Policy Archives - The Missouri Times https://themissouritimes.com/category/policy/ Missouri's leading political source. Mon, 19 May 2025 14:37:16 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://themissouritimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/cropped-cropped-missouri-state-capitol-e1450739992755-50x50.jpg Policy Archives - The Missouri Times https://themissouritimes.com/category/policy/ 32 32 46390521 Press Release: Compass Academy Network Announces New Program Location in Atlanta, MO https://themissouritimes.com/press-release-compass-academy-new-program-atlanta-mo/ Mon, 19 May 2025 14:37:16 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82933 JOPLIN, MISSOURI – Compass Academy Network (CAN) is pleased to announce its expansion to Atlanta, Missouri for the summer of 2025.

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Compass Academy Network (CAN) is pleased to announce its expansion to Atlanta, Missouri for the summer of 2025. The free, four-week enrichment program for middle school students will be hosted at Atlanta C-3 School from July 7 through August 1, weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

Atlanta is one of several new program sites that will be launching this summer. CAN now has eight locations across three states (Kansas and Oklahoma, in addition to Missouri). The program operates exclusively in rural Midwest communities, which are typically underserved by high-quality summer learning programs.

CAN supplements the education students receive during the school year, helping them to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prevent summer learning loss. Stacie McVey, superintendent of Atlanta C-3 School District, saw the partnership as a great way to engage students. “This four-week July program will offer a unique opportunity for our district and community,” she said. “It is designed to enrich the educational experience of our high-performing junior high students, while also welcoming students from outside our district, including those in homeschool, private, and traditional school settings. We are excited to partner with Compass Academy Network to make this possible and to expand learning in new ways as part of our Hornet Family.”

Debra Humphreys, founder and CEO of Compass Academy Network, called the expansion “a great step forward for the program,” and noted that she looks forward to seeing its positive impact on the community. “These additional locations mean more enrichment opportunities for students, and more paid internships for college students interested in education.”

About the CAN Program

CAN’s mission is to support education in rural communities by providing free summer enrichment programs for middle school students, with continued year-round support, to foster a love of learning, promote intellectual curiosity, develop engaged citizens, create a foundation for academic success, and cultivate a strong moral compass. CAN also provides college students who are aspiring educators with paid internship opportunities working with veteran rural school teachers to create a strengthened network of inspirational rural educators who become leaders in their classrooms and communities.

The entire 4-week Compass Academy Network program is free for eligible students, including all materials, supplies, healthy lunches and snacks, and transportation to and from a central location. Upon completing the program, students also receive a $45 Walmart gift card for school supplies. School districts with 15 or more students who complete the summer session are eligible to receive a CAN Partner Grant of $5,000 for middle school needs.

To qualify, students must have a grade point average equivalent to a “B” average (3.0) or better as well as a recommendation from a current teacher or administrator. Preference is given to students whose families qualify for the Federal Free and Reduced lunch program.

Applications for Compass Academy Network’s summer programs are currently being accepted online. Space is limited, so interested students and families are encouraged to apply soon. For more information, please visit our website at www.compassacademynetwork.org.

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Press Release: Conservative Republican Israel Baeza announces candidacy for state representative https://themissouritimes.com/press-release-conservative-republican-israel-baeza-announces-candidacy-for-state-representative/ Thu, 15 May 2025 14:04:23 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82922 SEDALIA, MO — Israel Baeza, a proven conservative, has announced his candidacy for state representative.

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SEDALIA, MO — Israel Baeza, a proven conservative, has announced his candidacy for state representative. Running as a Republican, he hopes to replace term-limited Rep. Brad Pollitt who has faithfully served the district. Baeza will appear on the Republican primary ballot on August 4, 2026.

“I am excited to take this step towards reforming our state government to better serve We the People,” stated Baeza. “Missouri’s heart is in its rural communities. It’s in the families who live here, the farmers who work the land, and the small businesses that are the backbone of our economy. I am running to ensure that those voices are heard in Jefferson City,” Baeza said. “We need common-sense leadership that prioritizes our values, respects our way of life, and stands up for the freedoms we hold dear.”

Baeza has a proven record of standing up for Missouri agriculture and improving local infrastructure without raising taxes. His work has been grounded in the principles of rural Missouri values such as fiscal responsibility, personal freedom, and a commitment to strong families and communities. With a small government platform, he is proud of his successful efforts to reduce government waste and keep big government out of the day-to-day lives of Missourians as the current Eastern Commissioner of Pettis County.

