LaKeySha Bosley

Despite the Missouri House voting to overturn multiple budget vetoes, the Senate did not take any further action, leaving those vetoes intact.

Instead of speaking on the billions of dollars within the Missouri budget, House Democrats repeatedly spoke out against language added to each bill that prohibits spending on anything associated with diversity, equity and inclusion. That language is expected to be stripped out in the Senate.

The budget is less than Gov. Mike Parson’s initial proposal. However, Democrats and Republicans repeatedly clashed.

Before leaving for spring break, Missouri House Republicans called the first part of this year’s session successful. How much gets done during the second half, however, depends on how well both chambers navigate divisive bills.

Under the legislation, the governor would appoint four members to a board of police commissioners. St. Louis’ mayor would also serve on that board.

Lamar Johnson isn’t eligible for state restitution because DNA evidence wasn’t used to overturn his murder conviction.

The Missouri House passed legislation Thursday allowing the governor to appoint a special prosecutor in cities like St. Louis. But Republican leadership cut off debate on the bill before several Black Democrats from the St. Louis area were able to speak.

The bill signing Wednesday brings a conclusion to what’s likely the last legislative actions of 2022.

Members of the House also voted on Monday to advance a bill banning ballot drop boxes as well as one elevating 911 dispatchers to the status of emergency responders. All three bills now go to the Senate with three weeks remaining until the legislature adjourns.

According to the state’s Department of Revenue, of the roughly 3.2 million Missourians who filed state income taxes, only around 1.4 million of them would receive their full tax credit amount.