KC Reporter

Today, in a ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed House Bill 495 into law. The event was attended by the bill's sponsors, Representative Brad Christ and Senators Nick Schroer and Travis Fitzwater. Also present were Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Mark James, Missouri State Highway Patrol Colonel Michael Turner, and leaders from various statewide law enforcement associations.

Governor Kehoe expressed gratitude to the Missouri General Assembly and the bill sponsors for their swift action in passing this legislation. "We thank the Missouri General Assembly and the bill sponsors for prioritizing public safety and getting this legislation to my desk so quickly this session," he stated. He highlighted that HB 495 establishes a citizen board to oversee the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and provides tools for law enforcement across the state to address crime and illegal immigration.

The development of HB 495 involved collaboration with law enforcement partners at all levels within the state. It is part of Governor Kehoe's broader initiative that includes budget priorities and executive orders issued at the start of his administration.

A ceremonial signing of HB 495 is scheduled for tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. at the Saint Louis Police Officers Association.