Gov. Matt Blunt listens as Missouri State Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel James Keathley talks about the governor’s directives and new proposals to fight illegal immigration. Gov. Blunt is calling for legislation that would ban the creation of sanctuary cities in Missouri, require all public employers to use a legal worker verification system, impose new monetary sanctions against contractors who use illegal immigrants and criminalize the transportation of illegal immigrants. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt visits with University of Missouri-St. Louis student Cadence Rippeto after announcing his comprehensive higher education funding plan for Missouri, including $100 million for student scholarships.  (Bill Greenblatt)

Governor and Mrs. Blunt attend the Christmas tree presentation and proclamation ceremony where second grade students from Lawson Elementary helped decorate a tree donated by the Missouri Christmas Tree Association. 

Gov. Matt Blunt helps serve lunch at the Salvation Army Warming/Feeding Center in Jefferson City. The center is providing assistance to Missourians after powerful storms blanketed the city in ice.  

Gov. Matt Blunt activated the Missouri National Guard to support the state’s winter storm response. Pictured are members of the Missouri National Guard conducting wellness checks in Barton County.

Gov. Matt Blunt pays tribute to the sacrifices and commitment of Missouri’s veterans at the opening of the Missouri Veterans Gallery in the Missouri State Museum located in the State Capitol.

"Today is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day where we pause and reflect on the contributions of a great generation of Americans who led the fight against oppression during the Second World War. The Missouri Veterans Gallery will be a tremendous experience for all visitors as they learn more about Missouri’s veterans and their efforts to defend our freedoms."

Gov. Matt Blunt today visited Thorpe Gordon Elementary School where he announced he will recommend $121.3 million for the state’s core education budget to build on the more than half a billion new dollars he has already delivered for Missouri students.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces he will call for $31.2 million to support Ellis Fischel Cancer and Medical Education Center on the University of Missouri-Columbia campus. The funding is available thanks to the governor’s Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces he will call for $15 million for the University of Missouri-Kansas City’s (UMKC) state-of-the-art Pharmacy and Nursing Building to help students prepare for careers in health care. The funding is available thanks to the governor’s Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.

Gov. Matt Blunt reads The Mitten to children during his visit to the World Child Care Center in Liberty.

Gov. Matt Blunt proclaims the city of Liberty as Missouri’s Capital for a Day, offering one-on-one and personalized access to state government. Gov. Matt Blunt is pictured holding office hours at William Jewell and visiting with citizens as part of his ongoing effort to make state government more responsive and accessible for the people of Missouri.

Gov. and Mrs. Matt Blunt visit St. Louis Children’s Hospital where they toured the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, read to children in the Child Life Center and presented books to children and their families.

Gov. Matt Blunt adds to his tough directives against illegal immigration by announcing he will seek legislation that bars the state from issuing Missouri driver licenses to illegal immigrants.

At a pregame event, Gov. Matt Blunt readies Missouri Tiger Fans for the game against their arch rivals the Kansas Jayhawks. The Tigers went on to defeat the Jayhawks 36 to 28.

Gov. Matt Blunt prepares to run in the annual Turkey Trot 5K / Fun Walk to benefit the Ozarks Food Harvest in Springfield.

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt help serve dinner to area residents in need of a helping hand and a hot meal at Springfield’s Victory Mission.

“As we celebrate Thanksgiving with our families and friends, I am thankful for the many charitable organizations like the Victory Mission and their volunteers who provide a helping hand and a hot meal to their fellow Missourians in need.  The selfless good deeds of Missouri’s charitable organizations have not gone unnoticed and we are all thankful for those who donate their time and resources for charity.”

Gov. Matt Blunt pardons a Missouri turkey at the Governor’s Mansion as part of this year’s Thanksgiving celebration highlighting Missouri agriculture and the many blessings that Missourians have to be thankful for this holiday season.  More than 24,300 Missourians logged on to the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Internet site to be a part of this year’s celebration by assisting in naming the Missouri Thanksgiving Turkey Gobbles.

Gov. Matt Blunt addresses young women attending the Girls Incorporated luncheon and commends the educational and cultural opportunities afforded to young women in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area by Girls Incorporated. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt speaks about opportunity and ongoing efforts to further the opportunities of all Missourians including African-Americans.

