First responder agencies have until the end of next month to nominate heroic responders for the Missouri Public Safety Awards

The Department of Public Safety is accepting nominations for the State of Missouri’s highest awards honoring first responders who took heroic actions beyond the call of duty in 2025 until February 28th. 

The awards are the Red, White and Blue Heart Award, Missouri Medal of Valor, and Governor’s Medal. The department is also accepting nominations from Missouri public safety agencies for the Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award.  The awards will be presented during a statewide ceremony in Jefferson City later this year.

Nominations must come from the leader of the public safety agency.  Nomination forms can be found on the Department of Public Safety's website.  A  public safety officer is defined as a person serving a public agency, with or without compensation, such as a firefighter, law enforcement officer, or emergency personnel or emergency management personnel.

The four public awards that someone can be nominated for are:&nbsp;

The Red, White and Blue Heart Award may be presented to any Missouri peace officer, firefighter, paramedic, EMT or emergency first responder who under honorable circumstances is critically, seriously or fatally injured while performing official duties in the line of duty. It is conferred in recognition of first responders seriously injured and sustaining permanent impairment of health or death. The injury or condition must require long-term treatment by a medical professional and considerable loss of time from duty. In a fatality incident, the award will be presented to a family member.

The Missouri Medal of Valor recognizes heroic service by first responders in an effort to save a life. The Medal of Valor is Missouri’s highest award for public safety officers and is awarded to those who exhibit exceptional courage, decisiveness and swift action without regard for their own safety in their attempt to save a life. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.

The Governor’s Medal recognizes extraordinary actions by an organized or ad hoc team of first responders for brave actions above and beyond the call of normal duty during a critical situation in which their teamwork was essential to the successful resolution of the situation. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.

The Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award honors a civilian who has provided valuable or courageous assistance to first responders in an emergency situation, without regard for their own personal welfare. It may also be bestowed on a civilian or team of civilians who train public safety officers in life-saving techniques which are later utilized to save a life

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767646043487.jpeg" alt="On Sept. 23, 2025, Gov. Mike Kehoe presented Missouri Public Safety Awards to 32 first responders and six civilians for heroic acts they performed to protect others during critical incidents in 2024./ Photo courtesy of the Missouri Department of Public Safety" />
 <figcaption>On Sept. 23, 2025, Gov. Mike Kehoe presented Missouri Public Safety Awards to 32 first responders and six civilians for heroic acts they performed to protect others during critical incidents in 2024./ Photo courtesy of the Missouri Department of Public Safety</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEFirst responder agencies have until the end of next month to nominate heroic responders for the Missouri Public Safety AwardsThe Department of Public Safety is accepting nominations for the State of Missouri’s highest awards honoring first responders who took heroic actions beyond the call of duty in 2025 until February 28th. The awards are the Red, White and Blue Heart Award, Missouri Medal of Valor, and Governor’s Medal. The department is also accepting nominations from Missouri public safety agencies for the Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award. The awards will be presented during a statewide ceremony in Jefferson City later this year.Nominations must come from the leader of the public safety agency. Nomination forms can be found on the Department of Public Safety's website. A public safety officer is defined as a person serving a public agency, with or without compensation, such as a firefighter, law enforcement officer, or emergency personnel or emergency management personnel.The four public awards that someone can be nominated for are:&nbsp;The Red, White and Blue Heart Award may be presented to any Missouri peace officer, firefighter, paramedic, EMT or emergency first responder who under honorable circumstances is critically, seriously or fatally injured while performing official duties in the line of duty. It is conferred in recognition of first responders seriously injured and sustaining permanent impairment of health or death. The injury or condition must require long-term treatment by a medical professional and considerable loss of time from duty. In a fatality incident, the award will be presented to a family member.The Missouri Medal of Valor recognizes heroic service by first responders in an effort to save a life. The Medal of Valor is Missouri’s highest award for public safety officers and is awarded to those who exhibit exceptional courage, decisiveness and swift action without regard for their own safety in their attempt to save a life. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.The Governor’s Medal recognizes extraordinary actions by an organized or ad hoc team of first responders for brave actions above and beyond the call of normal duty during a critical situation in which their teamwork was essential to the successful resolution of the situation. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.The Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award honors a civilian who has provided valuable or courageous assistance to first responders in an emergency situation, without regard for their own personal welfare. It may also be bestowed on a civilian or team of civilians who train public safety officers in life-saving techniques which are later utilized to save a lifeYou can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Nominations being accepted for Missouri Public Safety awards

According to State Climatologist Justin Glisan, snowfall was the defining weather feature for Iowa this December. A broad swath stretching from the southeastern to the northwestern parts of the state received above-average totals, with accumulations ranging from four to eight inches.

In contrast, the corners of the state missed out on the heavier totals. Both the northeast and southwest regions recorded below-average snowfall for the month.

These snow-covered landscapes had a direct impact on regional temperatures. Glisan noted that December temperatures averaged about 1.7 degrees below normal.

Despite the notable snow, overall precipitation—which includes the liquid equivalent of frozen moisture—was slightly lacking. The state recorded approximately one inch of precipitation, which is about four-tenths of an inch below the monthly average. Ultimately, Glisan characterized the month as pretty ordinary on most accounts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765562426861.jpg" alt="winter road, snow, snowy, nature, country, drive, woods" />
 <figcaption>winter road, snow, snowy, nature, country, drive, woods</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHAccording to State Climatologist Justin Glisan, snowfall was the defining weather feature for Iowa this December. A broad swath stretching from the southeastern to the northwestern parts of the state received above-average totals, with accumulations ranging from four to eight inches.In contrast, the corners of the state missed out on the heavier totals. Both the northeast and southwest regions recorded below-average snowfall for the month.These snow-covered landscapes had a direct impact on regional temperatures. Glisan noted that December temperatures averaged about 1.7 degrees below normal.Despite the notable snow, overall precipitation—which includes the liquid equivalent of frozen moisture—was slightly lacking. The state recorded approximately one inch of precipitation, which is about four-tenths of an inch below the monthly average. Ultimately, Glisan characterized the month as pretty ordinary on most accounts.

High snow, low temps: state climatologist recaps Iowa’s December weather

By&nbsp;TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/18/kansas-board-of-regents-works-to-incorporate-critique-of-tenure-workforce-policy-changes/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Dissenters point to ‘rigid’ post-tenure reviews, short timeline for making improvement

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents agreed to weigh feedback from professors, administrators and legislators before voting on systemwide faculty tenure and workload policies designed to bring accountability and transparency to academic personnel decisions at the state’s six public universities.

Since the Board of Regents released drafts of the policies in November, complaints surfaced that allowing the firing of university professors after two consecutive unsatisfactory annual evaluations was “overly rigid” and didn’t take into account “extenuating circumstances,” such as an employee’s personal crisis.

In addition, concern was expressed the workload policy conflicted with standards of the American Association of University Professors or with academic program accreditation guidelines.

Objections were raised about membership of post-tenure review committees and whether the university committee deciding to place a faculty member on a one-year improvement plan would be the same group that performed the follow-up evaluation. Another issue was that one year could be an unrealistic period of time for a faculty member to correct deficiencies in research productivity, officials said.

“We’re appreciative of that input because it is beneficial and helpful as we look at trying to stand up this policy,” said Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who has a background in community college administration.

She said the goal was implementation of umbrella policies applicable to the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University and Emporia State University.

The Board of Regents engaged in general discussion of the draft policies Wednesday and could take formal action on both in January.

During the past few years, members of the Legislature have taken greater interest in university workload and tenure decisions. In 2024, a Kansas House committee welcomed to the Capitol a tenured faculty member at Emporia State who recommended retroactive elimination of tenure at state universities. The idea was opposed by K-State president Richard Linton and KU chancellor Doug Girod.

Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the systemwide tenure and workload policies were the result of persistent calls for greater transparency and accountability regarding faculty appointments.

“It’s my own sense that very few faculty would be opposed to greater accountability because the work they do is good. They are very productive and they would stand up under scrutiny,” he said.

