KC Reporter

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bills 79 and 82, aiming to support the state's agricultural sector and rural communities. These legislative measures were enacted in Jefferson City, with a focus on expanding healthcare access and protecting water resources.

Governor Kehoe emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Agriculture and rural communities are the backbone of Missouri. By expanding health care access and protecting our water resources for future generations, these bills ensure that the families who feed, fuel, and clothe this state have the support they need to keep doing what they do best.”

Senate Bill 79 was signed at the Missouri Farm Bureau Headquarters. The bill, sponsored by Senator Kurtis Gregory and Representative Brad Pollitt, introduces several healthcare provisions:

- Establishes a regulatory framework for health benefit contracts offered by membership organizations.

- Mandates MO HealthNet coverage of medically necessary cochlear implants and hearing instruments for all eligible participants.

- Ensures patients can access telehealth services using audio-only technology and prevents restrictions that limit care to specific corporate platforms.

- Improves prenatal testing protocols to align with current medical standards and ensure timely care for expectant mothers.

These measures aim to improve health outcomes while reducing barriers for those living in rural areas.

Senate Bill 82 focuses on water preservation. Sponsored by Senator Jamie Burger and Representative Cameron Parker, it was signed at the Center for Soy Innovation. The bill establishes a regulatory framework within the Department of Natural Resources to manage the exportation of Missouri waters. It aims to preserve Missouri's water resources for various uses.

For more details on these legislative measures or additional provisions signed into law, visit house.mo.gov or senate.mo.gov. Photos from the bill signing will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr page.