The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that ten people died in traffic crashes over the 2025 Christmas holiday. 

The counting period began at 6 p.m. Dec. 24, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 28.

In addition to the fatalities, troopers responded to 258 total crashes and 94 injuries. The Patrol&nbsp; also remained active in enforcement, making 93 arrests for driving while intoxicated over the long weekend.

The fatalities were reported across several regions of the state. These incidents occurred in areas patrolled by Troop A in Lee’s Summit, Troop B in Macon, Troop C in St. Charles, Troop E in Poplar Bluff, Troop G in Willow Springs, and Troop H in St. Joseph.

The 2025 totals were higher than the previous year, which saw only three deaths. However, it was noted the couting

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that ten people died in traffic crashes over the 2025 Christmas holiday. The counting period began at 6 p.m. Dec. 24, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 28.In addition to the fatalities, troopers responded to 258 total crashes and 94 injuries. The Patrol&nbsp; also remained active in enforcement, making 93 arrests for driving while intoxicated over the long weekend.The fatalities were reported across several regions of the state. These incidents occurred in areas patrolled by Troop A in Lee’s Summit, Troop B in Macon, Troop C in St. Charles, Troop E in Poplar Bluff, Troop G in Willow Springs, and Troop H in St. Joseph.The 2025 totals were higher than the previous year, which saw only three deaths. However, it was noted the couting

10 dead, 93 arrested in Missouri holiday traffic

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/tyler-kirwan/">Tyler Kirwan</a>

Contracts are in place for a project that will test the wastewater of public schools in Missouri for signs of fentanyl and other drug use.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety has been negotiating with Mighty Good Solutions DBA Stercus Bioanalytics, and the Missouri-based company is now the contractor on a $7 million statewide project.

The project is planned to test the wastewater of 12 schools around Missouri for drug use and was touted by Gov. Mike Kehoe in January.

“In an effort to identify areas of high fentanyl use in schools across the state, we are including $4 million in investment for fentanyl testing in wastewater systems at schools,” Kehoe said during his first State of the State address in January.

An additional $3 million was allocated to the project to fund wastewater testing involving law enforcement efforts. The project was then moved from the Missouri Department of Health and Human services to the Department of Public Safety, Mike O’Connell, public safety communications director, said in an email.

“I believe that at that point, the decision was made to move the whole program to DPS,” O’Connell said.

Last month, Missouri school superintendents received emails asking them to notify the agency if they are interested in enrolling in the wastewater test program, O’Connell said.

In the email sent to superintendents and obtained by the Missourian, the program is said to include ongoing weekly testing that will provide insights into short- and long-term trends.

“Through the collection of one small wastewater sample per week, schools will receive near real-time insights into local substance misuse trends at no cost and with no additional responsibilities for your staff,” said Mark James, director of the Department of Public Safety in the email.

The project dates are not yet set, but the email asks that superintendents request inclusion in the program by this week, adding that the data from the testing may be used to shape initiatives that attempt to counteract drug use.

Opioid overdose is the leading cause of death for those aged 18 to 44 in Missouri, according to the Health and Human Services website.

The project had received $2 million in funding from former Gov. Mike Parson in his 2025 budget. No wastewater testing in schools has taken place yet.

The company in charge of testing, Mighty Good Solutions, says on their website, “By analyzing wastewater for specific biomarkers, we provide governments with powerful tools to detect narcotics prevalence, understand usage patterns, and identify trends — all through anonymous, macro-level data.”

Plans for testing don’t give specific details on how the Department of Public Safety will use the data to help combat opioid usage. Other states have been in conversations with the same company, and Mississippi lawmakers are currently considering them for wastewater testing.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/contractors-selected-for-fentanyl-testing-in-school-wastewater/article_a72ac90b-b955-4643-afe9-ab4b48097fab.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608245358476.png" alt="DEA image" />
 <figcaption>DEA image</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/tyler-kirwan/">Tyler Kirwan</a>Contracts are in place for a project that will test the wastewater of public schools in Missouri for signs of fentanyl and other drug use.The Missouri Department of Public Safety has been negotiating with Mighty Good Solutions DBA Stercus Bioanalytics, and the Missouri-based company is now the contractor on a $7 million statewide project.The project is planned to test the wastewater of 12 schools around Missouri for drug use and was touted by Gov. Mike Kehoe in January.“In an effort to identify areas of high fentanyl use in schools across the state, we are including $4 million in investment for fentanyl testing in wastewater systems at schools,” Kehoe said during his first State of the State address in January.An additional $3 million was allocated to the project to fund wastewater testing involving law enforcement efforts. The project was then moved from the Missouri Department of Health and Human services to the Department of Public Safety, Mike O’Connell, public safety communications director, said in an email.“I believe that at that point, the decision was made to move the whole program to DPS,” O’Connell said.Last month, Missouri school superintendents received emails asking them to notify the agency if they are interested in enrolling in the wastewater test program, O’Connell said.In the email sent to superintendents and obtained by the Missourian, the program is said to include ongoing weekly testing that will provide insights into short- and long-term trends.“Through the collection of one small wastewater sample per week, schools will receive near real-time insights into local substance misuse trends at no cost and with no additional responsibilities for your staff,” said Mark James, director of the Department of Public Safety in the email.The project dates are not yet set, but the email asks that superintendents request inclusion in the program by this week, adding that the data from the testing may be used to shape initiatives that attempt to counteract drug use.Opioid overdose is the leading cause of death for those aged 18 to 44 in Missouri, according to the Health and Human Services website.The project had received $2 million in funding from former Gov. Mike Parson in his 2025 budget. No wastewater testing in schools has taken place yet.The company in charge of testing, Mighty Good Solutions, says on their website, “By analyzing wastewater for specific biomarkers, we provide governments with powerful tools to detect narcotics prevalence, understand usage patterns, and identify trends — all through anonymous, macro-level data.”Plans for testing don’t give specific details on how the Department of Public Safety will use the data to help combat opioid usage. Other states have been in conversations with the same company, and Mississippi lawmakers are currently considering them for wastewater testing.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/contractors-selected-for-fentanyl-testing-in-school-wastewater/article_a72ac90b-b955-4643-afe9-ab4b48097fab.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

Contractors selected for fentanyl testing in Missouri school wastewater

Falls from tree stands have surpassed firearm-related incidents as the leading cause of injury for deer hunters, according to a recent national study. While environmental factors and equipment failure play a role, experts say human error is a primary driver of these accidents.

Megan Anderson, an injury prevention coordinator at Emplify Health by Gundersen, noted that while bad weather and faulty stand construction contribute to falls, many incidents occur simply because a hunter loses their balance while perched on the platform.

To mitigate these risks, Anderson recommends that all hunters wear a full-body harness. Safety advocates emphasize that a harness can provide a critical fail-safe for those positioned on wooden platforms high above the ground.

The safety warning comes as several deer hunting seasons remain active, with some set to run through Jan. 25. The risk is widespread, as statistics show that 80% of firearm hunters and 90% of bow hunters utilize tree stands during the season.

By RYAN SKAITHFalls from tree stands have surpassed firearm-related incidents as the leading cause of injury for deer hunters, according to a recent national study. While environmental factors and equipment failure play a role, experts say human error is a primary driver of these accidents.Megan Anderson, an injury prevention coordinator at Emplify Health by Gundersen, noted that while bad weather and faulty stand construction contribute to falls, many incidents occur simply because a hunter loses their balance while perched on the platform.To mitigate these risks, Anderson recommends that all hunters wear a full-body harness. Safety advocates emphasize that a harness can provide a critical fail-safe for those positioned on wooden platforms high above the ground.The safety warning comes as several deer hunting seasons remain active, with some set to run through Jan. 25. The risk is widespread, as statistics show that 80% of firearm hunters and 90% of bow hunters utilize tree stands during the season.

Study: Tree stand falls now leading cause of deer hunting injuries

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Sunday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC Envoy driven by a 36-year-old Maysville man was southbound on MO 33 just south of Maysville. The SUV struck a patch of ice, traveled off the west side of the road and rolled.

