

As a result, the Kansas Bank CD Program began to disappear from PMIB’s investment portfolio. As of March 31, it was only 0.48% of the $8.5 billion invested by PMIB, meaning that most of the state’s funds are being invested outside the state.

Schifferdecker said a decade ago, the CD program investment was 10 to 15% of the portfolio.

New regulations included in HB 2152, in effect Jan. 1, 2026, will allow PMIB to offer a more competitive rate, as much as 2% lower, which is expected to increase program participation and bring tax dollars to local banks, which will then distribute them through loans to their customers.

Brent Shelton, Sedgwick County’s deputy chief financial officer, said HB 2152 has an impact on counties.

Portions of the bill addressed ways to make it easier for banks to hold deposits of county money, along with the increased access to capital through the CD program, he said.

“We give our local banks the first opportunity to keep that money local,” Shelton said. “It also preserves our ability to get a market rate on that money. That helps economic development efforts, makes more money available for lending to local business. All in all, (HB 2152) was a great compromise. Everybody won.”

The “compromise” Shelton referred to was disagreement between county officials and the banking industry on the first version of the bill. In fact, there were about 20 opponents when it was first presented.

Schifferdecker said the Kansas Bankers Association led the charge to draw all the parties to the table and work out the issues. The result was that opponents either switched to becoming proponents or took a neutral stance, he said.

“How often do you see that at the federal and state government anymore?” Schifferdecker said. “I think we made it better. We didn’t everything we wanted — Kansas Bankers Association and me as a banker. They didn’t get everything they wanted. We met in the middle.”

Both county officials and PMIB officials were concerned the bill could potentially decrease their investment income. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2152_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">fiscal note on the bill</a>&nbsp;once it was amended points to decreased revenue for the Kansas Bank CD Program, adding that increased participation in the program is expected.

State General Fund revenues are estimated to decrease by $4.5 million in FY 2026 and by $9 million in FY 2027.

“This analysis only details the impact to the PMIB and does not consider any potential benefits that may be realized from money deposited,” the supplemental note said.

Such longer-term benefits that bankers like Schifferdecker are excited about. A Fort Hays State study, funded by the Kansas Bankers Association, explained the ripple effect seen in communities when banks invest locally.

Specifically, this study considered that when dollars are deposited in a local bank, which can then loan them out repeatedly, their impact on the community will multiply by as much as seven times through increased economic activities.

The study, completed by Emily Breit, policy fellow at the Docking Institute of Public Affairs, found that with the impact of increased income, property and other taxes earned when investments are made in Kansas, out-of-state investments would need to offer rates 3.15% higher than local rates to make the state better off. For example, if a local bank is offering a rate of 5%, then the decision to invest outside the state instead would only generate more value if the outside investment was 8.15% or higher.

“As a community bank, we can loan that money back out to businesses and farmers and consumers,” Schifferdecker said. “We’re not looking at 80% of Kansas money going to be invested in CDs — just to get that back to 10% would be respectable.”

Additional money being invested through rural banks like Schifferbecker’s is another important factor for the state, he said.

“It’s a game changer. Our little bank, we’re in 15 rural markets across Kansas and eastern Colorado. In some of those we’re the only bank in town,” he said. “We can take that money and loan that money back out. We’ve got lots of loan demand, particularly in this ag economy right now, and it’s really critical for us in order for us to grow. There’s only a certain amount of deposits in our little communities. The counties and school districts, they keep quite a bit of money on hand, and if we can attract more of that money, 100% of that money is going to be lent back out to the community.”

Schifferbecker understands why the state invests money outside of its borders to get a higher rate of return. Still, he was glad Kansas lawmakers recognized that long-term benefits will build from what they want to accomplish with HB 2152.

“Money invested locally truly has the multiplier effect; it’s going to raise your tax revenues. Farmers, businesses can expand and grow,” he said. “You make more money and that’s going to create tax revenue.”

Orel at KBA said the banking landscape has changed. This type of support is meaningful for all banks, but especially those in more sparsely populated areas.

“Our community banks don’t have the necessary liquidity they used to have,” he said. “This bill will allow them another liquidity option.”

The banking challenges are reflected in the data from Breit’s study. In 1984, there were 690 FDIC-insured banks and thrifts in Kansas, a number that dropped to 204 by the end of 2023. Number of bank locations grew from 216 to 1,100 in that same time period. Community banks play an important role, Breit’s research said, by maintaining banking services in rural areas where larger banking businesses don’t typically locate.

“We’re so happy,” Schifferdecker said. “I was just tickled when it passed the Senate overwhelmingly and then the House.”

