Sarah Kellogg

The law bans sleeping, camping or setting up long-term shelters on state-owned land. Multiple lawsuits against the measure by homeless advocates have been filed, though no rulings have been issued.

Both the Senate president pro tem and Senate minority leader agree that Missouri needs to pay state workers more. Whether they go with exactly Gov. Mike Parson’s proposed plan is yet to be determined.

The legislation makes several changes regarding K-12 education, including the creation of a portal that contains every school district’s curriculum and other information. It also would prohibit the teaching of critical race theory and other diversity-related concepts.

In addition to added transparency requirements, the bill bans the teaching of some diversity-centered topics. Senate Democrats believe the language would be interpreted too broadly.

Over 100 educators heard from Gov. Mike Parson and state lawmakers at the Capitol on Tuesday.

The legislation allows for the governor to appoint a special prosecutor for a period of up to five years if the rate of homicides in any jurisdiction exceeds 35 cases per every 100,000 people.

The legislation requires schools to disclose curriculum documentation such as syllabi and source materials. A separate part of the bill barring the teaching of certain diversity-related concepts has drawn the most ire among Democrats.

A Missouri Senate committee heard two bills on Wednesday that would legalize sports betting. While one addresses only sports gambling, another also allows the establishment of video gaming terminals.

Under the legislation, the governor would appoint four members to a board of police commissioners. St. Louis’ mayor would also serve on that board.

Members of the Missouri House adjourned for spring break on Thursday, while the Senate left the night before. The break marks the halfway point of the session.