A private vehicle transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Sunday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 GMC Envoy driven by a 36-year-old Maysville man was southbound on MO 33 just south of Maysville. The SUV struck a patch of ice, traveled off the west side of the road and rolled.A private vehicle transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. man hospitalized in St. Joe after SUV rolls on the ice

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Sunday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F150 driven by a 47-year-old Stanberry man was westbound on U.S. 136 three miles east of Conception Junction. The driver lost control on the snow covered road. The pickup traveled off the north side of the road and rolled.

Grand River EMS transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Sunday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F150 driven by a 47-year-old Stanberry man was westbound on U.S. 136 three miles east of Conception Junction. The driver lost control on the snow covered road. The pickup traveled off the north side of the road and rolled.Grand River EMS transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man injured after rollover crash in the snow

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating suspect in connection with alleged child abuse.

Just after 8a.m. on Saturday police responded to a disturbance at a residence in the 1200 block South 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. It was determined that a child less than two years old had been struck multiple times.&nbsp; 

Police took 28-year-old Zachary Voelker into custody at the scene. During his arrest he was found to be in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; Voelker is being held on requested charges of aggravated battery, abuse of a child, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; The child did not require hospital care, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766951410418.png" alt="Voelker-photo Atchison police" />
 <figcaption>Voelker-photo Atchison police</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating suspect in connection with alleged child abuse.Just after 8a.m. on Saturday police responded to a disturbance at a residence in the 1200 block South 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. It was determined that a child less than two years old had been struck multiple times.&nbsp; Police took 28-year-old Zachary Voelker into custody at the scene. During his arrest he was found to be in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; Voelker is being held on requested charges of aggravated battery, abuse of a child, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; The child did not require hospital care, according to Wilson.

Police: Kansas man accused of beating a toddler

DEKALB COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9p.m. Saturday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Chevy Tahoe driven by a 34-year-old Savannah man was northbound on MO 33 two miles west of Osborn. The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at U.S. 36. The Tahoe traveled into the path of an eastbound 2025 Volvo semi. After impact, the semi overturned and came to rest blocking the eastbound passing lane of the highway.

The 34-year-old Tahoe driver was pronounced dead at the scene. DeKalb Clinton Ambulance transported a 12-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy, passengers in the Tahoe, to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The 36-year-old semi driver from Florida was not injured. The 13-year-old in the Tahoe was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9p.m. Saturday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Chevy Tahoe driven by a 34-year-old Savannah man was northbound on MO 33 two miles west of Osborn. The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at U.S. 36. The Tahoe traveled into the path of an eastbound 2025 Volvo semi. After impact, the semi overturned and came to rest blocking the eastbound passing lane of the highway.The 34-year-old Tahoe driver was pronounced dead at the scene. DeKalb Clinton Ambulance transported a 12-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy, passengers in the Tahoe, to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The 36-year-old semi driver from Florida was not injured. The 13-year-old in the Tahoe was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. man dead, 2 juveniles injured after semi, SUV crash

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan driven by a 35-year-old Carrollton was eastbound on Route M five and one half miles east of Guilford. The driver failed to negotiate a cure. The motorcycle traveled off the south side of the road down an embankment, struck a ditch, overturned and the driver was ejected.

EMS transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville where he was pronounced deceased. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Kawasaki Vulcan driven by a 35-year-old Carrollton was eastbound on Route M five and one half miles east of Guilford. The driver failed to negotiate a cure. The motorcycle traveled off the south side of the road down an embankment, struck a ditch, overturned and the driver was ejected.EMS transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville where he was pronounced deceased. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man dies in motorcycle accident

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Friday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy 2500 driven by a 27-year-old Dalton M. Stith of Hamilton was southbound on MO 13 three miles south of Hamilton. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and rolled onto its top.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stith was arrested on requested charges of driving while intoxicated, driving without a valid license and careless and imprudent driving involving a crash. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Caldwell County EMS transported Stith to Cameron Regional Medial Center and then on to Truman Medical Center.

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Friday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy 2500 driven by a 27-year-old Dalton M. Stith of Hamilton was southbound on MO 13 three miles south of Hamilton. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road and rolled onto its top.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stith was arrested on requested charges of driving while intoxicated, driving without a valid license and careless and imprudent driving involving a crash. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.Caldwell County EMS transported Stith to Cameron Regional Medial Center and then on to Truman Medical Center.

Mo. man accused of DWI after injured in rollover crash

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/charleyduffin/">Charley Duffin</a>

When Jan. 1 rolls around, Missouri’s minimum wage will increase from $13.75 to $15 an hour, putting the state ahead of many others.

The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations announced that the minimum wage is set to increase by $1.25 beginning in 2026. The minimum wage rate will be in effect for all non-exempt employers.

Missouri’s HB 567, signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe into law on July 10, repealed statewide earned paid sick time while simultaneously modifying the state’s minimum wage law.

It eliminated the automatic inflation adjustments that were set to begin in 2027 and kept the $15 per hour rate for public employers. However, it is also removing voter-approved worker protections for businesses as of Aug. 28.

Lily Roberts is the managing director of economic policy at the Center for American Progress, a nonpartisan economic policy institute. She said conversations about adjusting the minimum wage reflect rising prices that have increased in recent years.

“Everybody can tell you about inflation, and everybody can tell you about the cost of rent or groceries or childcare being really expensive, but the flip side of that is wages,” Roberts said. “There are many folks who are worse off and less able to keep up with those raising prices because a major pillar of how we make wage policy hasn’t been changed since 2009.”

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 and it hasn’t been adjusted since 2009, which Roberts said is the longest it’s gone unchanged since the introduction of minimum wage in 1938.

“$7.25 is so unbelievably low that many people don’t even believe that it’s still that low,” Roberts said.

In Missouri, employers who are involved in retail or service businesses and have an annual gross income less than $500,000 are exempt from having to pay the state minimum wage rate. Instead, those employers can pay their workers any wage at their discretion, according to the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

Roberts said Missouri is unique in the fact that it raised its minimum wage to reflect inflation numbers, but when the state implements a $15 an hour minimum wage, it is no longer required to factor in inflation.

Between 2015 and 2019, Missouri’s minimum wage rose just under a dollar, from $7.65 to $8.60. Since 2019, the increase has been at least $0.75 annually every year except for 2023. The $1.25 jump will be the second straight year that the minimum wage has increased by more than a dollar.

Missouri is one of 34 U.S. states, territories and districts that has a higher minimum wage than the federal requirement.

Roberts said Missouri is in line with nearby states, such as South Dakota, Nebraska and Arkansas. All of those states, plus Missouri, have consistently been working on increasing their respective minimum wages.

“Some of them are doing it gradually over time to get to ($15 an hour) and others are passing individual laws,” Roberts said. “These longer-term predictable changes are really the trend right now, where you give businesses and employees a sense of how their wages will grow over time, and it means that it’s easier to predict and easier for employers to budget for.”

She said business owners are often fighting for higher wages, contrary to popular belief, because they need to be able to compete.