“Less government is the best government. I’ve seen firsthand the impacts of government regulations, taxes, and overreach on our farmers, small businesses, and families. It’s time to push back against policies that hurt rural Missouri and stand up for those that have been left behind by the political elite.”

For Baeza, commonsense leadership means championing policies that strengthen the everyday lives of Missouri’s working families. The Baeza campaign is grounded in core conservative values: protecting Constitutional freedoms, defending the sanctity of life, promoting fiscal responsibility, fighting for smaller government, and reducing crime across the state. Through these priorities, Baeza is committed to creating an environment where Missourians can thrive through hard work, personal responsibility, and independence—not reliance on government.

Israel Baeza is the proud husband to Perla, with whom he has two young children. The couple enjoys raising their children in Pettis County and are active members of the Hispanic Baptist Church of Sedalia. He also serves on the board of the Sedalia Area Chamber of Commerce, Sedalia-Pettis County Economic Development, and the University of Missouri Extension Council.

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Press Release: Councilwoman Cynda Rader launches campaign for Lee’s Summit mayor https://themissouritimes.com/press-release-councilwoman-cynda-rader-launches-campaign-for-lees-summit-mayor/ Wed, 07 May 2025 17:47:14 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82785 Lee’s Summit, MO — Cynda Rader was the first to publicly announce her candidacy to be the next mayor of Lee’s Summit.

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Lee’s Summit, MO — Cynda Rader was the first to publicly announce her candidacy to be the next mayor of Lee’s Summit. A city councilwoman, Rader has a strong record of public service, including time on the city’s Planning Commission, Water Utility Board, and the Tax Review Board.

“I am excited to meet with voters across the city to hear their ideas on how to keep Lee’s Summit on the right path to prosperity,” stated Rader. “During my first term on city council, I’ve realized there is so much work that needs to be done at the mayoral level.”

Highlighted in Rader’s announcement video, support for first responders is a top priority for the campaign, alongside improved infrastructure of major highways. With a determined effort involving cooperation with the city’s business and civic leaders, she plans to foster sustainable job growth and responsible economic development in Lee’s Summit. She also aims to bring a vision of inclusion with all facets of public and private entities coming together to strengthen the future of our city.

“We must carefully consider the long term impacts the city government’s decisions have on our citizens. There’s no room for big egos or entitled mindsets in the mayor’s office. Lee’s Summit needs civic-minded, people-oriented leadership that will listen to and respect constituents and work together as a city council to provide quality service to our city.”

Outside of public service, Rader is a proud mother of three and grandmother of four. As an accomplished local Realtor, builder and developer, and owner of The Cynda Sells Real Estate Company, she knows how to navigate the red tape of doing business in the city and hopes to alleviate the struggles families are facing in the current housing market. Additionally, she aims to attract new industry, manufacturing, and Class A business to create jobs which will allow our citizens to really Live, Work and Stay in Lee’s Summit.

The election for mayor will take place in April 2026.

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Opinion: Missouri leads the charge against Biden’s unconstitutional student loan forgiveness https://themissouritimes.com/op-ed-missouri-leads-the-charge-against-bidens-unconstitutional-student-loan-forgiveness/ Mon, 05 May 2025 16:47:50 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82706 In an era where fiscal responsibility often takes a backseat to political expediency, Missouri stands as a beacon of conservative principles.

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In an era where fiscal responsibility often takes a backseat to political expediency, Missouri stands as a beacon of conservative principles. The Trump administration’s firm stance against blanket student loan forgiveness set a precedent, emphasizing that debts incurred voluntarily should not be shifted onto the backs of hardworking taxpayers. Building upon this foundation, Missouri, under the leadership of Governor Mike Kehoe and Attorney General Andrew Bailey, is at the forefront of challenging federal overreach in student loan policies.​

The Biden administration’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan aimed to forgive up to $475 billion in student loans, a move critics argue lacked clear congressional authorization. Attorney General Bailey, recognizing the constitutional implications, led a coalition of seven Republican-led states in a lawsuit against this plan. The Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with Missouri, ruling that the Education Department had overstepped its authority, thereby blocking the SAVE plan in its entirety. ​

This legal victory underscores Missouri’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that executive actions do not bypass legislative processes. As Attorney General Bailey aptly stated, “Though [President] Biden is out of office, this precedent is imperative to ensuring a president cannot force working Americans to foot the bill for someone else’s Ivy League debt.”

