Rusty Black

Critics say the Missouri legislation debated this week could jeopardize the state’s groundwater and 136,000 miles of streams.

Gov. Mike Parson signed legislation last week that allows educators to return to work without losing retirement benefits.

While the Chillicothe Republican believes politics played a part in renewing interest in who can own Missouri farmland, recent security concerns like the Chinese spy balloon that flew over the state may increase the bill’s chances of passing.

Missouri lawmakers this year passed the No Patient Left Alone Act as a result of some patients being unable to have visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Months later, the impact of the law is likely dependent on a future health emergency.

The budget includes millions for both starting and existing teacher salaries and school transportation as well as investments across the state.

Missouri higher education leaders are asking lawmakers for more funding for operational needs and facility maintenance in the budget cycle that starts…