/news-rss?filter=governor MO.gov News Feed: Governor Sat, 15 Mar 2025 03:59:04 +0000 en-us https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-signs-six-executive-orders-launches-safer-missouri-initiative 13546 at https://governor.mo.gov Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:25:26 +0000 Governor Kehoe Signs Six Executive Orders, Launches Safer Missouri Initiative Madelyn.Warren Mon, 01/13/2025 - 16:25 January 13, 2025 Jefferson City Today, as his first official act in office, Governor Mike Kehoe took decisive action to prioritize public safety by signing six executive orders and officially launching his comprehensive Safer Missouri public safety initiative.Developed in close collaboration with law enforcement partners and representatives across all levels of law enforcement within the state, the Safer Missouri plan sets the stage for immediate and impactful action. The measures introduced today represent the first steps in a comprehensive, multi-phase plan that focuses on reducing crime, supporting law enforcement, and fostering community partnerships to achieve lasting change.Further steps requiring General Assembly action are slated for implementation in the coming weeks, with additional details to be unveiled during Governor Kehoe’s 2025 State of the State address."By standing with the brave officers who protect us every day and implementing strategic, forward-thinking measures, we are working to make Missouri a safer place to live, work and raise a family," said Governor Kehoe. "In the coming weeks, months, and years, my administration will be relentless in our pursuit to make Missouri a place where it’s easier to be a cop than a criminal."Governor Kehoe was joined by Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety Mark James, and leaders from statewide law enforcement associations, including the Missouri State Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri State Troopers Association, Missouri Police Chiefs Association, and the Missouri Sheriffs Association."I applaud Governor Kehoe for taking action less than an hour after being sworn into office," said Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. "Today is a bold move toward restoring law and order, backing Missouri law enforcement as they protect our families, and reaffirming our commitment to obtaining justice for victims.""Governor Kehoe’s actions reflect his unwavering resolve to enhance safety and security in Missouri," said Mark James, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. "These executive orders will equip law enforcement with much-needed resources and support to effectively address crime."Exercising his constitutional authority, Governor Kehoe enacted the following measures:Executive Order 25-02 establishes "Operation Relentless Pursuit", a regional anti-crime effort that emphasizes intelligence-led policing and cross-jurisdiction collaboration in order to collectively pursue and apprehend dangerous fugitives. The strategies employed in this enforcement initiative will include:The designation of full time Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) investigators within each of the nine troop regions; andAllocation of budgetary funds to support one new deputy sheriff within each MSHP troop who will be dedicated to task force operations, including targeted operations against criminal activities.Executive Order 25-03 launches the Blue Shield Program to recognize local governments for their dedication to effective law enforcement and community safety. A Blue Shield designation highlights initiatives that enhance public safety, strengthen support for law enforcement and build lasting partnerships with the community. Issuance of the Blue Shield designation enables law enforcement agencies to access specific state grant opportunities.Executive Order 25-04 establishes a 287(g) designation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to allow state and local law enforcement to assist in enforcing immigration laws. The executive order directs the Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) designate specific MSHP troopers to undergo immigration enforcement training with an emphasis on preventing illegal immigration, apprehending criminal offenders, and interdicting drug trafficking activities as an integral part of their regular responsibilities within Missouri.Executive Order 25-05 charges DPS and MSHP with the collection of immigration status within the statewide uniform crime data reporting system for those charged with crimes in Missouri.Executive Order 25-06 tasks DPS with modifying the Patrol’s salary schedule by reducing the time of service required to reach the top salary tier from 15 years of service to 12 years of service.Executive Order 25-07 directs the Department of Corrections and Parole to assemble a working group comprised of stakeholders to assess the existing rules with regard to the eligibility of offenders for parole, conduct of parole hearings and the conditions to imposed on paroled offenders. Once the group’s recommendations have been received, the Board will present amended rules to the governor’s office by October 1, 2025. The current rules, as set by Section 217.690.4 RSMo., have not been amended since 2017. By enhancing guidelines and processes through formal rulemaking, Missouri can continue to refine its approach to offender management while reducing criminal relapses. Additionally, in order to enhance communication and strengthen the relationships between law enforcement agencies and the governor's office,  Governor Kehoe also took administrative action to establish a designated staff member in his office as the contact for law enforcement agencies and issues. This liaison will serve as the intermediary between field operations and state resources available to assist in law enforcement efforts.The executive orders will be posted at this link. https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/mike-kehoe-sworn-58th-governor-missouri 13541 at https://governor.mo.gov Mon, 13 Jan 2025 15:18:03 +0000 Mike Kehoe Sworn In as 58th Governor of Missouri Madelyn.Warren Mon, 01/13/2025 - 15:18 January 13, 2025 Jefferson City Today, at a ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Mike Kehoe was sworn in as the 58th Governor of Missouri, marking a new chapter of leadership for the state.Building on his distinguished record of public service, successful business career, and an unwavering commitment to Missouri’s communities, Governor Kehoe vowed to honor the state’s rich legacy while forging an ambitious path toward a brighter future. With a focus on public safety, education, economic development, and agriculture, he outlined his administration’s goal to tackle the most pressing challenges and seize the opportunities for growth.