The bill passed the Senate 40-0 and the House 117-5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744833918938.png" alt="The Kansas Bankers Association was one of the lead proponents of a bill that aims to put more Kansas taxpayer dollars to work in local communities. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Bankers Association was one of the lead proponents of a bill that aims to put more Kansas taxpayer dollars to work in local communities. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansans can expect to see more of their tax dollars at work within local communities when new rules go into effect next year at the agency in charge of investing state funds.It’s a version of the “Shop Local” concept in the investment world, said Alex Orel, spokesman for the Kansas Bankers Association, one of the major backers of&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/HB2152/" target="_blank">House Bill 2152</a>, which makes multiple changes affecting banks statewide.“I think long-term, this is going to be a proposal that’s going to benefit the local governments, our local communities and the state,” Orel said. “Our taxes should be invested here, or as much of them as we can anyway.”The Pooled Money Investment Board is responsible for investing state general fund dollars and other money deposited with the state treasurer’s office. Among its programs is the Kansas Bank CD Program, which offers Kansas banks the opportunity to invest in certificates of deposit. Depending on the interest rate, which is set weekly, banks can determine whether they want to buy a CD and use those dollars to make loans in their local communities, said Mark Schifferdecker, chairman, president and CEO of GNBank in Girard.PMIB has been required to get the highest rate of return possible for its CDs, Orel said.While that makes good investment sense for state dollars, the CD rate was typically set using high-yielding investments, which are above U.S. treasuries, he said. That left Kansas banks no incentive to participate when they could get lower rates elsewhere.As a result, the Kansas Bank CD Program began to disappear from PMIB’s investment portfolio. As of March 31, it was only 0.48% of the $8.5 billion invested by PMIB, meaning that most of the state’s funds are being invested outside the state.Schifferdecker said a decade ago, the CD program investment was 10 to 15% of the portfolio.New regulations included in HB 2152, in effect Jan. 1, 2026, will allow PMIB to offer a more competitive rate, as much as 2% lower, which is expected to increase program participation and bring tax dollars to local banks, which will then distribute them through loans to their customers.<h2>At the county level</h2>Brent Shelton, Sedgwick County’s deputy chief financial officer, said HB 2152 has an impact on counties.Portions of the bill addressed ways to make it easier for banks to hold deposits of county money, along with the increased access to capital through the CD program, he said.“We give our local banks the first opportunity to keep that money local,” Shelton said. “It also preserves our ability to get a market rate on that money. That helps economic development efforts, makes more money available for lending to local business. All in all, (HB 2152) was a great compromise. Everybody won.”The “compromise” Shelton referred to was disagreement between county officials and the banking industry on the first version of the bill. In fact, there were about 20 opponents when it was first presented.Schifferdecker said the Kansas Bankers Association led the charge to draw all the parties to the table and work out the issues. The result was that opponents either switched to becoming proponents or took a neutral stance, he said.“How often do you see that at the federal and state government anymore?” Schifferdecker said. “I think we made it better. We didn’t everything we wanted — Kansas Bankers Association and me as a banker. They didn’t get everything they wanted. We met in the middle.”<h2>The challenges</h2>Both county officials and PMIB officials were concerned the bill could potentially decrease their investment income. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2152_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">fiscal note on the bill</a>&nbsp;once it was amended points to decreased revenue for the Kansas Bank CD Program, adding that increased participation in the program is expected.State General Fund revenues are estimated to decrease by $4.5 million in FY 2026 and by $9 million in FY 2027.“This analysis only details the impact to the PMIB and does not consider any potential benefits that may be realized from money deposited,” the supplemental note said.Such longer-term benefits that bankers like Schifferdecker are excited about. A Fort Hays State study, funded by the Kansas Bankers Association, explained the ripple effect seen in communities when banks invest locally.Specifically, this study considered that when dollars are deposited in a local bank, which can then loan them out repeatedly, their impact on the community will multiply by as much as seven times through increased economic activities.The study, completed by Emily Breit, policy fellow at the Docking Institute of Public Affairs, found that with the impact of increased income, property and other taxes earned when investments are made in Kansas, out-of-state investments would need to offer rates 3.15% higher than local rates to make the state better off. For example, if a local bank is offering a rate of 5%, then the decision to invest outside the state instead would only generate more value if the outside investment was 8.15% or higher.“As a community bank, we can loan that money back out to businesses and farmers and consumers,” Schifferdecker said. “We’re not looking at 80% of Kansas money going to be invested in CDs — just to get that back to 10% would be respectable.”<h2>A ‘game-changer’ for rural banks</h2>Additional money being invested through rural banks like Schifferbecker’s is another important factor for the state, he said.“It’s a game changer. Our little bank, we’re in 15 rural markets across Kansas and eastern Colorado. In some of those we’re the only bank in town,” he said. “We can take that money and loan that money back out. We’ve got lots of loan demand, particularly in this ag economy right now, and it’s really critical for us in order for us to grow. There’s only a certain amount of deposits in our little communities. The counties and school districts, they keep quite a bit of money on hand, and if we can attract more of that money, 100% of that money is going to be lent back out to the community.”Schifferbecker understands why the state invests money outside of its borders to get a higher rate of return. Still, he was glad Kansas lawmakers recognized that long-term benefits will build from what they want to accomplish with HB 2152.“Money invested locally truly has the multiplier effect; it’s going to raise your tax revenues. Farmers, businesses can expand and grow,” he said. “You make more money and that’s going to create tax revenue.”Orel at KBA said the banking landscape has changed. This type of support is meaningful for all banks, but especially those in more sparsely populated areas.“Our community banks don’t have the necessary liquidity they used to have,” he said. “This bill will allow them another liquidity option.”The banking challenges are reflected in the data from Breit’s study. In 1984, there were 690 FDIC-insured banks and thrifts in Kansas, a number that dropped to 204 by the end of 2023. Number of bank locations grew from 216 to 1,100 in that same time period. Community banks play an important role, Breit’s research said, by maintaining banking services in rural areas where larger banking businesses don’t typically locate.“We’re so happy,” Schifferdecker said. “I was just tickled when it passed the Senate overwhelmingly and then the House.”The bill passed the Senate 40-0 and the House 117-5.

New law pushes for Kansas taxpayer dollars to be invested within local communities

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 11a.m. April 14, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a red 1992 Nissan Sentra with a stolen license plate near SE 6th Avenue and SE Jefferson Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

A patrol deputy located the vehicle in the 600 block of SE Sherman Avenue. Three individuals were taken into custody. During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located.

Matthew B. Banks, 36, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department on requested charges of&nbsp; Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of hallucinogenic drug, Use/possess with intent to use drug

paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stolen property, Driving while license suspended, Vehicle liability insurance and Possession of marijuana.

Kaylee D. Simmons, 33, of Topeka, was arrested and booked on requested charges of&nbsp; Interference with law enforcement, Possession of marijuana,&nbsp;&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body and&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of a hallucinogenic drug

Jeremiah J. Hennessee, 34, of Topeka, had three misdemeanor warrants for his arrest through the City of Topeka and was transported to municipal court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744721022175.png" alt="Banks photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Banks photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 11a.m. April 14, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a red 1992 Nissan Sentra with a stolen license plate near SE 6th Avenue and SE Jefferson Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.A patrol deputy located the vehicle in the 600 block of SE Sherman Avenue. Three individuals were taken into custody. During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744721004925.png" alt="Simmons photo Shawnee&nbsp; Co." />
 <figcaption>Simmons photo Shawnee&nbsp; Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Matthew B. Banks, 36, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department on requested charges of&nbsp; Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of hallucinogenic drug, Use/possess with intent to use drugparaphernalia into human body, Possession of stolen property, Driving while license suspended, Vehicle liability insurance and Possession of marijuana.Kaylee D. Simmons, 33, of Topeka, was arrested and booked on requested charges of&nbsp; Interference with law enforcement, Possession of marijuana,&nbsp;&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body and&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of a hallucinogenic drugJeremiah J. Hennessee, 34, of Topeka, had three misdemeanor warrants for his arrest through the City of Topeka and was transported to municipal court.

Sheriff: Stolen license plate led to Kansas drug bust

Missouri GOP Congressman Jason Smith, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee visited the prison in El Salvador holding deported Maryland man Abrego Garcia.

On his social media account, Smith wrote, “thanks to President Trump" the facility “now includes illegal immigrants who broke into our country and committed violent acts against Americans.&nbsp;It is unconscionable that Democrats in Congress are urging the release of more foreign criminals back into our country."

Smith serves Missouri's 8th Congressional District.

Missouri GOP Congressman Jason Smith, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee visited the prison in El Salvador holding deported Maryland man Abrego Garcia.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thanks to President Trump, the CECOT prison in El Salvador, which is home to some of the country&#39;s most vicious criminals, now includes illegal immigrants who broke into our country and committed violent acts against Americans. It is unconscionable that Democrats in Congress are… <a href="https://t.co/nWTxveW9bs">pic.twitter.com/nWTxveW9bs</a>&mdash; Rep. Jason Smith (@RepJasonSmith) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepJasonSmith/status/1912326135934837215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On his social media account, Smith wrote, “thanks to President Trump" the facility “now includes illegal immigrants who broke into our country and committed violent acts against Americans.&nbsp;It is unconscionable that Democrats in Congress are urging the release of more foreign criminals back into our country."Smith serves Missouri's 8th Congressional District.

Mo. Congressman visits prison holding deported Maryland man

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal shooting at a convenience store.

Just after 3:00 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting at the Kwik Shop gas station, 746 NE Wabash Avenue in Topeka, according to Topeka Police Lt. Edward Stanley. First responders located one individual with life threatening injuries.&nbsp; Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased on scene. Police released no additional details including the name of the victim or suspect information.

This is the city’s 4th homicide investigation of 2025, according to Stanley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744885831034.png" alt="Photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Eric Ives courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal shooting at a convenience store.Just after 3:00 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting at the Kwik Shop gas station, 746 NE Wabash Avenue in Topeka, according to Topeka Police Lt. Edward Stanley. First responders located one individual with life threatening injuries.&nbsp; Medical personnel pronounced the victim deceased on scene. Police released no additional details including the name of the victim or suspect information.This is the city’s 4th homicide investigation of 2025, according to Stanley..

