12 students made up the first class of the Nurses of Scholar program, a program designed to help make going into nursing school more affordable.  

Students in the program will have their first and fourth years of nursing school at Missouri Western State University fully paid for by Mosaic Life Care, with the second and third years paid at 50%.  

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says the costs of nursing school can get up there, so this program is a tremendous help for students 

"So, if you think about your books, and fees to have testing done, and fees to buy the scrubs, everything is going to be taken care of them for three full years so that's a huge financial relief for them," Kennedy tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "And it really gives them the opportunity where instead of worrying about taking out loans or how they're going to pay for it, now they can worry more about working on their academics, working for the hospital, developing the network, learning about the healthcare fields and industry." 

Eight of the students come from the area.  Students signed an agreement to work at Mosaic while going to school at Western, and for four years after graduating from the university. Students can also work during the summer if they wish

Mosaic Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says recruiting those local students is important, because when it comes to recruiting for rural healthcare, it's vital to keep those people here 

"Mosaic Life Care provides health care for over 18 counties in northwest Missouri, up into Iowa, Nebraska, and over into Kansas, and to have these local kids come back means they'll most likely settle and stay in these communities, live in the communities, and come here and work for us," Turner tells reporters.  "And it's going to only benefit all of us." 

One of those students that comes from the area developed a passion for nursing when she started as a lifeguard, Madison Kendall, who recently graduated from Savannah.  

Kendall says she applied for the program because once she's out of college, she'll be set for the future 

"It will put me in a job, and I will be financially stable enough to get set on my life and my journey further abroad," Kendall says.  "Buying a house, everything, I won't be in debt." 

And Kendall says it's also important to her that with this program she gets to stay in the area, close to her family and friends 

"I feel like being close to home is helpful for me and my mental health, but also I could potentially care for people that are close to me, or like my friends, so staying close to home and helping my community gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling," Kendall says. 

Some of the other area schools represented were Central, Lafayette, Bishop LeBlond, and Riverside.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752533632678.jpeg" alt="Savannah graduate Madison Kendall signs her agreement to be a part of the Nurses of Scholar program/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Savannah graduate Madison Kendall signs her agreement to be a part of the Nurses of Scholar program/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE 12 students made up the first class of the Nurses of Scholar program, a program designed to help make going into nursing school more affordable. Students in the program will have their first and fourth years of nursing school at Missouri Western State University fully paid for by Mosaic Life Care, with the second and third years paid at 50%. Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy says the costs of nursing school can get up there, so this program is a tremendous help for students "So, if you think about your books, and fees to have testing done, and fees to buy the scrubs, everything is going to be taken care of them for three full years so that's a huge financial relief for them," Kennedy tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And it really gives them the opportunity where instead of worrying about taking out loans or how they're going to pay for it, now they can worry more about working on their academics, working for the hospital, developing the network, learning about the healthcare fields and industry." Eight of the students come from the area. Students signed an agreement to work at Mosaic while going to school at Western, and for four years after graduating from the university. Students can also work during the summer if they wish<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752533688028.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Mosaic Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says recruiting those local students is important, because when it comes to recruiting for rural healthcare, it's vital to keep those people here "Mosaic Life Care provides health care for over 18 counties in northwest Missouri, up into Iowa, Nebraska, and over into Kansas, and to have these local kids come back means they'll most likely settle and stay in these communities, live in the communities, and come here and work for us," Turner tells reporters. "And it's going to only benefit all of us." One of those students that comes from the area developed a passion for nursing when she started as a lifeguard, Madison Kendall, who recently graduated from Savannah. Kendall says she applied for the program because once she's out of college, she'll be set for the future "It will put me in a job, and I will be financially stable enough to get set on my life and my journey further abroad," Kendall says. "Buying a house, everything, I won't be in debt." And Kendall says it's also important to her that with this program she gets to stay in the area, close to her family and friends "I feel like being close to home is helpful for me and my mental health, but also I could potentially care for people that are close to me, or like my friends, so staying close to home and helping my community gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling," Kendall says. Some of the other area schools represented were Central, Lafayette, Bishop LeBlond, and Riverside.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752533724003.jpeg" alt="Dr. Davin Turner/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Davin Turner/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mosaic and MWSU announce first Nurses of Scholar class

More than 100 area
Vietnam War veterans received a tangible “thank you” for their service Monday morning
during a special ceremony at Word of Life Church in St. Joseph.

The City of St.
Joseph, the AUSA Henry Leavenworth Chapter, and the St. Joseph Community
Alliance hosted a special pinning ceremony for Vietnam War veterans, giving them
a special pin and certificate for their service during a difficult time.

Missouri Adjutant
General, Charles Hausman, remembers that when his unit would return from
deployment, Vietnam War veterans – who didn’t receive a warm welcome home – always
participated in the welcome ceremonies.

“They were leading
the Freedom Riders. They were leading that welcome home. And it really, I
think, is because of the treatment they received when they came home, they
never wanted to see that again,” Hausman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post after the
ceremony. “And it was very, very impactful and certainly not lost on all the
soldiers coming back during my generation of who was out there leading that
effort.”

Hausman, a native
of St. Joseph, has served in three deployments:&nbsp;
Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation
Inherent Resolve/Spartan Shield.

Hausman gave the
keynote address at the gathering. He and other speakers touched on the
inability of U.S. citizens to separate the unpopular war with the warrior often
drafted into service. Many Vietnam War veterans either returned unheralded or
as the object of protestors’ ire.

That makes their
participation in welcome home ceremonies now even more impressive, according to
Hausman.

“But to see that
generation take that experience and then turn it around and say, okay, never
again,” Hausman says. “It is truly welcomed. It is certainly appreciated by my
generation. And it’s a testament to that sense of never giving up and never abandoning
their duty and their commitment to their nation; very, very impressive.”

Around 115 Vietnam
War veterans from throughout the area registered. Some were unable to attend
Monday’s ceremony.

Special
recognition was given to Wilson Fletcher, the 1,000th veteran recognized in one
of the events coordinated with the Fort Leonard Wood Association of the United
States Army Chapter.

The program in St.
Joseph grew from the United States of America Vietnam War
Commemoration program signed into law by President Barack Obama in 2012 to
create a 13-year period to honor the country’s military veterans of that era
and their families.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752521182035.jpeg" alt="Vietnam War veterans received pins and certificates to commemorate their service during a special ceremony at Word of Life Church in St. Joseph./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Vietnam War veterans received pins and certificates to commemorate their service during a special ceremony at Word of Life Church in St. Joseph./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMore than 100 area
Vietnam War veterans received a tangible “thank you” for their service Monday morning
during a special ceremony at Word of Life Church in St. Joseph.The City of St.
Joseph, the AUSA Henry Leavenworth Chapter, and the St. Joseph Community
Alliance hosted a special pinning ceremony for Vietnam War veterans, giving them
a special pin and certificate for their service during a difficult time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752521285018.jpeg" alt="Major Gen. Charles Hausman speaks during the ceremony./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Major Gen. Charles Hausman speaks during the ceremony./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri Adjutant
General, Charles Hausman, remembers that when his unit would return from
deployment, Vietnam War veterans – who didn’t receive a warm welcome home – always
participated in the welcome ceremonies.“They were leading
the Freedom Riders. They were leading that welcome home. And it really, I
think, is because of the treatment they received when they came home, they
never wanted to see that again,” Hausman tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post after the
ceremony. “And it was very, very impactful and certainly not lost on all the
soldiers coming back during my generation of who was out there leading that
effort.”Hausman, a native
of St. Joseph, has served in three deployments:&nbsp;
Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation
Inherent Resolve/Spartan Shield.Hausman gave the
keynote address at the gathering. He and other speakers touched on the
inability of U.S. citizens to separate the unpopular war with the warrior often
drafted into service. Many Vietnam War veterans either returned unheralded or
as the object of protestors’ ire.That makes their
participation in welcome home ceremonies now even more impressive, according to
Hausman.“But to see that
generation take that experience and then turn it around and say, okay, never
again,” Hausman says. “It is truly welcomed. It is certainly appreciated by my
generation. And it’s a testament to that sense of never giving up and never abandoning
their duty and their commitment to their nation; very, very impressive.”Around 115 Vietnam
War veterans from throughout the area registered. Some were unable to attend
Monday’s ceremony.Special
recognition was given to Wilson Fletcher, the 1,000th veteran recognized in one
of the events coordinated with the Fort Leonard Wood Association of the United
States Army Chapter.The program in St.
Joseph grew from the United States of America Vietnam War
Commemoration program signed into law by President Barack Obama in 2012 to
create a 13-year period to honor the country’s military veterans of that era
and their families.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Vietnam War veterans get their due during special ceremony

DEKALB COUNTY—One person died in a house fire Sunday in Cameron.

