School Choice Fight in Joplin Area: Missouri Sen. Jill Carter’s 32nd District primary is getting national attention after right-wing school-choice groups sent mailers and ran radio ads claiming she “walked away” from a 2024 school choice vote—Carter says the final bill was an unread omnibus and she abstained. State Audit: Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick says a review of former Gov. Mike Parson’s office found policy and recordkeeping problems but no criminal wrongdoing, including unclear purposes for many state aircraft trips. Student Safety Law: Gov. Mike Kehoe signed a bill raising fines for drivers who pass stopped school buses; the higher minimum penalty kicks in Aug. 28. Health Policy: FDA and USDA are still wrestling over how to define ultra-processed foods, with thousands of comments showing a sharp split between public health groups and industry. Local Governance & Courts: Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway filed to remove Ray County Prosecutor Camille Johnston, and a judge immediately ousted her while the case proceeds. Public Safety: St. Louis prosecutors charged a man accused of leaving a baby in the middle of a street and fleeing police. Flood-Weather Reality: Experts warn climate-driven heavy rain is making deadly flash floods more frequent, stressing the need for infrastructure upgrades. KC Infrastructure: Kansas City voters will weigh two $750 million bond questions for water and sewer in the Aug. 4 primary.