Police: 1 dead after shooting at Kansas convenience store

The health secretary and longtime conspiracy peddler discounts other factors scientists say are likely contributing to rising rates of autism

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Wednesday the department will shift its research into autism toward potential environmental causes, though he declined to say exactly what the Trump administration would do if certain industries or pollutants were found responsible.

Kennedy, an environmental lawyer with no medical or research training, declared that autism is a preventable disease, argued research into genetic causes is a “dead end” and asserted that “we know it’s environmental exposure,” before saying HHS would fund “a series of new studies to identify precisely what the environmental toxins are that are causing it.”

“This has not been done before,” Kennedy said. “We’re going to do it in a thorough and comprehensive way and we’re going to get back with an answer to the American people very, very quickly.”

Kennedy said during his first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/news-conference/hhs-sec-kennedy-news-conference-on-autism-rates/658669" target="_blank">press conference</a>&nbsp;since receiving Senate confirmation that he wanted researchers to look into numerous potential factors, including mold, food additives, pesticides, air, water, medicines, ultrasound, age of parents, obesity in parents and diabetes in parents.

He pledged to have “some of the answers by September,” though he added the research will “be an evolving process.”

Kennedy appeared confident in his personal assessment that environmental factors lead to autism, without attributing that belief to any one industry or contaminant.

“This is coming from an environmental toxin and somebody made a profit by putting that environmental toxin into our air, our water, our medicines, our food,” Kennedy said. “And it’s to their benefit to normalize it, to say, ‘This is all normal. It has always been here.’ But that’s not good for our country.”

Autism experts, however, cast doubt on Kennedy’s assertion that environmental factors lead to autism and questioned his proposed timeline to prove such a link.

When asked by a reporter what exactly the Trump administration would do if research found conclusive evidence that one specific industry or pollutant was causing autism, Kennedy didn’t say whether HHS would push to ban it or close down any businesses.&nbsp;

“I think we’re going to figure out a way to make pressure on them to remove it,” he said. “I think also there will be market forces that also exert pressure on them to remove it.”

Catherine Lord, professor of psychiatry with the school of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, said during an interview with States Newsroom following Kennedy’s remarks that trying to reach a definitive cause of autism before September was an “utterly ridiculous” timeline.

Lord said “the most likely hypothesis is that there may be interactions between genetics and, for example, environmental exposures, or even experiences like extreme prematurity.”

But she noted that studying the impact of environmental contaminants on people’s health, or a complex diagnosis like autism, is challenging because scientists obviously cannot expose people to toxins.

“It’s so difficult to do that work well, and people do it, but they can’t do it quickly,” Lord said. “And so I think that we do need work in that area, and I think it has been funded in the last few years. It just hasn’t come out with anything that is earth-shattering. It’s more the same thing, which is that if you’re exposed to something bad, your chances of having a child with any kind of neurodevelopmental disorder is going to go up.”

Lord expressed concern about moving funding and research away from genetic factors, saying “we do know that autism is genetic, so I think that is not under question.”

“I think the genetic work was moving forward,” she said. “It’s a slow pace, again, because they’re addressing so many different genetic patterns. But I think that at least there’s clear progress within this science.”

Eric Fombonne, professor emeritus of psychiatry at Oregon Health and Sciences University, said during an interview that it was unwise for Kennedy to say there would be some answers about autism within a few months.

“It’s ridiculous to say that he’s going to unravel the etiology of autism in six months,” Fombonne said. “I mean, he could give, like, all the money of the world to any lab or any person. They could never report any results before several years from now, at the minimum.”

The pace of medical research, he said, is slow and Kennedy’s comments show “a complete ignorance and disregard for science and what we do and how complicated it is and the time it takes.”

Directing research dollars toward possible environmental contributors to autism will also limit the amount of funding available for genetic research, which Fombonne said “has been incredibly productive.”

“The pie is limited,” Fombonne said. “So if you move funds from genetic research to environmental research, you’re going to slow down the pace of genetic research.”

Fombonne explained that research into genetics and autism is “quite complicated” and has shown that not all genetic mechanisms are “the same across different families.”

“So it’s a very complex puzzle. And as you know, the brain is a very hard organ to study. So understanding the pathophysiology, which is associated with these gene variants, is a very hard process,” he said. “But we are doing that and we are progressing. And this has been paying off enormously over the last 20 or 30 years.”

Fombonne wouldn’t make the same assessment of potential environmental factors, saying there are no signs of higher rates of autism in certain areas or certain time periods, like scientists have found for some other conditions.

“There is no evidence that there is a cluster of cases of kids who have been living in a polluted area, or exposed to particular environmental circumstances,” Fombonne said. “There is no starting point, which is strong, to start environmental research somewhere we can say is going to pay off.

“So it’s going to be very exploratory initially, which may be a good thing to do. But at least, let’s do it well, and most of the studies so far are short.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744818763361.png" alt="&nbsp;U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime health care conspiracy peddler, speaks during a press conference at the department’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime health care conspiracy peddler, speaks during a press conference at the department’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The health secretary and longtime conspiracy peddler discounts other factors scientists say are likely contributing to rising rates of autism</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Wednesday the department will shift its research into autism toward potential environmental causes, though he declined to say exactly what the Trump administration would do if certain industries or pollutants were found responsible.Kennedy, an environmental lawyer with no medical or research training, declared that autism is a preventable disease, argued research into genetic causes is a “dead end” and asserted that “we know it’s environmental exposure,” before saying HHS would fund “a series of new studies to identify precisely what the environmental toxins are that are causing it.”“This has not been done before,” Kennedy said. “We’re going to do it in a thorough and comprehensive way and we’re going to get back with an answer to the American people very, very quickly.”Kennedy said during his first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/news-conference/hhs-sec-kennedy-news-conference-on-autism-rates/658669" target="_blank">press conference</a>&nbsp;since receiving Senate confirmation that he wanted researchers to look into numerous potential factors, including mold, food additives, pesticides, air, water, medicines, ultrasound, age of parents, obesity in parents and diabetes in parents.He pledged to have “some of the answers by September,” though he added the research will “be an evolving process.”Kennedy appeared confident in his personal assessment that environmental factors lead to autism, without attributing that belief to any one industry or contaminant.“This is coming from an environmental toxin and somebody made a profit by putting that environmental toxin into our air, our water, our medicines, our food,” Kennedy said. “And it’s to their benefit to normalize it, to say, ‘This is all normal. It has always been here.’ But that’s not good for our country.”Autism experts, however, cast doubt on Kennedy’s assertion that environmental factors lead to autism and questioned his proposed timeline to prove such a link.When asked by a reporter what exactly the Trump administration would do if research found conclusive evidence that one specific industry or pollutant was causing autism, Kennedy didn’t say whether HHS would push to ban it or close down any businesses.&nbsp;“I think we’re going to figure out a way to make pressure on them to remove it,” he said. “I think also there will be market forces that also exert pressure on them to remove it.”<h2>Research difficult</h2>Catherine Lord, professor of psychiatry with the school of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, said during an interview with States Newsroom following Kennedy’s remarks that trying to reach a definitive cause of autism before September was an “utterly ridiculous” timeline.Lord said “the most likely hypothesis is that there may be interactions between genetics and, for example, environmental exposures, or even experiences like extreme prematurity.”But she noted that studying the impact of environmental contaminants on people’s health, or a complex diagnosis like autism, is challenging because scientists obviously cannot expose people to toxins.“It’s so difficult to do that work well, and people do it, but they can’t do it quickly,” Lord said. “And so I think that we do need work in that area, and I think it has been funded in the last few years. It just hasn’t come out with anything that is earth-shattering. It’s more the same thing, which is that if you’re exposed to something bad, your chances of having a child with any kind of neurodevelopmental disorder is going to go up.”Lord expressed concern about moving funding and research away from genetic factors, saying “we do know that autism is genetic, so I think that is not under question.”“I think the genetic work was moving forward,” she said. “It’s a slow pace, again, because they’re addressing so many different genetic patterns. But I think that at least there’s clear progress within this science.”<h2>Limits funding for genetic research</h2>Eric Fombonne, professor emeritus of psychiatry at Oregon Health and Sciences University, said during an interview that it was unwise for Kennedy to say there would be some answers about autism within a few months.“It’s ridiculous to say that he’s going to unravel the etiology of autism in six months,” Fombonne said. “I mean, he could give, like, all the money of the world to any lab or any person. They could never report any results before several years from now, at the minimum.”The pace of medical research, he said, is slow and Kennedy’s comments show “a complete ignorance and disregard for science and what we do and how complicated it is and the time it takes.”Directing research dollars toward possible environmental contributors to autism will also limit the amount of funding available for genetic research, which Fombonne said “has been incredibly productive.”“The pie is limited,” Fombonne said. “So if you move funds from genetic research to environmental research, you’re going to slow down the pace of genetic research.”Fombonne explained that research into genetics and autism is “quite complicated” and has shown that not all genetic mechanisms are “the same across different families.”“So it’s a very complex puzzle. And as you know, the brain is a very hard organ to study. So understanding the pathophysiology, which is associated with these gene variants, is a very hard process,” he said. “But we are doing that and we are progressing. And this has been paying off enormously over the last 20 or 30 years.”Fombonne wouldn’t make the same assessment of potential environmental factors, saying there are no signs of higher rates of autism in certain areas or certain time periods, like scientists have found for some other conditions.“There is no evidence that there is a cluster of cases of kids who have been living in a polluted area, or exposed to particular environmental circumstances,” Fombonne said. “There is no starting point, which is strong, to start environmental research somewhere we can say is going to pay off.“So it’s going to be very exploratory initially, which may be a good thing to do. But at least, let’s do it well, and most of the studies so far are short.”