Monhollon, a former executive director of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, said tenure was awarded to faculty following extensive vetting of each person’s teaching, research and service performance over a period of years. Tenure was mistakenly viewed by the public as a lifetime appointment, he said.

Academic freedom, a pivotal component of faculty tenure across the United States, was essential to success of colleges or universities, he said.

“Tenure is there to protect faculty to pursue research or to take on topics that are controversial,” Monhollon said. “If those protections aren’t in place for faculty, I think we lose that ability of faculty to take on difficult challenges, maybe pursue paths that are a bit unconventional, that many times bear the kind of results that really advance society and benefit all of us.”

Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman appointed to the Board of Regents in October, said changes to workload and tenure expectations at state universities should recognize the value in making certain taxpayers received proper return on public investments in higher education. He serves as CEO of SPS Companies, which includes Steel and Pipe Supply Co.

He said Monhollon’s comments about protecting academic freedom raised the question: “Protect them from whom?”

“If an individual’s not working in line with the mission of the university, I’m not sure that’s really something we want to protect,” Crocker said. “I don’t think we want to mix a lot of concepts together inadvertently as we look through these policies.”

Under the proposed reforms, the Board of Regents would adopt academic workload expectations and require post-tenure review of faculty at research-centered KU, WSU and K-State and the regional universities in Pittsburg, Emporia and Hays. The core obligation of all faculty in the system would be teaching, research and service, but instruction of students would be the most significant factor in assessments.

Faculty at K-State, WSU and KU would be expected to have teaching loads ranging from 40% to 55%. The three regional universities would have teaching loads of 60% to 75%. Research expectations for tenured professors would be specific to each discipline.

The faculty would have personalized work plans that were revised annually. Tenured faculty would be reviewed by a university committee every five years. Proponents of reform say collection of data on faculty would serve to better identify professors who excelled and those who fell short. The process could replace subjective elements of faculty evaluations with tangible evidence of research, teaching and service.

Each university would retain control of post-tenure faculty reviews and the provisions of self-improvement programs for faculty. Individuals could be placed in one-year remediation programs. The policy would enable universities to dismiss faculty who failed the follow-up review.

The universities would submit to the Board of Regents annual reports on tenure that included information on tenure awards and denials, the number of faculty placed on improvement plans as well as faculty resignations and dismissals. Biennial reports prepared for the Board of Regents would document faculty credit hour production, graduation rates, publications and research funding.

Johnston, who chairs the Board of Regents’ academic affairs committee, said she anticipated reports on tenure and workload to prove state universities in Kansas maintained high expectations of tenured faculty.

“I hope, with greater transparency, the data will prove just that,” she said. “I believe it will show that this is a rigorous process.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766432718726.jpeg" alt="Matt Crocker, a member of the Kansas Board of Regents, says faculty tenure and workforce policies under consideration for the state’s six public universities must take into account the necessity of guaranteeing the public receives proper return on investments in higher education. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Matt Crocker, a member of the Kansas Board of Regents, says faculty tenure and workforce policies under consideration for the state’s six public universities must take into account the necessity of guaranteeing the public receives proper return on investments in higher education. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/18/kansas-board-of-regents-works-to-incorporate-critique-of-tenure-workforce-policy-changes/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>Dissenters point to ‘rigid’ post-tenure reviews, short timeline for making improvement</h2>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents agreed to weigh feedback from professors, administrators and legislators before voting on systemwide faculty tenure and workload policies designed to bring accountability and transparency to academic personnel decisions at the state’s six public universities.Since the Board of Regents released drafts of the policies in November, complaints surfaced that allowing the firing of university professors after two consecutive unsatisfactory annual evaluations was “overly rigid” and didn’t take into account “extenuating circumstances,” such as an employee’s personal crisis.In addition, concern was expressed the workload policy conflicted with standards of the American Association of University Professors or with academic program accreditation guidelines.Objections were raised about membership of post-tenure review committees and whether the university committee deciding to place a faculty member on a one-year improvement plan would be the same group that performed the follow-up evaluation. Another issue was that one year could be an unrealistic period of time for a faculty member to correct deficiencies in research productivity, officials said.“We’re appreciative of that input because it is beneficial and helpful as we look at trying to stand up this policy,” said Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who has a background in community college administration.She said the goal was implementation of umbrella policies applicable to the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University and Emporia State University.The Board of Regents engaged in general discussion of the draft policies Wednesday and could take formal action on both in January.During the past few years, members of the Legislature have taken greater interest in university workload and tenure decisions. In 2024, a Kansas House committee welcomed to the Capitol a tenured faculty member at Emporia State who recommended retroactive elimination of tenure at state universities. The idea was opposed by K-State president Richard Linton and KU chancellor Doug Girod.<h2>Return on investment</h2>Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the systemwide tenure and workload policies were the result of persistent calls for greater transparency and accountability regarding faculty appointments.“It’s my own sense that very few faculty would be opposed to greater accountability because the work they do is good. They are very productive and they would stand up under scrutiny,” he said.Monhollon, a former executive director of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, said tenure was awarded to faculty following extensive vetting of each person’s teaching, research and service performance over a period of years. Tenure was mistakenly viewed by the public as a lifetime appointment, he said.Academic freedom, a pivotal component of faculty tenure across the United States, was essential to success of colleges or universities, he said.“Tenure is there to protect faculty to pursue research or to take on topics that are controversial,” Monhollon said. “If those protections aren’t in place for faculty, I think we lose that ability of faculty to take on difficult challenges, maybe pursue paths that are a bit unconventional, that many times bear the kind of results that really advance society and benefit all of us.”Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman appointed to the Board of Regents in October, said changes to workload and tenure expectations at state universities should recognize the value in making certain taxpayers received proper return on public investments in higher education. He serves as CEO of SPS Companies, which includes Steel and Pipe Supply Co.He said Monhollon’s comments about protecting academic freedom raised the question: “Protect them from whom?”“If an individual’s not working in line with the mission of the university, I’m not sure that’s really something we want to protect,” Crocker said. “I don’t think we want to mix a lot of concepts together inadvertently as we look through these policies.”<h2>Revised expectations</h2>Under the proposed reforms, the Board of Regents would adopt academic workload expectations and require post-tenure review of faculty at research-centered KU, WSU and K-State and the regional universities in Pittsburg, Emporia and Hays. The core obligation of all faculty in the system would be teaching, research and service, but instruction of students would be the most significant factor in assessments.Faculty at K-State, WSU and KU would be expected to have teaching loads ranging from 40% to 55%. The three regional universities would have teaching loads of 60% to 75%. Research expectations for tenured professors would be specific to each discipline.The faculty would have personalized work plans that were revised annually. Tenured faculty would be reviewed by a university committee every five years. Proponents of reform say collection of data on faculty would serve to better identify professors who excelled and those who fell short. The process could replace subjective elements of faculty evaluations with tangible evidence of research, teaching and service.Each university would retain control of post-tenure faculty reviews and the provisions of self-improvement programs for faculty. Individuals could be placed in one-year remediation programs. The policy would enable universities to dismiss faculty who failed the follow-up review.The universities would submit to the Board of Regents annual reports on tenure that included information on tenure awards and denials, the number of faculty placed on improvement plans as well as faculty resignations and dismissals. Biennial reports prepared for the Board of Regents would document faculty credit hour production, graduation rates, publications and research funding.Johnston, who chairs the Board of Regents’ academic affairs committee, said she anticipated reports on tenure and workload to prove state universities in Kansas maintained high expectations of tenured faculty.“I hope, with greater transparency, the data will prove just that,” she said. “I believe it will show that this is a rigorous process.”

Kansas Board of Regents works to incorporate critique of tenure, workforce policy changes

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today provided guidance on the “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” provision enacted under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.