Just before 4p.m. Sunday, police along with fire crews and EMS responded to 911 call for a fire in a home at 424 N. Nettleton Street in Cameron, according to a media release from Cameron Police.&nbsp; 

The caller indicated a possible victim trapped inside the home. Another caller reported hearing an explosion within the home.

Cameron Police were first to arrive and observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the front porch area of the home. During this time, a good Samaritan was able to break a window and rescue a child from inside the home.&nbsp;

Despite the swift response and efforts from Cameron Fire crews, the home became fully engulfed. There was one fatality. Police have not released the name or additional details on the victim. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal's office with assistance from the Cameron Police Detectives.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752487414987.png" alt="Photo by Ale Espinosa courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Ale Espinosa courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>DEKALB COUNTY—One person died in a house fire Sunday in Cameron.Just before 4p.m. Sunday, police along with fire crews and EMS responded to 911 call for a fire in a home at 424 N. Nettleton Street in Cameron, according to a media release from Cameron Police.&nbsp; The caller indicated a possible victim trapped inside the home. Another caller reported hearing an explosion within the home.Cameron Police were first to arrive and observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the front porch area of the home. During this time, a good Samaritan was able to break a window and rescue a child from inside the home.&nbsp;Despite the swift response and efforts from Cameron Fire crews, the home became fully engulfed. There was one fatality. Police have not released the name or additional details on the victim. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal's office with assistance from the Cameron Police Detectives.

1 dead, Good Samaritan rescues child from house fire

Nearly 73 million workers fall under such laws, a new report said.

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/avollers/">Anna Claire Vollers</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>

Across most of the South and Midwest, state laws bar local governments from requiring employers to provide paid sick leave, effectively stripping cities of the power to enact their own labor protections.

Nearly 73 million workers live in the 18 states that now have such preemptive laws, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://nationalpartnership.org/report/nearly-73-million-workers-live-in-states-that-block-local-communities-from-making-progress-on-paid-sick-days/" target="_blank">new report</a>&nbsp;from A Better Balance, a legal advocacy organization focused on workplace rights, and the National Partnership for Women &amp; Families, a nonprofit advocacy group.

“Local leaders know what’s best for their communities. To take away the decision-making power from local communities on this issue and others is very, very concerning,” said Feroza Freeland, policy director of the Southern office at A Better Balance, and one of the report’s authors.

Among the 18 states included in the report was Missouri. The legislature passed a measure in May to&nbsp;<a href="https://legiscan.com/MO/text/HB567/id/3166038" target="_blank">repeal</a>&nbsp;paid leave requirements voters had&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/01/missouri-paid-sick-leave-law-now-in-effect-though-legislative-challenges-still-loom/#:~:text=Under%20the%20law,least%2056%20hours." target="_blank">approved</a>&nbsp;in November that expanded access to paid sick leave for about 728,000 workers who lacked it. Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe on Thursday signed the statewide repeal into law. Local paid sick leave laws have been banned in Missouri since 2017.

Kehoe in a statement called the paid sick leave mandates “onerous,” saying they dictated when and how sick leave was provided and had “burdensome” recordkeeping and compliance obligations.

Nationwide, about 27 million workers don’t earn paid sick days, the report found. Many of them work low-wage and part-time jobs, and they’re disproportionately likely to be women, younger workers and people of color, according to the report.

“Folks are facing impossible choices between their own health — or the health of their children — and continuing to earn a paycheck to pay bills and put food on the table,” Freeland told Stateline.

In the absence of federal laws guaranteeing paid sick leave for workers, more cities and local governments&nbsp;<a href="https://www.abetterbalance.org/paid-sick-time-laws/" target="_blank">have passed their own</a>, including Chicago, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh and Seattle.

But lawmakers in 18 states, mainly in the South and Midwest, have done the opposite, the report found. GOP legislators have said such paid leave requirements&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/29/missouri-supreme-court-upholds-voter-approved-paid-sick-leave-law/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CIt%20is%20financially%20burdensome%2C%20just%20short%20of%20devastating%2C%20and%20its%20regulatory%20requirements%20are%20extremely%20difficult%20for%20single%20unit%20operators%2C%E2%80%9D%20Buddy%20Lahl%2C%20CEO%20of%20the%20Missouri%20Restaurant%20Association%2C%20told%20The%20Independent%20Tuesday." target="_blank">create financial hardship</a>&nbsp;for employers, particularly for smaller businesses.

Over the past decade, in GOP-led states across the country, Republican lawmakers have tried to limit the policymaking power of Democratic-led urban centers on issues ranging from immigration to voting rights to LGBTQ+ matters.

While all of the states that preempt local paid sick leave laws are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/about-state-legislatures/state-partisan-composition" target="_blank">Republican-led</a>, many conservative-led states in the Mountain West don’t have such laws.

Katherine Gallagher Robbins, a senior fellow at the National Partnership and another author of the report, said that’s because Western states tend to have more of a libertarian bent. And she said preemption laws in the South have their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/preemption-in-the-south/" target="_blank">roots</a>&nbsp;in historically racist standards that undervalue Black workers.

More than half the Black labor force — 56% — lives in one of the 18 states that prohibit local paid sick time protections, the report said.

Freeland also pointed out that the paid sick leave issue impacts not just urban centers, but rural communities as well. Many people without paid sick leave work in physically demanding jobs such as manufacturing and farming.

The report’s authors say that paid sick leave laws can help reduce the spread of illness, increase employment and wages, particularly for women with child care responsibilities, and can help recruit and retain workers.

Editor’s note: This story was updated to clarify the scope of the new Missouri law. Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:avollers@statline.org">avollers@statline.org</a>.

<h2>Nearly 73 million workers fall under such laws, a new report said.</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/avollers/">Anna Claire Vollers</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>Across most of the South and Midwest, state laws bar local governments from requiring employers to provide paid sick leave, effectively stripping cities of the power to enact their own labor protections.Nearly 73 million workers live in the 18 states that now have such preemptive laws, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://nationalpartnership.org/report/nearly-73-million-workers-live-in-states-that-block-local-communities-from-making-progress-on-paid-sick-days/" target="_blank">new report</a>&nbsp;from A Better Balance, a legal advocacy organization focused on workplace rights, and the National Partnership for Women &amp; Families, a nonprofit advocacy group.“Local leaders know what’s best for their communities. To take away the decision-making power from local communities on this issue and others is very, very concerning,” said Feroza Freeland, policy director of the Southern office at A Better Balance, and one of the report’s authors.Among the 18 states included in the report was Missouri. The legislature passed a measure in May to&nbsp;<a href="https://legiscan.com/MO/text/HB567/id/3166038" target="_blank">repeal</a>&nbsp;paid leave requirements voters had&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/01/missouri-paid-sick-leave-law-now-in-effect-though-legislative-challenges-still-loom/#:~:text=Under%20the%20law,least%2056%20hours." target="_blank">approved</a>&nbsp;in November that expanded access to paid sick leave for about 728,000 workers who lacked it. Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe on Thursday signed the statewide repeal into law. Local paid sick leave laws have been banned in Missouri since 2017.Kehoe in a statement called the paid sick leave mandates “onerous,” saying they dictated when and how sick leave was provided and had “burdensome” recordkeeping and compliance obligations.Nationwide, about 27 million workers don’t earn paid sick days, the report found. Many of them work low-wage and part-time jobs, and they’re disproportionately likely to be women, younger workers and people of color, according to the report.“Folks are facing impossible choices between their own health — or the health of their children — and continuing to earn a paycheck to pay bills and put food on the table,” Freeland told Stateline.In the absence of federal laws guaranteeing paid sick leave for workers, more cities and local governments&nbsp;<a href="https://www.abetterbalance.org/paid-sick-time-laws/" target="_blank">have passed their own</a>, including Chicago, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh and Seattle.But lawmakers in 18 states, mainly in the South and Midwest, have done the opposite, the report found. GOP legislators have said such paid leave requirements&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/29/missouri-supreme-court-upholds-voter-approved-paid-sick-leave-law/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CIt%20is%20financially%20burdensome%2C%20just%20short%20of%20devastating%2C%20and%20its%20regulatory%20requirements%20are%20extremely%20difficult%20for%20single%20unit%20operators%2C%E2%80%9D%20Buddy%20Lahl%2C%20CEO%20of%20the%20Missouri%20Restaurant%20Association%2C%20told%20The%20Independent%20Tuesday." target="_blank">create financial hardship</a>&nbsp;for employers, particularly for smaller businesses.Over the past decade, in GOP-led states across the country, Republican lawmakers have tried to limit the policymaking power of Democratic-led urban centers on issues ranging from immigration to voting rights to LGBTQ+ matters.While all of the states that preempt local paid sick leave laws are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/about-state-legislatures/state-partisan-composition" target="_blank">Republican-led</a>, many conservative-led states in the Mountain West don’t have such laws.Katherine Gallagher Robbins, a senior fellow at the National Partnership and another author of the report, said that’s because Western states tend to have more of a libertarian bent. And she said preemption laws in the South have their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epi.org/publication/preemption-in-the-south/" target="_blank">roots</a>&nbsp;in historically racist standards that undervalue Black workers.More than half the Black labor force — 56% — lives in one of the 18 states that prohibit local paid sick time protections, the report said.Freeland also pointed out that the paid sick leave issue impacts not just urban centers, but rural communities as well. Many people without paid sick leave work in physically demanding jobs such as manufacturing and farming.The report’s authors say that paid sick leave laws can help reduce the spread of illness, increase employment and wages, particularly for women with child care responsibilities, and can help recruit and retain workers.Editor’s note: This story was updated to clarify the scope of the new Missouri law. Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:avollers@statline.org">avollers@statline.org</a>.