“My life—growing up in the inner city, moving to a small town, building businesses, operating a ranch—these experiences have taught me one thing: Missourian’s are more alike than we are different,” said Governor Kehoe. "It will take each of us, working together, to secure an even safer, stronger, and more prosperous Missouri.”Governor Kehoe was sworn in by former U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, using a Bible that belonged to his mother, Lorriane Kehoe.Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, State Treasurer Vivek Malek, and Attorney General Andrew Bailey were also sworn in during today’s inauguration ceremony. Oaths were administered by the following individuals:Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary Rhodes Russell for Lieutenant Governor Wasinger;Judge Thomas N Chapman of the 43rd Judicial Circuit for Secretary of State Denny Hoskins;Judge Thomas C. Clark II of the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District for State Treasurer Vivek Malek; andMissouri Supreme Court Judge Kelly Broniec for Attorney General Andrew Bailey.Following a performance of the National Anthem by St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer Eva Millar-Galván, the Most Reverend W. Shawn McKnight, Bishop of Jefferson City, gave the invocation. The swearing-in of state elected officials was followed by a 19-gun salute and flyover of military aircraft. Musical selections were performed by the 135th Army Band. The event concluded with a benediction offered by Reverend John Miles, Senior Pastor at Morning Star Baptist Church in Kansas City.A copy of Governor Kehoe's inaugural address is attached below. Photos from today's ceremony will be available on Governor Kehoe’s Flickr page. https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-additional-governors-office-staff 13536 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:42:29 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Additional Governor’s Office Staff Appointments Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:42 January 9, 2025 Jefferson City Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of several additional individuals who will serve on his staff in the governor’s office. This announcement follows last week’s announcement of his senior staff appointments.“As we approach Inauguration Day, I’m proud of the team we’ve built and the talent and dedication of these public servants,” Governor-Elect Kehoe said. “I’m confident this team will work to deliver results on the issues that matter to Missourians.”PolicyHalle Herbert, Senior Policy AdvisorJohnathan Shiflett, Senior Policy AdvisorSydney Scott, Policy AdvisorCatherine Kirkweg, Administrative Assistant – PolicyLegalJordan Roling, Deputy General CounselOperations & Constituent ServicesKeri Stuart, Boards and Commissions DirectorSheila Luebbert, Constituent Services DirectorCommunicationsMadelyn Warren, Communications ManagerMacee Ernst, Communications SpecialistAdministrativeTammy Allee, Executive Scheduler to the GovernorAmanda Holtmeyer, Office ManagerFirst Lady & Governor’s MansionCarley Travis, Chief of Staff to the First LadyShari Childs, Mansion Executive DirectorErica Hansbrough, Mansion Deputy DirectorEllanie Jamison, Mansion Events and Social Media CoordinatorBrandon Kampeter, Executive ChefRodney Sammons, Pastry Chef### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-brigadier-general-charles-d-hausman-adjutant 13531 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:41:11 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman as Adjutant General of the Missouri National Guard Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:41 January 8, 2025 Jefferson City Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Brigadier General Charles D. Hausman as the next Adjutant General (TAG) of the Missouri National Guard (MONG), the state’s senior military officer.The Adjutant General change of command will take place February 1, 2025, following the selection of Major General Levon E. Cumpton to serve as the U.S. Army Europe and Africa’s Chief of Staff and Deputy Commanding General for the Army National Guard.“General Hausman’s distinguished career is underscored by his strong character, remarkable leadership, and solid dedication to our great state and nation,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “His record of excellence will be invaluable as he guides the Guard with an unwavering commitment to ensuring the Missouri National Guard is manned, trained, equipped and resourced for its dual state and federal missions.”Brigadier General Hausman has over 36 years of service in the Missouri National Guard, and currently serves full time as an Army Assistant Adjutant General.