<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.federalregister.gov%2Fpublic-inspection%2F2025-24154%2Fcar-loan-interest-deduction/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dB0mXREam7-XDhS7x6XI0t7I-AudUZncyTvQ62Gz3xU=438">The proposed regulations</a>&nbsp;issued today relate to a new deduction for interest paid on vehicle loans incurred after Dec. 31, 2024, to purchase new made-in-America vehicles for personal use. This new tax benefit applies to both taxpayers who take the standard deduction and those who itemize deductions.&nbsp;

Who can take a deduction for interest on car loans

To help taxpayers take advantage of this new tax benefit, today’s guidance addresses important eligibility criteria, including:

The IRS previously announced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Ftreasury-irs-provide-transition-relief-for-2025-for-businesses-reporting-car-loan-interest-under-the-one-big-beautiful-bill/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/Rzf5D9WG-l-HcgT3A0ewB_nBVIsuenf9DgMoglCBH1g=438">transition guidance</a>&nbsp;for certain lenders and other taxpayers receiving&nbsp;interest&nbsp;for vehicle loans in 2025. In general, those persons&nbsp;must file information returns with the IRS to report interest received during the tax year and other information related to the loan. These information returns enable taxpayers to claim the benefits of the vehicle loan interest deduction. To help lenders implement these information reporting requirements, the proposed regulations clarify:

Treasury and IRS invite comments from the public on these proposed regulations by Feb. 2, 2026. Comments can be submitted through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.regulations.gov%2F/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dIJJwTPdwsY8DD9x2R5dVqOZZBM0y19T5JMcphjkDQ8=438">Regulations.gov</a>&nbsp;and instructions can be found in the proposed regulations.

For more information, see&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fone-big-beautiful-bill-provisions/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/FP_nte4n1yCQiTPpk-AT8X3TXDzwOsolmrR7tmqrRp4=438">One, Big, Beautiful Bill provisions</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740609345748.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today provided guidance on the “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” provision enacted under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.federalregister.gov%2Fpublic-inspection%2F2025-24154%2Fcar-loan-interest-deduction/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dB0mXREam7-XDhS7x6XI0t7I-AudUZncyTvQ62Gz3xU=438">The proposed regulations</a>&nbsp;issued today relate to a new deduction for interest paid on vehicle loans incurred after Dec. 31, 2024, to purchase new made-in-America vehicles for personal use. This new tax benefit applies to both taxpayers who take the standard deduction and those who itemize deductions.&nbsp;<h2>Who can take a deduction for interest on car loans</h2>To help taxpayers take advantage of this new tax benefit, today’s guidance addresses important eligibility criteria, including:<ul>
 <li>Providing rules relating to new vehicles eligible for the deduction, including for determining if the final assembly of a vehicle occurred in the United States;</li><li>Providing rules for determining which vehicle loans qualify and the amount of interest paid on a loan that may be deductible;</li><li>Providing rules for determining if a new vehicle is purchased for personal use; and</li><li>Identifying taxpayers who can take the deduction and clarifying the $10,000 annual deduction limit.</li>
 </ul><h2>What lenders need to know</h2>The IRS previously announced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Ftreasury-irs-provide-transition-relief-for-2025-for-businesses-reporting-car-loan-interest-under-the-one-big-beautiful-bill/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/Rzf5D9WG-l-HcgT3A0ewB_nBVIsuenf9DgMoglCBH1g=438">transition guidance</a>&nbsp;for certain lenders and other taxpayers receiving&nbsp;interest&nbsp;for vehicle loans in 2025. In general, those persons&nbsp;must file information returns with the IRS to report interest received during the tax year and other information related to the loan. These information returns enable taxpayers to claim the benefits of the vehicle loan interest deduction. To help lenders implement these information reporting requirements, the proposed regulations clarify:<ul>
 <li>Which lenders and other interest recipients are required to report and the time and manner for this reporting; and</li><li>What information must be included on the form provided to&nbsp;the&nbsp;IRS and to taxpayers.</li>
 </ul><h2>More information</h2>Treasury and IRS invite comments from the public on these proposed regulations by Feb. 2, 2026. Comments can be submitted through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.regulations.gov%2F/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dIJJwTPdwsY8DD9x2R5dVqOZZBM0y19T5JMcphjkDQ8=438">Regulations.gov</a>&nbsp;and instructions can be found in the proposed regulations.For more information, see&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fone-big-beautiful-bill-provisions/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/FP_nte4n1yCQiTPpk-AT8X3TXDzwOsolmrR7tmqrRp4=438">One, Big, Beautiful Bill provisions</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.

Treasury, IRS provide guidance on the new deduction for car loan interest

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 10:30.m. on Saturday an officer on patrol stopped a Saturn Ion in the 600 block South 7th Street in Atchison for a traffic violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 During the stop the driver, 25-year-old Carly Helton, was found to be in possession of controlled substances.&nbsp; &nbsp;In addition to drug and traffic charges she was also accused of interference with law enforcement for providing false information as to her identity.

She was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of driving while suspended, misuse of state tag, interference with law enforcement, and possession of cocaine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767572073926.png" alt="Helton photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Helton photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 10:30.m. on Saturday an officer on patrol stopped a Saturn Ion in the 600 block South 7th Street in Atchison for a traffic violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. During the stop the driver, 25-year-old Carly Helton, was found to be in possession of controlled substances.&nbsp; &nbsp;In addition to drug and traffic charges she was also accused of interference with law enforcement for providing false information as to her identity.She was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of driving while suspended, misuse of state tag, interference with law enforcement, and possession of cocaine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Police: Mo. drug suspect gave officers a fake name

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2015 Chevy Impala driven by a 23-year-old Hamilton woman was eastbound on U.S. 36 just west of Center Road three miles east of Cameron.&nbsp; The driver was distracted by an electronic device. The car rear-ended a 1995 GMC Yukon driven b a 34-year-old Cameron man who was slowing to make left turn at the median crossover.

Cameron ambulance transported the 23-year-old driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The SUV driver was not wearing a seat belt but not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2015 Chevy Impala driven by a 23-year-old Hamilton woman was eastbound on U.S. 36 just west of Center Road three miles east of Cameron.&nbsp; The driver was distracted by an electronic device. The car rear-ended a 1995 GMC Yukon driven b a 34-year-old Cameron man who was slowing to make left turn at the median crossover.Cameron ambulance transported the 23-year-old driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The SUV driver was not wearing a seat belt but not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

MSHP: Distracted Mo. driver injured after rear-end crash

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 pulling a small trailer and driven by 49-year-old Maryville man was southbound on Icon Road four miles north of Maryville. The pickup crossed the center of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle crossed the center of the road three additional times and eventually traveled off the east side of the road. It struck an embankment, a tree and overturned. The trailer detached and came to rest off the east side of the road.

Nodaway County ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the mSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 pulling a small trailer and driven by 49-year-old Maryville man was southbound on Icon Road four miles north of Maryville. The pickup crossed the center of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle crossed the center of the road three additional times and eventually traveled off the east side of the road. It struck an embankment, a tree and overturned. The trailer detached and came to rest off the east side of the road.Nodaway County ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the mSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. man hospitalized in Maryville after rollover accident

The United States successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country, according to the White House. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. " Missouri lawmakers and other members of Congress are expressing opinions on the news.&nbsp;