18 states now stop cities from enacting paid leave standards

ATCHISON COUNTY, Kan.—One person was injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.

A 2015 Ford Fusion driven by Anthony Quintois, 22, Atchison, was southbound in the 100 Block of North 9th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. An eastbound bicycle driven by a 14-year-old in an alley entered the roadway and collided with the car.&nbsp; 

EMS transported the 14-year-old male bicyclist&nbsp; to Amberwell Hospital.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752242377424.png" alt="Daytime view of where the accident occurred- photo Atchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Daytime view of where the accident occurred- photo Atchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY, Kan.—One person was injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.A 2015 Ford Fusion driven by Anthony Quintois, 22, Atchison, was southbound in the 100 Block of North 9th Street, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. An eastbound bicycle driven by a 14-year-old in an alley entered the roadway and collided with the car.&nbsp; EMS transported the 14-year-old male bicyclist&nbsp; to Amberwell Hospital.&nbsp;

14-year-old bicyclist injured after crash with a car

NODAWAY COUNTY —Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H teamed with area first responders for Safety Alley at the Nodaway County Fair on Thursday, according to the patrol's social media account.

 "We enjoyed interacting with the community and sharing important safety tips for all ages," Troop H wrote.

The Nodaway County Fair continues through Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752236474138.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NODAWAY COUNTY —Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H teamed with area first responders for Safety Alley at the Nodaway County Fair on Thursday, according to the patrol's social media account. "We enjoyed interacting with the community and sharing important safety tips for all ages," Troop H wrote.The Nodaway County Fair continues through Friday.

MSHP: Safety Alley at the Nodaway County Fair

Gov. Mike Kehoe approved the tax cut expected to reduce revenues by $340 million annually even as he has been warning of future state funding shortfalls

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&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/07/missouri-bill-exempting-capital-gains-from-income-tax-sent-to-governor/">investors will get a tax break</a>&nbsp;when they take profits and motorists&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/20/five-missouri-counties-no-longer-have-a-license-office-a-fee-hike-seeks-to-fix-that/">will pay more</a>&nbsp;to renew vehicle registrations under separate bills signed Thursday by Gov. Mike Kehoe.

Kehoe’s signature on&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB594&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">the bill</a>&nbsp;granting an income tax exemption for long-term capital gains — profits on investments held for a year or longer — marks the third major tax cut in the past three years. And it comes just days after he vetoed&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/30/missouri-governor-hits-earmarks-with-veto-pen-as-he-signs-state-budget/">more than $300 million</a>&nbsp;in general revenue spending and restricted $211 million more amid worries about sluggish revenues.

In the fiscal year that ended June 30, the state took in $13.4 billion in general revenue and final figures show revenue increased just $1 million over the previous year. After Kehoe’s vetoes, the budget for the current fiscal year projects spending $15.5 billion in general revenue, with the gap between revenue and spending covered by surpluses accumulated in past years.

“Conservative leadership is about keeping more money in the hands of Missouri families, and less in government coffers,” Kehoe said&nbsp;in a news release.

The capital gains exemption for individuals is officially estimated to reduce revenue&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/fiscal/fispdf/1683S.04F.ORG.pdf" target="_blank">by about $110 million</a>&nbsp;annually. Independent economists, however, have warned that the annual revenue loss could be much more,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/07/missouri-lawmakers-set-to-pass-capital-gains-tax-cut-with-questions-about-its-total-cost/">perhaps as much as $600 million</a>.&nbsp;

Most of the benefits from a cut in the capital gains rate for individuals would go to a small slice of taxpayers. The 23,800 federal returns filed for 2022 with incomes greater than $500,000 a year represent 0.8% of all returns but included 65% of the capital gains income.

When Kehoe finished with the state budget, he warned he was making vetoes and restricting spending because of uncertainty in future state revenues and expenses.

When Kehoe released his budget proposal in January, it anticipated the state would end the current fiscal year with an unobligated general revenue balance of $2.6 billion. At that time, the unobligated surplus at the end of the coming fiscal year was projected at $1.4 billion, but during the recent special session state Budget Director Dan Haug told lawmakers he expects no more than half that amount — $600 million to $700 million — will remain on June 30, 2026.

“The Office of Administration’s Division of Budget and Planning estimates a nearly $1 billion shortfall in general revenue starting in (fiscal year 2027),” the release accompanying the budget actions stated. “Contributing to this shortfall, ongoing general revenue spending authorized in the (fiscal year 2026) budget is projected to outpace ongoing revenues by nearly over $1 billion and grow larger in future years.”

Both the vetoes and Haug’s forecast came before Congress finished work on the massive&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/04/repub/on-the-fourth-of-july-trump-signs-his-big-beautiful-bill-into-law/">federal budget reconciliation bill</a>&nbsp;signed July 4 by President Donald Trump. The conservative-leaning Tax Foundation estimated Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/proposed-federal-tax-changes-could-mean-170m-or-more-cut-to-missouri-state-revenues/">revenue would decline</a>&nbsp;by at least $170 million and possibly by more than $400 million under an earlier version of the bill.&nbsp;

That estimate has not been updated since the final bill was passed.

The federal budget bill is also expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/03/federal-budget-megabill-would-shift-billions-in-cost-to-missouri-taxpayers/">shift billions of dollars</a>&nbsp;in costs for programs like food stamps and Medicaid to Missouri over the coming decade.

The liberal Missouri Budget Project, which opposed the tax cut during the session, issued a statement Thursday condemning Kehoe’s decision to sign the bill.

“Prioritizing an expensive special interest tax giveaway at this time is irresponsible and a mismanagement of taxpayer dollars,” CEO Amy Blouin said in a news release. “It’s also a slap in the face to the bulk of Missouri taxpayers who are struggling to afford groceries and who already pay a higher portion of their income in state and local taxes than do the folks who will get a windfall from the capital gains exemption.”

A capital gains exemption for corporations, also included in the bill, would take effect when future revenue growth or legislative action reduces the top individual income tax rate to 4.5% or below. The rate this year is 4.7%, with two reductions of 0.1 percentage point each already included in state law when revenue triggers are met.

The state budget office estimates the earliest date for the next rate cut triggered by revenue would be Jan. 1, 2028.

The bill that includes the capital gains tax cut also includes provisions increasing a&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/tax-types/property-tax-credit/" target="_blank">refundable income tax credit</a>&nbsp;used by lower-income senior citizens and the disabled to offset property taxes. The increase in what is known as the Circuit Breaker tax credit would bump the maximum credit for homeowners to $1,550 from the current $1,100. Qualifying taxpayers who rent their homes would see their maximum credit increase to $1,055 from $750.