“The higher your wages that you pay, in general, the lower your turnover is,” Roberts said. “So businesses that pay really small dollars tend to have a lot of turnover. It actually gets really counterproductive and expensive very quickly because the business owner has to spend all of their time hiring, training and trying to retain folks.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/missouri-minimum-wage-set-to-increase-over-a-dollar-in-2026/article_3d33d784-f2f7-4fb3-a7a7-34fe23712ad8.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741714465522.jpeg" alt="pixabay" />
 <figcaption>pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/charleyduffin/">Charley Duffin</a>When Jan. 1 rolls around, Missouri’s minimum wage will increase from $13.75 to $15 an hour, putting the state ahead of many others.The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations announced that the minimum wage is set to increase by $1.25 beginning in 2026. The minimum wage rate will be in effect for all non-exempt employers.Missouri’s HB 567, signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe into law on July 10, repealed statewide earned paid sick time while simultaneously modifying the state’s minimum wage law.It eliminated the automatic inflation adjustments that were set to begin in 2027 and kept the $15 per hour rate for public employers. However, it is also removing voter-approved worker protections for businesses as of Aug. 28.Lily Roberts is the managing director of economic policy at the Center for American Progress, a nonpartisan economic policy institute. She said conversations about adjusting the minimum wage reflect rising prices that have increased in recent years.“Everybody can tell you about inflation, and everybody can tell you about the cost of rent or groceries or childcare being really expensive, but the flip side of that is wages,” Roberts said. “There are many folks who are worse off and less able to keep up with those raising prices because a major pillar of how we make wage policy hasn’t been changed since 2009.”The federal minimum wage is $7.25 and it hasn’t been adjusted since 2009, which Roberts said is the longest it’s gone unchanged since the introduction of minimum wage in 1938.“$7.25 is so unbelievably low that many people don’t even believe that it’s still that low,” Roberts said.In Missouri, employers who are involved in retail or service businesses and have an annual gross income less than $500,000 are exempt from having to pay the state minimum wage rate. Instead, those employers can pay their workers any wage at their discretion, according to the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.Roberts said Missouri is unique in the fact that it raised its minimum wage to reflect inflation numbers, but when the state implements a $15 an hour minimum wage, it is no longer required to factor in inflation.Between 2015 and 2019, Missouri’s minimum wage rose just under a dollar, from $7.65 to $8.60. Since 2019, the increase has been at least $0.75 annually every year except for 2023. The $1.25 jump will be the second straight year that the minimum wage has increased by more than a dollar.Missouri is one of 34 U.S. states, territories and districts that has a higher minimum wage than the federal requirement.Roberts said Missouri is in line with nearby states, such as South Dakota, Nebraska and Arkansas. All of those states, plus Missouri, have consistently been working on increasing their respective minimum wages.“Some of them are doing it gradually over time to get to ($15 an hour) and others are passing individual laws,” Roberts said. “These longer-term predictable changes are really the trend right now, where you give businesses and employees a sense of how their wages will grow over time, and it means that it’s easier to predict and easier for employers to budget for.”She said business owners are often fighting for higher wages, contrary to popular belief, because they need to be able to compete.“The higher your wages that you pay, in general, the lower your turnover is,” Roberts said. “So businesses that pay really small dollars tend to have a lot of turnover. It actually gets really counterproductive and expensive very quickly because the business owner has to spend all of their time hiring, training and trying to retain folks.”This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/missouri-minimum-wage-set-to-increase-over-a-dollar-in-2026/article_3d33d784-f2f7-4fb3-a7a7-34fe23712ad8.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

Missouri minimum wage set to increase over a dollar in 2026

MERCER COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Thursday in Mercer County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Mercedes CL2 driven by a 19-year-old Kirksville woman was southbound on High Street just south of U.S. 65 in Princeton. The driver ran a stop sign. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road, struck a large piece of concrete in the ditch, started sliding counterclockwise, struck another ditch, rolled and the driver was ejected. The vehicle continued over Elm Street, traveled off the south side of Elm Street and struck another embankment.

Mercer County EMS transported the driver to Liberty Hospital. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

MERCER COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Thursday in Mercer County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Mercedes CL2 driven by a 19-year-old Kirksville woman was southbound on High Street just south of U.S. 65 in Princeton. The driver ran a stop sign. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road, struck a large piece of concrete in the ditch, started sliding counterclockwise, struck another ditch, rolled and the driver was ejected. The vehicle continued over Elm Street, traveled off the south side of Elm Street and struck another embankment.Mercer County EMS transported the driver to Liberty Hospital. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman hospitalized after ejected in rollover crash

The Iowa State Patrol is reporting a dangerous rise in extreme speeding across the state. Sergeant Alex Dinkla says troopers are increasingly stopping everyday "Plain Jane" vehicles traveling at over 140 mph, including one recent stop where a driver reached 164 mph on the interstate.

While troopers regularly train at the Iowa Speedway, Dinkla notes that the patrol’s Dodge Chargers would never reach those speeds during a pursuit. Last year alone, Iowa troopers issued more than 1,000 tickets to drivers exceeding 100 mph.

In response, a state lawmaker who also serves as a trooper has introduced a bill in the Iowa House to significantly increase fines for excessive speeding to deter reckless driving.

By RYAN SKAITHThe Iowa State Patrol is reporting a dangerous rise in extreme speeding across the state. Sergeant Alex Dinkla says troopers are increasingly stopping everyday "Plain Jane" vehicles traveling at over 140 mph, including one recent stop where a driver reached 164 mph on the interstate.While troopers regularly train at the Iowa Speedway, Dinkla notes that the patrol’s Dodge Chargers would never reach those speeds during a pursuit. Last year alone, Iowa troopers issued more than 1,000 tickets to drivers exceeding 100 mph.In response, a state lawmaker who also serves as a trooper has introduced a bill in the Iowa House to significantly increase fines for excessive speeding to deter reckless driving.

Iowa Troopers See Surge in Extreme Speeding

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Malibu driven by an 18-year-old Chillicothe woman was southbound on U.S. 65 four miles north of Chillicothe. The car struck the passenger side of a 2022 Honda Pilot driven by a 62-year-old Chillicothe man who was attempting to make a u-turn.

Chillicothe EMS transported the teen driver, a 13-year-old and a 50-year-old who were both passengers in the Honda to Hedrick Medical Center.&nbsp; The Honda driver was not injured. All four were properly restrained, accoding to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Malibu driven by an 18-year-old Chillicothe woman was southbound on U.S. 65 four miles north of Chillicothe. The car struck the passenger side of a 2022 Honda Pilot driven by a 62-year-old Chillicothe man who was attempting to make a u-turn.Chillicothe EMS transported the teen driver, a 13-year-old and a 50-year-old who were both passengers in the Honda to Hedrick Medical Center.&nbsp; The Honda driver was not injured. All four were properly restrained, accoding to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

3 hospitalized after crash during u-turn

As Missouri lawmakers head into the 2026 legislative session, new federal THC limits are forcing a fresh debate over how — and whether — intoxicating hemp products should be regulated

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

Businesses and Missouri lawmakers are scrambling to understand what will happen in November, when&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/11/missouri-hemp-businesses-fear-new-federal-thc-limits-will-destroy-the-industry/">new federal limits on intoxicating hemp products&nbsp;</a>go into effect.

It’s unclear just how proactive the federal government will be enforcing the new restrictions. Will it clamp down, or like it has with marijuana, look the other way as states enact their own rules?&nbsp;&nbsp;

To add to the uncertainty,&nbsp;President Donald Trump signed an&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/repub/trump-signs-order-to-loosen-federal-restrictions-on-marijuana-but-its-still-illegal/">executive order&nbsp;</a>last week to loosen federal restrictions on marijuana. That action could impact whether or not the feds choose to enforce hemp products as well, according to a congressional&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/LSB11381" target="_blank">report</a>.

Amidst the swirling questions, several Missouri lawmakers have pre-filed bills for the upcoming legislative session that begins in January to establish state regulations on intoxicating hemp products.&nbsp;

Not all of the Missouri proposals include the federal THC limit in their definitions of hemp, which&nbsp;will take effect&nbsp;Nov. 12 and was included in a&nbsp; federal spending package approved by Congress and signed by the president in November.&nbsp;

One&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=443" target="_blank">proposal</a>&nbsp;that does align with the federal restrictions comes from Republican state Sen. David Gregory of Chesterfield, and it would regulate intoxicating hemp the same as marijuana. That would essentially ban current hemp products, because marijuana must be grown in Missouri and most hemp currently is grown outside of the state. It would also require hemp products to be sold in licensed cannabis dispensaries, where most are currently sold in gas stations, liquor stores and restaurants and smoke shops.&nbsp;

Republican state Rep. Matthew Overcast of Ava said he has “no concerns” about the federal language impacting the hemp industry. He plans on continuing to push his&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/hlrbillspdf/4263H.01I.pdf" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;that would overturn the current regulatory framework for the cannabis industry and instead allow marijuana and intoxicating hemp products to be sold in the same stores as alcohol and tobacco.&nbsp;

“Historically, there’s been this softened congressional enforcement of our federally illicit marijuana programs that have regulated programs across the nation,” he said. “Even if the language were to stand, I don’t see — outside of big marijuana continuing to try to influence congressional and state legislators and state agencies — that we’re going to see federal enforcement on hemp.”