Governor Mike Kehoe’s administration complements these efforts by promoting policies that prioritize fiscal responsibility and personal accountability. Rather than endorsing sweeping debt cancellations, Missouri focuses on expanding workforce development programs, supporting trade schools, and strengthening community colleges. These initiatives provide affordable pathways to employment without imposing undue burdens on taxpayers.​

The state’s proactive approach serves as a model for others grappling with the complexities of student debt. By challenging unconstitutional federal mandates and promoting practical solutions, Missouri reaffirms its dedication to conservative values and the principles of limited government.​

As the national debate on student loan forgiveness continues, Missouri’s leadership exemplifies how states can assert their rights and protect their citizens from federal overreach. Through steadfast commitment to the Constitution and prudent policymaking, Missouri ensures that the ideals of personal responsibility and fiscal integrity remain at the heart of American governance.

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Conservative Organizations Voice Support for HB 544 https://themissouritimes.com/conservative-organizations-voice-support-for-hb-544/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 18:38:32 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82685 A coalition of leading free market think tanks and conservative policy organizations has issued a joint letter voicing strong support for Missouri House Bill 544.

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A coalition of leading free market think tanks and conservative policy organizations has issued a joint letter voicing strong support for Missouri House Bill 544 (HB 544), a measure aimed at clarifying the state’s approach to herbicide regulation. 

HB 544 is designed to align Missouri law with federal standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Specifically, the bill affirms that any pesticide or herbicide registered with the EPA, and labeled in accordance with EPA guidelines, should be deemed compliant with both state and federal safety and health regulations. This would ensure that products like RoundUp, a widely used glyphosate-based herbicide, can continue to be sold and used in Missouri without conflicting regulatory mandates.

“Legislation like HB 544 in Missouri clarifies and affirms that any pesticide registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and sold under an EPA-approved label, is sufficient to meet all federal and state health and safety warning requirements,” the letter stated.

Glyphosate, the active ingredient in RoundUp, is a cornerstone of modern agriculture in Missouri. It plays a critical role in weed control, improving crop yields, and reducing the need for tillage, which can contribute to soil erosion. According to recent data, approximately 91% of soybean farmers and 66% of corn farmers in Missouri rely on glyphosate to manage their fields effectively.

However, the use of glyphosate has been the subject of controversy since a 2015 report by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified the chemical as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” That conclusion was based on “limited evidence” linking glyphosate to cancer in humans and “sufficient evidence” in experimental animals. Despite this, regulatory bodies such as the EPA, the European Food Safety Authority, and other international agencies have maintained that glyphosate, when used as directed, does not pose a significant health risk to humans.

Critics of HB 544 argue that the bill could provide blanket immunity to chemical manufacturers, particularly Bayer, the company that acquired Monsanto, the original producer of RoundUp. They contend that such legislation could prevent consumers from holding companies accountable for alleged health risks associated with herbicide exposure.

However, the organizations supporting the bill strongly reject this interpretation.

“Importantly, this legislation does not create blanket immunity for manufacturers, nor would it shield companies from liability in cases of fraud, misrepresentation, misuse, or noncompliance with EPA regulations,” the letter clarified. “Consumers have multiple legal pathways. Instead, HB 544 ensures that compliance with EPA-approved labeling is recognized as legally sufficient, upholding the authority of the federal regulatory framework and preventing conflicting mandates from undermining it.”

The debate over RoundUp has already led to extensive litigation. Bayer has agreed to pay approximately $10.9 billion to settle tens of thousands of lawsuits related to the product. As of now, around 165,000 cases have been filed, with more than 60,000 still pending. One high-profile case in Cole County, Missouri, resulted in a staggering jury verdict: each of the three plaintiffs was awarded $500 million in punitive damages, along with $5.6 million and $38 million in compensatory damages. In total, Bayer was ordered to pay $1.56 billion in that case alone.

