Recreational Marijuana News Graphic

As more states legalize pot, their uneven safety rules can pose a risk

(Missouri Independent) – Amid the growing acceptance and legalization of cannabis use across the country, a concerning reality has emerged: The state-by-state patchwork of safety regulations can leave marijuana consumers wandering through a haze of uncertainty, exposing them to potential risks. Under federal law, marijuana is illegal — period. So, it’s up to individual states […]

Tax Fraud news graphic

Missouri tax preparer accused of fraudulent practices, government seeks to shut them down

The United States filed a complaint in the Eastern District of Missouri seeking to bar a St. Louis-based tax preparer from assisting in preparing federal income tax returns for others. The government’s complaint alleges that, since at least 2017, Diane Shontae Williams, both individually and through her business, Dreams & Memories Professional Planning Services, prepared […]

Missouri Marijuana News Graphic

Missouri governor signs bills impacting cannabis banking, employee background checks

(Missouri Independent) – Missouri’s marijuana businesses will have fewer obstacles when it comes to accessing banking, but they must now get fingerprint background checks from all their new employees and contractors, under legislation that the governor signed on Thursday. Few banks nationwide serve cannabis businesses and their owners — or even their auxiliary partners  — because […]

Governor Mike Parson

Governor Mike Parson announces judicial appointments to the 16th, 21st, and 45th Judicial Circuits.

Lauren D. Barrett, of Kansas City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit. Ms. Barrett is currently the chief trial assistant in the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri. She will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable […]

Missouri Income Tax Form

Missouri will exempt Social Security, public pension payments from state income taxes

(Missouri Independent) – Gov. Mike Parson on Thursday signed the tax cut he said a week earlier was responsible for his decision to veto most of the 201 spending items he cut from the state budget. The bill, exempting Social Security benefits and public pension payments from income tax, would reduce state general revenue by an estimated $309 million annually. It […]

Electric Car Charging News Graphic (Photo by Michael Fousert on Unsplash)

Environmental groups lead efforts for cleaner cars and lower emissions in Missouri and beyond

Cleaner cars and lower emissions across Missouri and the nation are the goals of an event being led by environmental groups. They are calling attention to an Environmental Protection Agency proposal, recommending ambitious new standards to help reduce vehicle emissions starting with model year 2027. Advocates of tougher emissions rules took to America’s highways for a relay […]

Missouri State Fair Website 2023

Missouri State Fair unveils 2023 Farm Family Day honorees from every county

Farm Family Day at the Missouri State Fair, in partnership with the Missouri Farm Bureau and other key industry organizations, continues its 63-year tradition of recognizing Missouri’s Farm Families and their significant contributions to the state’s economy and vitality. Nominated families from each county are chosen to represent their respective counties based on their farming […]

Missouri State Auditor website (Scott Fitzpatrick)

Missouri State Auditor releases monthly reports on municipalities and special district financial information

Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick has recently released monthly reports that provide detailed information on the compliance of municipalities and other political subdivisions with financial reporting laws. The reports are part of the state’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in local government finances. The first report focuses on cities, towns, and villages, while […]

Meth with police banner

Federal grand jury indicts six Missouri residents in methamphetamine distribution and firearms case

A federal grand jury has indicted six individuals from southern Missouri for their alleged involvement in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and for illegally possessing firearms. The indictment was returned under seal on June 28, 2023, by a federal grand jury in Springfield and was unsealed on Wednesday, July 5, following the arrest and initial […]

MoDOT Mowing

Be alert for slow moving MoDOT mowing crews

Though it’s been a drier start to summer than usual, seasonal growth along Missouri’s roadways still needs to be mowed. The Missouri Department of Transportation urges motorists to use caution when encountering tractor-mowers near the shoulders of interstates and other busy roadways. “Mowing roadsides increases visibility for motorists along Missouri roadways,” said MoDOT State Maintenance […]