“We are all fortunate to live in modern America,” Gov. Blunt said. “We must live in the present, and we must always be looking forward, leaning forward, working for an America that is more diverse, striving for an America that is more equal, fighting for an America that lives up to the ideals of our Declaration.” (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt announces he will recommend a $2 million funding increase to benefit Missouri’s youngest learners through the Parents as Teachers program.  The new funding will add to the $4 million in budget increases Gov. Blunt has already secured for the program since taking office. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt affirms his continued commitment to increase funding for Missouri classrooms every year he is in office as he addresses members of the Missouri State Teachers Association about the importance of providing a world class education for students.  In his address, Gov. Blunt noted that in addition to comparing our students with the students of other states, we must also compare them to the students of other nations. The governor stressed that international benchmarking will give our state a better sense of how well Missouri students are prepared for the global economy. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt help celebrate the Heart Gallery’s success in finding homes for Missouri’s foster children. The Heart Gallery is an exhibit of professional photographs of Missouri children who are awaiting adoption. The Missouri Heart Gallery featured heartwarming photos of 240 children and was featured on display at 23 venues in 11 cities over the last six months. 

Gov. Matt Blunt helps the Jefferson City Salvation Army by ringing a bell for the Army’s 2007 Tree of Lights Campaign. The goal for the 2007 campaign is to raise $165,000.

Gov. Matt Blunt hosts a lunch at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion for the judges of the Missouri Supreme Court and congratulates the Court’s newest member, Judge Patricia Breckenridge, on her formal investiture. 

Gov. Matt Blunt announces Kip Cullers of Joplin broke the world record for soybean production, yielding 154.7 bushels per acre. Kip Cullers outstanding record yield comes after he broke the previous world record last year with 139 bushels per acre.

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt host a reception to celebrate March of Dimes volunteers and officially recognize Prematurity Awareness Day in Missouri.  To honor the occasion the governor and first lady will display pink, white and blue luminaries on the Missouri Governor’s Mansion grounds this evening.

In celebration of Veterans Day, Gov. Matt Blunt honored 158 Vietnam Veterans in Chillicothe, 52 Vietnam Veterans in Kansas City, 58 Vietnam Veterans in Springfield, and 42 Vietnam Veterans in St. Joseph with commemorative Vietnam Veterans Medallions, a program created when the governor signed legislation last year to honor and recognize Missourians who served our country during Vietnam. In addition, the governor honored 2 veterans of the Korean War.

Gov. Matt Blunt presents the March of Dimes a proclamation in recognition of November as Prematurity Awareness Month. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt commends Schnucks on the launch of their Free Generic Antibiotic Prescription Program. Schnucks Pharmacy will offer customers the opportunity to receive a supply of one of 54 generic, oral antibiotics for free.

"I applaud Schnucks for being a good corporate citizen by creating this innovative program to help Missourians save on their prescription drug costs. In Missouri we are making it easier for patients to find the best prices on their prescription drugs through the MoRx Price Compare Internet site created this year to bring greater transparency to the marketplace." (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt’s commitment to providing young Missourians with the tools they need to succeed brought him to the 16th Annual Youth Field Day hosted by Lincoln University’s Youth Development Kid’s Beat Program.

"I am honored to be here with students, parents, legislators and community leaders who share my vision for our children’s future and who, like me, believe that we must provide children the tools they need to succeed in school and in life. With the support of the General Assembly we not only stopped the old system of withholding money from Missouri schools, we significantly increased education funding by more than half a billion dollars. Missourians can be proud that their students have access to more funding resources than ever before and that programs like Kid’s Beat are working to empower our young people to meet their full potential."

In response to increasing concerns about antibiotic-resistant infections caused by the MRSA bacteria known as the superbug, Gov. Matt Blunt has directed the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to increase its efforts to send prevention information to schools and communities.  The governor is pictured with State Health Director Jane Drummond and Eddie Hedrick.

Gov. Matt Blunt tours the Construction Careers Center and praised the Center’s efforts to help prepare students for jobs in the construction industry and college. The Construction Careers Center was established as the first charter high school in the country focused on preparing students for jobs in the construction industry and has an 88 percent employment rate for its graduates. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt announces that $110,541 in Youth Opportunities Program tax credits over the next two years will go to the Judevine Center for Autism in St. Louis to assist Missouri children living with autism.  Approving of today’s announcement is six year old Joshua Clermont. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt today announced that one of his budget priorities for the coming year will be to protect victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.  He plans to recommend that more than $2.3 million be available to cover medical exam costs associated with rape or sexual assault in next year’s budget.

Pictured with the governor are Sen. Michael Gibbons and Rep. Connie Johnson. Gov. Blunt recently signed bi-partisan legislation sponsored Sen. Gibbons and Rep. Johnson that enhance laws protecting women and children harmed at the hands of others, including provisions to allow the state to pay for exams following sexual assault, commonly called a “rape kit”, to gather the assailant’s DNA and archive the assault, and also protect the health of the victim.