The maximum income for claiming the credit would also increase, to $38,200 for renters and $41,000 a year for homeowners.

The increased Circuit Breaker credit was negotiated by Democrats opposed to the capital gains cut. A bipartisan coalition also won sales tax exemptions for diapers and feminine hygiene products, bringing the total official estimate of the tax cut in the coming year to $430 million, with an ongoing revenue reduction of $340 million.

The Missouri Department of Revenue issues motor vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses through a system of contract offices that make money through fees, set by law, added to the&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/titling-registration/fees.html" target="_blank">state charge</a>&nbsp;for the&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/resources/license.html#fees" target="_blank">transaction</a>.&nbsp;

There is supposed to be at least one license office in every county, but for much of this year, five counties&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/20/five-missouri-counties-no-longer-have-a-license-office-a-fee-hike-seeks-to-fix-that/">have had no office</a>&nbsp;because contractors wouldn’t work for the allowed fees.

The bill signed by Kehoe and sponsored by state Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Republican from Buffalo, would increase the fees received by the license offices by 50%.

The goal is to make the offices attractive to contractors and avoid closures, Crawford said during a House committee hearing in April.

“I live in a small town, and if my license bureau were to close, I would likely have to drive 45 minutes, take a half a day to drive and get my license,” Crawford said. “And so I would much rather pay $3 than take off half a day and drive 45 miles or 45 minutes to get this done.”

The transaction fee for a driver’s license or motor vehicle would go from $6 to $9 for the shortest period and from $12 to $18 for the longest, six years for a driver’s license and two years for a vehicle registration.

In fiscal 2024, the 175 license offices processed almost 9 million transactions and charged $58.4 million in fees.&nbsp;

The smallest, in Unionville in Putnam County on the Iowa border, generated $28,736 in fees on 4,519 transactions. There is currently no contractor for the Unionville office and it has been closed since mid-April.

The busiest license office is in Creve Coeur in St. Louis County, where 167,390 transactions generated almost $1.1 million in fee revenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752231520379.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Gov. Mike Kehoe approved the tax cut expected to reduce revenues by $340 million annually even as he has been warning of future state funding shortfalls</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&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/07/missouri-bill-exempting-capital-gains-from-income-tax-sent-to-governor/">investors will get a tax break</a>&nbsp;when they take profits and motorists&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/20/five-missouri-counties-no-longer-have-a-license-office-a-fee-hike-seeks-to-fix-that/">will pay more</a>&nbsp;to renew vehicle registrations under separate bills signed Thursday by Gov. Mike Kehoe.Kehoe’s signature on&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB594&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">the bill</a>&nbsp;granting an income tax exemption for long-term capital gains — profits on investments held for a year or longer — marks the third major tax cut in the past three years. And it comes just days after he vetoed&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/30/missouri-governor-hits-earmarks-with-veto-pen-as-he-signs-state-budget/">more than $300 million</a>&nbsp;in general revenue spending and restricted $211 million more amid worries about sluggish revenues.In the fiscal year that ended June 30, the state took in $13.4 billion in general revenue and final figures show revenue increased just $1 million over the previous year. After Kehoe’s vetoes, the budget for the current fiscal year projects spending $15.5 billion in general revenue, with the gap between revenue and spending covered by surpluses accumulated in past years.“Conservative leadership is about keeping more money in the hands of Missouri families, and less in government coffers,” Kehoe said&nbsp;in a news release.The capital gains exemption for individuals is officially estimated to reduce revenue&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/fiscal/fispdf/1683S.04F.ORG.pdf" target="_blank">by about $110 million</a>&nbsp;annually. Independent economists, however, have warned that the annual revenue loss could be much more,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/07/missouri-lawmakers-set-to-pass-capital-gains-tax-cut-with-questions-about-its-total-cost/">perhaps as much as $600 million</a>.&nbsp;Most of the benefits from a cut in the capital gains rate for individuals would go to a small slice of taxpayers. The 23,800 federal returns filed for 2022 with incomes greater than $500,000 a year represent 0.8% of all returns but included 65% of the capital gains income.When Kehoe finished with the state budget, he warned he was making vetoes and restricting spending because of uncertainty in future state revenues and expenses.When Kehoe released his budget proposal in January, it anticipated the state would end the current fiscal year with an unobligated general revenue balance of $2.6 billion. At that time, the unobligated surplus at the end of the coming fiscal year was projected at $1.4 billion, but during the recent special session state Budget Director Dan Haug told lawmakers he expects no more than half that amount — $600 million to $700 million — will remain on June 30, 2026.“The Office of Administration’s Division of Budget and Planning estimates a nearly $1 billion shortfall in general revenue starting in (fiscal year 2027),” the release accompanying the budget actions stated. “Contributing to this shortfall, ongoing general revenue spending authorized in the (fiscal year 2026) budget is projected to outpace ongoing revenues by nearly over $1 billion and grow larger in future years.”Both the vetoes and Haug’s forecast came before Congress finished work on the massive&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/04/repub/on-the-fourth-of-july-trump-signs-his-big-beautiful-bill-into-law/">federal budget reconciliation bill</a>&nbsp;signed July 4 by President Donald Trump. The conservative-leaning Tax Foundation estimated Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/proposed-federal-tax-changes-could-mean-170m-or-more-cut-to-missouri-state-revenues/">revenue would decline</a>&nbsp;by at least $170 million and possibly by more than $400 million under an earlier version of the bill.&nbsp;That estimate has not been updated since the final bill was passed.The federal budget bill is also expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/03/federal-budget-megabill-would-shift-billions-in-cost-to-missouri-taxpayers/">shift billions of dollars</a>&nbsp;in costs for programs like food stamps and Medicaid to Missouri over the coming decade.The liberal Missouri Budget Project, which opposed the tax cut during the session, issued a statement Thursday condemning Kehoe’s decision to sign the bill.“Prioritizing an expensive special interest tax giveaway at this time is irresponsible and a mismanagement of taxpayer dollars,” CEO Amy Blouin said in a news release. “It’s also a slap in the face to the bulk of Missouri taxpayers who are struggling to afford groceries and who already pay a higher portion of their income in state and local taxes than do the folks who will get a windfall from the capital gains exemption.”A capital gains exemption for corporations, also included in the bill, would take effect when future revenue growth or legislative action reduces the top individual income tax rate to 4.5% or below. The rate this year is 4.7%, with two reductions of 0.1 percentage point each already included in state law when revenue triggers are met.The state budget office estimates the earliest date for the next rate cut triggered by revenue would be Jan. 1, 2028.<h2>Other tax cuts</h2>The bill that includes the capital gains tax cut also includes provisions increasing a&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/taxation/individual/tax-types/property-tax-credit/" target="_blank">refundable income tax credit</a>&nbsp;used by lower-income senior citizens and the disabled to offset property taxes. The increase in what is known as the Circuit Breaker tax credit would bump the maximum credit for homeowners to $1,550 from the current $1,100. Qualifying taxpayers who rent their homes would see their maximum credit increase to $1,055 from $750.The maximum income for claiming the credit would also increase, to $38,200 for renters and $41,000 a year for homeowners.The increased Circuit Breaker credit was negotiated by Democrats opposed to the capital gains cut. A bipartisan coalition also won sales tax exemptions for diapers and feminine hygiene products, bringing the total official estimate of the tax cut in the coming year to $430 million, with an ongoing revenue reduction of $340 million.<h2>Registration fees</h2>The Missouri Department of Revenue issues motor vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses through a system of contract offices that make money through fees, set by law, added to the&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/motor-vehicle/titling-registration/fees.html" target="_blank">state charge</a>&nbsp;for the&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/resources/license.html#fees" target="_blank">transaction</a>.&nbsp;There is supposed to be at least one license office in every county, but for much of this year, five counties&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/20/five-missouri-counties-no-longer-have-a-license-office-a-fee-hike-seeks-to-fix-that/">have had no office</a>&nbsp;because contractors wouldn’t work for the allowed fees.The bill signed by Kehoe and sponsored by state Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Republican from Buffalo, would increase the fees received by the license offices by 50%.The goal is to make the offices attractive to contractors and avoid closures, Crawford said during a House committee hearing in April.“I live in a small town, and if my license bureau were to close, I would likely have to drive 45 minutes, take a half a day to drive and get my license,” Crawford said. “And so I would much rather pay $3 than take off half a day and drive 45 miles or 45 minutes to get this done.”The transaction fee for a driver’s license or motor vehicle would go from $6 to $9 for the shortest period and from $12 to $18 for the longest, six years for a driver’s license and two years for a vehicle registration.In fiscal 2024, the 175 license offices processed almost 9 million transactions and charged $58.4 million in fees.&nbsp;The smallest, in Unionville in Putnam County on the Iowa border, generated $28,736 in fees on 4,519 transactions. There is currently no contractor for the Unionville office and it has been closed since mid-April.The busiest license office is in Creve Coeur in St. Louis County, where 167,390 transactions generated almost $1.1 million in fee revenue.