The letter of support for HB 544 was signed by a number of influential organizations, including the National Taxpayers Union, Innovation Economy Alliance, American Consumer Institute, Center for Individual Freedom, Taxpayers Protection Alliance, Independent Women’s Forum, Market Institute, Consumer Action for a Strong Economy, Missouri Century Foundation, and the Institute for Policy Innovation.

As the Missouri legislature considers HB 544, supporters continue to argue that the bill is essential for safeguarding regulatory clarity, reinforcing federal standards, and supporting the state’s agricultural economy. 

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Missouri Electric Co-op’s Annual Fish Fry https://themissouritimes.com/missouri-electric-co-ops-annual-fish-fry/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 22:44:25 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82664 The Missouri Electric Cooperatives bring community service and fish to Jefferson City. 

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The Missouri Electric Cooperatives bring community service and fish to Jefferson City. 

The Missouri Electric Cooperative held its annual fish fry earlier this week. In what has become a staple event for the Co-op’s, and a favorite of many in Jefferson City, the event displayed what is so loved about the co-ops, their desire to serve their community and do it with a smile.  

Electric cooperative employees from across the state came together to host the annual Your Local Electric Cooperative Fish Fry in Jefferson City on April 23. Nearly 900 guests, including legislators, state officials, cooperative members and Capitol visitors, were served more than 600 pounds of freshly fried fish and sides during the event right on the front lawn of the Missouri state capitol. 

“The Fish Fry is more than a good meal — it’s a symbol of who we are as electric cooperatives,” says Caleb Jones, CEO and executive vice president of Missouri Electric Cooperatives. “For more than 20 years, this tradition has brought us together to share our mission and connect with the people we serve, including those who impact our communities.”

Missouri electric cooperatives began in the 1930s and 1940s during the New Deal era, a time when many rural communities faced significant challenges in accessing reliable and affordable electricity. Disregarded by profit-driven utility companies, local farmers and residents formed electric cooperatives to pool resources and build the infrastructure necessary to deliver power to their communities. By the 1950s, these cooperatives were instrumental in transforming rural Missouri, facilitating economic growth and improving quality of life. Today, they serve millions of residents, focusing on providing dependable power, fostering community engagement, and promoting sustainable energy practices.

The Fish Fry, first held in 2002, is now an annual tradition that celebrates the partnership between Missouri’s electric cooperatives and the communities they serve. The event allows electric cooperative leaders to share the mission of electric cooperatives: delivering reliable, affordable power to homes and businesses across the state.

“We want to send a huge thank you to Sho-Me Power Electric Cooperative for organizing the event and all the members of our co-op family from across the state for joining us in Jefferson City to serve those working at and visiting the Capitol,” Jones said. “This event allows cooperative leaders to share the electric cooperative mission: delivering reliable, affordable power to homes and businesses across the state.”

The fish fry is one of many outreach efforts by the state’s electric cooperatives to keep the lines of communication open between cooperatives and the people they serve.



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Press Release: Retired Lieutenant Colonel Keith Gudehus announces candidacy for Missouri House https://themissouritimes.com/gudehus-press-release/ Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:39:47 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82632 Edina, MO – Keith Gudehus, a retired military officer, coach, and lifelong advocate for his community, is proud to announce his candidacy for state representative.

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Edina, MO – Keith Gudehus, a retired military officer, coach, and lifelong advocate for his community, is proud to announce his candidacy for state representative. The seat is currently held by a term-limited Rep. Greg Sharpe in Northeast Missouri.

With a commitment to strengthening education, supporting veterans, and driving economic development, Gudehus is eager to bring his leadership and experience to the Missouri House as a lifelong conservative.The Republican primary is in August 2026.

“I have dedicated my life to service, both in the military and in my community, and I am ready to take that commitment to the state capitol,” said Gudehus. “The people of Northeast Missouri deserve a representative who will work tirelessly to create opportunities, protect our values, and ensure a brighter future for our families.”

A native of Edina, Missouri, Gudehus brings a wealth of experience to his campaign. After graduating from Truman State University with a degree in Business Administration, he went on to earn master’s degrees in Accounting and Educational Leadership. His career includes 21 years of service as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, where he specialized in military financial management and leadership roles in both peacetime and combat environments. After retiring as a lieutenant colonel, Gudehus returned home to dedicate himself to his family, his community, and education—serving as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Knox County R-1 School District. He currently operates a cow/calf ranch on his family farm.