RFK Jr. to refocus federal autism research on environmental factors

KANSAS CITY—Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced a total of 18 felony charges have been filed against the owner of a Kansas City towing company and his mother, following an in-depth investigation by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, law enforcement, and the Department of Revenue Compliance and Investigation Bureau into illegal towing practices.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2580/Donald-Adamson-RED-COMPLAINT-DA">Donald Adamson</a>&nbsp;and Lannette Adamson face four counts of Stealing, four counts of Forgery, and 1st Degree Harassment.

“After months of investigation by our assistant prosecutors and law enforcement partners, I am proud to present charges as we work to hold predatory towing companies accountable for their actions,”&nbsp;said Prosecutor Johnson. “The impact of illegal towing falls hardest on those already struggling financially, creating a snowball effect of towing fees, lost wages, transportation challenges, and stress piling up. I am proud of our team for building a strong case and bringing justice to victims impacted by these practices. We will not tolerate businesses that exploit hardworking people in Jackson County.”&nbsp;

The investigation revealed Metro Tow and Transport owner Donald Adamson and employee Lannette Adamson&nbsp;allegedly acted in concert to allow&nbsp;the company to tow vehicles illegally without proper authorization; falsified required 4669 Forms; and made it extremely difficult for victims to retrieve their vehicles.

State law requires towing companies to have a properly completed and signed 4669 Form with a signature from an authorized, full-time employee representative of the property who must also be present at the time of removal. Tow companies must also report vehicle information to police, so owners can be notified of the location of their vehicle. State law requires the property representative to provide an original signature and should not be photocopied.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2575/AdamsonDonald---PC-Statement-Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were made aware of numerous complaints and disputes related to Metro Tow and Transport over the past several years. Victims questioned the legitimacy of their tows and the lengthy, almost impossible tasks of retrieving their vehicles from the tow lot.

Donald has another active case from last year for similar illegal towing conduct.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744835942075.png" alt="Adamson photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Adamson photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced a total of 18 felony charges have been filed against the owner of a Kansas City towing company and his mother, following an in-depth investigation by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, law enforcement, and the Department of Revenue Compliance and Investigation Bureau into illegal towing practices.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744836235521.png" alt="Adamson photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Adamson photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2580/Donald-Adamson-RED-COMPLAINT-DA">Donald Adamson</a>&nbsp;and Lannette Adamson face four counts of Stealing, four counts of Forgery, and 1st Degree Harassment.“After months of investigation by our assistant prosecutors and law enforcement partners, I am proud to present charges as we work to hold predatory towing companies accountable for their actions,”&nbsp;said Prosecutor Johnson. “The impact of illegal towing falls hardest on those already struggling financially, creating a snowball effect of towing fees, lost wages, transportation challenges, and stress piling up. I am proud of our team for building a strong case and bringing justice to victims impacted by these practices. We will not tolerate businesses that exploit hardworking people in Jackson County.”&nbsp;The investigation revealed Metro Tow and Transport owner Donald Adamson and employee Lannette Adamson&nbsp;allegedly acted in concert to allow&nbsp;the company to tow vehicles illegally without proper authorization; falsified required 4669 Forms; and made it extremely difficult for victims to retrieve their vehicles.State law requires towing companies to have a properly completed and signed 4669 Form with a signature from an authorized, full-time employee representative of the property who must also be present at the time of removal. Tow companies must also report vehicle information to police, so owners can be notified of the location of their vehicle. State law requires the property representative to provide an original signature and should not be photocopied.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2575/AdamsonDonald---PC-Statement-Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were made aware of numerous complaints and disputes related to Metro Tow and Transport over the past several years. Victims questioned the legitimacy of their tows and the lengthy, almost impossible tasks of retrieving their vehicles from the tow lot.Donald has another active case from last year for similar illegal towing conduct.

Kansas City towing company owner, mother forged docs to move cars

HARVEY COUNTY —On Wednesday, the Harvey County Attorney reported&nbsp; Judge Michael X. Llamas sentenced 71-year-old&nbsp;Edward L. Altum of Newton, to 208 months in Kansas Department of Corrections custody following a conviction for 2nd Degree Intentional Homicide and Aggravated Battery in the killing of his wife Peggy S. Altum.

On December 15, 2023, in the early morning hours Newton Police officers were dispatched to a report of a shooting in the 2000 Block of Terrace Drive in Newton after a caller advised a shooting had occurred at the residence. The man who called then disconnected the call.

When law enforcement arrived on scene, Mr. Altum exited the house with his hands raised above his head and when asked if everyone was ok inside the residence he replied no. Officers located a .22 caliber revolver laying on the kitchen counter and his wife, the victim, lying in bed with multiple gunshot injuries. 