Capital gains exemption and motor vehicle fee hike bills signed by Missouri governor

Business groups lobbied heavily to overturn the measure passed by 58% of voters, arguing it would cost jobs. The bill also repeals annual inflation adjustments for the minimum wage, in effect since 2006.

Missouri workers who started accruing paid sick leave on May 1 will lose it Aug. 28&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/bill.aspx?bill=HB567&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">under legislation</a>&nbsp;signed Thursday by Gov. Mike Kehoe.

The new benefit, linked to an increase in the minimum wage passed with&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/">58% of the vote</a>&nbsp;in November, became a target for business lobbying interests. Republican allies in the General Assembly pushed it to Kehoe’s desk by invoking a rarely used state Senate rule&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/14/missouri-republicans-shut-down-senate-debate-to-pass-abortion-ban-repeal-sick-leave-law/">to shut down debate</a>&nbsp;over Democratic objections.

The action followed a pattern established over the past 15 years where conservative Republicans have used their majorities in the legislature to roll back or repeal measures that became law through initiatives pushed to the ballot by progressive groups.

The minimum wage initiative was a statutory change, meaning lawmakers could make any changes that would command a majority.&nbsp;

In a news release issued after he signed the bills, Kehoe said he was approving the bill to defend small businesses.

“Today, we are protecting the people who make Missouri work—families, job creators, and small business owners—by cutting taxes, rolling back overreach, and eliminating costly mandates,” Kehoe said in the release.

Missouri House Democratic leader Ashley Aune of Kansas City denounced Kehoe’s decision to sign the bill as an attack on workers and voters.

“The governor’s action today demonstrates the absolute disdain Republicans have for working Missourians,” Aune said in a news release. “But in stripping workers of their legal right to earned sick leave, the governor and his allies have probably guaranteed this issue will be back on the ballot next year as a constitutional amendment that will place worker protections beyond their reach.”

Richard Von Glahn, policy director for Missouri Jobs with Justice, the organization that helped lead the campaign for the paid sick leave law, has filed a proposed constitutional amendment targeting the 2026 ballot.

The repeal doesn’t take effect immediately because Republicans were unable to muster the two-thirds majorities needed to pass an emergency clause even though the GOP holds more than two-thirds of the seats in each chamber. It goes into effect at the same time as other bills approved this year and signed by Kehoe.

The increased minimum wage, $13.75 an hour, took effect on Jan. 1. A second increase is set for Jan. 1, 2026, when it will increase to $15 an hour. The bill signed Thursday also repeals a provision, in effect since 2006, to adjust the minimum wage annually for inflation.

Organizers of the initiative that put the measure on the ballot set May 1 as the starting date for paid leave, available for personal illness or to stay home with a sick family member. The intent was to allow more time for businesses to adjust to the new rule than the short period between the election and the new year.

Workers at businesses with receipts greater than $500,000 a year are accruing at least one hour of paid leave for every 30 hours worked. Employers with fewer than 15 workers must allow workers to earn at least 40 hours per year, with larger employers mandated to allow at least 56 hours.

The measure made sick leave guaranteed for 728,000 workers who lacked it statewide, or over 1 in 3 Missouri workers, according to an analysis from the progressive nonprofit the Missouri Budget Project.

The leave can be used currently, but the repeal makes it uncertain if accrued leave can be used after the law is repealed.

The battle over the leave provisions revolved around its economic effect, pitting business interests and their backers in the legislature against supporters of the law.&nbsp;

During a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/20/new-paid-sick-leave-requirement-targeted-by-missouri-republicans/">House committee hearing</a>&nbsp;in February, the sponsor, Republican state Rep. Sherri Gallick of Belton, suggested that employees can’t be trusted to use paid sick leave only for the reasons allowed by the law.

“Under the mandated sick leave, potential abuse is nearly impossible to address,” Gallick told the House Commerce Committee. “Employers cannot ask an employee why they were absent, leaving them vulnerable to lawsuits for merely inquiring.”

In a news release Thursday,&nbsp;Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called the mandated paid sick leave a “job killer.”

“Missouri employers value their employees and recognize the importance of offering competitive wages and benefits, but one-size-fits-all mandates threaten growth,” Corches said in the release.

At a May news conference, state Rep. Betsy Fogle, a Springfield Democrat, said that when Missouri workers are successful, businesses will succeed.

“The idea that providing workers with more protections is a business killer is wild,” she said. “…To try to make this seem like this is something that will kill business, that will keep businesses from opening, I think it’s absurd, and I think it’s quite disappointing, and I think it sends absolutely the wrong message.”

The action on sick leave is similar to a bill in 2011&nbsp;<a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/life/lifestyle/missouris-puppy-mill-politics-dog-breeders-outmaneuver-animal-rights-movement/" target="_blank">weakening provisions of a ballot measure from 2010</a>&nbsp;called the “Puppy Mill Cruelty and Prevention Act,” that specified appropriate living conditions for breeding operations and including action this year to overturn the abortion rights amendment approved in November.&nbsp;

The GOP’s willingness to overturn voter actions has led many initiative organizers to push their proposals as constitutional amendments, which require a statewide vote to repeal or revise. Amendments to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/11/09/missouri-voters-amend-state-constitution-to-legalize-recreational-marijuana/">legalize marijuana</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article244714972.html" target="_blank">expand Medicaid</a>&nbsp;coverage, revise the legislative redistricting process and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">protect abortion rights</a>&nbsp;have all been passed as constitutional amendments.

