KC Reporter

Today, Governor Mike Kehoe of Missouri signed Executive Order 25-24 to aid individuals affected by recent tornadoes and severe storms. This order is designed to help those whose prescriptions were lost or destroyed, whose records are unavailable, or whose original prescribing physician cannot be reached, ensuring they continue to receive necessary medications.

Governor Kehoe stated, "To ensure the health and safety of those impacted by these recent devastating storms, we must ensure that Missourians are able to continue receiving prescribed medications in a timely manner." The executive order grants the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the State Board of Pharmacy the authority to temporarily waive or suspend certain rules and regulations. This move is intended to allow medical professionals to better assist those affected by the storms. Governor Kehoe expressed gratitude towards medical professionals across Missouri for their critical role in aiding community recovery efforts.

The state had been under a State of Emergency since March 14, 2025, declared through Executive Order 25-19 due to severe weather threats. This emergency status was extended by subsequent orders 25-22 and 25-23. The current Executive Order 25-24 is set to expire on June 30, 2025, unless it is terminated or extended beforehand.

In response to the severe weather conditions on May 16, Governor Kehoe requested President Trump issue a federal Emergency Declaration for expedited FEMA assistance. This request included joint Preliminary Damage Assessments for St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and six Southeast Missouri counties.

A federal Emergency Declaration allows federal resources to support state operations aimed at protecting lives and public health without affecting the process for a federal Major Disaster Declaration. Such declarations provide Individual Assistance for homeowners and renters as well as Public Assistance for local governments' emergency costs.

Starting Wednesday, May 21, six teams will assess damage in several counties including Cape Girardeau and Iron as well as St. Louis City. These assessments will determine eligibility for Individual Assistance through FEMA.

Additionally, Governor Kehoe directed the Missouri National Guard to provide a Liaison Officer (LNO) to assist St. Louis officials with evaluating potential missions for the Guard's involvement in relief efforts.

Missouri continues providing resources such as law enforcement assistance from the State Highway Patrol and technical search efforts from Missouri Task Force 1’s Urban Search and Rescue team. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has also deployed personnel for mass care coordination among other tasks.

SEMA remains active in coordinating with local authorities along with volunteer groups like United Way and American Red Cross to address unmet needs within communities.

For more information about disaster recovery resources in Missouri including housing assistance and mental health services, residents can visit recovery.mo.gov.