She was transported to Wesley Medical Center where she died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702667856753.png" alt="Altum photo Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Altum photo Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —On Wednesday, the Harvey County Attorney reported&nbsp; Judge Michael X. Llamas sentenced 71-year-old&nbsp;Edward L. Altum of Newton, to 208 months in Kansas Department of Corrections custody following a conviction for 2nd Degree Intentional Homicide and Aggravated Battery in the killing of his wife Peggy S. Altum.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703175587665.jpeg" alt="Peggy Sue Altum-courtesy. photo" />
 <figcaption>Peggy Sue Altum-courtesy. photo</figcaption>
 </figure>On December 15, 2023, in the early morning hours Newton Police officers were dispatched to a report of a shooting in the 2000 Block of Terrace Drive in Newton after a caller advised a shooting had occurred at the residence. The man who called then disconnected the call.When law enforcement arrived on scene, Mr. Altum exited the house with his hands raised above his head and when asked if everyone was ok inside the residence he replied no. Officers located a .22 caliber revolver laying on the kitchen counter and his wife, the victim, lying in bed with multiple gunshot injuries. She was transported to Wesley Medical Center where she died.

Kansas man going to prison for killing his wife

JEWELL COUNTY — What began as a routine traffic stop turned into something much more meaningful in eastern Jewell County Wednesday morning.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Trooper Mai was on patrol when a vehicle approached his patrol car at 92 mph in a 65-mph zone. As Trooper Mai turned around and attempted to stop the vehicle, he noticed it was crossing the centerline and initially failed to yield to emergency lights—causing concern.

Thankfully, the vehicle eventually pulled over, and Trooper Mai made contact with the elderly driver. After taking time to talk with him, it became clear this wasn’t just about speeding. 

The driver appeared confused and was trying to make his way back to Omaha, Nebraska. Further investigation revealed the driver had been reported missing from Omaha. 

His wife hadn’t seen him since the day before and he was listed as a missing person with Alzheimer’s. With help from the Omaha Police Department, Republic County Sheriff’s Office, and a nearby first responder, Trooper Mai was able to ensure the driver’s safety, arrange for his vehicle to be transported safely, and coordinate a reunion with the man’s family.

"This is another reminder that while the mission of the KHP is to keep Kansas roads safe, Troopers also here to help those in need—and sometimes, that means reuniting a family."

JEWELL COUNTY — What began as a routine traffic stop turned into something much more meaningful in eastern Jewell County Wednesday morning.According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Trooper Mai was on patrol when a vehicle approached his patrol car at 92 mph in a 65-mph zone. As Trooper Mai turned around and attempted to stop the vehicle, he noticed it was crossing the centerline and initially failed to yield to emergency lights—causing concern.Thankfully, the vehicle eventually pulled over, and Trooper Mai made contact with the elderly driver. After taking time to talk with him, it became clear this wasn’t just about speeding. The driver appeared confused and was trying to make his way back to Omaha, Nebraska. Further investigation revealed the driver had been reported missing from Omaha. His wife hadn’t seen him since the day before and he was listed as a missing person with Alzheimer’s. With help from the Omaha Police Department, Republic County Sheriff’s Office, and a nearby first responder, Trooper Mai was able to ensure the driver’s safety, arrange for his vehicle to be transported safely, and coordinate a reunion with the man’s family."This is another reminder that while the mission of the KHP is to keep Kansas roads safe, Troopers also here to help those in need—and sometimes, that means reuniting a family."

Kansas Trooper helps reunite missing Nebraska man with family

KANSAS CITY — Law enforcement caught another driver in the region traveling well over the posted speed limit.

Last week, a sheriff's deputy stopped a driver traveling 114 mph in a 55mph zone on 69 Highway between Heartland Drive and 33 Highway, according to a social media report from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.

 There are stoplights at both of those intersections. The driver told the deputy he had just gotten off work and was in a hurry to get home. "This is incredibly dangerous, and speeds that high result in an automatic court date. You can't just pay a fine and move on."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744768861072.png" alt="Photo Clay County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Clay County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — Law enforcement caught another driver in the region traveling well over the posted speed limit.Last week, a sheriff's deputy stopped a driver traveling 114 mph in a 55mph zone on 69 Highway between Heartland Drive and 33 Highway, according to a social media report from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff. There are stoplights at both of those intersections. The driver told the deputy he had just gotten off work and was in a hurry to get home. "This is incredibly dangerous, and speeds that high result in an automatic court date. You can't just pay a fine and move on."

Sheriff: 114mph in a 55mph zone; driver was in a hurry to get home

Former President Joe Biden on Tuesday used his first public address since leaving office to criticize the current administration for cutting thousands of employees at the Social Security Administration and to rebut those who have questioned the program’s relevance.

“In fewer than 100 days, this new administration has done so much damage and so much destruction. It’s kind of breathtaking it could happen that soon,” Biden said. “They’ve taken a hatchet to the Social Security Administration, pushing 7,000 employees — 7,000 — out the door in that time, including the most seasoned career officials.”

The Social Security Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/deep-cutbacks-social-security-staff-slammed-us-senate-democrats" target="_blank">announced earlier this year</a>&nbsp;it would cut staffing from 57,000 to 50,000 employees and reduce the number of regional offices from 10 to four.

Biden urged Republicans to preserve Social Security for future generations, arguing during his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/fmr-president-biden-first-remarks-since-leaving-office-on-social-security/658611" target="_blank">30-minute speech</a>&nbsp;to the national conference of Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled in Chicago that people have been able to rely on it throughout wars, recessions and the pandemic.

“Social Security is about more than retirement accounts. It’s about honoring a fundamental trust between government and people,” Biden said. “It’s about peace of mind for those who work their whole lives, so they can rest assured they’ll have a chance to get back some of what they earned and what they deserve.”

Biden, who accepted the organization’s Beacon of Hope award, said protecting Social Security and the federal workers who administer the program is about defending core principles.

“Who are we? What makes us distinct from the rest of the world?” Biden asked. “It comes down to basic, in my view, fundamental American values — nobody’s king, nobody’s the boss. Everybody has a shot.”&nbsp;

Biden criticized members of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet for making harsh comments about the program. He noted Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said his mother-in-law wouldn’t complain if she missed a Social Security payment and that “the easiest way to find the fraudster is to stop payments and listen because whoever screams is the one stealing.”

Biden also called out billionaire and head of U.S. DOGE Service Elon Musk for calling Social Security a “Ponzi scheme.”

“​​What the hell are they talking about?” Biden said. “People earn these benefits. They paid into that benefit. They rely on that benefit.”

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing several hours before Biden’s speech the Trump administration doesn’t plan to cut off Americans’ Social Security benefits.

“Let me make it very clear ahead of former President Biden’s remarks: The president, this president, President Trump is absolutely certain about protecting Social Security benefits for law-abiding, tax-paying American citizens and seniors who have paid into this program,” she said. “He will always protect that program. He campaigned on it. He protected it in his first term.”

Leavitt also took a swipe at Biden’s age, saying she didn’t expect him to give a speech during the evening.

“My first reaction when seeing former President Biden was speaking tonight was, I’m shocked that he was speaking at nighttime. I had thought his bedtime was much earlier than his speech tonight,” she said.&nbsp;

Biden, 82, last year dropped his reelection bid in a rematch against Trump, 78, amid concerns about his age and mental acuity.

Democrats have raised concerns for months that staffing cuts at the Social Security Administration will impact Americans’ ability to get their questions about the program answered or their issues resolved quickly.

Social Security Commissioner nominee Frank Bisignano&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-nominee-vows-service-will-improve-despite-mass-firings-office-closures" target="_blank">testified during his hearing</a>&nbsp;in March that, if confirmed, he would try to “ensure that every beneficiary receives their payments on time, that disability claims are processed in the manner they should be.”