The United States successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country, according to the White House. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. " Missouri lawmakers and other members of Congress are expressing opinions on the news.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Nicolas Maduro, a ruthless Communist dictator, has been engaged in narco-terrorism for years, flooding our country with deadly drugs and killing our kids. Because of President Trump&#39;s decisive action, Maduro will finally face justice for his crimes. Thank you to our courageous…&mdash; Rep. Sam Graves (@RepSamGraves) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSamGraves/status/2007494422078898606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The president’s reckless decision to put our servicemembers in harm’s way by attacking a sovereign nation without a coherent rationale or approval from Congress is unconstitutional, destabilizing to the region, and deeply damaging to America’s reputation around the world. My…&mdash; Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (@repcleaver) <a href="https://twitter.com/repcleaver/status/2007514631879971186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We strongly support President Trump and the administration’s bold actions to take illegitimate Venezuelan President and narco terrorist Nicolas Maduro into U.S. custody. Venezuelan drugs have poisoned our communities for far too long and we look forward to Maduro facing swift…&mdash; Rep. Mark Alford (@RepMarkAlford) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMarkAlford/status/2007468215635444039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump did exactly what he said he was going to do — enhance our national security and defend America from bad actors. Leaders around the world are finally understanding that those weren&#39;t empty promises. <a href="https://t.co/obD45JfjGy">pic.twitter.com/obD45JfjGy</a>&mdash; Senator Eric Schmitt (@SenEricSchmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenEricSchmitt/status/2007301057303720422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump made a promise to the American people that he would secure our borders from chaos and cut off threats to us and our children at the source. Venezuela ignored the call to stop running lethal drugs to the America. Our children are safer at home because of bold…&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/2007453825255264758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There is no justification for the United States to be at war with Venezuela. I lived through the consequences of an illegal war sold to the American people with lies. We swore we would never repeat those mistakes. Yet here we are again. The American people did not ask for this,…&mdash; Senator Ruben Gallego (@SenRubenGallego) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenRubenGallego/status/2007433155477717121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a>, and the brave members of our military who led the operation that successfully CAPTURED narco-terrorist Nicolás Maduro. A new day is here for Venezuela and Latin America. The United States and our hemisphere are safer because of President… <a href="https://t.co/VL4bnsbGVZ">https://t.co/VL4bnsbGVZ</a>&mdash; Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenRickScott/status/2007399340457775262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The president offered multiple off ramps, but was very clear throughout this process: the drug trafficking must stop, and the stolen oil must be returned to the United States. Maduro is the newest person to find out that President Trump means what he says. Kudos to our brave… <a href="https://t.co/b1fqkdbB4x">pic.twitter.com/b1fqkdbB4x</a>&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/2007447083909841398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The White House is confirming U.S. military operations in Venezuela tonight. Let us be clear: these strikes are illegal. The President does not have the authority to declare war or undertake large-scale military operations without Congress. Congress must act to rein him in.… <a href="https://t.co/KsbxS6TbSp">pic.twitter.com/KsbxS6TbSp</a>&mdash; Rep. Melanie Stansbury (@Rep_Stansbury) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rep_Stansbury/status/2007385713818714191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Without authorization from Congress, and with the vast majority of Americans opposed to military action, Trump just launched an unjustified, illegal strike on Venezuela. He says we don’t have enough money for healthcare for Americans—but somehow we have unlimited funds for war??&mdash; Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMcGovern/status/2007381598912819213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York. Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess…&mdash; Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/2007428087143686611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bold move by ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>⁩ taking out convicted NARCO TERRORIST and DICTATOR of Venezuela Maduro. <a href="https://t.co/JGFtpq5GG4">pic.twitter.com/JGFtpq5GG4</a>&mdash; Tim Burchett (@timburchett) <a href="https://twitter.com/timburchett/status/2007443476900671516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If this action were constitutionally sound, the Attorney General wouldn’t be tweeting that they’ve arrested the President of a sovereign country and his wife for possessing guns in violation of a 1934 U.S. firearm law.&mdash; Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepThomasMassie/status/2007469970364539092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Maduro and his predecessor took Venezuela from the richest to the poorest country in South America, and destroyed its democracy. The operations last night are great for the future of Venezuelans and the region. My main concern is now Russia will use this to justify their illegal…&mdash; Rep. Don Bacon 🇺🇸✈️🏍️⭐️🎖️ (@RepDonBacon) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDonBacon/status/2007462335242289166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I have spoken in the last several hours with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Hegseth, and the nation will hear from <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> in his address at 11am ET. Today’s military action in Venezuela was a decisive and justified operation that will protect American lives. Nicolas Maduro is…&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/2007468765718384961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Mo. lawmakers react to U.S. capture of Venezuelan leader

ATCHISON COUNTY —Police are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after he fled a traffic stop.

Just before 11a.m. on New Year's Eve, an officer on patrol observed a Mazda pickup truck speeding in the 900 block Unity Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. 

The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to stop and fled from the officer until finally stopping at K-7 and Harper Drive. The 19-year-old driver&nbsp;Caden J. Hetherington of Roach, Missouri, was taken into custody on requested charges including fleeing and attempting to elude, speeding, interference with law enforcement, driving while suspended, violation of tinted windows, and no proof of vehicle insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767366410036.png" alt="Hetherington photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Hetherington photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Police are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after he fled a traffic stop.Just before 11a.m. on New Year's Eve, an officer on patrol observed a Mazda pickup truck speeding in the 900 block Unity Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to stop and fled from the officer until finally stopping at K-7 and Harper Drive. The 19-year-old driver&nbsp;Caden J. Hetherington of Roach, Missouri, was taken into custody on requested charges including fleeing and attempting to elude, speeding, interference with law enforcement, driving while suspended, violation of tinted windows, and no proof of vehicle insurance.

Missouri man jailed in Kansas after he fled traffic stop

Blood donations are needed in all parts of the country, and Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri, Joann Woody, says that donations slow down during the colder months, marking a need for increased support

"Whenever we move into the winter season, we see a dip in blood donations which puts a strain on the blood supply across the country."

Woody emphasizes that only three percent of the eligible population donates blood and that simply isn't enough to keep up with the demand. "We know that one in seven people who walks into a hospital is going to need a blood transfusion for something, whether its surgery, or treatment for cancer, or other chronic illness."

Area residents interested in donating blood are encouraged to find a nearby blood drive by downloading the American Red Cross app or visit the <a href="https://www.redcross.org/?srsltid=AfmBOoq6lpQPxlHRXReH-aCP3vuFoR-wju4BJgn6dq0KhOgUrCQNw1_p">Red Cross website</a>.

Anyone who donates blood between now and Jan. 5 will receive a free long-sleeve blood donor shirt. Woody notes that anyone who donates blood from Jan. 5 through Jan. 31 will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Super Bowl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687900222536.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy American Red Cross of Greater Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy American Red Cross of Greater Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHBlood donations are needed in all parts of the country, and Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri, Joann Woody, says that donations slow down during the colder months, marking a need for increased support"Whenever we move into the winter season, we see a dip in blood donations which puts a strain on the blood supply across the country."Woody emphasizes that only three percent of the eligible population donates blood and that simply isn't enough to keep up with the demand. "We know that one in seven people who walks into a hospital is going to need a blood transfusion for something, whether its surgery, or treatment for cancer, or other chronic illness."Area residents interested in donating blood are encouraged to find a nearby blood drive by downloading the American Red Cross app or visit the <a href="https://www.redcross.org/?srsltid=AfmBOoq6lpQPxlHRXReH-aCP3vuFoR-wju4BJgn6dq0KhOgUrCQNw1_p">Red Cross website</a>.Anyone who donates blood between now and Jan. 5 will receive a free long-sleeve blood donor shirt. Woody notes that anyone who donates blood from Jan. 5 through Jan. 31 will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Super Bowl.

Red Cross in need of blood donations this winter

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged vandalism in Brown and asking the public for help to identify suspets.

Just after 2:30 p.m. December 27, two individuals were caught on surveillance camera vandalizing a vehicle belonging to USD #430 in Everest, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

The windshield was broken due to rock or objects being intentionally thrown at the vehicle as well as verbage scratched into the paint.&nbsp;

Sheriff Merchant is asking the public to help identify these individuals.&nbsp; If you are related to one or both of these individuals or if they are known to you,&nbsp; you are obligated to contact the Sheriff's office at once so this type of behavior doesn't escalate into something more serious. 

The sheriff office contact information is 785-742-7125

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged vandalism in Brown and asking the public for help to identify suspets.Just after 2:30 p.m. December 27, two individuals were caught on surveillance camera vandalizing a vehicle belonging to USD #430 in Everest, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.The windshield was broken due to rock or objects being intentionally thrown at the vehicle as well as verbage scratched into the paint.&nbsp;Sheriff Merchant is asking the public to help identify these individuals.&nbsp; If you are related to one or both of these individuals or if they are known to you,&nbsp; you are obligated to contact the Sheriff's office at once so this type of behavior doesn't escalate into something more serious. The sheriff office contact information is 785-742-7125

Sheriff asks for help to ID suspects in school district vandalism

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate on the Chiefs relocation to Kansas.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bMNfIwSIp7c?si=0dCZWycB8dBye4LE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate on the Chiefs relocation to Kansas.