Democratic state Sen. Karla May of St. Louis pre-filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/26Info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=208" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow intoxicating hemp products to continue to be sold outside of dispensaries with a $1,000 registration fee annually. Her bill does not include the federal definition, she said, because it was drafted before the spending package went through. May called her bill a “starting point.”

Through it all, intoxicating hemp businesses — along with companies that assist them — are trying to figure out what their future might look like.&nbsp;

“Think about your bank, your payroll company, your merchant processor — they may not want to wait out the 365 days,” said Jessica Velazquez, a Las Vegas-based accountant with Beach Fleishman, during a November webinar for hemp businesses. “They may take a more conservative approach and say, ‘Hey, you know, this really is like [marijuana] and maybe we don’t want to service you anymore’ in the way that they currently are now.’”

Hemp and marijuana are essentially terms the government uses to distinguish between the part of the cannabis plant that has high amounts of THC.

Hemp has previously been defined as any part of the plant containing 0.3% or less&nbsp;delta-9 THC&nbsp;by dry weight.

Last month, a provision in the federal spending bill amended the&nbsp;<a href="https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title7/chapter38/subchapter7&amp;edition=prelim" target="_blank">definition of hemp</a>, changing the limit to a total THC concentration of less than .3% on a dry weight basis, rather than only delta-9 THC. It also prohibits products from containing more than 0.4 milligrams of THC per container.

The changes address some of the concerns Congress heard from groups like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cann-ra.org/news-events/cannra-responds-to-congressional-request-for-information-on-federal-cannabinoid-hemp-regulation" target="_blank">Cannabis Regulators Association</a>, which represents state marijuana regulators across the nation.

The association submitted information to Congress in a<a href="https://www.cann-ra.org/news-events/cannra-responds-to-congressional-request-for-information-on-federal-cannabinoid-hemp-regulation" target="_blank">&nbsp;2023 report&nbsp;</a>stating that many hemp businesses are selling “THCA hemp” flower, or buds, containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.&nbsp;

“However, cannabis plants produce THCA, not THC,” the report states.&nbsp;

When the plant is smoked, the THCA converts or decarboxylates into delta-9 THC – and that’s why every state marijuana program defines THC in terms of both THCA and delta-9 THC, regulators said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

THCA products – including flower, vape cartridges and concentrates – are “indistinguishable” from marijuana products sold in dispensaries, the association stated.

And that’s why, regulators argued, there was a need to add language about total THC, instead of only delta-9.

Regarding weight, the association told Congress that the threshold of 0.3% delta-9 THC by weight is a small amount of THC in a hemp plant. However, when applied to things like chocolate bars or beverages that can weigh significantly more, 0.3% by weight can amount to hundreds of milligrams of THC.

The association gave the example of a 50-gram chocolate bar at 0.3% THC would have around 150 mg of THC — 30 times the standard 5 mg THC dose established by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. A family sized pack of cookies weighing 20 oz can contain around 1,700 mg of THC using the 0.3% THC threshold.

“The whole question was: what is hemp and what is marijuana?” said Jack Cardetti, spokesman for the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association. “There was not a bright line there, and it was a line that obviously some bad actors have used to push intoxicating products that were completely unregulated.”

The lack of government oversight on these products makes them a public health risk, Cardetti said. Now there is a “clear bright line,” he said, and he believes a majority of Missouri lawmakers will want to align with the federal definition.

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee stated the changes were made to prevent “<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy26_agriculture_rural_development_fda_bill_summary_-_majority.pdf" target="_blank">the unregulated sale of intoxicating</a>” hemp products.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IN12620" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the Congressional Research Service released this month states that it “remains to be seen” whether the FDA will opt to try and remove the products from the market or not.

The FDA and DEA, in coordination with the Department of Justice, “have a range of civil and criminal remedies they may use in efforts to exercise control over these activities,” it states.

It also says these federal agencies, “may lack the resources to broadly enforce the laws prohibiting intoxicating hemp products on the market.”

Congress may also choose to exercise oversight over federal enforcement priorities regarding state-regulated cannabis activities, the report says. It took that step with medical marijuana, when it prohibited spending money on enforcement.

“Congress can say that, ‘FDA and DEA, we prohibit you from using federal dollars to enforce against state-compliant hemp programs,’” said Craig Small, a Denver-based cannabis attorney.&nbsp;

With the federal limits, Small said hemp companies could run into the same banking and tax issues that marijuana companies do — where there are no business tax deductions allowed and banks largely won’t take them as customers.&nbsp;

How much priority federal agencies need to put on enforcing hemp-derived products seemed to be a “subtext” of Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/" target="_blank">executive order</a>&nbsp;to reschedule marijuana, Small said.&nbsp;

It ordered his administration to work with Congress to develop a framework that permits full-spectrum CBD products, which have a trace amount of THC. Those products “will once again be controlled as marijuana,” under the federal spending bill’s provision, the executive order states.&nbsp;

However, it also states the regulatory framework should preserve Congress’ “intent to restrict the sale of products that pose serious health risks.”

And it orders federal health agencies to “develop research methods and models utilizing real-world evidence to improve access to hemp-derived cannabinoid products.”&nbsp;

“It does signal to the industry that if we were on a DEFCON 1 before, we’re now on DEFCON 3,” Small said. “Whatever arguments law enforcement want to make on a federal or state level about the danger of these products and how serious it is that we get them off the streets, I do think that’s lessened a little bit with these instructions.”

This will be the fourth year in a row that Missouri lawmakers have attempted to regulate intoxicating hemp products, with previous debates ending in stalemates.&nbsp;

May said she’s planning on sitting down with Gregory to talk about how to move forward this legislative session.&nbsp;

“We really want to solve the issue,” May said. “That’s the key, so I want to make sure that everybody’s on the same page saying the same thing.”

Under May’s bill, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services would be tasked with establishing rules on potency limits, recall procedures of dangerous products, advertising standards and “create mechanisms for compliance and enforcement.”

May led a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/10/intoxicating-hemp-regulations-stall-in-missouri-senate-after-7-hour-filibuster/">seven-hour bipartisan filibuster</a>&nbsp;in April against a bill similar to Gregory’s, after arguing it was nothing more than an attempt by the marijuana industry to stomp out its competition.&nbsp;

“It reminds me so much of a street drug war,” May said during an April Senate floor debate. “All drugs have always been about distribution and territory. And this is no different.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/26/missouri-lawmakers-weigh-the-cost-of-regulating-intoxicating-hemp-products/">department has previously put a high price tag</a>&nbsp;on proposals that create separate rules for intoxicating hemp and marijuana products.&nbsp;

Republican state Rep. Dave Hinman of O’Fallon led a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/14/lawmakers-vote-down-a-second-bill-to-regulate-intoxicating-hemp-products-in-missouri/">similar effort&nbsp;</a>as May to license hemp business during the last legislative session, but he said he will file a bill that aligns with the new federal definition.

Overcast’s constitutional amendment would replace the marijuana legalization amendment approved by voters in 2022 with language that instructs Missouri lawmakers to create regulations that are no more burdensome than what we already have for alcohol and tobacco.&nbsp;

The amendment is nearly identical to four&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/Elections/Petitions/2026-141.pdf" target="_blank">initiative petitions</a>&nbsp;filed in&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/09/new-initiative-petition-would-regulate-missouri-marijuana-hemp-products-the-same-as-alcohol/">September and bankrolled by American Shaman</a>&nbsp;owner Vince Sanders and some other major hemp business owners. While the petitions have been approved to circulate for signatures, the effort has been put on pause, said Eapen Thampy, a lobbyist for American Shaman.