Bisignano said he hoped to ensure Social Security recipients could visit an office, use the website, or speak to a real person after calling the 1-800 number.

“On the phone, I’m committed to reducing wait times and providing beneficiaries with a better experience; waiting 20 minutes-plus to get an answer will be of yesteryear,” Bisignano said. “I also believe we can significantly improve the length of the disability claim process.”

Bisignano promised lawmakers he would reduce the 1% error rate in payments, which he said was “five decimal places too high.” And he said repeatedly that personally identifiable information will be “protected.”

The Senate Finance Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-commissioner-nominee-advances-us-senate-floor-amid-doge-questions" target="_blank">voted along party lines</a>&nbsp;in early April to send Bisignano’s nomination to the floor, but he hasn’t yet been confirmed.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744766940489.png" alt="Former President Biden speaks about Social Security at a disability conference in Chicago on Tuesday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Former President Biden speaks about Social Security at a disability conference in Chicago on Tuesday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>Former President Joe Biden on Tuesday used his first public address since leaving office to criticize the current administration for cutting thousands of employees at the Social Security Administration and to rebut those who have questioned the program’s relevance.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Biden: &quot;Look what&#39;s happened now, fewer than 100 days into this new administration has done so much damage and so much destruction. It is kind of breathtaking it could happen that soon.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/UrggjUWvQJ">pic.twitter.com/UrggjUWvQJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1912284452794810763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“In fewer than 100 days, this new administration has done so much damage and so much destruction. It’s kind of breathtaking it could happen that soon,” Biden said. “They’ve taken a hatchet to the Social Security Administration, pushing 7,000 employees — 7,000 — out the door in that time, including the most seasoned career officials.”The Social Security Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/deep-cutbacks-social-security-staff-slammed-us-senate-democrats" target="_blank">announced earlier this year</a>&nbsp;it would cut staffing from 57,000 to 50,000 employees and reduce the number of regional offices from 10 to four.Biden urged Republicans to preserve Social Security for future generations, arguing during his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/fmr-president-biden-first-remarks-since-leaving-office-on-social-security/658611" target="_blank">30-minute speech</a>&nbsp;to the national conference of Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled in Chicago that people have been able to rely on it throughout wars, recessions and the pandemic.“Social Security is about more than retirement accounts. It’s about honoring a fundamental trust between government and people,” Biden said. “It’s about peace of mind for those who work their whole lives, so they can rest assured they’ll have a chance to get back some of what they earned and what they deserve.”Biden, who accepted the organization’s Beacon of Hope award, said protecting Social Security and the federal workers who administer the program is about defending core principles.“Who are we? What makes us distinct from the rest of the world?” Biden asked. “It comes down to basic, in my view, fundamental American values — nobody’s king, nobody’s the boss. Everybody has a shot.”&nbsp;Biden criticized members of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet for making harsh comments about the program. He noted Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said his mother-in-law wouldn’t complain if she missed a Social Security payment and that “the easiest way to find the fraudster is to stop payments and listen because whoever screams is the one stealing.”Biden also called out billionaire and head of U.S. DOGE Service Elon Musk for calling Social Security a “Ponzi scheme.”“​​What the hell are they talking about?” Biden said. “People earn these benefits. They paid into that benefit. They rely on that benefit.”<h2>White House pledges to maintain program</h2>White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing several hours before Biden’s speech the Trump administration doesn’t plan to cut off Americans’ Social Security benefits.“Let me make it very clear ahead of former President Biden’s remarks: The president, this president, President Trump is absolutely certain about protecting Social Security benefits for law-abiding, tax-paying American citizens and seniors who have paid into this program,” she said. “He will always protect that program. He campaigned on it. He protected it in his first term.”Leavitt also took a swipe at Biden’s age, saying she didn’t expect him to give a speech during the evening.“My first reaction when seeing former President Biden was speaking tonight was, I’m shocked that he was speaking at nighttime. I had thought his bedtime was much earlier than his speech tonight,” she said.&nbsp;Biden, 82, last year dropped his reelection bid in a rematch against Trump, 78, amid concerns about his age and mental acuity.<h2>Administrator nominee to target errors</h2>Democrats have raised concerns for months that staffing cuts at the Social Security Administration will impact Americans’ ability to get their questions about the program answered or their issues resolved quickly.Social Security Commissioner nominee Frank Bisignano&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-nominee-vows-service-will-improve-despite-mass-firings-office-closures" target="_blank">testified during his hearing</a>&nbsp;in March that, if confirmed, he would try to “ensure that every beneficiary receives their payments on time, that disability claims are processed in the manner they should be.”Bisignano said he hoped to ensure Social Security recipients could visit an office, use the website, or speak to a real person after calling the 1-800 number.“On the phone, I’m committed to reducing wait times and providing beneficiaries with a better experience; waiting 20 minutes-plus to get an answer will be of yesteryear,” Bisignano said. “I also believe we can significantly improve the length of the disability claim process.”Bisignano promised lawmakers he would reduce the 1% error rate in payments, which he said was “five decimal places too high.” And he said repeatedly that personally identifiable information will be “protected.”The Senate Finance Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-commissioner-nominee-advances-us-senate-floor-amid-doge-questions" target="_blank">voted along party lines</a>&nbsp;in early April to send Bisignano’s nomination to the floor, but he hasn’t yet been confirmed.&nbsp;

🎥In first post-White House address, Biden pans Trump on Social Security

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Wyandotte County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Hyundai Sonata driven by&nbsp; Jacob Robert Thomas Rhodes, 21, Shawnee,&nbsp;was northbound on Interstate 435&nbsp; in the far-right lane. The car veered over to the two lane, traveled all the way back over to the one lane, into the median and struck the bridge pillar.

Rhodes was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Forensic Medical. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744797229055.png" alt="First responders at the crash scene photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the crash scene photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Wyandotte County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Hyundai Sonata driven by&nbsp; Jacob Robert Thomas Rhodes, 21, Shawnee,&nbsp;was northbound on Interstate 435&nbsp; in the far-right lane. The car veered over to the two lane, traveled all the way back over to the one lane, into the median and struck the bridge pillar.Rhodes was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Forensic Medical. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after car strikes bridge pillar

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Charges have been filed in the April 5, drug deal shooting that took the lives of 19-year-old Javon Brown and 20-year-old Delorean Jackson both residents of Kansas City, Kansas.

Last week, 18-year-old Kenneth Flowers a resident of Kansas City, Kansas was charged with four felonies including first-degree murder; aggravated battery; criminal discharge of a firearm; and criminal damage to property. 

He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $200,000 bond.

Just before 9:p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 800 block of N. 70th Terrace, according to a media release. First responders discovered Brown and Jackson outside, both victims of apparent gunshot wounds.