🎙 Forward Ever: Kan. Senate president Ty Masterson on Chiefs move to Kansas

According to preliminary data from the Iowa Department of Transportation, traffic fatalities in 2025 reached their lowest level in a century. 

The state recorded a total of 260 deaths through December 31, representing a significant decline of 97 fatalities compared to the 2024 year-end figures.

While the current count is promising, the Iowa DOT waits 30 days after the close of the calendar year before certifying the final total. This grace period ensures that the data accounts for individuals who may succumb to injuries sustained in crashes that occurred during the final weeks of December.

The year ended on a notably safe note, with December recording only 10 deaths, the lowest monthly total of 2025. This marked a sharp decrease of 26 fatalities compared to December of the previous year. Conversely, August proved to be the deadliest month on Iowa roads with 36 fatalities—the only month in 2025 to exceed 30 deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764093500344.jpg" alt="interstate, highway, long, downhill straight away, road, pavement, divided highway, infrastructure, outdoors, nature, woods, forest, transportation, blue, sky, as halt, blacktop, street, blue sky, hill, mountains, lines, white, yellow, blue forest, blue road, blue street" />
 <figcaption>interstate, highway, long, downhill straight away, road, pavement, divided highway, infrastructure, outdoors, nature, woods, forest, transportation, blue, sky, as halt, blacktop, street, blue sky, hill, mountains, lines, white, yellow, blue forest, blue road, blue street</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHAccording to preliminary data from the Iowa Department of Transportation, traffic fatalities in 2025 reached their lowest level in a century. The state recorded a total of 260 deaths through December 31, representing a significant decline of 97 fatalities compared to the 2024 year-end figures.While the current count is promising, the Iowa DOT waits 30 days after the close of the calendar year before certifying the final total. This grace period ensures that the data accounts for individuals who may succumb to injuries sustained in crashes that occurred during the final weeks of December.The year ended on a notably safe note, with December recording only 10 deaths, the lowest monthly total of 2025. This marked a sharp decrease of 26 fatalities compared to December of the previous year. Conversely, August proved to be the deadliest month on Iowa roads with 36 fatalities—the only month in 2025 to exceed 30 deaths.

Iowa Traffic Deaths Hit 100-Year Low in 2025

&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that 86-year-old Linda Holle was located in South Dakota, and is now safe.

The statewide silver alert is canceled.&nbsp;

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation issued a statewide silver alert for a missing Kansas woman.

The whereabouts of 86-year-old Linda Holle of Wichita are unknown, and public assistance is requested to help locate her, according to a media release from the KBI.

Holle is likely driving a blue 2007 Ford Expedition bearing Kansas tag 1054ADS.&nbsp; She was last believed to be in St. Joseph, Missouri on Dec. 31, at approximately 11:20 p.m.

Holle is a white female who is around 5-foot-3 inches tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds. She has blonde and gray hair, brown eyes and wears glasses.

If you see Holle, or her vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767282639484.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that 86-year-old Linda Holle was located in South Dakota, and is now safe.The statewide silver alert is canceled.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767284978010.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>---------------The Kansas Bureau of Investigation issued a statewide silver alert for a missing Kansas woman.The whereabouts of 86-year-old Linda Holle of Wichita are unknown, and public assistance is requested to help locate her, according to a media release from the KBI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767282624135.png" alt="Linda Holle photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Linda Holle photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Holle is likely driving a blue 2007 Ford Expedition bearing Kansas tag 1054ADS.&nbsp; She was last believed to be in St. Joseph, Missouri on Dec. 31, at approximately 11:20 p.m.Holle is a white female who is around 5-foot-3 inches tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds. She has blonde and gray hair, brown eyes and wears glasses.If you see Holle, or her vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111.

Silver Alert: Kan. woman last seen in St. Joseph found in South Dakota

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Honda CRV driven by a 17-year-old Agency girl was southbound on Route FF at Prescher Road in Agency. The Honda struck a pedestrian identified as a 36-year-old Kansas City, Missouri, man was was walking southbound in the southbound lane of travel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buchanan County EMS transported the pedestrian to Mosaic Life Care. The teen driver was properly restrained and not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Honda CRV driven by a 17-year-old Agency girl was southbound on Route FF at Prescher Road in Agency. The Honda struck a pedestrian identified as a 36-year-old Kansas City, Missouri, man was was walking southbound in the southbound lane of travel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Buchanan County EMS transported the pedestrian to Mosaic Life Care. The teen driver was properly restrained and not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. teen driver struck man walking on the roadway

(Radio Iowa) - A Democrat has won Tuesday's special election for a seat the Iowa Senate. Unofficial results show West Des Moines City Councilman Renee Hardman won with 73 percent of the vote. She will be the first black woman to serve in the Iowa Senate. 

The seat had been vacant since State Senator Claire Celsi's death in October. Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner notes this is the third special election this year for a state senate seat and Democrats have won all three. She says that shows Iowa voters want change. Iowa G-O-P chairman Jeff Kaufmann says Tuesday's election was in a very tough district for Republicans and the party is focused expanding the Republican majorities in the state legislature next year. 

There will be 17 Democrats and 33 Republicans serving in the Iowa Senate in January -- one vote short of a G-O-P supermajority. It means Republicans will need at least one Democrat to vote to confirm any people Governor Reynolds nominates for state government positions.

(Radio Iowa) - A Democrat has won Tuesday's special election for a seat the Iowa Senate. Unofficial results show West Des Moines City Councilman Renee Hardman won with 73 percent of the vote. She will be the first black woman to serve in the Iowa Senate. The seat had been vacant since State Senator Claire Celsi's death in October. Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner notes this is the third special election this year for a state senate seat and Democrats have won all three. She says that shows Iowa voters want change. Iowa G-O-P chairman Jeff Kaufmann says Tuesday's election was in a very tough district for Republicans and the party is focused expanding the Republican majorities in the state legislature next year. There will be 17 Democrats and 33 Republicans serving in the Iowa Senate in January -- one vote short of a G-O-P supermajority. It means Republicans will need at least one Democrat to vote to confirm any people Governor Reynolds nominates for state government positions.

Democrat Hardman wins special election for Iowa Senate seat

A move is underway
in Congress to address an apparent oversight:&nbsp;
that members of the Air National Guard don’t benefit from the college
tuition assistance offered members of the Army National Guard.

Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, sponsors bi-partisan legislation to address the
discrepancy.

“If you join the
Army National Guard, you get tuition assistance to go to college and a lot of
members, or a lot of young people, join the Army Guard as a result of that,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But Air National Guard, they don’t have that same
opportunity. So, what this does is just make it the very same rules as the Army
National Guard.”

Graves says he has
no idea how the discrepancy developed.

He does know it
has hurt recruitment efforts of the Air National Guard. That, he hopes, is soon
to change.

“It’s going to be
a big difference and that means the Air National Guard is going to be able to
compete with Army National Guard on a level playing field,” according to
Graves.

Graves has
co-sponsored the legislation along with Congressmen Brad Finstad of Minnesota
and Eric Sorenson of Illinois.

Under the
legislation, federal college tuition assistance would be provided for drill
status guard members of the Air National Guard, such as those stationed with
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport in St. Joseph.

By BRENT MARTINA move is underway
in Congress to address an apparent oversight:&nbsp;
that members of the Air National Guard don’t benefit from the college
tuition assistance offered members of the Army National Guard.Northern Missouri
Congressman, Sam Graves, sponsors bi-partisan legislation to address the
discrepancy.“If you join the
Army National Guard, you get tuition assistance to go to college and a lot of
members, or a lot of young people, join the Army Guard as a result of that,” Graves
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “But Air National Guard, they don’t have that same
opportunity. So, what this does is just make it the very same rules as the Army
National Guard.”Graves says he has
no idea how the discrepancy developed.He does know it
has hurt recruitment efforts of the Air National Guard. That, he hopes, is soon
to change.“It’s going to be
a big difference and that means the Air National Guard is going to be able to
compete with Army National Guard on a level playing field,” according to
Graves.Graves has
co-sponsored the legislation along with Congressmen Brad Finstad of Minnesota
and Eric Sorenson of Illinois.Under the
legislation, federal college tuition assistance would be provided for drill
status guard members of the Air National Guard, such as those stationed with
the 139th Airlift Wing at Rosecrans Memorial Airport in St. Joseph.