“Although we were successful at securing some commitments,” Thampy said, “it wasn’t to the level where we felt comfortable moving forward with a full fledged signature campaign.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766599327452.png" alt=" Slaphappy Hemp farm in Rosebud (photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption> Slaphappy Hemp farm in Rosebud (photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>As Missouri lawmakers head into the 2026 legislative session, new federal THC limits are forcing a fresh debate over how — and whether — intoxicating hemp products should be regulated</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Businesses and Missouri lawmakers are scrambling to understand what will happen in November, when&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/11/missouri-hemp-businesses-fear-new-federal-thc-limits-will-destroy-the-industry/">new federal limits on intoxicating hemp products&nbsp;</a>go into effect.It’s unclear just how proactive the federal government will be enforcing the new restrictions. Will it clamp down, or like it has with marijuana, look the other way as states enact their own rules?&nbsp;&nbsp;To add to the uncertainty,&nbsp;President Donald Trump signed an&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/repub/trump-signs-order-to-loosen-federal-restrictions-on-marijuana-but-its-still-illegal/">executive order&nbsp;</a>last week to loosen federal restrictions on marijuana. That action could impact whether or not the feds choose to enforce hemp products as well, according to a congressional&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/LSB11381" target="_blank">report</a>.Amidst the swirling questions, several Missouri lawmakers have pre-filed bills for the upcoming legislative session that begins in January to establish state regulations on intoxicating hemp products.&nbsp;Not all of the Missouri proposals include the federal THC limit in their definitions of hemp, which&nbsp;will take effect&nbsp;Nov. 12 and was included in a&nbsp; federal spending package approved by Congress and signed by the president in November.&nbsp;One&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=443" target="_blank">proposal</a>&nbsp;that does align with the federal restrictions comes from Republican state Sen. David Gregory of Chesterfield, and it would regulate intoxicating hemp the same as marijuana. That would essentially ban current hemp products, because marijuana must be grown in Missouri and most hemp currently is grown outside of the state. It would also require hemp products to be sold in licensed cannabis dispensaries, where most are currently sold in gas stations, liquor stores and restaurants and smoke shops.&nbsp;Republican state Rep. Matthew Overcast of Ava said he has “no concerns” about the federal language impacting the hemp industry. He plans on continuing to push his&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/hlrbillspdf/4263H.01I.pdf" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;that would overturn the current regulatory framework for the cannabis industry and instead allow marijuana and intoxicating hemp products to be sold in the same stores as alcohol and tobacco.&nbsp;“Historically, there’s been this softened congressional enforcement of our federally illicit marijuana programs that have regulated programs across the nation,” he said. “Even if the language were to stand, I don’t see — outside of big marijuana continuing to try to influence congressional and state legislators and state agencies — that we’re going to see federal enforcement on hemp.”Democratic state Sen. Karla May of St. Louis pre-filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/26Info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=208" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow intoxicating hemp products to continue to be sold outside of dispensaries with a $1,000 registration fee annually. Her bill does not include the federal definition, she said, because it was drafted before the spending package went through. May called her bill a “starting point.”Through it all, intoxicating hemp businesses — along with companies that assist them — are trying to figure out what their future might look like.&nbsp;“Think about your bank, your payroll company, your merchant processor — they may not want to wait out the 365 days,” said Jessica Velazquez, a Las Vegas-based accountant with Beach Fleishman, during a November webinar for hemp businesses. “They may take a more conservative approach and say, ‘Hey, you know, this really is like [marijuana] and maybe we don’t want to service you anymore’ in the way that they currently are now.’”<h2>What is the law?</h2>Hemp and marijuana are essentially terms the government uses to distinguish between the part of the cannabis plant that has high amounts of THC.Hemp has previously been defined as any part of the plant containing 0.3% or less&nbsp;delta-9 THC&nbsp;by dry weight.Last month, a provision in the federal spending bill amended the&nbsp;<a href="https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title7/chapter38/subchapter7&amp;edition=prelim" target="_blank">definition of hemp</a>, changing the limit to a total THC concentration of less than .3% on a dry weight basis, rather than only delta-9 THC. It also prohibits products from containing more than 0.4 milligrams of THC per container.The changes address some of the concerns Congress heard from groups like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cann-ra.org/news-events/cannra-responds-to-congressional-request-for-information-on-federal-cannabinoid-hemp-regulation" target="_blank">Cannabis Regulators Association</a>, which represents state marijuana regulators across the nation.The association submitted information to Congress in a<a href="https://www.cann-ra.org/news-events/cannra-responds-to-congressional-request-for-information-on-federal-cannabinoid-hemp-regulation" target="_blank">&nbsp;2023 report&nbsp;</a>stating that many hemp businesses are selling “THCA hemp” flower, or buds, containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.&nbsp;“However, cannabis plants produce THCA, not THC,” the report states.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698531124512.png" alt="(Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>(Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>When the plant is smoked, the THCA converts or decarboxylates into delta-9 THC – and that’s why every state marijuana program defines THC in terms of both THCA and delta-9 THC, regulators said.&nbsp;&nbsp;THCA products – including flower, vape cartridges and concentrates – are “indistinguishable” from marijuana products sold in dispensaries, the association stated.And that’s why, regulators argued, there was a need to add language about total THC, instead of only delta-9.Regarding weight, the association told Congress that the threshold of 0.3% delta-9 THC by weight is a small amount of THC in a hemp plant. However, when applied to things like chocolate bars or beverages that can weigh significantly more, 0.3% by weight can amount to hundreds of milligrams of THC.The association gave the example of a 50-gram chocolate bar at 0.3% THC would have around 150 mg of THC — 30 times the standard 5 mg THC dose established by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. A family sized pack of cookies weighing 20 oz can contain around 1,700 mg of THC using the 0.3% THC threshold.“The whole question was: what is hemp and what is marijuana?” said Jack Cardetti, spokesman for the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association. “There was not a bright line there, and it was a line that obviously some bad actors have used to push intoxicating products that were completely unregulated.”The lack of government oversight on these products makes them a public health risk, Cardetti said. Now there is a “clear bright line,” he said, and he believes a majority of Missouri lawmakers will want to align with the federal definition.The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee stated the changes were made to prevent “<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy26_agriculture_rural_development_fda_bill_summary_-_majority.pdf" target="_blank">the unregulated sale of intoxicating</a>” hemp products.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IN12620" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the Congressional Research Service released this month states that it “remains to be seen” whether the FDA will opt to try and remove the products from the market or not.The FDA and DEA, in coordination with the Department of Justice, “have a range of civil and criminal remedies they may use in efforts to exercise control over these activities,” it states.It also says these federal agencies, “may lack the resources to broadly enforce the laws prohibiting intoxicating hemp products on the market.”Congress may also choose to exercise oversight over federal enforcement priorities regarding state-regulated cannabis activities, the report says. It took that step with medical marijuana, when it prohibited spending money on enforcement.“Congress can say that, ‘FDA and DEA, we prohibit you from using federal dollars to enforce against state-compliant hemp programs,’” said Craig Small, a Denver-based cannabis attorney.&nbsp;With the federal limits, Small said hemp companies could run into the same banking and tax issues that marijuana companies do — where there are no business tax deductions allowed and banks largely won’t take them as customers.&nbsp;How much priority federal agencies need to put on enforcing hemp-derived products seemed to be a “subtext” of Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/" target="_blank">executive order</a>&nbsp;to reschedule marijuana, Small said.&nbsp;It ordered his administration to work with Congress to develop a framework that permits full-spectrum CBD products, which have a trace amount of THC. Those products “will once again be controlled as marijuana,” under the federal spending bill’s provision, the executive order states.&nbsp;However, it also states the regulatory framework should preserve Congress’ “intent to restrict the sale of products that pose serious health risks.”And it orders federal health agencies to “develop research methods and models utilizing real-world evidence to improve access to hemp-derived cannabinoid products.”&nbsp;“It does signal to the industry that if we were on a DEFCON 1 before, we’re now on DEFCON 3,” Small said. “Whatever arguments law enforcement want to make on a federal or state level about the danger of these products and how serious it is that we get them off the streets, I do think that’s lessened a little bit with these instructions.”<h2>Lawmakers weigh in</h2>This will be the fourth year in a row that Missouri lawmakers have attempted to regulate intoxicating hemp products, with previous debates ending in stalemates.&nbsp;May said she’s planning on sitting down with Gregory to talk about how to move forward this legislative session.&nbsp;“We really want to solve the issue,” May said. “That’s the key, so I want to make sure that everybody’s on the same page saying the same thing.”Under May’s bill, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services would be tasked with establishing rules on potency limits, recall procedures of dangerous products, advertising standards and “create mechanisms for compliance and enforcement.”May led a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/10/intoxicating-hemp-regulations-stall-in-missouri-senate-after-7-hour-filibuster/">seven-hour bipartisan filibuster</a>&nbsp;in April against a bill similar to Gregory’s, after arguing it was nothing more than an attempt by the marijuana industry to stomp out its competition.&nbsp;“It reminds me so much of a street drug war,” May said during an April Senate floor debate. “All drugs have always been about distribution and territory. And this is no different.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/26/missouri-lawmakers-weigh-the-cost-of-regulating-intoxicating-hemp-products/">department has previously put a high price tag</a>&nbsp;on proposals that create separate rules for intoxicating hemp and marijuana products.&nbsp;Republican state Rep. Dave Hinman of O’Fallon led a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/14/lawmakers-vote-down-a-second-bill-to-regulate-intoxicating-hemp-products-in-missouri/">similar effort&nbsp;</a>as May to license hemp business during the last legislative session, but he said he will file a bill that aligns with the new federal definition.Overcast’s constitutional amendment would replace the marijuana legalization amendment approved by voters in 2022 with language that instructs Missouri lawmakers to create regulations that are no more burdensome than what we already have for alcohol and tobacco.&nbsp;The amendment is nearly identical to four&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/Elections/Petitions/2026-141.pdf" target="_blank">initiative petitions</a>&nbsp;filed in&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/09/new-initiative-petition-would-regulate-missouri-marijuana-hemp-products-the-same-as-alcohol/">September and bankrolled by American Shaman</a>&nbsp;owner Vince Sanders and some other major hemp business owners. While the petitions have been approved to circulate for signatures, the effort has been put on pause, said Eapen Thampy, a lobbyist for American Shaman.“Although we were successful at securing some commitments,” Thampy said, “it wasn’t to the level where we felt comfortable moving forward with a full fledged signature campaign.”