During the incident two other victims were struck by gunfire and were transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

In addition, David Stephens, 56,&nbsp; Kansas City, Kan., has been charged with felony distribution of marijuana and felony possession of drug paraphernalia, according to KCK Police.&nbsp; He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744294077603.png" alt="Flowers photo Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Flowers photo Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Charges have been filed in the April 5, drug deal shooting that took the lives of 19-year-old Javon Brown and 20-year-old Delorean Jackson both residents of Kansas City, Kansas.Last week, 18-year-old Kenneth Flowers a resident of Kansas City, Kansas was charged with four felonies including first-degree murder; aggravated battery; criminal discharge of a firearm; and criminal damage to property. He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $200,000 bond.Just before 9:p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 800 block of N. 70th Terrace, according to a media release. First responders discovered Brown and Jackson outside, both victims of apparent gunshot wounds.During the incident two other victims were struck by gunfire and were transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744294682991.png" alt="Stephens photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Stephens photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition, David Stephens, 56,&nbsp; Kansas City, Kan., has been charged with felony distribution of marijuana and felony possession of drug paraphernalia, according to KCK Police.&nbsp; He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

Kan. boy accused of double-homicide 2 days after 18th birthday

‘You think you’re stopping abortions with these ridiculous bills? You’re not,’ said state Rep. Raychel Proudie

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

A proposed constitutional amendment that would ban abortion is one step closer to the statewide ballot after it won initial approval of the Missouri House on Tuesday.

After four hours of floor debate, the House passed the proposed amendment with 94 in favor and 50 against. Two Republicans — Speaker Jon Patterson and state Rep. Bill Allen — joined with 48 Democrats in opposition.&nbsp;

As lawmakers prepared to vote, protesters with Abortion Action Missouri began chanting from the upper chamber, unfurling banners over the balcony protesting the proposed amendment.&nbsp;

“When abortion rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back,” they shouted before security moved them into the hallway.&nbsp;

The legislation needs to be approved one more time by the House before it goes to the Senate.&nbsp;

If approved by the Senate, and then by voters, the new amendment would reinstate a near-total abortion ban in Missouri with limited exceptions for medical emergencies, fatal fetal anomalies and for survivors of rape and incest in the first 12 weeks of gestation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It would also protect women’s access to health care during miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, and other medical emergencies. These protections are also in place under the current law.

In November, voters approved&nbsp;<a href="https://moconstitutionalfreedom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Missourians-for-Constitutional-Freedom-Amendment.pdf" target="_blank">Amendment 3,</a>&nbsp;which rolled back Missouri’s abortion ban and opened the door for clinics to begin performing the procedure for the first time since 2022.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR73&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment debated Tuesday was</a>&nbsp;filed by Republican state Rep. Ed Lewis of Moberly and is being carried by state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican. A previous proposed abortion ban was scrapped before making it to the full House, causing some to speculate about internal disagreements among GOP lawmakers causing roadblocks with a month left in the legislative session.

Seitz denies that there are any disagreements between GOP lawmakers, saying the current legislation before the House was the plan all along because it best matches with the language in a similar Senate proposal.

“We’re on the exact same sheet of music,” he said. “The timeline may appear long to the general public, but this is exactly the plan from the beginning.”&nbsp;

Seitz insists that Missourians, in approving Amendment 3 with just shy of 52% of the statewide vote, were signaling that some exceptions were needed in Missouri’s prior abortion ban.

Since abortion was legalized late last year, Missouri Republicans have made it a priority to undo or weaken the current law, forcing many lawmakers to contend with their beliefs around abortion exceptions, something many have opposed in the past.

“I make decisions from a Biblical worldview,” Seitz told The Independent last week. “I have to understand that others may not, so pragmatically, how do we, particularly we that profess Christ as savior, how do we justify even the possibility of these exceptions for rape and incest?”&nbsp;

His conclusion: Exceptions will still allow the GOP legislature to “save as many infants as possible and protect women.”&nbsp;

During a marathon House debate on Tuesday, however, Democrats dismissed that argument.&nbsp;

“You think you’re stopping abortions with these ridiculous bills? You’re not,” said state Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson.&nbsp; “You’re stopping safe, legal abortions. People are still going to have abortions. So if you want to be pro-life, let’s try being pro quality-of-life first.”

Proudie noted that at a House committee hearing, some lawmakers advocated murder charges for rape and incest survivors who seek out abortions.&nbsp;

She was among several Democrats who shared stories of constituents who<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/10/missouri-abortion-ban-amendment-gop-rape-incest/">&nbsp;weren’t allowed to testify against the bill last week</a>&nbsp;when state Rep. Holly Jones, who chairs the House Committee on Children and Families, limited testimony to only nine people, despite dozens more traveling to Jefferson City to oppose the legislation.

“My vagina is not mine,” Proudie said. “It belongs to the state of Missouri.”'

If approved by both the House and Senate, Missourians could be asked to weigh in on reinstating an abortion ban as soon as a special election the governor could call this year, or during the 2026 midterm election.&nbsp;

The proposed ballot summary doesn’t mention banning elective abortions. Instead, Missourians would be asked if they want to amend the Missouri constitution to:&nbsp;

Missouri state Rep. Mark Boyko, a Democrat from Kirkwood, said that no part of the ballot language “tells a voter that there will be fewer abortions allowed.”

Previous iterations of this proposed amendment included exceptions for survivors, but only if they first reported the rape or incest to police, a requirement that was highly criticized as dangerous by survivors and advocates.&nbsp;

While the current version eliminated those requirements, House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, remained skeptical of how survivors would be allowed to access the procedure.&nbsp;

“Who is the arbiter of whether or not she was raped or a victim of incest?” asked Aune, who is herself a survivor. “The honor system?”&nbsp;

After the passage of Amendment 3 in November, Planned Parenthood and the ACLU of Missouri sued the state, claiming that many of the TRAP laws on the books were rendered unconstitutional. A Jackson County judge agreed,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/14/missouri-judge-blocks-discriminatory-abortion-clinics-rules-blamed-for-lack-of-access/">striking down many of the current regulations as “discriminatory.”&nbsp;</a>

This decision allowed Planned Parenthood to again begin offering some procedural abortions at three of its clinics. Medication abortions, however,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/28/missouri-rejects-planned-parenthood-medication-abortion-plan/">remain inaccessible.</a>&nbsp;

Jones said Amendment 3 was vague and “completely up to judicial interpretation” with unintended consequence.&nbsp;

State Rep. Cathy Jo Loy, a Republican from Carthage, pointed to language in Amendment 3 referring to a “treating health care professional.”

Could that include a dietician or a speech pathologist, Jo Loy asked.&nbsp;

