Missouri Legislature

Retiring Congressman Sam Graves endorsed Chris Stigall, a nationally syndicated talk radio host, to replace him. But that brought a fiery response from Kansas City Councilman Nathan Willett, who dropped out of a race for an open state Senate seat to file for Congress.

Missouri lawmakers considered a bill Tuesday that would create competitive market for energy.

While the decision is a loss for redistricting opponents, it does not necessarily mean the map passed last year will be in place for the 2026 election.

Organizers are raising concerns that Missouri lawmakers' plan to eliminate the state's income tax will raise costs for lower-income residents and lessen state funding for schools, roads and senior services.

Advocates say proposed cuts to Missouri's child care subsidy program could ripple through the foster care system, making it harder for families to find child care and for providers to serve children with greater needs.

A similar version of the bill was thrown out by the Missouri Supreme Court in January because of an unrelated item.

The Missouri House also approved sex trafficking legislation on Thursday.

Some Missouri lawmakers say a free market for energy could curb prices.

With rising fears of federal immigration enforcement in the state, attendees at the annual Hispanic Capitol Day urged Missouri legislators to pay attention to their Hispanic constituents.

The decision by U.S. District Judge John Ross lands as Missouri lawmakers debate whether to legalize the video slot machines. Meanwhile, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has vowed to shut them down.