Gov. Matt Blunt meets with Rick Sullivan, his representative on the St. Louis Transitional School Board, and receives a progress report on the board’s efforts to provide St. Louis City students access to quality education.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces that one of his budget priorities for the coming year will be to address the critical shortage of large animal veterinarians in the state by fully funding the state’s Large Animal Veterinary Student Loan Program.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces a new position focused on innovation in education and the workforce. Roderick Nunn will serve as the Director of Education and Workforce Innovation and will work to build on accomplishments of the governor’s METS Coalition and pre through graduate school (P-20) council.

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt host a reception honoring organizations and individuals making a mark in the fight to find a cure for breast cancer.  As part of the ceremony that attracted more than 300 guests from across the state, Gov. Matt Blunt officially recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Missouri.

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt examine scrapbooks in the manuscript collections of the State Historical Society. 

As part of his ongoing efforts to make state government more responsive and accessible for the people of Missouri, Gov. Matt Blunt proclaims Sedalia Missouri’s Capital for a Day, offering one on one and personalized access to state government.

Gov. Matt Blunt recognizes and commends the After School for All Partnership for St. Louis (ASAP), as they announce 27 new or expanded after school programs that will serve nearly 1,300 students each school day. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt visits Shepard Elementary School where he announces $1 million in grants to expand Math & Science and Health related afterschool programs.   Gov. Blunt secured this significant funding increase to support the new grants that will benefit almost 100 schools across the state.

"Afterschool programs provide Missouri’s students a safe environment where they can grow academically, socially, physically and emotionally. I am excited to see how Shepard Elementary School and other schools across the state will use this new funding to support quality afterschool programs that focus on math and science to prepare our students for the challenges of the global economy as well as programs focused on health and wellness."

Gov.  Matt Blunt launches Insure Missouri to help Missouri's lower income, uninsured workers buy health insurance. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt helps American George Hincapie with his winner’s jersey after winning the inaugural Tour of Missouri bike race. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt and Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder present the Stage Five winner with the Missouri Tourism Race Leader Jersey after the fifth stage of the Tour of Missouri, which took cyclists from the state capitol to St. Charles.

Gov. Matt Blunt, holding his son Branch, kickoff Stage Five of the inaugural Tour of Missouri that will take cyclists from Missouri’s Capital City, through the heart of Missouri wine country and to St. Charles.

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt hosts a reception in honor of former Gov. Warren Hearnes and First Lady Betty Hearnes.

Gov. Matt Blunt appoints Rod Chapel to the Administrative Hearing Commission and nominates Omar Davis as the new director of the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Pictured from left to right are Denise Chapel, Rod Chapel, Gov. Blunt, Omar Davis and NaTashua Davis.

Gov. Matt Blunt asks for a moment of silence to remember the nearly 3,000 innocent Americans who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 before the start of the Tour of Missouri.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits High Pointe Elementary School, home to one of the 100 new technology classrooms in 100 Missouri schools. In Nixa the governor announced High Pointe Elementary will receive $20,529 and Nixa Junior High will receive $29,500 to enhance technology in their schools.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces that Missouri's outstanding record of support for children's services is setting the bar for national standards and has made Missouri a role model for states across the nation interested in improving services for children. Gov. Blunt presents Paula White with a Certificate of Achievement honoring the 21st Circuit of the Department of Social Services' Children’s Division for meeting all standards for accreditation by the Council on Accreditation. (Bill Greenblat)

Gov. Matt Blunt proclaims Missouri as a State of ONE in the fight against extreme global poverty. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt signs legislation paving the way to repair or replace more than 800 Missouri bridges by 2012 as part of the Safe and Sound Bridges Program that he and transportation officials unveiled last year.  The Missouri bridge plan has become a national model for other states.

Gov. Matt Blunt honors 21 Vietnam Veterans with the first commemorative Vietnam Veterans Medallions.

"It is a great privilege to take this day to recognize the veterans of the Vietnam War who made such tremendous sacrifices while serving our nation. It was the hands of our veterans and soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines that have built America into what it is today, the greatest nation in the world, a nation that rests on a foundation of hard work, decency, and love of country and liberty. Today we award the very first Vietnam Veterans Medallions, an honor I hope acknowledges in some small way our appreciation for all our heroes have done for us and our country."

Gov. Matt Blunt signs pro-jobs, pro-growth legislation that will support the state's strong economic climate and attract and retain high quality jobs that offer health insurance for Missouri workers. House Bill 1 will build on the more than 85,000 jobs Missourians have created since the governor took office.

Missouri Governor Matt Blunt joins Rams and Chiefs fans from around the state for the annual Missouri Governor's Cup.  This year the St. Louis Rams defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 10-3 in the pre-season game at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis on August 30, 2007.

Gov. Matt Blunt today said he is not waiting for Washington to enforce federal immigration law as he outlined tough new initiatives to enforce the laws against illegal immigration.