New federal regulations complicate Missouri debate over intoxicating hemp

People will be traveling for the holidays to be with family, and many may be bringing their pets along with them to join in the family fun.   

Melanie Barnes with Friends of the Animal Shelter says if you are taking your pet along on your holiday trips, keep them safe, especially if going to a place with an unfamiliar animal.  

Barnes says there are no for sure tips on introducing pets to each other, because each pet is different, but says there are some ways you can help them acclimate 

"If you can plan ahead of time, and like have them share things to share the smell, that’s really nice,” Barnes says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “So like a week ahead of time if there’s a special toy or a blanket that your pet lays on all the time, or a small bed, and you can swap those so they kind of get used to those smells that’s always a really nice thing to do in advance so it’s not so shocking.” 

Barnes says when introducing your pet to another pet they may not know, it's best to keep them on a leash so you can pull them away if they begin to go at each other.  

"Don’t ever try and reach in between them, that’s when bad things happen,” Barnes explains.  “I know it’s natural, people want to stop it, maybe pick their pet up, things like that, but if they’re really not getting along then use the leashes and pull them apart, do it in a safe area, don’t do it in the middle of your dining room or where the dishes are or something like that.” 

Barnes says be sure to watch your pets for any signs of aggression such as hair standing up or a posture that shows things may be going too fast and says sometimes it's best to take things slow.   

Barnes says an unexpected vet bill could be the las thing you want to spoil your holiday, so keep an eye on your pets and protect them. Barnes says especially to protect them around that holiday food 

"We certainly also don’t want a trip to the vet because we’ve either accidentally eaten something that’s caused severe GI upset, or maybe even toxicity, or even potentially a foreign body,” Barnes says.  “And you need to be cognoscente, not only of the food you put on your table and the food you put in the trash, but your decorations, your Christmas things around, a lot of people like to dress their pets up.” 

Barnes says to make sure those outfits you might put your pets in for the holidays fit well and don't choke your pets or could end up having things falling off and getting eaten making the dog or cat sick. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

By MATT PIKEPeople will be traveling for the holidays to be with family, and many may be bringing their pets along with them to join in the family fun. Melanie Barnes with Friends of the Animal Shelter says if you are taking your pet along on your holiday trips, keep them safe, especially if going to a place with an unfamiliar animal. Barnes says there are no for sure tips on introducing pets to each other, because each pet is different, but says there are some ways you can help them acclimate "If you can plan ahead of time, and like have them share things to share the smell, that’s really nice,” Barnes says on the KFEQmunnity show. “So like a week ahead of time if there’s a special toy or a blanket that your pet lays on all the time, or a small bed, and you can swap those so they kind of get used to those smells that’s always a really nice thing to do in advance so it’s not so shocking.” Barnes says when introducing your pet to another pet they may not know, it's best to keep them on a leash so you can pull them away if they begin to go at each other. "Don’t ever try and reach in between them, that’s when bad things happen,” Barnes explains. “I know it’s natural, people want to stop it, maybe pick their pet up, things like that, but if they’re really not getting along then use the leashes and pull them apart, do it in a safe area, don’t do it in the middle of your dining room or where the dishes are or something like that.” Barnes says be sure to watch your pets for any signs of aggression such as hair standing up or a posture that shows things may be going too fast and says sometimes it's best to take things slow. Barnes says an unexpected vet bill could be the las thing you want to spoil your holiday, so keep an eye on your pets and protect them. Barnes says especially to protect them around that holiday food "We certainly also don’t want a trip to the vet because we’ve either accidentally eaten something that’s caused severe GI upset, or maybe even toxicity, or even potentially a foreign body,” Barnes says. “And you need to be cognoscente, not only of the food you put on your table and the food you put in the trash, but your decorations, your Christmas things around, a lot of people like to dress their pets up.” Barnes says to make sure those outfits you might put your pets in for the holidays fit well and don't choke your pets or could end up having things falling off and getting eaten making the dog or cat sick. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Avoid that vet visit this Christmas and keep your pets safe

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to prioritize safety and sobriety ahead of the 2025 Christmas holiday travel season.

The official holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, and concludes at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28. The MSHP reminds travelers that Missouri is a hands-free state, meaning drivers must put down their phones and remain focused on the road.

Safety remains a primary concern following last year's holiday statistics. During a much shorter 30-hour counting period in 2024, the patrol reported 295 traffic crashes statewide. Those incidents resulted in five fatalities and 133 injuries.

To further prevent tragedies, the patrol advises drivers to obey all traffic laws, adjust speeds for winter weather, and ensure every passenger is buckled up or secured in an appropriate child safety seat. Officials emphasized that there is no excuse for speeding, aggressive driving, or operating a vehicle while impaired.

Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph says, "If your holiday plans include alcohol, just plan ahead. Make sure you have a sober driver. Don't chance it. Not only is your life at risk, but so is the life of every other motorist on the roadway."

Hux notes that even though the weather is supposed to be warm, it can change rapidly in Northwest Missouri. "Plan ahead for inclement weather. We just want everyone to have a safe holiday season."

Due to ongoing road construction, travelers are encouraged to use the MoDOT Traveler Information Map app or website to plan their routes. The tool provides real-time updates on road closures, work zones, and potential delays.

The public can report criminal activity, dangerous driving, or emergencies by calling the patrol's emergency line at 800-525-5555 or dialing *55.