The Republican majority has responded by successfully pushing a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2020/11/04/voters-repeal-clean-missouri-redistricting-plan-they-enacted-in-2018/">second revision</a>&nbsp;of redistricting and placing an&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/03/lawsuit-challenges-ballot-language-for-proposed-missouri-abortion-ban/">abortion rights repeal</a>&nbsp;on the 2026 ballot. A court challenge to Medicaid expansion was rejected&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/07/22/missouri-supreme-court-rules-voter-approved-medicaid-expansion-is-constitutional/">by the Missouri Supreme Court</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752186209454.png" alt=" Don Looney, a leader with UAW Local 2250, speaks at a May rally protesting legislation to repeal mandatory paid sick leave for workers (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Don Looney, a leader with UAW Local 2250, speaks at a May rally protesting legislation to repeal mandatory paid sick leave for workers (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Business groups lobbied heavily to overturn the measure passed by 58% of voters, arguing it would cost jobs. The bill also repeals annual inflation adjustments for the minimum wage, in effect since 2006.</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 workers who started accruing paid sick leave on May 1 will lose it Aug. 28&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/bill.aspx?bill=HB567&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R" target="_blank">under legislation</a>&nbsp;signed Thursday by Gov. Mike Kehoe.The new benefit, linked to an increase in the minimum wage passed with&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/">58% of the vote</a>&nbsp;in November, became a target for business lobbying interests. Republican allies in the General Assembly pushed it to Kehoe’s desk by invoking a rarely used state Senate rule&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/14/missouri-republicans-shut-down-senate-debate-to-pass-abortion-ban-repeal-sick-leave-law/">to shut down debate</a>&nbsp;over Democratic objections.The action followed a pattern established over the past 15 years where conservative Republicans have used their majorities in the legislature to roll back or repeal measures that became law through initiatives pushed to the ballot by progressive groups.The minimum wage initiative was a statutory change, meaning lawmakers could make any changes that would command a majority.&nbsp;In a news release issued after he signed the bills, Kehoe said he was approving the bill to defend small businesses.“Today, we are protecting the people who make Missouri work—families, job creators, and small business owners—by cutting taxes, rolling back overreach, and eliminating costly mandates,” Kehoe said in the release.Missouri House Democratic leader Ashley Aune of Kansas City denounced Kehoe’s decision to sign the bill as an attack on workers and voters.“The governor’s action today demonstrates the absolute disdain Republicans have for working Missourians,” Aune said in a news release. “But in stripping workers of their legal right to earned sick leave, the governor and his allies have probably guaranteed this issue will be back on the ballot next year as a constitutional amendment that will place worker protections beyond their reach.”Richard Von Glahn, policy director for Missouri Jobs with Justice, the organization that helped lead the campaign for the paid sick leave law, has filed a proposed constitutional amendment targeting the 2026 ballot.The repeal doesn’t take effect immediately because Republicans were unable to muster the two-thirds majorities needed to pass an emergency clause even though the GOP holds more than two-thirds of the seats in each chamber. It goes into effect at the same time as other bills approved this year and signed by Kehoe.The increased minimum wage, $13.75 an hour, took effect on Jan. 1. A second increase is set for Jan. 1, 2026, when it will increase to $15 an hour. The bill signed Thursday also repeals a provision, in effect since 2006, to adjust the minimum wage annually for inflation.Organizers of the initiative that put the measure on the ballot set May 1 as the starting date for paid leave, available for personal illness or to stay home with a sick family member. The intent was to allow more time for businesses to adjust to the new rule than the short period between the election and the new year.Workers at businesses with receipts greater than $500,000 a year are accruing at least one hour of paid leave for every 30 hours worked. Employers with fewer than 15 workers must allow workers to earn at least 40 hours per year, with larger employers mandated to allow at least 56 hours.The measure made sick leave guaranteed for 728,000 workers who lacked it statewide, or over 1 in 3 Missouri workers, according to an analysis from the progressive nonprofit the Missouri Budget Project.The leave can be used currently, but the repeal makes it uncertain if accrued leave can be used after the law is repealed.The battle over the leave provisions revolved around its economic effect, pitting business interests and their backers in the legislature against supporters of the law.&nbsp;During a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/20/new-paid-sick-leave-requirement-targeted-by-missouri-republicans/">House committee hearing</a>&nbsp;in February, the sponsor, Republican state Rep. Sherri Gallick of Belton, suggested that employees can’t be trusted to use paid sick leave only for the reasons allowed by the law.“Under the mandated sick leave, potential abuse is nearly impossible to address,” Gallick told the House Commerce Committee. “Employers cannot ask an employee why they were absent, leaving them vulnerable to lawsuits for merely inquiring.”In a news release Thursday,&nbsp;Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called the mandated paid sick leave a “job killer.”“Missouri employers value their employees and recognize the importance of offering competitive wages and benefits, but one-size-fits-all mandates threaten growth,” Corches said in the release.At a May news conference, state Rep. Betsy Fogle, a Springfield Democrat, said that when Missouri workers are successful, businesses will succeed.“The idea that providing workers with more protections is a business killer is wild,” she said. “…To try to make this seem like this is something that will kill business, that will keep businesses from opening, I think it’s absurd, and I think it’s quite disappointing, and I think it sends absolutely the wrong message.”The action on sick leave is similar to a bill in 2011&nbsp;<a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/life/lifestyle/missouris-puppy-mill-politics-dog-breeders-outmaneuver-animal-rights-movement/" target="_blank">weakening provisions of a ballot measure from 2010</a>&nbsp;called the “Puppy Mill Cruelty and Prevention Act,” that specified appropriate living conditions for breeding operations and including action this year to overturn the abortion rights amendment approved in November.&nbsp;The GOP’s willingness to overturn voter actions has led many initiative organizers to push their proposals as constitutional amendments, which require a statewide vote to repeal or revise. Amendments to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/11/09/missouri-voters-amend-state-constitution-to-legalize-recreational-marijuana/">legalize marijuana</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article244714972.html" target="_blank">expand Medicaid</a>&nbsp;coverage, revise the legislative redistricting process and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">protect abortion rights</a>&nbsp;have all been passed as constitutional amendments.The Republican majority has responded by successfully pushing a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2020/11/04/voters-repeal-clean-missouri-redistricting-plan-they-enacted-in-2018/">second revision</a>&nbsp;of redistricting and placing an&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/03/lawsuit-challenges-ballot-language-for-proposed-missouri-abortion-ban/">abortion rights repeal</a>&nbsp;on the 2026 ballot. A court challenge to Medicaid expansion was rejected&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/07/22/missouri-supreme-court-rules-voter-approved-medicaid-expansion-is-constitutional/">by the Missouri Supreme Court</a>.

Missouri Governor signs bill repealing paid sick leave 

NODAWAY COUNTY, Mo. — A record 113 Missouri 4-H clubs and FFA chapters have been awarded $500 Shaping Rural Missouri Grants from FCS Financial this summer to complete community improvement projects across the state.

The grants support a variety of efforts, including landscaping fairgrounds, painting bleachers, building picnic tables, and enhancing community parks.

In Nodaway County, two groups received funding:

Now in its 14th year, the Shaping Rural Missouri Grant program has awarded more than $364,000 statewide to support rural youth-led initiatives.

The projects are expected to be completed throughout the summer, helping shape not only rural spaces—but future community leaders as well.

NODAWAY COUNTY, Mo. — A record 113 Missouri 4-H clubs and FFA chapters have been awarded $500 Shaping Rural Missouri Grants from FCS Financial this summer to complete community improvement projects across the state.The grants support a variety of efforts, including landscaping fairgrounds, painting bleachers, building picnic tables, and enhancing community parks.In Nodaway County, two groups received funding:<ul>
 <li>The 102 River Hounds 4-H Club for landscaping around the County Community Building
</li><li>The Jefferson 4-H Club and the South Nodaway FFA Chapter for updating the City of Barnard welcome sign
</li>
 </ul>Now in its 14th year, the Shaping Rural Missouri Grant program has awarded more than $364,000 statewide to support rural youth-led initiatives.The projects are expected to be completed throughout the summer, helping shape not only rural spaces—but future community leaders as well.

Record Number of Missouri 4-H and FFA Groups Earn Rural Improvement Grants

Missouri Gov. Mike
Kehoe has signed into law a school safety measure that includes legislation
pushed by St. Joseph state Rep. Brenda Shields.

Shields, a
Republican, sponsored legislation in the Missouri House requiring school
districts to tighten security measures on their campuses.

“(It’s a) comprehensive
bill that’s going to allow our teachers and our students to feel safe and when
they feel safe, we know that quality learning happens,” Shields tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post.

Shields sponsored
<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB416&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R">House Bill 416</a><a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB416&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R"></a>, which was incorporated into <a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=422">Senate Bill 68</a>, approved by the
legislature and now signed into law.

The legislation
requires school districts to adopt emergency operations plans and have annual
school security assessments. It establishes standards for anti-intruder door
locks in classrooms. Under its provisions, school districts must maintain Stop
the Bleed kits and train staff on their use.

One provision of
the bill has captured the most attention. It bans students from carrying their
cell phones during school hours.

“It’s really just
to encourage students to put their phones down and engage with other students
in the classroom,” Shields says. “When you talk to people that have already
implemented this, they said the difference is amazing what happens in school.”

Shields says school
cell phone bans have proven their worth in other states.