“I am humbled and honored by Governor-Elect Kehoe’s confidence in me, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to lead the Soldiers and Airmen of the Missouri National Guard. It is my great privilege to serve the people of Missouri,” Brigadier General Hausman said.General Hausman has commanded at every level from company to brigade and held key staff positions such as Executive Officer of the 35th Combat Aviation Brigade, Deputy Director of Manpower and Personnel of Joint Force Headquarters, Deputy Commander of 70th Troop Command, and Director of Aviation and Safety of Joint Force Headquarters.In addition to his assignments within the United States and Missouri, General Hausman has had several assignments abroad including in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan.Throughout his extensive military career, General Hausman developed high-level expertise in operational leadership, military strategy, and interagency coordination.A seasoned aviation officer and combat veteran, he has earned multiple military awards including the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and Master Army Aviator Badge among many other awards.He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Technology from the University of Central Missouri in 1991 and a Master of Science degree in Aviation Safety from the University of Central Missouri in 1993. He completed a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies through the United States Naval War College in 2015.General Hausman is a native of Saint Joseph, Missouri, and currently resides in Jefferson City with his wife, Julie, and has two adult children, Alex and Libby.Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-angela-nelson-director-missouri-department 13526 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:39:16 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Angela Nelson as Director of Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:39 January 7, 2025 Jefferson City Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced today the appointment of Angela L. Nelson as Director of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI). Nelson will assume the role of DCI Director effective March 1, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.“I am pleased to have Angela joining my Cabinet to lead the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “With her extensive industry experience, she is uniquely equipped to lead the department. I am confident that, together, we can promote fairness, transparency, and protect Missouri consumers.”Most recently, Nelson served as Vice President of Public Affairs and Government Relations for AAA Missouri, following an accomplished 18-year tenure at DCI.“I am honored to accept this role and look forward to working alongside the Governor-Elect and the dedicated team at DCI to ensure that we continue to protect consumers, foster a fair and competitive business environment, and promote transparency across industries,” said Nelson.Nelson’s professional background sets her apart in the industry, with a career spanning multiple facets of insurance and regulation. She began as an insurance agent before serving as an insurance regulator with DCI, then as the department’s Director of the Market Regulation Division and as the Director of the Consumer Affairs Division. Nelson also held roles with both health and property and casualty insurance companies, providing her with a broad and comprehensive perspective on the industry.Nelson is a sixth generation Missourian and earned a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Management from William Woods University.Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-trish-vincent-director-missouri-department 13521 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:38:04 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Trish Vincent as Director of Missouri Department of Revenue Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:38 January 6, 2025 Jefferson City Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced today the appointment of Patricia E. (Trish) Vincent as Director of the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR). Vincent will assume the role of DOR Director effective January 13, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.“I am proud to have Trish on our Cabinet team as we work to make our state agencies even more efficient and effective,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “With her experience and professionalism, I am confident that she will be a great partner in providing excellent service at the Missouri Department of Revenue.”Most recently, Vincent served as Executive Deputy Secretary of State and Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft.“I want to thank Governor-Elect Kehoe for the opportunity to serve the people of Missouri in this capacity,” Vincent said. “I look forward to working with the Kehoe Administration and the team at DOR to improve the customer experience and function with speed and efficiency. Whether filing taxes or renewing license plates, Missourians should have a positive experience with the Department of Revenue.”Vincent has decades of experience in state government, including serving as the Director of Revenue and Chief of Staff for Governor Matt Blunt, and in the Office of the State Auditor.Vincent earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Lincoln University.Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-staff-appointments 13516 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:36:27 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Staff Appointments Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:36 December 30, 2024 Jefferson City Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced today the appointment of several individuals who will make up his senior staff in the governor’s office.