Hux says all available troopers will be out working during the holiday travel period.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563534624431.png" alt="MSHP" />
 <figcaption>MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to prioritize safety and sobriety ahead of the 2025 Christmas holiday travel season.The official holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, and concludes at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28. The MSHP reminds travelers that Missouri is a hands-free state, meaning drivers must put down their phones and remain focused on the road.Safety remains a primary concern following last year's holiday statistics. During a much shorter 30-hour counting period in 2024, the patrol reported 295 traffic crashes statewide. Those incidents resulted in five fatalities and 133 injuries.To further prevent tragedies, the patrol advises drivers to obey all traffic laws, adjust speeds for winter weather, and ensure every passenger is buckled up or secured in an appropriate child safety seat. Officials emphasized that there is no excuse for speeding, aggressive driving, or operating a vehicle while impaired.Sgt. Shane Hux, with Troop H in St. Joseph says, "If your holiday plans include alcohol, just plan ahead. Make sure you have a sober driver. Don't chance it. Not only is your life at risk, but so is the life of every other motorist on the roadway."Hux notes that even though the weather is supposed to be warm, it can change rapidly in Northwest Missouri. "Plan ahead for inclement weather. We just want everyone to have a safe holiday season."Due to ongoing road construction, travelers are encouraged to use the MoDOT Traveler Information Map app or website to plan their routes. The tool provides real-time updates on road closures, work zones, and potential delays.The public can report criminal activity, dangerous driving, or emergencies by calling the patrol's emergency line at 800-525-5555 or dialing *55.Hux says all available troopers will be out working during the holiday travel period.

Missouri State Highway Patrol urges safety ahead of Christmas holiday travel

 A nonprofit dedicated to literacy and health education is distributing 30,000 free books to children through Iowa medical facilities that primarily serve uninsured and underinsured families. 

The initiative, managed by Reach Out and Read, aims to integrate early childhood development into the healthcare environment by providing resources directly to those in need.

Laura Holms, the Midwest director for the organization, notes that the program is designed to stimulate language skills and foster positive behavioral patterns. By encouraging shared reading, the group also hopes to solidify the emotional bond between parents and their children during the critical early years of growth.

The program specifically advises pediatricians and healthcare staff to encourage parents to begin reading to their children while waiting in the exam room. This practice allows medical professionals to observe developmental cues in a natural setting. 

In one recent case, a physician identified a potential vision issue after noticing a child holding a book extremely close to their face, leading to a necessary eyesight screening that might have otherwise been delayed.

By RYAN SKAITH A nonprofit dedicated to literacy and health education is distributing 30,000 free books to children through Iowa medical facilities that primarily serve uninsured and underinsured families. The initiative, managed by Reach Out and Read, aims to integrate early childhood development into the healthcare environment by providing resources directly to those in need.Laura Holms, the Midwest director for the organization, notes that the program is designed to stimulate language skills and foster positive behavioral patterns. By encouraging shared reading, the group also hopes to solidify the emotional bond between parents and their children during the critical early years of growth.The program specifically advises pediatricians and healthcare staff to encourage parents to begin reading to their children while waiting in the exam room. This practice allows medical professionals to observe developmental cues in a natural setting. In one recent case, a physician identified a potential vision issue after noticing a child holding a book extremely close to their face, leading to a necessary eyesight screening that might have otherwise been delayed.

Iowa pediatricians use 30,000-book giveaway to screen for literacy and health

Missouri wasn’t able to put its best foot forward, House Speaker Jon Patterson said, because ‘leadership was very fragmented’

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jonathanshorman/">Jonathan Shorman</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

Nearly a decade after Missouri lost its NFL franchise in St. Louis to Los Angeles, the state learned Monday that the Kansas City Chiefs are moving across the state line to Kansas.

The news, rumored for days, was greeted with shock and despair in Missouri, where hopes were high that a $1.5 billion incentives package approved by state lawmakers would be enough to keep the team in Arrowhead Stadium.

In the end, a much more lucrative package from Kansas won out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This is a painful day for everyone in Missouri who loves our Chiefs,” said state Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat.&nbsp;

“A lot of us in Missouri, we feel like we’ve been incredibly loyal to the Chiefs despite all of the frustrations over decades,” Nurrenbern added. “We stuck with the Chiefs every step of the way. So this is so disappointing. I can imagine that Lamar Hunt today is rolling in his grave.”

House Speaker Jon Patterson, a Lee’s Summit Republican, echoed the disappointment, saying Missouri entered into stadium negotiations at a disadvantage.&nbsp;

“I think money was part of it, but I think it’s also the opportunities available in Kansas,” Patterson said. “You know, Arrowhead can’t do a Super Bowl. Arrowhead can’t do a Final Four. If you have a dome stadium, those things are all possibilities, and I think that’s probably what ultimately led to the decision to move.”

Missouri wasn’t able to put its best foot forward, Patterson said, because “leadership was very fragmented.”

“Kansas leadership was very united and professional, and they just took advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity,” he said, adding: “It would be deliciously satisfying to start pointing fingers, but I hope we can avoid that right now and just look forward.”

State Rep. Mark Sharp, a Kansas City Democrat, was not ready to be so magnanimous.&nbsp;

He said years of bad decisions led to Monday’s news. Specifically, he pointed to former Jackson County Executive Frank White, who was recently removed from office after a recall vote.

White, Sharp said in a social media post, “presided over a deeply dysfunctional and adversarial approach to our professional sports teams.”&nbsp;

Sharp also cast blame on former Gov. Mike Parson for not responding to Kansas’ efforts to poach the Chiefs before leaving office and Kehoe for waiting until nearly the end of this year’s legislative session before presenting a stadium plan.&nbsp;

“This crisis did not happen by accident,” he said. “It was the result of a series of preventable leadership failures.”

House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, called it “legislative malpractice” that Kehoe waited until the final days of the legislative session in May to offer a counterproposal to Kansas.&nbsp;

Kehoe said he remained hopeful throughout the process, and that negotiations with the Chiefs’ management continued into last week. His administration has been in constant communication with both the Chiefs and the Royals, and it wasn’t until Monday morning that he was informed by the Chiefs that the team was leaving.

“Harry Truman once said ‘The Buck Stops Here,'” Kehoe told reporters at a press conference. “It’s not fun to be at the top when something like this happens, but you certainly want to try to figure out what the lessons learned here are, and moving forward, we will obviously be doing a post mortem analysis.”

This is certainly a setback, Kehoe said, “but we’ll work together to recover.”

The Chief’s ownership, Kehoe said, “decided to abandon Lamar Hunt’s legacy at the iconic Arrowhead Stadium, a place that Chiefs fans have rallied around since 1972. At Arrowhead, every game feels like a Super Bowl. No new stadium will replicate that.”

Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca said he expects elected officials in the county, where the team is currently located, to take a closer look at how taxpayer money is spent during the remaining years of the Chiefs’ and Royals’ contracts to play at the Truman Sports Complex. Jackson County currently charges a ⅜-cent sales tax for stadium upkeep, generating millions a year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766438187375.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Chiefs owner Clark Hunt during the announcement press conference on Monday-image from the press conference video" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Chiefs owner Clark Hunt during the announcement press conference on Monday-image from the press conference video</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Missouri wasn’t able to put its best foot forward, House Speaker Jon Patterson said, because ‘leadership was very fragmented’</h2>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jonathanshorman/">Jonathan Shorman</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>Nearly a decade after Missouri lost its NFL franchise in St. Louis to Los Angeles, the state learned Monday that the Kansas City Chiefs are moving across the state line to Kansas.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The legacy will continue elsewhere, but the memories will always remain. Proud to be part of Chiefs Kingdom, today and everyday.❤️🏈&mdash; Kansas City (@KansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/KansasCity/status/2003239909822202049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766434608613.png" alt=" Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly holds a Chiefs jersey with team owner Clark Hunt ahead of a news conference Dec. 22, 2025, at the Kansas Docking State Office Building in Topeka. (Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly holds a Chiefs jersey with team owner Clark Hunt ahead of a news conference Dec. 22, 2025, at the Kansas Docking State Office Building in Topeka. (Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>The news, rumored for days, was greeted with shock and despair in Missouri, where hopes were high that a $1.5 billion incentives package approved by state lawmakers would be enough to keep the team in Arrowhead Stadium.In the end, a much more lucrative package from Kansas won out.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This is a painful day for everyone in Missouri who loves our Chiefs,” said state Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat.&nbsp;“A lot of us in Missouri, we feel like we’ve been incredibly loyal to the Chiefs despite all of the frustrations over decades,” Nurrenbern added. “We stuck with the Chiefs every step of the way. So this is so disappointing. I can imagine that Lamar Hunt today is rolling in his grave.”House Speaker Jon Patterson, a Lee’s Summit Republican, echoed the disappointment, saying Missouri entered into stadium negotiations at a disadvantage.&nbsp;“I think money was part of it, but I think it’s also the opportunities available in Kansas,” Patterson said. “You know, Arrowhead can’t do a Super Bowl. Arrowhead can’t do a Final Four. If you have a dome stadium, those things are all possibilities, and I think that’s probably what ultimately led to the decision to move.”Missouri wasn’t able to put its best foot forward, Patterson said, because “leadership was very fragmented.”“Kansas leadership was very united and professional, and they just took advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity,” he said, adding: “It would be deliciously satisfying to start pointing fingers, but I hope we can avoid that right now and just look forward.”State Rep. Mark Sharp, a Kansas City Democrat, was not ready to be so magnanimous.&nbsp;He said years of bad decisions led to Monday’s news. Specifically, he pointed to former Jackson County Executive Frank White, who was recently removed from office after a recall vote.White, Sharp said in a social media post, “presided over a deeply dysfunctional and adversarial approach to our professional sports teams.”&nbsp;Sharp also cast blame on former Gov. Mike Parson for not responding to Kansas’ efforts to poach the Chiefs before leaving office and Kehoe for waiting until nearly the end of this year’s legislative session before presenting a stadium plan.&nbsp;“This crisis did not happen by accident,” he said. “It was the result of a series of preventable leadership failures.”House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, called it “legislative malpractice” that Kehoe waited until the final days of the legislative session in May to offer a counterproposal to Kansas.&nbsp;Kehoe said he remained hopeful throughout the process, and that negotiations with the Chiefs’ management continued into last week. His administration has been in constant communication with both the Chiefs and the Royals, and it wasn’t until Monday morning that he was informed by the Chiefs that the team was leaving.“Harry Truman once said ‘The Buck Stops Here,'” Kehoe told reporters at a press conference. “It’s not fun to be at the top when something like this happens, but you certainly want to try to figure out what the lessons learned here are, and moving forward, we will obviously be doing a post mortem analysis.”This is certainly a setback, Kehoe said, “but we’ll work together to recover.”The Chief’s ownership, Kehoe said, “decided to abandon Lamar Hunt’s legacy at the iconic Arrowhead Stadium, a place that Chiefs fans have rallied around since 1972. At Arrowhead, every game feels like a Super Bowl. No new stadium will replicate that.”Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca said he expects elected officials in the county, where the team is currently located, to take a closer look at how taxpayer money is spent during the remaining years of the Chiefs’ and Royals’ contracts to play at the Truman Sports Complex. Jackson County currently charges a ⅜-cent sales tax for stadium upkeep, generating millions a year.“Honestly, at this point they’re like a bad ex-girlfriend. They won’t go away,” Abarca said of the Chiefs. “And so the reality that they want to try and go play second fiddle in Kansas and try and lure a deal that’s not written down on paper, good luck to them, best of luck. At this point, our taxpayers in Jackson County deserve a whole lot better commitment than what we’re getting.”The Chiefs’ decision is “incredibly disappointing, said state Sen. Patty Lewis, a Kansas City Democrat. But it’s also a symptom of a larger problem.&nbsp;“There are no winners in a border war, just losses on both sides,” she said. “Companies moving back and forth across the state line to reap massive tax breaks while creating no real net job growth is bad for families, bad for the region and bad for both states.”State Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, was among the lawmakers who openly opposed the incentives package for the Chiefs and Royals when it passed the legislature this summer.“Don’t want to say ‘I told you so,’ but I warned the legislature this would happen just as it did with the Rams,” he said.Schroer said he will be filing legislation this week “to get rid of the asinine classification of the Chiefs as Missouri’s official NFL team as it was passed just a few sessions ago. Similarly I will be getting rid of the asinine ‘handshake’ border-war resolution which says we will play nice with our neighbors next door.”The Chiefs lease on its Kansas City stadium, which has been the team’s home since 1972, will expire after the 2030 season.&nbsp;Missouri lawmakers reconvened during a special legislative session this summer to approve a spending package that would have allocated state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.Estimated at just under $1.5 billion over 30 years, the funding would pay for half the costs — compared to 70% in Kansas — and included a requirement for additional local government financing.&nbsp;The Royals first announced an intention to leave Kauffman Stadium in November 2022. The move was pitched as a way for the Chiefs to remain in Arrowhead, demolish Kauffman and build a covered entertainment center.Officials in Jackson County and Kansas City began scrambling to figure out how to keep the Royals from leaving Missouri. By the spring of 2023, Clay County leaders announced interest in building a stadium in North Kansas City that could become the Royals new home.&nbsp;The Royals solicited proposals for a downtown Kansas City and North Kansas City site a few months later, and released renderings of possible stadiums at both locations in August 2023.&nbsp;Soon after, a poll was leaked to the media showing 70% of Clay County voters opposed a new sales tax to fund a stadium in North Kansas City. Despite weeks of media speculation, no one claimed credit for the poll, which was widely seen as an attempt to shake the confidence of Royals ownership in the viability of a Clay County proposal.&nbsp;Critics, who called the survey a “push poll” meant to deceive the public, decried the move at the time, arguing that sabotaging any potential Missouri site would increase the chances one or both teams end up in Kansas.It wasn’t until more than a year later that documents provided to The Independent revealed it was a political action committee formed to support Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas that paid for the Clay County polling. A staffer using a Lucas campaign email address requested the poll be commissioned, and his top aide obfuscated the spending by requesting it be referred to in disclosures as “research” instead of “polling.”Jackson County voters were eventually presented with a proposed sales tax increase to fund a Royals stadium in Kansas City. Lucas threw his support behind the measure, but it was resoundingly rejected by voters.&nbsp;The failed push to pay for a new Royals stadium in Missouri left the door open for Kansas lawmakers, who quickly put their own package of incentives together to lure the teams across the state line.&nbsp;Lucas said negotiations with the team ran up until last week, and that the offer Missouri put forward was “very fair, but very responsible.” He worked closely with the governor and other local and state officials, and that work will continue as Missouri strives to keep the Kansas City Royals from leaving as well.“While the Chiefs aren’t going far away, and aren’t gone yet, today is a setback for a Kansas Citian, a former Chiefs season ticket holder and a lifelong Chiefs fan,” he said.As Missouri mourns the loss of the Chiefs, the fate of the Royals remains in flux.The team is rumored to be eyeing a new stadium in Overland Park, Kansas. Lucas said Monday his hope is for a downtown baseball stadium, while other Missouri officials continue pushing for a North Kansas City site.Nurrenbern and Patterson both said that, as far as they were aware, negotiations with the Royals are still ongoing.News of the Chiefs decision to leave Missouri comes almost exactly 10 years after the state lost the St. Louis Rams.&nbsp;Then-Gov. Jay Nixon was pushing for a $1 billion plan to build a new St. Louis stadium for the Rams, much to the chagrin of the legislative leadership.&nbsp;Both sides tussled in the media and the courts, but the fight between the Democratic governor and GOP-dominated General Assembly fizzled after the Rams announced an intention to move to Los Angeles two days before the 2016 legislative session began.&nbsp;NFL owners overwhelmingly agreed to let them do it soon after.

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