Move underway to give Air Guard members college tuition help

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Wednesday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by a 46-year-old Schulter, Oklahoma man was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Mound City.&nbsp; The vehicle's towed unit had equipment failure, struck an emergency cross over, became detached and overturned in the median. A northbound 2022 Volvo semi driven by a 64-year-old Omaha, Nebraska, man attempted to avoid the Freightliner. The Volvo skidded off the east side of the road, struck the Freightliner and overturned.

Holt-Atchison EMS transported the Volvo semi driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The Freighliner driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Wednesday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by a 46-year-old Schulter, Oklahoma man was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of Mound City.&nbsp; The vehicle's towed unit had equipment failure, struck an emergency cross over, became detached and overturned in the median. A northbound 2022 Volvo semi driven by a 64-year-old Omaha, Nebraska, man attempted to avoid the Freightliner. The Volvo skidded off the east side of the road, struck the Freightliner and overturned.Holt-Atchison EMS transported the Volvo semi driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The Freighliner driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized in St. Joe after semi accident

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by a 45-year-old Hale woman was eastbound on Route H two miles east of Avalon. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in a private driveway.

Chillicothe EMS transported the driver to Hedrick Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Ford F150 driven by a 45-year-old Hale woman was eastbound on Route H two miles east of Avalon. The pickup traveled off the south side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest in a private driveway.Chillicothe EMS transported the driver to Hedrick Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri woman injured after pickup accident

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Chevy S10 driven by a 42-year-old Bethany woman was southbound on U.S. 69 four miles north of Bethany. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle began to skid across the road, traveled off the east side of the road, and struck multiple metal objects.

Life Flight Eagle transported the driver to Truman Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1995 Chevy S10 driven by a 42-year-old Bethany woman was southbound on U.S. 69 four miles north of Bethany. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle began to skid across the road, traveled off the east side of the road, and struck multiple metal objects.Life Flight Eagle transported the driver to Truman Medical Center. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman air lifted to hospital after violent pickup crash

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging the public to prioritize safety and responsible decision-making during this year’s New Year’s celebrations. 

With the goal of preventing traffic crashes and DWI arrests, officials remind Missourians that the choices made behind the wheel directly impact the safety of everyone on the road.

Statistics from the 2024 - 2025 holiday period underscore the importance of these warnings: during that timeframe, Missouri saw 264 traffic crashes resulting in 118 injuries and one fatality.

The 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m., Dec. 31, and will conclude at 11:59 p.m., Jan. 1, 2026. 

For those whose holiday plans involve alcohol, Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph, says, "Plan ahead and have a designated, sober driver."

To further ensure a safe arrival, travelers are reminded to wear seatbelts and ensure all passengers are buckled up.

Additionally, drivers should remain mindful that Missouri is now a hands-free state. Motorists are urged to stay focused, obey all traffic laws, and yield the right-of-way when necessary.

Due to ongoing road construction across the state, the Patrol suggests using the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan routes in advance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565002090325.png" alt="MSHP" />
 <figcaption>MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging the public to prioritize safety and responsible decision-making during this year’s New Year’s celebrations. With the goal of preventing traffic crashes and DWI arrests, officials remind Missourians that the choices made behind the wheel directly impact the safety of everyone on the road.Statistics from the 2024 - 2025 holiday period underscore the importance of these warnings: during that timeframe, Missouri saw 264 traffic crashes resulting in 118 injuries and one fatality.The 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m., Dec. 31, and will conclude at 11:59 p.m., Jan. 1, 2026. For those whose holiday plans involve alcohol, Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph, says, "Plan ahead and have a designated, sober driver."To further ensure a safe arrival, travelers are reminded to wear seatbelts and ensure all passengers are buckled up.Additionally, drivers should remain mindful that Missouri is now a hands-free state. Motorists are urged to stay focused, obey all traffic laws, and yield the right-of-way when necessary. Due to ongoing road construction across the state, the Patrol suggests using the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan routes in advance.

Missouri State Highway Patrol urges safe driving for New Year’s holiday

(Radio Iowa) - If you plan to make a New Year's resolution Wednesday night, you may need to genuinely focus on making the change in order to keep the pledge. 

Alison Phillips, a psychology professor at Iowa State University, says our approach to making resolutions usually sets us up for failure. Phillips, who studies behavior change and habit formation, says to focus on how to make changes that will lead to creating a better version of yourself. Zero in on things you can become good at and that you see yourself doing and take pride in, she says, as those are the kinds of things people won't give up on.

Phillips says studies find 80-percent of resolutions fail by the second week of February.

(Radio Iowa) - If you plan to make a New Year's resolution Wednesday night, you may need to genuinely focus on making the change in order to keep the pledge. Alison Phillips, a psychology professor at Iowa State University, says our approach to making resolutions usually sets us up for failure. Phillips, who studies behavior change and habit formation, says to focus on how to make changes that will lead to creating a better version of yourself. Zero in on things you can become good at and that you see yourself doing and take pride in, she says, as those are the kinds of things people won't give up on.Phillips says studies find 80-percent of resolutions fail by the second week of February.

ISU expert explains why we fail at most New Year’s resolutions, and how to succeed

Beginning Thursday, Jan. 1, Iowans caught handling a smartphone while driving could face a $170 ticket, a total that includes the fine, court fees, and additional charges.

While the law officially took effect July 1, law enforcement officers have spent the last six months issuing warnings rather than citations to allow for a transition period. According to Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla, state troopers had issued approximately 10,000 warnings by the end of November.

Brett Tjepkes, chief of the Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau, noted that Iowa modeled its "soft rollout" after other states with similar "hands-free" laws. To support this educational phase, his agency printed 60,000 information cards to help motorists understand the new restrictions.

The educational cards were distributed at every rest area and driver’s license station across the state, and law enforcement officers have also been handing them out during traffic stops.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692987228841.jpg" alt="driving, cell phone, typing" />
 <figcaption>driving, cell phone, typing</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHBeginning Thursday, Jan. 1, Iowans caught handling a smartphone while driving could face a $170 ticket, a total that includes the fine, court fees, and additional charges.While the law officially took effect July 1, law enforcement officers have spent the last six months issuing warnings rather than citations to allow for a transition period. According to Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Alex Dinkla, state troopers had issued approximately 10,000 warnings by the end of November.Brett Tjepkes, chief of the Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau, noted that Iowa modeled its "soft rollout" after other states with similar "hands-free" laws. To support this educational phase, his agency printed 60,000 information cards to help motorists understand the new restrictions.The educational cards were distributed at every rest area and driver’s license station across the state, and law enforcement officers have also been handing them out during traffic stops.

Hands Off: Iowa’s $170 distracted driving fines start this Thursday

The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Monday announced that all 50 states will receive awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation (Public Law 119-21) to strengthen and modernize health care in rural communities across the country, according to a statement from CMS.&nbsp;

In 2026, states will receive first-year awards from CMS averaging $200 million within a range of $147 million to $281 million. Missouri will receive&nbsp;$216,276,818, Kansas&nbsp;$221,898,008.

&nbsp;This unprecedented federal investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.&nbsp;

“More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care,”&nbsp;said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities’ healthcare. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, rural Americans will now have affordable healthcare close to home, free from bureaucratic obstacles.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for rural health in America,”&nbsp;said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running. CMS is proud to partner with every state to turn their ideas into lasting improvements for rural families.”

A Nationwide Commitment to Strengthen Rural Health Care

The Rural Health Transformation Program is a national commitment to improving the health and well-being of rural communities across the country. With this funding, states will implement comprehensive strategies to improve care delivery, support providers, and advance new approaches to coordinating health care services across rural communities. Across the country, many states are planning efforts that will:

States will advance Make Rural America Healthy Again goals by expanding preventive, primary, maternal, and behavioral health services and creating new access points that bring care closer to home and help preserve strong local health systems. Many states are implementing evidence-based, outcomes-driven strategies—such as physical fitness and nutrition programs, food-as-medicine initiatives, and chronic disease prevention models—to address root causes of diseases and manage chronic conditions. States will also strengthen rural emergency care through improved emergency medical services (EMS) communication, treat-in-place options, and coordinated transfers.