“I’m ready to get to work with this talented group of hardworking individuals who share my vision and passion for securing an even better future for Missourians,” Governor-Elect Kehoe said. “I’ve known and worked closely with many of them for years, and each person brings invaluable experiences and expertise to the Governor’s Office. I look forward to having this team by my side as we work to make Missouri an even better place to live and work.”Chief of Staff Adam Gresham currently serves Governor-Elect Kehoe as transition director and Chief of Staff in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. He has worked in various positions in state government, including in the Missouri Senate and in the Governor Blunt Administration. Gresham graduated from the United States Naval Academy and served as an infantry and intelligence officer in the United States Marine Corps. He holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Memphis.Deputy Chief of Staff – Policy and Legislation Bill Anderson previously served asVice President of State Legislation at the Missouri Hospital Association. His state government experience includes the Missouri Technology Corporation and Director of Policy under Governor Matt Blunt. Andersonearned Master of Science in economics and finance and a Bachelor of Science in economics from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.Deputy Chief of Staff – Operations Casey Adrian serves as the Buy Missouri Director and Tourism Liaison in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and previously served in various positions in the Missouri Senate. Adrian holds a Master of Arts in mass communications/media studies and a Bachelor of Science in business administration and management from the University of Central Missouri.General Counsel Lowell Pearson brings more than 30 years of experience navigating the intersection of business and government at both state and federal levels. Most recently, Pearson was the Office Managing Partner at Husch Blackwell. He also served as Deputy Director of Revenue and General Counsel to Governor Matt Blunt. He earned a Juris Doctor from Stanford Law School.Policy Director Jamie Birch joined the Office of Governor in December 2020 and has managed a policy portfolio consisting of Missouri’s 17 Executive Branch agencies. Prior to joining the Governor’s Office, Birch served as the Legislative Director for the Missouri Public Service Commission. She also has experience working in Arizona state government as a Policy Advisor for the Office of Arizona Governor Janice Brewer. Birch earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Arizona State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri–Columbia.Legislative Director Drew Dampf holds years of experience working in the Missouri Senate as Chief of Staff to the Chairman of the Committee on Appropriations and, most recently, the Majority Floor Leader. He earned aBachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness Management from the University of Missouri-ColumbiaCommunications Director Gabrielle Picard most recently served as Communications Director on the Kehoe gubernatorial campaign. Prior to joining the campaign, she served as Communications Director in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and previously held positions the Office of Governor under Governor Michael L. Parson. Picard earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Mississippi.The Office of Governor-Elect will continue to announce administration appointments in the coming weeks.### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-major-michael-turner-missouri-state-highway 13511 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:33:31 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Major Michael A. Turner as Missouri State Highway Patrol Superintendent Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:33 December 26, 2024 Jefferson City Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced Major Michael A. Turner as the 25th Superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP). Major Turner will assume the role of Superintendent following the retirement of Colonel Eric T. Olson, effective February 1, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.“Appointing the next Superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol—one of the nation’s finest law enforcement agencies—is a task that we did not take lightly, and I am confident in Major Turner’s qualifications and experience to lead the agency,” Governor-Elect Kehoe said. “My administration is ready to get to work on improving safety and security in our communities, and I look forward to Major Turner and our MSHP troopers playing a large role in that effort.”Major Turner currently serves as commander of the Field Operations Bureau. He has direct oversight responsibility for all nine troops, the Aircraft Division, and the Water Patrol Division.“I’m humbled to receive this appointment and look forward to working with Governor-Elect Kehoe and incoming DPS Director James to take care of our troopers on the road, enforce laws to improve public safety, and strengthen the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s distinguished reputation as the state’s premiere law enforcement agency,” said Major Turner.Turner was appointed to the Patrol on January 1, 1996, as a member of the 71st Recruit Class. Upon graduating from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy, he was assigned to Troop F, Zone 5, Camden County. He was promoted to corporal and designated assistant supervisor of Zone 8, Callaway County, on April 1, 2001. He transferred to Zone 5, Camden/Miller counties on February 28, 2004. On April 29, 2007, he was promoted to sergeant and designated zone supervisor of Zone 6, Moniteau/Morgan counties. Turner served as Troop F SWAT team leader from 2004 to 2011 and founded the Central Missouri Tactical Officers Association. He was promoted to lieutenant on November 1, 2011, and assigned to Troop F Headquarters. On March 1, 2015, Turner was promoted to captain and designated commanding officer of Troop F, Jefferson City. On April 1, 2019, Turner was promoted to major and named commander of the Support Services Bureau. On March 1, 2022, Turner was named commander of the Field Operations Bureau.Major Turner was born in Texas and grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. He earned an Associate of Arts from Metropolitan Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Columbia College, and a Master of Arts in sociology and criminal justice from Lincoln University. He is a graduate of the St. Louis University Law Enforcement Leadership and Organizational Change program and the Missouri Police Chief’s Association Command College. He completed Police Leadership: The West Point Model Executive Level Course and the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Leadership Missouri program. Turner is also a recipient of the David Steward Academic and Leadership Award and the Patrol’s Valor Award.Major Turner and his wife, Stacy (Hodges), have two children, Evan and Elizabeth, and a grandson, Rowan.The Office of Governor-Elect will continue to announce appointments in the coming weeks. Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-kurt-schaefer-director-missouri-department 13506 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:31:49 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Kurt Schaefer as Director of Missouri Department of Natural Resources Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:31 December 19, 2024 Jefferson City Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced today the appointment of Kurt Schaefer as Director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Schaefer will assume the role of DNR Director effective January 13, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.“I am proud to have Kurt on our team as we work to make our state agencies more efficient and effective,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “Kurt holds valuable experience in both the private sector and state government, and I have full confidence that he will be an excellent leader at the Department of Natural Resources.”With a legal career spanning nearly three decades, Schaefer has worked with governmental entities at every level, including all branches of government, state agencies, numerous boards and citizen commissions, and political organizations.As the State Senator for Missouri’s 19th Senate District, Schaefer served as Chairman of the Appropriations Committee for six years, composing and passing a balanced state budget.“I’m honored by Governor-Elect Kehoe’s confidence in me to serve Missourians at DNR,” Schaefer said. “I look forward to carrying on the department’s mission of efficient and sustainable management of Missouri’s natural resources, protection of human health and the environment, and the development of comprehensive energy policy.”Previously, Schaefer served as General Counsel and Deputy Director of DNR. He oversaw the emergency response, environmental remediation and cleanup of the destruction caused by the Taum Sauk Reservoir failure in December 2005, and was lead counsel in negotiating settlement for the State’s natural resource damages and park restoration of Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, valued in excess of $170 million. He also served as lead counsel for the department in negotiating state and federally required sewer infrastructure capital improvements with the City of Kansas City and the St. Louis Metropolitan Sewer District, valued in excess of $3 billion and $4.2 billion, respectively.Schaefer also worked as a Special Criminal Prosecutor at the Missouri Attorney General’s Office, working closely with local elected prosecutors and law enforcement. He counseled and represented the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Department of Public Safety, Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission, Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, and Department of Natural Resources in civil litigation in state and federal courts.Schaefer earned a Juris Doctor and a Master Studies of Environmental Law from Vermont Law School, and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from the University of Missouri. He and his wife have three adult children and reside in Boone County.The Office of Governor-Elect will continue to announce Cabinet member appointments in the coming weeks. Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.### https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-elect-kehoe-announces-jessica-bax-director-missouri-department 13501 at https://governor.mo.gov Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:30:27 +0000 Governor-Elect Kehoe Announces Jessica Bax as Director of Missouri Department of Social Services Madelyn.Warren Fri, 01/10/2025 - 18:30 December 18, 2024 Jefferson City Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Jessica (Jess) Bax as Director of the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS). Bax will assume the role of DSS Director effective January 13, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.“Jess brings valuable experience working with state and local agencies and successfully building partnerships with stakeholders to this role,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “With her extensive knowledge of social service programs, the budget and legislative process, and her passion for providing quality service to the people of Missouri, I am confident she will bring excellent leadership to the Department of Social Services.”Bax currently serves as the Director of the Division of Developmental Disabilities for the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH).Prior to joining the Department of Mental Health, Bax served for three years as the Director of the Division of Senior and Disability Services for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, with responsibility for Medicaid Home and Community Based Services, Adult Protective Services, and Older Americans Act programs. She has nearly 20 years of government and leadership experience, including serving as the Constituent Services Manager, Bureau Chief of Medicaid Long Term Services and Supports, and Deputy Division Director for Senior and Disability Services. She currently serves as a National Board Member for ADvancing States.“I am humbled at the opportunity to serve in the Kehoe Administration and the people of Missouri in this capacity,” Jess Bax said. “I look forward to working on streamlining operations, program integrity, and incorporating national best practices to help all Missourians have access to the tools they need to be safe and healthy.”  Bax holds a master’s degree in Public Affairs from the Harry S. Truman School of Public Affairs at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She and her husband, Brian, have five daughters and reside in St. Elizabeth, Missouri.The Office of Governor-Elect will continue to announce Cabinet member appointments in the coming weeks. Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.###