This week at the Missouri Capitol, I continued working on legislation focused on strengthening our economy, improving access to healthcare, enhancing public safety, and supporting our local communities. It was also a great week welcoming students from our district and recognizing young leaders who represent the future of Missouri.

Missouri Prepares for World Cup Events

Governor Mike Kehoe signed an executive order activating Missouri’s State Emergency Operations Plan ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup events in Kansas City. This allows state agencies to better coordinate with local governments and provides additional support, including assistance from the Missouri National Guard to help law enforcement.

With hundreds of thousands of visitors expected, this is an important step to ensure Missouri is prepared to keep communities safe and operations running smoothly.

Improving Safety and Accountability on Missouri Roads

I voted in favor of legislation to strengthen requirements for commercial drivers and motor carriers. The bill establishes English proficiency standards, increases documentation requirements, and holds companies accountable for ensuring drivers are properly authorized.

These changes are focused on improving safety and protecting everyone who travels Missouri’s roadways.

Expanding Investment Opportunities for Missouri

I supported a proposed constitutional amendment to expand the State Treasurer’s authority to invest state funds. This provides greater flexibility while maintaining safeguards to protect taxpayer dollars.

If approved by voters, this measure will help Missouri better manage its finances and maximize returns on investments.

Strengthening Pharmacy Care and Expanding Access to Treatment

House Bill 3009 is a comprehensive pharmacy reform bill that strengthens and modernizes the role of pharmacists in Missouri. The legislation expands what pharmacists can do to better serve patients, including administering immunizations, providing medication therapy services, and prescribing certain medical devices.

The bill also ensures flexibility during emergencies so patients can continue to receive medications without unnecessary delays.

I was proud to offer an amendment to this bill that includes provisions from Senate Bill 878. This amendment further supports pharmacists by clarifying their authority to provide medication therapy services and expanding their ability to prescribe durable medical equipment.

This is especially important in rural communities, where pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare providers. Expanding their role helps reduce delays in care and improves access to healthcare close to home.

Proposed Constitutional Amendment to Phase Out Income Tax Advances

House Joint Resolution 173 proposes a constitutional amendment to gradually reduce and potentially eliminate Missouri’s individual income tax based on future revenue growth. Under this approach, tax rates would only decrease when revenues meet specific benchmarks, with the goal of phasing out the income tax over time if economic conditions allow.

The measure has advanced through the Senate and now returns to the House, where it is expected to come up for a vote soon.

Oversight and Accountability for School Activities Associations Advances

Senate Bill 863 establishes a new oversight structure for statewide activities associations, including those governing interscholastic athletics such as MSHSAA. The legislation creates a board within the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide oversight, improve transparency, and ensure a clear appeals process.

Throughout the process, MSHSAA and education organizations have worked alongside legislators to help shape this proposal and provide input. The bill has now moved to the House and will be heard in the Public Institutions Committee for further consideration.

Royalty Day at the Capitol

This week, I had the opportunity to celebrate Royalty Day at the Capitol, recognizing fair and festival royalty from across Missouri. These young leaders represent the pride, tradition, and strong values of our communities, especially our agricultural heritage.

I was proud to host royalty from the Texas County Scholarship Pageant, the Miss Pulaski Scholarship Pageant, the Phelps County Fair Royalty, and the Belle Fair Royalty. These young women serve as ambassadors for their communities, promoting service, leadership, and local traditions.

It was great to see them recognized on the House floor and experience the Capitol firsthand. Events like this highlight the importance of youth leadership and the role these individuals play in promoting their communities and preserving Missouri’s traditions.