“Lunchrooms have
become very quiet places, because students are all on their phones,” Shields
says. “And when their phones are in their pockets, in their backpacks, not with
them they say the lunchrooms have returned to what we’re used to what
lunchrooms were with students engaging with each other. And I just truly
believe that for the mental health of everyone, people engaging with people
instead of through technology is probably better.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Gov. Mike
Kehoe has signed into law a school safety measure that includes legislation
pushed by St. Joseph state Rep. Brenda Shields.Shields, a
Republican, sponsored legislation in the Missouri House requiring school
districts to tighten security measures on their campuses.“(It’s a) comprehensive
bill that’s going to allow our teachers and our students to feel safe and when
they feel safe, we know that quality learning happens,” Shields tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post.Shields sponsored
<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB416&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R">House Bill 416</a><a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB416&amp;year=2025&amp;code=R"></a>, which was incorporated into <a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=422">Senate Bill 68</a>, approved by the
legislature and now signed into law.The legislation
requires school districts to adopt emergency operations plans and have annual
school security assessments. It establishes standards for anti-intruder door
locks in classrooms. Under its provisions, school districts must maintain Stop
the Bleed kits and train staff on their use.One provision of
the bill has captured the most attention. It bans students from carrying their
cell phones during school hours.“It’s really just
to encourage students to put their phones down and engage with other students
in the classroom,” Shields says. “When you talk to people that have already
implemented this, they said the difference is amazing what happens in school.”Shields says school
cell phone bans have proven their worth in other states.“Lunchrooms have
become very quiet places, because students are all on their phones,” Shields
says. “And when their phones are in their pockets, in their backpacks, not with
them they say the lunchrooms have returned to what we’re used to what
lunchrooms were with students engaging with each other. And I just truly
believe that for the mental health of everyone, people engaging with people
instead of through technology is probably better.”You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Gov. Kehoe signs into law public safety bill pushed by Rep. Shields

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Golfers across the region can now register for the 35th Annual St. Francis Classic, taking place Friday, August 22 at Mozingo Lake Golf Course. This year's event aims to raise critical funds for state-of-the-art 3D mammography equipment at Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville.

More than 2,500 women receive mammograms at Mosaic each year. The new equipment is expected to significantly enhance early detection capabilities, leading to better outcomes for patients across Northwest Missouri.

This year's honorary host is Jeanne Pierson, a two-time breast cancer survivor whose story underscores the life-saving value of advanced diagnostic tools. Pierson was first diagnosed at age 50. A decade later, a second, more invasive cancer was caught early — thanks to 3D mammography.

Pierson is now a passionate advocate for annual screenings and continued investment in advanced technology to ensure others benefit from early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Those interested in registering or supporting the tournament can contact Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville for more information. Proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit the hospital’s mammography program and help save lives through early detection.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Golfers across the region can now register for the 35th Annual St. Francis Classic, taking place Friday, August 22 at Mozingo Lake Golf Course. This year's event aims to raise critical funds for state-of-the-art 3D mammography equipment at Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville.More than 2,500 women receive mammograms at Mosaic each year. The new equipment is expected to significantly enhance early detection capabilities, leading to better outcomes for patients across Northwest Missouri.This year's honorary host is Jeanne Pierson, a two-time breast cancer survivor whose story underscores the life-saving value of advanced diagnostic tools. Pierson was first diagnosed at age 50. A decade later, a second, more invasive cancer was caught early — thanks to 3D mammography.Pierson is now a passionate advocate for annual screenings and continued investment in advanced technology to ensure others benefit from early diagnosis and effective treatment.Those interested in registering or supporting the tournament can contact Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville for more information. Proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit the hospital’s mammography program and help save lives through early detection.

Registration Open for 35th Annual St. Francis Classic Golf Tournament

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Maryville High School is on the hunt for a new head coach for its girls volleyball team following the resignation of Alyssa Stout.

Stout is stepping down after two seasons at the helm, citing a family decision to relocate outside of Maryville. During her tenure, she helped the Spoofhounds improve their record, finishing last season at 13-12.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Maryville High School is on the hunt for a new head coach for its girls volleyball team following the resignation of Alyssa Stout.Stout is stepping down after two seasons at the helm, citing a family decision to relocate outside of Maryville. During her tenure, she helped the Spoofhounds improve their record, finishing last season at 13-12.

Maryville Volleyball Coach Steps Down; Search Begins for Replacement

FAUCETT, Mo. – A proposal to rezone agricultural land near Mid-Buchanan R-V School for a five-home housing subdivision has been overwhelmingly rejected by the Buchanan County Planning and Zoning Board.

The proposed development, which would have transformed rural land into residential lots, drew strong opposition from area residents—many of whom are affiliated with the Mid-Buchanan School District. Concerns centered around increased traffic, potential strain on utilities, and the impact of construction so close to school grounds.

Due to the denial of the rezoning request, a related proposal for a minor subdivision on the property was also voted down by the board.

FAUCETT, Mo. – A proposal to rezone agricultural land near Mid-Buchanan R-V School for a five-home housing subdivision has been overwhelmingly rejected by the Buchanan County Planning and Zoning Board.The proposed development, which would have transformed rural land into residential lots, drew strong opposition from area residents—many of whom are affiliated with the Mid-Buchanan School District. Concerns centered around increased traffic, potential strain on utilities, and the impact of construction so close to school grounds.Due to the denial of the rezoning request, a related proposal for a minor subdivision on the property was also voted down by the board.

Rezoning Plan Near Mid-Buchanan School Rejected Amid Community Pushback

A special ceremony
at St. Joseph’s Word of Life Church will recognize Vietnam War veterans and
officially thank them for their service during a very divisive time in United States
history.

St. Joseph City
Manager, Mike Schumacher, calls the Vietnam Era Commemoration Ceremony Monday morning the right thing to do.

“Many of our
veterans from the Vietnam era didn’t receive a thank you and they deserve a
thank you for their service,” Schumacher tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

This isn’t just
for St. Joseph residents, but for veterans throughout the region.

The Association of
the United States Army, Henry Leavenworth Chapter and the Veterans Home in
Cameron are participating in the ceremony.

Schumacher says
this ceremony goes beyond the divisive politics at the time of the Vietnam War.

“What’s really
important is that the people that served our country during that era and during
that time are welcomed home and receive a thank you for what they did and that’s
the real goal,” Schumacher says. “It’s a very apolitical conversation, so to
speak. It’s all about making sure they get a thank you.”

The City of St.
Joseph is partnering with veterans from Ft. Leavenworth in Kansas as well as
the Veterans Administration Clinic in Cameron, which has about 130 Vietnam War
veterans.

Schumacher says
the ceremony grows from federal legislation formally recognizing the
contributions of the veterans who served in the Vietnam War. President Barack
Obama signed into law the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration
program in 2012.

The pin veterans
will receive Monday morning is an official pin from the federal government.

“Kind of backs
that legislation, where I think the government, the federal government, has
recognized that we could have done this better and it’s time to make it right," Schumacher says.

The Vietnam Era
Commemoration Ceremony will begin at 10 o’clock Monday morning at Word of Life
Church on Riverside Road in St. Joseph. Veterans who served from November 1st
of 1955 to May 15th of 1975 will be honored.

More than 55
veterans have registered. Advance registration is requested, but not required. You
can email Kaycee Garton at <a href="mailto:kgarton@stjosephmo.gov">kgarton@stjosephmo.gov</a>
or call 816-271-4680 to register. You can also go online at <a href="https://stjosephmo.gov/">stjosephmo.gov</a>.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA special ceremony
at St. Joseph’s Word of Life Church will recognize Vietnam War veterans and
officially thank them for their service during a very divisive time in United States
history.St. Joseph City
Manager, Mike Schumacher, calls the Vietnam Era Commemoration Ceremony Monday morning the right thing to do.“Many of our
veterans from the Vietnam era didn’t receive a thank you and they deserve a
thank you for their service,” Schumacher tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.This isn’t just
for St. Joseph residents, but for veterans throughout the region.The Association of
the United States Army, Henry Leavenworth Chapter and the Veterans Home in
Cameron are participating in the ceremony.Schumacher says
this ceremony goes beyond the divisive politics at the time of the Vietnam War.“What’s really
important is that the people that served our country during that era and during
that time are welcomed home and receive a thank you for what they did and that’s
the real goal,” Schumacher says. “It’s a very apolitical conversation, so to
speak. It’s all about making sure they get a thank you.”The City of St.
Joseph is partnering with veterans from Ft. Leavenworth in Kansas as well as
the Veterans Administration Clinic in Cameron, which has about 130 Vietnam War
veterans.Schumacher says
the ceremony grows from federal legislation formally recognizing the
contributions of the veterans who served in the Vietnam War. President Barack
Obama signed into law the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration
program in 2012.The pin veterans
will receive Monday morning is an official pin from the federal government.“Kind of backs
that legislation, where I think the government, the federal government, has
recognized that we could have done this better and it’s time to make it right," Schumacher says.The Vietnam Era
Commemoration Ceremony will begin at 10 o’clock Monday morning at Word of Life
Church on Riverside Road in St. Joseph. Veterans who served from November 1st
of 1955 to May 15th of 1975 will be honored.More than 55
veterans have registered. Advance registration is requested, but not required. You
can email Kaycee Garton at <a href="mailto:kgarton@stjosephmo.gov">kgarton@stjosephmo.gov</a>
or call 816-271-4680 to register. You can also go online at <a href="https://stjosephmo.gov/">stjosephmo.gov</a>.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

St. Joseph ceremony will honor and thank area Vietnam War veterans

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Jeep Wrangler driven by a 37-year-old Savannah man was southbound on Business 71 four miles south of Savannah.&nbsp; The Jeep traveled off the east side of the road, struck an embankment, became airborne, crossed a cross over, rolled and the driver was ejected.&nbsp; The vehicle came to rest in the median.