States will support clinical workforce training, residencies, recruitment and retention incentives, and new pathways that help students begin health care careers in their own communities. States are also investing in programs to train and support the existing clinical workforce and build futures close to home.&nbsp;

Investments will modernize rural facilities and equipment; strengthen cybersecurity and interoperability; and expand telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and digital tools that enable timely access to care. States are also exploring the use of technology such as AI scribes and clinical workflow improvement tools to reduce burdens on clinicians.&nbsp;

States will prioritize streamlining operations, empowering providers to enhance coordination of care and resources, and building partnerships across the state with the goal of keeping care local. This includes establishing specialized hub-and-spoke models, rural regional centers of excellence, comprehensive data-sharing platforms, and rural clinically integrated networks.

States will test new primary care and value-based care models, strengthen partnerships among rural and other providers, and promote regional collaboration that improves health sustainability and patient outcomes.

The Rural Health Transformation Program’s $50 billion in funds will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from 2026 through 2030. As directed by Public Law 119-21:

CMS made funding awards to all 50 states.&nbsp;

The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Monday announced that all 50 states will receive awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation (Public Law 119-21) to strengthen and modernize health care in rural communities across the country, according to a statement from CMS.&nbsp;In 2026, states will receive first-year awards from CMS averaging $200 million within a range of $147 million to $281 million. Missouri will receive&nbsp;$216,276,818, Kansas&nbsp;$221,898,008.&nbsp;This unprecedented federal investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.&nbsp;“More than 60 million Americans living in rural areas have the right to equal access to quality care,”&nbsp;said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This historic investment puts local hospitals, clinics, and health workers in control of their communities’ healthcare. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, rural Americans will now have affordable healthcare close to home, free from bureaucratic obstacles.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for rural health in America,”&nbsp;said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Thanks to Congress establishing this investment and President Trump for his leadership, states are stepping forward with bold, creative plans to expand rural access, strengthen their workforces, modernize care, and support the communities that keep our nation running. CMS is proud to partner with every state to turn their ideas into lasting improvements for rural families.”A Nationwide Commitment to Strengthen Rural Health CareThe Rural Health Transformation Program is a national commitment to improving the health and well-being of rural communities across the country. With this funding, states will implement comprehensive strategies to improve care delivery, support providers, and advance new approaches to coordinating health care services across rural communities. Across the country, many states are planning efforts that will:<ul>
 <li>Bring More Care Within Reach</li>
 </ul>States will advance Make Rural America Healthy Again goals by expanding preventive, primary, maternal, and behavioral health services and creating new access points that bring care closer to home and help preserve strong local health systems. Many states are implementing evidence-based, outcomes-driven strategies—such as physical fitness and nutrition programs, food-as-medicine initiatives, and chronic disease prevention models—to address root causes of diseases and manage chronic conditions. States will also strengthen rural emergency care through improved emergency medical services (EMS) communication, treat-in-place options, and coordinated transfers.<ul>
 <li>Strengthen and Sustain the Rural Clinical Workforce</li>
 </ul>States will support clinical workforce training, residencies, recruitment and retention incentives, and new pathways that help students begin health care careers in their own communities. States are also investing in programs to train and support the existing clinical workforce and build futures close to home.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Modernize Rural Health Infrastructure and Technology</li>
 </ul>Investments will modernize rural facilities and equipment; strengthen cybersecurity and interoperability; and expand telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and digital tools that enable timely access to care. States are also exploring the use of technology such as AI scribes and clinical workflow improvement tools to reduce burdens on clinicians.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Driving Structural Efficiency &amp; Empowering the Community Providers</li>
 </ul>States will prioritize streamlining operations, empowering providers to enhance coordination of care and resources, and building partnerships across the state with the goal of keeping care local. This includes establishing specialized hub-and-spoke models, rural regional centers of excellence, comprehensive data-sharing platforms, and rural clinically integrated networks.<ul>
 <li>Advance Innovative Care Models and Payment Reform</li>
 </ul>States will test new primary care and value-based care models, strengthen partnerships among rural and other providers, and promote regional collaboration that improves health sustainability and patient outcomes.Awardees and Funding AmountsThe Rural Health Transformation Program’s $50 billion in funds will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from 2026 through 2030. As directed by Public Law 119-21:<ul>
 <li>50% of the funding is distributed equally among all approved states. This provides states with a strong foundation to begin implementing their Rural Health Transformation Plans; and</li><li>50% is allocated based on a variety of factors.&nbsp;As described in the&nbsp;<a href="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/360442">Notice of Funding Opportunity</a>, those factors include individual state metrics around rurality and a state’s rural health system, current or proposed state policy actions that enhance access and quality of care in rural communities, and application initiatives or activities that reflect the greatest potential for, and scale of, impact on the health of rural communities. All scoring factors are outlined further in the Notice of Funding Opportunity.</li>
 </ul>CMS made funding awards to all 50 states.&nbsp;

Missouri secures $221 Million in 2026 from Rural Healthcare Transformation Fund

The fund held $5.8 billion, a record, at the end of June 2023. Without changes to the budget, State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick warns, the money will all be gone by June 2028

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

Missouri’s budget faces a fiscal cliff by mid-2028 when accumulated surpluses will be depleted, state Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick said in a report released Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/AuditReport/ViewReport?report=2025101&amp;token=0111925473" target="_blank">analyzing spending trends</a>&nbsp;since 2000.

The report, following soon after revenue projections estimating general revenue will be&nbsp;$400 million less than expected, warns that a recession could deplete the surplus even faster, by the end of fiscal 2027.

“The time is now to make the tough decisions that will prevent drastic, emergency budget cuts from being necessary in the months and years ahead,” Fitzpatrick said in a news release.&nbsp;

Fitzpatrick, the auditor since 2023, was previously chairman of the House Budget Committee. When he was a lawmaker, from 2013 to 2019, state revenues were tight and often subject to large cuts when growth was sluggish.

Few current legislators have experienced shrinking budgets, Fitzpatrick said.

“Many current legislators have only been in office during these last few years during which strong economic growth and a huge influx of federal money have made hard budget decisions unnecessary,” Fitzpatrick said. “But they’re about to face the challenge of crafting a budget in the face of slowing revenue growth and reduced federal funding.“

Gov. Mike Kehoe on Jan. 13 will deliver his budget proposal for fiscal 2027. When he released the reduced revenue estimate on Dec. 17, Kehoe warned of a tight budget coming and a need to limit new spending.

There will be upward pressure on the general revenue fund from changes to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/26/medicaid-snap-cuts-could-create-a-massive-hole-in-missouri-budget-cost-thousands-of-jobs/">shared federal programs</a>&nbsp;and spending from soon-to-be-depleted funds that substitute for general revenue. At the same time, the estimate shows, there will be downward pressure on revenues due to the bill eliminating the state income tax on&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/capital-gains-exemption-and-motor-vehicle-fee-hike-bills-signed-by-missouri-governor/">capital gains</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Missouri and changes to the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/proposed-federal-tax-changes-could-mean-170m-or-more-cut-to-missouri-state-revenues/">federal tax code</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Congress.

The budget for fiscal 2026, which ends on June 30, projects general revenue spending on state operations at $15 billion, with another $725 million appropriated for building projects. General revenue receipts for the year should be about $13.15 billion, a decline of 2.1% over fiscal 2025, according to the estimate released Dec. 17.

If the estimate is correct, it would be the fourth consecutive year when state revenues&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/17/missouri-tax-revenues-declining-in-first-months-of-fiscal-year-raising-concerns/">lag behind inflation</a>&nbsp;and the first time revenues have declined year-over-year outside of a recession or COVID-impacted fiscal 2020.

Previous estimates had projected revenue growth for the year.

The Dec. 17 estimate forecasts growing revenues in the coming budget year, and Fitzpatrick used the 25-year average of year-over-year growth to project further.

