As your State Representative, I’m fighting every day to protect our values, defend our freedoms, and deliver results for the people of South-Central Missouri. This session, we took decisive action to get tough on crime, stand with our veterans, protect property rights, and bring accountability back to government. We focused on common-sense policies that put law-abiding citizens first—not bureaucrats or special interests. Rural Missouri deserves a strong voice, and I will continue making sure our communities are heard loud and clear in Jefferson City.

Stronger Public Safety Laws Head to Governor

We passed a major public safety package that puts criminals on notice and stands up for victims. House Bill 2637 and my House Bill 3155 ensure violent offenders serve more of their sentences and face tougher, more consistent parole standards. The legislation creates lifetime protection orders for victims of serious crimes and cracks down on cyberstalking and online exploitation. We also strengthened the sex offender registry and improved the juvenile justice system. Missouri is taking a firm stand—if you break the law, there will be consequences.

Standing with Our Veterans and Guard Members

Missouri is stepping up for the men and women who serve our country. House Bill 2593 expands protections for National Guard members, helps cover health insurance costs during deployment, and opens more doors for veteran-owned businesses. It also strengthens our state’s ability to respond to cyber threats by utilizing the National Guard to protect critical infrastructure. These are real, meaningful steps to support those who have sacrificed for our freedoms. We owe them more than words—we owe them action.

Protecting Missouri Jobs

We took action to protect Missouri workers and hold bad actors accountable. House Bill 2366 cracks down on illegal hiring practices that undercut law-abiding businesses and workers. It gives the Attorney General stronger enforcement authority and ensures contractors who break the law are held responsible. At the same time, it protects employers who follow the rules and do things the right way. Missouri jobs should go to legal workers—and this bill helps make that happen.

Fairness and Accountability in School Athletics

We are restoring fairness and accountability in school athletics. Senate Bill 863 creates a clear, independent appeals process so students and families have a fair shot when decisions impact their future. It establishes oversight to ensure decisions are consistent, transparent, and not made behind closed doors. Families deserve a system they can trust—not one with no accountability. This is about standing up for students and making sure fairness comes first.

Expanding Rural Health Access

We are improving access to healthcare, especially in rural Missouri. House Bill 2974 allows qualified providers to deliver care through telehealth, breaking down barriers that have limited access for too long. This means faster care, more options, and better outcomes for patients in underserved areas. It’s a practical, commonsense solution that meets people where they are. Rural communities deserve access to quality healthcare—this moves us in the right direction.

Modernizing State Government

We are making state government more efficient and easier to use. Missouri has launched improved digital platforms, including mo.gov and the Missouri Citizen Portal, to give residents better access to services. A new 24/7 assistant, “AskMO,” helps people quickly find answers and navigate state resources. These upgrades cut through red tape and make government work better for the people. Government should serve you—not slow you down.

Closing

It is an honor to serve the people of District 143 and be your voice in Jefferson City. I will continue fighting to protect our freedoms, support our communities, and stand up for the values that make Missouri strong. If you have questions, concerns, or need help with a state issue, my office is here for you.

State Representative Bennie Cook

Missouri House District 143

(573) 751-2264

Bennie.Cook@house.mo.gov