Hello from Cuba, Mo. I am recovering from knee replacement surgery that I had on June 30. I want to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers for recovery. As Missourians celebrate Independence Day, this year's observance carries special significance. July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America.

Known as the nation's semi quincentennial, America 250 provides an opportunity to reflect on the principles of liberty, self-government, civic responsibility, and individual freedom that have shaped the nation for two and a half centuries. It is also a time to honor the generations of Americans whose service, sacrifice, and dedication helped build the country we know today.

Missouri has played an important role in that story. From westward expansion and agricultural innovation to military service and public leadership, the Show-Me State has helped shape the nation throughout its history. During the 2026 legislative session, the Missouri General Assembly approved several measures recognizing Missouri’s heritage, communities, and historical contributions as the nation prepares to commemorate this historic milestone.

Show-Me America 250:

In recognition of the nation's 250th anniversary, the General Assembly adopted SCR 21, encouraging Missourians to participate in educational programs, patriotic observances, community events, and historical commemorations as part of the statewide "Show-Me America 250" initiative. The resolution encourages citizens, schools, museums, veterans organizations, historical societies, civic groups, and local communities to celebrate America's founding while promoting a greater understanding of the nation's history and the responsibilities of citizenship. This provides an opportunity for Missourians to reflect on the ideals that have united Americans for 250 years while helping future generations better understand the events and people that shaped our nation.

Honoring Missouri Communities and Historical Figures:

Lawmakers also approved SB 1544, which establishes a number of memorial highway and bridge designations across Missouri honoring military veterans, first responders, community leaders, and other individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on their communities. The legislation also designates April 27 as Ulysses S. Grant Day, recognizing the Missouri-born Civil War general and 18th President of the United States. The measure highlights Missouri's connection to one of the nation's most significant historical figures and continues the state's efforts to recognize individuals whose leadership helped shape American history.

Preserving Historic Sites and Landmarks:

  The General Assembly also approved HB 3080, which updates provisions of state law relating to facilities of historic significance. While largely technical in nature, the legislation reflects the state's continued commitment to preserving and recognizing historic landmarks and sites that help tell Missouri's story. Supporters note that preserving historical resources helps connect future generations to the events, communities, and individuals that shaped both Missouri and the nation.

I wanted to take just a minute and focus on upcoming amendments 4 and 5. Amendment 4 is about Initiative Petition and if passed will require 51% of all of Missouri’s congressional districts to pass any amendments to the STATE CONSTITUTION. The initiative petition process will still be in place as is for anything not changing the State Constitution. The rural vote often does not matter if you look at the last few Constitutional Amendments. The vote tends to go toward how St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia and parts of Springfield voter’s vote. The last two amendments on abortion and marijuana failed in rural Missouri. This amendment will make it harder to change the constitution in Missouri, and I believe it should be.

Amendment 5 is a revenue-triggered, constitutionally protected path to eliminating Missouri’s individual income tax — allowing workers to keep more of every paycheck, while modernizing the sales tax base to capture the digital economy and eliminating loopholes that benefit big corporations and insiders that can afford lobbyists in Jefferson City. The Missouri Budget Project (MBP) is lying about how the amendment works, relying on false assumptions that the amendment prevents, ignoring multiple layers of protection and guardrails built into the measure, and making claims that aren’t even logically consistent with each other. Amendment 5 would amend the Missouri Constitution to phase out the income tax based on revenue growth triggers and authorize the General Assembly to close big corporate loopholes in the sales tax base on things like digital goods and expensive professional services

Amendment 5 is a way to change how we do things here in Missouri. Anytime you change the way you have done something for 87 years it is scary. I get emails both for and against this proposal, and I can see both sides. If you have questions contact me at John.Hewkin@house.mo.gov, and I will get you the answers to your questions.