Gudehus’s campaign is built upon three core priorities:

  1. Promoting Economic Development: He aims to attract businesses and create economic opportunities in Northeast Missouri by focusing on workforce development, job creation, and housing solutions to empower hardworking families.
  2. Supporting Veterans & Law Enforcement: As a veteran himself, Gudehus will fight for full funding of law enforcement and the Missouri Veterans Commission, promoting policies that make Missouri a welcoming home for those who have served to keep us safe.
  3. Strengthening Education: Gudehus will work to keep schools safe and ensure they continue to serve as innovative partners in their communities. This is done by advancing policies that encourage multiple pathways to the workforce, as well as by nurturing leadership development and retention tools for high-quality administrators and teachers.

Gudehus will work for all Missourians to ensure the rights and liberties of individuals “shall not be infringed” by the government—no exceptions.

“I swore an oath to defend the Constitution. I take that very seriously and believe that serving in this new capacity can help me continue to fulfill that promise I made all those years ago.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Gudehus is a dedicated member of several community organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4822, the American Legion Post 261, and the Knox County Community Center Board of Directors. He has been married to his wife, Jackie, for 36 years, and they are the proud parents of four daughters and grandparents to two grandchildren.

Gudehus is running as a principled leader who will bring his experience, integrity, and dedication to public service to the Missouri legislature. He looks forward to meeting with voters across the district and discussing how he can address their concerns and represent their core values in the state government.

Missouri House District 4 includes Clark, Knox, Lewis, Schuyler, Scotland, and Shelby counties and part of Adair and Monroe counties.

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Ford’s New F-150 Leaves Missouri Corn Farmers in the Dust https://themissouritimes.com/fords-new-f-150-leaves-missouri-corn-farmers-in-the-dust/ Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:14:32 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82624 Ford Motor Company's recent decision to shift away from ethanol flex-fuel vehicles marks a significant pivot in its approach to sustainability and fuel efficiency.

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Ford Motor Company’s recent decision to shift away from ethanol flex-fuel vehicles marks a significant pivot in its approach to sustainability and fuel efficiency, potentially harming Missouri corn growers who rely heavily on the demand for corn-based ethanol as a vital market for their crops. 

This transition not only threatens the economic stability of farmers in a state where corn is a key agricultural product, but also raises concerns about the broader implications for rural economies that depend on this industry. 

Corn isn’t just a crop; it’s a lifeline for countless families. It feeds livestock, becomes an essential ingredient in our favorite foods, and, most importantly, fuels the ethanol industry. With Ford planning to abandon flex-fuel options, the impact could be significant, putting not only farmers’ livelihoods at risk but also shaking up the entire agricultural landscape that many rural communities depend on.

The Ford F-150 is the single most popular truck in America with 2024 marking it as being the best-selling vehicle in the country for 42 years. Missouri is also home to Ford’s F-150 manufacturing plant in Claycomo. 

Ford’s 2023 F-150 model is expected to be the last to use corn-based ethanol flex-fuel by changing from a Flex Fuel option for the F-150’s V8 engine to electric. 

Ford is moving away from ethanol flex-fuel options for its F-150 trucks as part of a broader strategy to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and transition towards more sustainable technologies. 

This shift isn’t just about creating cleaner vehicles; it’s also a response to stricter environmental regulations and a growing consumer push for greener alternatives. While these efforts are laudable on a global scale, they could leave local economies, especially those tied closely to agriculture, in a tough spot.

“If Missouri’s farm families want to buy a new American-made Ford F-150 FFV that runs on American-made fuel, they can’t,” said Brad Schad the CEO of the Missouri Corn Growers Association “Ford no longer offers this option on any vehicle. If, as the Ford slogan claims, their trucks are Built For America, the company is turning away from its roots and ignoring the largest group of Americans that buy them.” 

Ford Motor Company’s decision to transition away from ethanol flex-fuel vehicles poses a significant threat to Missouri’s vital corn industry, which ranks among the top corn-producing states in the U.S., generating approximately 600 million bushels annually. Corn is not only the most widely cultivated crop in Missouri but also accounts for about 30% of the state’s total agricultural revenue, underscoring its importance to both local farmers and the broader economy. 

Moreover, Ford’s shift away from flex fuel could reduce demand for Missouri corn, jeopardizing thousands of agricultural jobs and harming the economic stability of rural communities that depend on this critical crop.