Fitzpatrick said if lawmakers add nothing to the current budget for three years, and the revenue estimate is accurate, the general revenue fund balance, which reached a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/30/missouri-surplus-peaking-at-8-billion-as-governor-prepares-to-act-on-state-budget/">record $5.8 billion</a>&nbsp;on June 30, 2023, will be depleted before fiscal 2028 ends on June 30, 2028.

The general revenue fund balance was $3.4 billion at the end of November. The state will be about $370 million short in fiscal 2028, Fitzpatrick’s report projects.

If a recession hits and Missouri experiences a repetition of the worst decline this century, Fitzpatrick said, the balance will be depleted as much as a year earlier. The gap between revenue and spending could reach $3.8 billion, the report states.

“Economic trends are unpredictable and we need to make sure Missouri is ready to face any challenge,” he said.

Spending has exceeded revenues in each year since fiscal 2023, with the surplus providing the difference. The surplus was accumulated by replacing state funds with federal COVID-19 pandemic aid and year-over-year revenue windfalls due to inflation and rapid wage growth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751110830433.png" alt="&nbsp;Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick on Monday forecast the state will burn through the rest of its general revenue surplus by June 2028 unless spending increases slow.&nbsp;He is shown speaking to reporters during a Jan. 23, 2024, news conference. (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick on Monday forecast the state will burn through the rest of its general revenue surplus by June 2028 unless spending increases slow.&nbsp;He is shown speaking to reporters during a Jan. 23, 2024, news conference. (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The fund held $5.8 billion, a record, at the end of June 2023. Without changes to the budget, State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick warns, the money will all be gone by June 2028</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri’s budget faces a fiscal cliff by mid-2028 when accumulated surpluses will be depleted, state Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick said in a report released Monday&nbsp;<a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/AuditReport/ViewReport?report=2025101&amp;token=0111925473" target="_blank">analyzing spending trends</a>&nbsp;since 2000.The report, following soon after revenue projections estimating general revenue will be&nbsp;$400 million less than expected, warns that a recession could deplete the surplus even faster, by the end of fiscal 2027.“The time is now to make the tough decisions that will prevent drastic, emergency budget cuts from being necessary in the months and years ahead,” Fitzpatrick said in a news release.&nbsp;Fitzpatrick, the auditor since 2023, was previously chairman of the House Budget Committee. When he was a lawmaker, from 2013 to 2019, state revenues were tight and often subject to large cuts when growth was sluggish.Few current legislators have experienced shrinking budgets, Fitzpatrick said.“Many current legislators have only been in office during these last few years during which strong economic growth and a huge influx of federal money have made hard budget decisions unnecessary,” Fitzpatrick said. “But they’re about to face the challenge of crafting a budget in the face of slowing revenue growth and reduced federal funding.“Gov. Mike Kehoe on Jan. 13 will deliver his budget proposal for fiscal 2027. When he released the reduced revenue estimate on Dec. 17, Kehoe warned of a tight budget coming and a need to limit new spending.There will be upward pressure on the general revenue fund from changes to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/26/medicaid-snap-cuts-could-create-a-massive-hole-in-missouri-budget-cost-thousands-of-jobs/">shared federal programs</a>&nbsp;and spending from soon-to-be-depleted funds that substitute for general revenue. At the same time, the estimate shows, there will be downward pressure on revenues due to the bill eliminating the state income tax on&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/capital-gains-exemption-and-motor-vehicle-fee-hike-bills-signed-by-missouri-governor/">capital gains</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Missouri and changes to the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/proposed-federal-tax-changes-could-mean-170m-or-more-cut-to-missouri-state-revenues/">federal tax code</a>&nbsp;pushed through by Republicans in Congress.The budget for fiscal 2026, which ends on June 30, projects general revenue spending on state operations at $15 billion, with another $725 million appropriated for building projects. General revenue receipts for the year should be about $13.15 billion, a decline of 2.1% over fiscal 2025, according to the estimate released Dec. 17.If the estimate is correct, it would be the fourth consecutive year when state revenues&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/17/missouri-tax-revenues-declining-in-first-months-of-fiscal-year-raising-concerns/">lag behind inflation</a>&nbsp;and the first time revenues have declined year-over-year outside of a recession or COVID-impacted fiscal 2020.Previous estimates had projected revenue growth for the year.The Dec. 17 estimate forecasts growing revenues in the coming budget year, and Fitzpatrick used the 25-year average of year-over-year growth to project further.Fitzpatrick said if lawmakers add nothing to the current budget for three years, and the revenue estimate is accurate, the general revenue fund balance, which reached a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/30/missouri-surplus-peaking-at-8-billion-as-governor-prepares-to-act-on-state-budget/">record $5.8 billion</a>&nbsp;on June 30, 2023, will be depleted before fiscal 2028 ends on June 30, 2028.The general revenue fund balance was $3.4 billion at the end of November. The state will be about $370 million short in fiscal 2028, Fitzpatrick’s report projects.If a recession hits and Missouri experiences a repetition of the worst decline this century, Fitzpatrick said, the balance will be depleted as much as a year earlier. The gap between revenue and spending could reach $3.8 billion, the report states.“Economic trends are unpredictable and we need to make sure Missouri is ready to face any challenge,” he said.Spending has exceeded revenues in each year since fiscal 2023, with the surplus providing the difference. The surplus was accumulated by replacing state funds with federal COVID-19 pandemic aid and year-over-year revenue windfalls due to inflation and rapid wage growth.In a statement issued Monday afternoon, House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel, said Fitzpatrick’s projection is not surprising.“His analysis confirms what I have said both in private and public comments over the past year about the long-term condition of the state budget,” Deaton said. “Specifically, the concern about a structural deficit created when ongoing general revenue spending exceeds what the state collects within a given fiscal year.”Keeping spending flat into future years will be difficult. This year’s state budget includes about $1.2 billion in spending from non-general revenue funds that will be depleted at the end of the fiscal year. Department budget requests have identified&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/09/missouri-public-schools-medicaid-need-1-billion-more-to-continue-current-programs/">about $1 billion in spending</a>&nbsp;in just a handful of large items that must come from general revenue for programs to continue at their current level.“There are certainly significant mandatory increases that we’re going to have to deal with,” state Budget Director Dan Haug said in an interview with The Independent earlier this month.Fitzpatrick’s report notes that Missouri has a budget reserve fund holding about $900 million but that it cannot be used to cover shortfalls except in an emergency.The report does not address whether other funds, holding about $2.5 billion for major projects, should be recaptured for general revenue. It also does not estimate the potential impact of future tax cuts in law and being proposed.Ongoing expenses have increased for public education, increased payments to medical and mental health providers and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/09/missouri-state-employee-pay-raise-advances-with-vote-on-spending-bill/">state employee payrolls</a>. The budget has also been increased by lawmakers sprinkling hundreds of millions in&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/30/missouri-governor-hits-earmarks-with-veto-pen-as-he-signs-state-budget/">earmarked projects</a>&nbsp;into spending bills to fund local needs or help favored organizations.&nbsp;State lawmakers asked by The Independent about the budget said they expect cuts in a number of programs when Kehoe presents his plan.State Rep. Jeff Vernetti, a Republican from Camdenton on the House Budget Committee, said decreasing revenues will force spending reductions.“I think every single department across the state, every single area, needs to be looked at so that Missouri can not have a crisis on its hands.”State Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, the ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, said Republicans are facing the impact of policies that put tax cuts ahead of state obligations.The capital gains tax cut will reduce revenue by $500 million but Republicans, when it passed, insisted it was closer to $110 million annually.“I do not understand how they think outcomes in this state will change when they continue to blow holes in our budget through things like the elimination of the capital gains tax,” Fogle said.State Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, echoed Fogle’s criticism of GOP tax policies. Additional costly tax cuts for top earners are already in state law, she said.“Because of the decisions of Republican politicians to give tax cuts to the most wealthy, fundamental state services are going to suffer,” Nurrenbern said.Reducing ongoing programs now will protect future budgets from cuts, Fitzpatrick said in the news release.“The longer Missouri waits to take action,” Fitzpatrick said, “the harder this exercise will become.”

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