Andrew County EMS to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Jeep Wrangler driven by a 37-year-old Savannah man was southbound on Business 71 four miles south of Savannah.&nbsp; The Jeep traveled off the east side of the road, struck an embankment, became airborne, crossed a cross over, rolled and the driver was ejected.&nbsp; The vehicle came to rest in the median.Andrew County EMS to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. man hospitalized after violent rollover accident

MARYVILLE, Mo. – The Nodaway County Fair is just around the corner, returning to downtown Maryville from Thursday, July 10, through Saturday, July 12, featuring a full slate of entertainment, carnival attractions, and the annual parade.

To accommodate carnival setup, Maryville City Manager Ryan Heiland announced that streets surrounding the downtown square will close on Tuesday, July 8.

Entertainment will kick off Thursday evening, July 10, at 7 p.m., with a performance by the Nodaway County Band on the Main Stage. The parade—a local favorite—will take place Saturday morning, July 12, winding through the city and drawing residents and visitors alike.

Additional fair highlights, event schedules, and attractions will be announced closer to the date.

MARYVILLE, Mo. – The Nodaway County Fair is just around the corner, returning to downtown Maryville from Thursday, July 10, through Saturday, July 12, featuring a full slate of entertainment, carnival attractions, and the annual parade.To accommodate carnival setup, Maryville City Manager Ryan Heiland announced that streets surrounding the downtown square will close on Tuesday, July 8.Entertainment will kick off Thursday evening, July 10, at 7 p.m., with a performance by the Nodaway County Band on the Main Stage. The parade—a local favorite—will take place Saturday morning, July 12, winding through the city and drawing residents and visitors alike.Additional fair highlights, event schedules, and attractions will be announced closer to the date.

Nodaway County Fair Returns July 10-12 in Maryville; Street Closures Started Yesterday

MARYVILLE, Mo. – The Nodaway County Senior Citizens Senate, Inc. Board met June 18 to review key financial and operational matters for the coming fiscal year, including the presentation of the proposed FY2026 budget by Administrator Mia Nelson.

The proposed budget covers the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and projects a deficit of $23,765.83, with estimated income totaling $365,880—including $16,000 from the Angel Program and $349,880 in general operating income. Projected expenses include $45,500 for Angel Program meals and $344,145.83 in operating costs.

Grants are not yet reflected in the budget numbers. Nelson noted that presenting the proposed budget is essential in order to apply for grant funding. She confirmed that the center has already secured $19,000 from United Way—just shy of the $20,000 requested—and received a generous $2,750 donation from the Maryville Host Lions Club, above their regular Angel Program contribution.

The board also reviewed investment options, comparing accounts with the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri and Edward Jones. On the matter of certificate of deposit (CD) renewals, the board agreed Nelson should notify members only in the event of significant rate changes.

Board President Carolyn Franks acknowledged the end of another fiscal year, highlighting the recent building and parking lot upgrades, which have been completely paid off. She noted that while the center operated at a monthly profit only twice last year, this is consistent with its non-profit mission.

Nelson reported that a part needed to repair the senior center's air conditioner is expected to arrive the week of June 23.

The board also approved the holiday schedule for FY26, which includes:

In May, the center served an average of 32 congregate (dine-in) meals per day over 21 open days, and 67 home-delivered meals daily—underscoring its role as a vital lifeline for many Nodaway County residents.

MARYVILLE, Mo. – The Nodaway County Senior Citizens Senate, Inc. Board met June 18 to review key financial and operational matters for the coming fiscal year, including the presentation of the proposed FY2026 budget by Administrator Mia Nelson.The proposed budget covers the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and projects a deficit of $23,765.83, with estimated income totaling $365,880—including $16,000 from the Angel Program and $349,880 in general operating income. Projected expenses include $45,500 for Angel Program meals and $344,145.83 in operating costs.Grants are not yet reflected in the budget numbers. Nelson noted that presenting the proposed budget is essential in order to apply for grant funding. She confirmed that the center has already secured $19,000 from United Way—just shy of the $20,000 requested—and received a generous $2,750 donation from the Maryville Host Lions Club, above their regular Angel Program contribution.The board also reviewed investment options, comparing accounts with the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri and Edward Jones. On the matter of certificate of deposit (CD) renewals, the board agreed Nelson should notify members only in the event of significant rate changes.Board President Carolyn Franks acknowledged the end of another fiscal year, highlighting the recent building and parking lot upgrades, which have been completely paid off. She noted that while the center operated at a monthly profit only twice last year, this is consistent with its non-profit mission.Nelson reported that a part needed to repair the senior center's air conditioner is expected to arrive the week of June 23.The board also approved the holiday schedule for FY26, which includes:<ul>
 <li>Employee’s birthday and work anniversary (paid holidays)
</li><li>Independence Day
</li><li>Labor Day
</li><li>Thanksgiving Friday
</li><li>Christmas Day and a floating holiday on December 26
</li><li>New Year’s Day and a floating holiday on January 2
</li><li>President’s Day
</li><li>Good Friday
</li><li>Memorial Day
</li>
 </ul>In May, the center served an average of 32 congregate (dine-in) meals per day over 21 open days, and 67 home-delivered meals daily—underscoring its role as a vital lifeline for many Nodaway County residents.

Nodaway County Senior Center Projects Deficit in FY26 Budget; Maintains Financial Stability Through Community Support

MARYVILLE, Mo. – Fabric, thread, and creativity will take center stage as the 2024 Nodaway County Fair Quilt Show returns, now under the direction of Ferluknat Farm and hosted at The Rose Theater, 118 West Third Street in downtown Maryville.

This year’s show promises to celebrate the region’s rich quilting tradition while also supporting a local arts landmark. Registration for the event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, from 2 to 6 p.m. at The Rose Theater, with judging set for Thursday, July 10 at 10 a.m.

Quilters of all skill levels can participate, with categories including:

In addition to People’s Choice and Overall Winner awards, the exhibit offers a vibrant opportunity to showcase craftsmanship and innovation.

MARYVILLE, Mo. – Fabric, thread, and creativity will take center stage as the 2024 Nodaway County Fair Quilt Show returns, now under the direction of Ferluknat Farm and hosted at The Rose Theater, 118 West Third Street in downtown Maryville.This year’s show promises to celebrate the region’s rich quilting tradition while also supporting a local arts landmark. Registration for the event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, from 2 to 6 p.m. at The Rose Theater, with judging set for Thursday, July 10 at 10 a.m.Quilters of all skill levels can participate, with categories including:<ul>
 <li>Hand-stitched assembled
</li><li>Machine assembled
</li><li>Baby quilts
</li><li>Art quilts (including fiber, photo, and T-shirt quilts)
</li><li>Decorative topstitch
</li><li>Youth (12 and under &amp; 13 to 18)
</li><li>Small projects
</li><li>Display-only (not judged)
</li>
 </ul>In addition to People’s Choice and Overall Winner awards, the exhibit offers a vibrant opportunity to showcase craftsmanship and innovation.Public viewing of the quilts will take place:<ul>
 <li>Thursday &amp; Friday, July 10–11, from 5 to 9 p.m.
</li><li>Saturday, July 12, from 3 to 7 p.m.
Quilts may be picked up starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday.
</li>
 </ul>Adding excitement to the event, Ferluknat Farm will also host a raffle to benefit The Rose Theater, featuring two handcrafted quilts created by the Ferluknat Farm Floozies. One highlight is a monochromatic sampler quilt, currently being finished in time for the fair.Raffle tickets are priced at:<ul>
 <li>$1 for one ticket
</li><li>$5 for six tickets
</li><li>$10 for thirteen tickets
</li>
 </ul>Tickets are available at Ferluknat Farm (805 South Main) and during exhibit hours at the theater. Winners will be drawn at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 12.