The change could also deter investment in Missouri’s agriculture. As the company focuses on alternative fuels and electric vehicles, reduced emphasis on flex-fuel options may lead to less investment in ethanol-related infrastructure and production. 

This transition could undermine the viability of corn farming in Missouri, limiting resources and funding for corn cultivation and distilleries. Consequently, the shrinking ethanol market could hinder growth in the local agricultural economy, adversely affecting thousands of farmers and their livelihoods.

“Ford’s shift from FFV to the lackluster sales of electric vehicles (EVs) doesn’t fit with a farming model,” added Schad “Coincidentally, while California has passed vigorous EV standards, it leads the nation in E85 sales. The Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, along with corn checkoff programs from Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa, are leveraging resources to build ethanol demand in the fastest-growing market for E85. This coalition has partnered with Pearson Fuels, the largest E85 distributor in California, since 2021. And efforts are paying off. Sales of E85 have exploded from just over 40 million gallons in 2020 to a record-setting 118.5 million gallons in 2023. Consumers in California are proving the demand is there when E85 is competitively priced.” 

Schad and Missouri corn have been working to address this issue before it begins to take a serious toll on the state’s corn growers. 

​​”We are asking Ford Motor Company to stand with today’s farm families and renew its support for Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs),” Schad said. “We are ready and willing to collaborate with Congress to reinstate key FFV incentives that continue to harness the potential of today’s biofuels. At a time when this country is focused on building domestic demand, increasing biofuels production will help our rural, state, and national economies.”

While it is uncertain if Ford will reverse its decision or if a deal can be reached in the next Farm Bill proposed by Congress it is clear that Missouri Corn and many rural communities will see a negative impact from this choice. The stakes are high. A decline in the corn market isn’t just a hit to farmers; it’s a blow to the rural communities that thrive on agriculture.

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Roundup Resistance: Glyphosate’s Role in Missouri Ag and America’s Food Security https://themissouritimes.com/roundup-resistance-glyphosates-role-in-missouri-ag-and-americas-food-security/ Tue, 08 Apr 2025 18:48:00 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82618 Failure to pass glyphosate legislation could affect Missouri and possibly national security.  

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Failure to pass glyphosate legislation could affect Missouri and possibly national security.  

This session the Missouri General Assembly is being asked to consider passing legislation that could affect the state’s most prominent industry, that being agriculture. Whether it be ending the sunset on various agricultural tax credits, or legislation to help bring affordable healthcare to those in rural Missouri, the state’s Ag industry is asking legislators to address serious issues this year. 

One of those issues is the regulation/labeling of glyphosate products, mainly Roundup. 

Glyphosate is an essential herbicide for Missouri’s agriculture, playing a vital role in helping farmers effectively control weeds and boost crop production. According to one study, 91% of Missouri soybean farmers use glyphosate as well as 66% of Missouri’s corn farmers. 

With rising demand for food and the challenges posed by invasive weed species, many farmers in the state rely on glyphosate to keep their fields productive and ensure food supplies are secure for local and national markets. The herbicide’s effectiveness in managing a variety of weeds has made it a go-to option for many, allowing farmers to maximize their yields and lower production costs. 

While many voices express concerns about the dangers of glyphosate, it’s important to recognize the extensive research and evaluation that underpin its approval by the US 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safety and efficacy. 

The EPA’s endorsement is based on thorough scientific reviews that assess glyphosate’s effects on human health and the environment, considering factors such as toxicity and exposure levels. Following rigorous testing protocols, the EPA has concluded that glyphosate does not pose significant risks when used according to label instructions. 

Despite ongoing debates about its safety, the EPA’s continued support highlights glyphosate’s essential role in modern agriculture and pest management, reassuring users of its responsible use and effectiveness.

The major concern that has been raised is based on a study published by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) which classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” in 2015. The study came to this conclusion based on “limited evidence” of cancer in humans and “sufficient evidence” in experimental animals. 

The study has been criticized for some of its conclusions due to several factors. 

First, the IARC focused primarily on limited data sources, which some experts argue did not encompass all relevant scientific studies, potentially leading to incomplete assessments of glyphosate’s safety. 

Additionally, critics have pointed out that the methods used to classify glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” relied heavily on animal studies and epidemiological data that were not uniformly robust. 

