Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon said he will eliminate or freeze more than $1.1 billion from the state’s budget beginning July 1, including 260 state jobs. “As governor, it’s my responsibility under the Missouri Constitution to keep the budget in balance…
Blog
In Southwest Missouri, church attempts to recruit young men by giving away AR-15
by Eli Yokley •
JOPLIN, Mo. — Some churches give away televisions or vacations. Others sell homemade pies and quilts. And some raffle off semiautomatic rifles. Ignite Church went with the last option. On Father’s Day, June 15, the church at 710 S. Maiden…
Politics
All you need to know about the August 5 sales tax measure
by Eli Yokley •
In May, Missouri lawmakers approved a $6 billion measure that would raise sales taxes by three-fourths of a percent to create a fund dedicated to transportation projects from 2015 to 2025. State officials estimate that would mean $6 billion in…
Executive Branch
In Joplin, health care law and state inaction causing problem for local hospitals
by The Joplin Globe •
JOPLIN, Mo. — For Missouri hospitals, the federal health care law has caused quite a conundrum. Adding to it is that for the second year in a row, the Missouri Legislature has opted not to take money made available by…
Politics
Jason Kander approves ballot questions for August ballot
by Eli Yokley •
— Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander approved the questions for five ballot measures that will be placed before voters on Aug. 5. The language and fiscal notes were certified on Friday, giving county clerks one week to have ballots…
Executive Branch
On the trail: Jay Nixon campaigns in southwest Missouri against ‘grab bag of giveaways’
by Eli Yokley •
CARTHAGE, Mo. — Another summer will bring another tax fight between Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon and the Republican-led General Assembly. Last year, Nixon led a successful campaign to sustain his veto of one tax bill that he said would cut…