mike kehoe

The governor also signed into law on Thursday harsher penalties for drunk driving and age verification requirements for pornography website access.

Under the bill, the attorney general could sue commercial entities accused of knowingly violating the law.

The proposal follows Gov. Mike Kehoe’s executive order but flags new costs, staffing concerns and potential data-quality problems

Missouri faced a tight budget this session after years of record spending. Kehoe issued 65 vetoes, totaling over $30 million in general revenue.

With state spending outpacing revenue, lawmakers expect the governor to use vetoes and restrictions to seek savings

Preis will lead the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which oversees about 500 public school districts and charter school systems in the state.

The initiative was originally expected to roll out in October. Missouri DSS said the extended timeline will give the state more time to work with local grocers, agricultural partners and community stakeholders before the program begins.

Opponents contend the measure would violate a ban on constitutional amendments including more than one subject. They also argue the ballot summary is misleading and should be changed.

The measure awaiting Gov. Mike Kehoe’s action would replace Missouri’s limited anti-SLAPP law with a broader path to dismiss lawsuits aimed at public expression.

If signed, HB 1827 would help make places like downtown Columbia more accessible to residents.