Furthermore, the IARC’s approach to risk assessment was seen as diverging from regulatory agencies, which often consider a broader range of data and the weight of evidence. 

As a result, the findings have led to significant debate and concern among scientists, health professionals, and industry stakeholders regarding the actual risks posed by glyphosate.

Despite the concerns over the accuracy of the study, the study opened the door to lawsuits against Bayer and the RoundUp product.

RoundUp has seen serious lawsuits brought against it for supposedly causing cancer. Bayer, the company that acquired Monsanto which is responsible for RoundUp, has committed to paying $10.9 billion to resolve thousands of Roundup-related lawsuits, with around 165,000 lawsuits already filed and more than 60,000 additional cases still pending. 

One case here in Cole County, Missouri saw a jury award each plaintiff $500 million in punitive damages as well as $5.6 million and $38 million in compensatory damages. The end of the trial led to Bayer paying a combined $1.56 billion to three individuals who claimed their cancer was caused by the weed killer Roundup. 

While the jury and others like them across the country may have sided with the plaintiffs, in the end juries don’t decide science. 

As concerns grow over potential restrictions on herbicides like glyphosate, many farmers are understandably worried that limiting its use could make weed management more challenging and adversely affect their yields. 

Farmers know all too well how difficult it can be to maintain productivity without the right tools. This proposed bill addresses those concerns directly, aiming not only to recognize glyphosate’s significant economic importance but also to highlight its role in protecting crops from diseases and supporting overall food sustainability. 

By securing access to glyphosate, Missouri farmers can mitigate risks related to crop loss and maintain a steady supply of food, which is vital for both state and national food security.

Additionally, there is a pressing national security angle to consider. The Chinese Communist Party has been making moves to gain a stronghold on the glyphosate market, which poses a potential threat to U.S. agriculture.

In 2015, China produced over 800,000 metric tons of glyphosate which accounted for nearly 70% of the world’s glyphosate production. Since then Chinese production of glyphosate has decreased, in 2021 it still managed to produce 760,000 metric tons which accounted for 60% of global glyphosate creation. 

Chinese domination of glyphosate production could create dependencies that would pose serious risks for American farmers and the food security of the entire nation. In this context, protecting glyphosate use in Missouri could be even more urgent, highlighting the need for the U.S. to maintain its independence in agriculture and to strengthen local farming practices. 

This is not just about ensuring that farmers have access to the chemicals they need; it’s about safeguarding the entire agricultural infrastructure of the country from foreign control.

Whether or not the legislation passes through the Missouri General Assembly, it’s clear that this bill will affect Missouri’s top industry and possibly national security. 

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Press Release: Jennifer Foley receives top MSBA designation ahead of April election https://themissouritimes.com/jennifer-foley-receives-top-msba-designation/ Tue, 01 Apr 2025 14:25:34 +0000 https://themissouritimes.com/?p=82587 Jennifer Foley, current president of the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education, has achieved the Distinguished Board Member Certification from the Missouri School Boards' Association (MSBA).

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Jennifer Foley, current president of the Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education, has achieved the Distinguished Board Member Certification from the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA). This prestigious designation is a testament to Foley’s commitment to excellence in public education, her enthusiasm for ongoing learning and professional development, and her expertise in public education.

“I am so honored to receive this certification,” stated Foley. “Hard work pays off: that’s the message I want to resonate with our staff and students here in Lee’s Summit. Working for quality education isn’t about me—it’s about investing in our future.”

As an ardent champion for public education, Foley has consistently prioritized the needs of students, teachers, and the community. She is a strong supporter of literacy programs and early childhood education programs which provide families with the tools they need to support their child’s educational journey.

Foley has also advocated for staff salary increases while maintaining fiscal responsibility and pushed for policy modifications to ensure veteran educators earn credit for all prior years of service. She has travelled to both the state and federal capitols to promote public education funding.

Foley’s dedication to public education is evident in her work. She remains committed to serving the Lee’s Summit R-7 community with integrity, transparency, and a passion for education.

Jennifer Foley is running for re-election to the LSR7 school board on Tuesday, April 8th. For more information, please visit www.jenniferforlsr7.com.

The post Press Release: Jennifer Foley receives top MSBA designation ahead of April election appeared first on The Missouri Times.

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