State Rep. Jeremy Dean, a Democrat from Springfield who worked in health care for five years, including at an OBGYN office, disputed this.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744766247716.png" alt=" Protesting an anti-abortion bill that seeks to reverse a constitutional amendment passed by voters, Kate Hopkins chants at the Missouri House Tuesday as security escorts the protestors out (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Protesting an anti-abortion bill that seeks to reverse a constitutional amendment passed by voters, Kate Hopkins chants at the Missouri House Tuesday as security escorts the protestors out (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘You think you’re stopping abortions with these ridiculous bills? You’re not,’ said state Rep. Raychel Proudie</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>A proposed constitutional amendment that would ban abortion is one step closer to the statewide ballot after it won initial approval of the Missouri House on Tuesday.After four hours of floor debate, the House passed the proposed amendment with 94 in favor and 50 against. Two Republicans — Speaker Jon Patterson and state Rep. Bill Allen — joined with 48 Democrats in opposition.&nbsp;As lawmakers prepared to vote, protesters with Abortion Action Missouri began chanting from the upper chamber, unfurling banners over the balcony protesting the proposed amendment.&nbsp;“When abortion rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back,” they shouted before security moved them into the hallway.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744766187767.png" alt=" Protestors with Abortion Action Missouri interrupt Missouri House debate of an anti-abortion constitutional amendment Tuesday, chanting: “When abortion rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back” (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Protestors with Abortion Action Missouri interrupt Missouri House debate of an anti-abortion constitutional amendment Tuesday, chanting: “When abortion rights are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back” (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>The legislation needs to be approved one more time by the House before it goes to the Senate.&nbsp;If approved by the Senate, and then by voters, the new amendment would reinstate a near-total abortion ban in Missouri with limited exceptions for medical emergencies, fatal fetal anomalies and for survivors of rape and incest in the first 12 weeks of gestation.&nbsp;&nbsp;It would also protect women’s access to health care during miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, and other medical emergencies. These protections are also in place under the current law.In November, voters approved&nbsp;<a href="https://moconstitutionalfreedom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Missourians-for-Constitutional-Freedom-Amendment.pdf" target="_blank">Amendment 3,</a>&nbsp;which rolled back Missouri’s abortion ban and opened the door for clinics to begin performing the procedure for the first time since 2022.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR73&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment debated Tuesday was</a>&nbsp;filed by Republican state Rep. Ed Lewis of Moberly and is being carried by state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican. A previous proposed abortion ban was scrapped before making it to the full House, causing some to speculate about internal disagreements among GOP lawmakers causing roadblocks with a month left in the legislative session.Seitz denies that there are any disagreements between GOP lawmakers, saying the current legislation before the House was the plan all along because it best matches with the language in a similar Senate proposal.“We’re on the exact same sheet of music,” he said. “The timeline may appear long to the general public, but this is exactly the plan from the beginning.”&nbsp;Seitz insists that Missourians, in approving Amendment 3 with just shy of 52% of the statewide vote, were signaling that some exceptions were needed in Missouri’s prior abortion ban.Since abortion was legalized late last year, Missouri Republicans have made it a priority to undo or weaken the current law, forcing many lawmakers to contend with their beliefs around abortion exceptions, something many have opposed in the past.“I make decisions from a Biblical worldview,” Seitz told The Independent last week. “I have to understand that others may not, so pragmatically, how do we, particularly we that profess Christ as savior, how do we justify even the possibility of these exceptions for rape and incest?”&nbsp;His conclusion: Exceptions will still allow the GOP legislature to “save as many infants as possible and protect women.”&nbsp;During a marathon House debate on Tuesday, however, Democrats dismissed that argument.&nbsp;“You think you’re stopping abortions with these ridiculous bills? You’re not,” said state Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson.&nbsp; “You’re stopping safe, legal abortions. People are still going to have abortions. So if you want to be pro-life, let’s try being pro quality-of-life first.”Proudie noted that at a House committee hearing, some lawmakers advocated murder charges for rape and incest survivors who seek out abortions.&nbsp;She was among several Democrats who shared stories of constituents who<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/10/missouri-abortion-ban-amendment-gop-rape-incest/">&nbsp;weren’t allowed to testify against the bill last week</a>&nbsp;when state Rep. Holly Jones, who chairs the House Committee on Children and Families, limited testimony to only nine people, despite dozens more traveling to Jefferson City to oppose the legislation.“My vagina is not mine,” Proudie said. “It belongs to the state of Missouri.”'<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744766150350.png" alt=" State Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson, debates a proposed constitutional amendment banning abortion on Tuesday (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson, debates a proposed constitutional amendment banning abortion on Tuesday (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>If approved by both the House and Senate, Missourians could be asked to weigh in on reinstating an abortion ban as soon as a special election the governor could call this year, or during the 2026 midterm election.&nbsp;The proposed ballot summary doesn’t mention banning elective abortions. Instead, Missourians would be asked if they want to amend the Missouri constitution to:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>“Guarantee access to care for medical emergencies, ectopic pregnancies, and miscarriages;&nbsp;</li><li>Ensure women’s safety during abortions;&nbsp;</li><li>Ensure parental consent for minors;&nbsp;</li><li>Allow abortions for medical emergencies, fetal anomalies, rape, and incest;&nbsp;</li><li>Require physicians to provide medically accurate information; and&nbsp;</li><li>Protect children from gender transition?”</li>
 </ul>Missouri state Rep. Mark Boyko, a Democrat from Kirkwood, said that no part of the ballot language “tells a voter that there will be fewer abortions allowed.”Previous iterations of this proposed amendment included exceptions for survivors, but only if they first reported the rape or incest to police, a requirement that was highly criticized as dangerous by survivors and advocates.&nbsp;While the current version eliminated those requirements, House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, remained skeptical of how survivors would be allowed to access the procedure.&nbsp;“Who is the arbiter of whether or not she was raped or a victim of incest?” asked Aune, who is herself a survivor. “The honor system?”&nbsp;After the passage of Amendment 3 in November, Planned Parenthood and the ACLU of Missouri sued the state, claiming that many of the TRAP laws on the books were rendered unconstitutional. A Jackson County judge agreed,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/14/missouri-judge-blocks-discriminatory-abortion-clinics-rules-blamed-for-lack-of-access/">striking down many of the current regulations as “discriminatory.”&nbsp;</a>This decision allowed Planned Parenthood to again begin offering some procedural abortions at three of its clinics. Medication abortions, however,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/28/missouri-rejects-planned-parenthood-medication-abortion-plan/">remain inaccessible.</a>&nbsp;Jones said Amendment 3 was vague and “completely up to judicial interpretation” with unintended consequence.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744766108984.png" alt=" State Rep. Holly Jones, a Republican from Eureka, debates a proposed constitutional amendment banning abortion on Tuesday (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Holly Jones, a Republican from Eureka, debates a proposed constitutional amendment banning abortion on Tuesday (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>State Rep. Cathy Jo Loy, a Republican from Carthage, pointed to language in Amendment 3 referring to a “treating health care professional.”Could that include a dietician or a speech pathologist, Jo Loy asked.&nbsp;“Absolutely,” Seitz replied.State Rep. Jeremy Dean, a Democrat from Springfield who worked in health care for five years, including at an OBGYN office, disputed this.&nbsp;“You ever heard of scope of practice? You ever heard of a licensure? A governing body?” he said. Those are all things that exist that didn’t go away when Amendment 3 passed.”&nbsp;The proposed amendment also looks to require that any legal challenges to the state law around reproductive health care be heard in Cole County, a nod to the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/14/missouri-judge-blocks-discriminatory-abortion-clinics-rules-blamed-for-lack-of-access/">ongoing legal battle playing out between the state and Planned Parenthood in Jackson County.</a>Republican lawmakers on numerous occasions during Tuesday’s debate emphasized that the main goal of the amendment was to protect women.“I ask that you stop trying to protect me or my constituents,” said state Rep. Jo Doll, a Democrat from St. Louis. “Because we can protect ourselves.”&nbsp;State Rep. Becky Laubinger, a Republican from Park Hills, rejected any accusations that anti-abortion lawmakers don’t care about women.&nbsp;Laubinger, who runs&nbsp;Monarch Family Resource Center in Ironton, said she’s gone out at all hours of the day to purchase diapers and pack n plays for families in need. She’s watched children so women could go to doctor’s appointments.&nbsp;Democrats ultimately accused their GOP colleagues of attempting to undermine the will of the people.“Sending this back to them is not a democratic exercise,” said state Rep. Eric Woods, a Democrat from Kansas City. “It’s an attempt to slap them on the wrist, tell them they were wrong and maybe they can do it better next time.”&nbsp;The Independent’s Annelise Hanshaw contributed to this story.