Gov. Matt Blunt meets with Judge Nannette Baker, Judge Patricia Breckenridge and Judge Ronald Holliger. The three judges are candidates for the vacancy on Missouri’s Supreme Court.

Gov. Matt Blunt addresses the VFW National Convention and honors our military veterans who represent the best our country has to offer. 

Gov. Matt Blunt presents a $150,000 check for the INOBTR (text shorthand for "I Know Better") campaign to help fight against online sexual predators.  The funds will support the public awareness campaign and education initiative to fight Internet predators.

Governor and Mrs. Matt Blunt and their son Branch are pictured with Build-A-Bear Workshop® founder Maxine Clark after unveiling the Tour of Missouri Build-A-Bear.  The special bear will be awarded to the daily stage winner in the Tour of Missouri, following in the tradition of the plush lion given to the daily stage winner during the Tour de France.

Gov. Matt Blunt joins First Lady Melanie Blunt as she leads a team in the Susan G. Komen Kansas City Race for the Cure®. The race raises support for breast cancer education, research, support and treatment.

Governor and Mrs. Blunt are pictured with the new homeowner Cynthia Branch and her grandchildren.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits Washington to tour the progress the community has made to revitalize the Washington Farmers' Market since being named one of Missouri's first DREAM (Downtown Revitalization and Economic Assistance for Missouri) communities.

Gov. Matt Blunt appoints Becky L. Plattner to the Missouri Conservation Commission.

Gov. Matt Blunt appoints Ben (Todd) Parnell of Springfield to the Clean Water Commission.

Gov. Blunt stressed his commitment to the conservation of Missouri’s natural resources by appointing Don R. Johnson to the Missouri Conservation Commission, the first African American to serve on the Missouri Conservation Commission.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs Senate Bill 433 that supports Missouri’s military heroes who served during the War on Terror. 

"Our military men and women put their lives on the line to ensure our freedom and security. Missouri’s military heroes need to know that we are protecting the jobs of returning veterans and truly appreciate their service to our state and nation."

Gov. Matt Blunt signs legislation that will improve the quality of care for infants and children, and that will pave the way for responsible research to benefit Missouri families faced with debilitating diseases. 

Gov. Matt Blunt delivers the keynote address at 86th Recruit Class joining the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The governor spoke on the growing responsibilities and intricate organization the Patrol has become in their 76 year existence.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits The Shelter in Columbia where he signs bi-partisan legislation to enhance laws protecting women and children harmed at the hands of others.  His action significantly strengthens laws governing the rights of domestic violence and sexual assault victims.

"It is a fundamental duty of our state government to protect Missourians from violent criminals. I am pleased to enact this important, bi-partisan legislation that toughens sentences, helps maintain victims’ dignity, and protects safe harbors, like The Shelter, designed to assist those in danger."

Gov. Matt Blunt makes the Alternatives to Abortion Program permanent and takes action that will keep abortion providers like Planned Parenthood out of Missouri’s classrooms.  Gov. Blunt signs legislation at Concord Baptist Church in Jefferson City that enacts the provisions to further protect the sanctity of human life.

"All life is precious and needs to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect."

Gov. Matt Blunt visits with seniors at Lutheran Senior Services at Lenoir Woods to sign legislation that ends the tax on Social Security benefits for tens of thousands of Missouri seniors. The tax relief package for Missouri's seniors was one of the governor's top priorities during the legislative session.

"Missouri's tax on Social Security benefits is an unjust cut on Missourians' hard earned income. Like many other challenges this is not a problem we created, but it is a problem we have solved. For too long Missouri's social security tax has kept seniors from receiving the benefits they earned. I am pleased to sign the Senior Tax Justice Act ending the Social Security cut for tens of thousands of Missouri seniors."

Gov. Matt Blunt, First Lady Melanie Blunt, Branch and Leroy Blunt, the governor’s grandfather, celebrate the Fourth of July with Marshfield residents.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs the Hunting Heritage Protection Areas Act that preserves Missouri's vibrant and ecologically diverse natural resource areas from taxpayer subsidized development.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs legislation he called for in his January State of the State Address clearly reinforcing Missourians' legal right to use force while defending themselves and their loved ones from attack.

"Americans maintain a deep reverence for their Second Amendment rights. This legislation is an extension of those rights. It ensures law-abiding Missourians will not be punished when they use force to defend themselves and their loved ones from attacks in their own home or vehicle. I commend the General Assembly for supporting and passing this important law for Missouri families."

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt help cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Isabel's House, the Crisis Nursery of the Ozarks. The nursery is the Junior League of Springfield's signature project and will provide a safe environment to protect children from abuse and neglect when their families face a crisis.

Gov. Matt Blunt applauds Missouri’s small businesses for their vital role in the creation of jobs for Missouri families as he marks the opening of a new business incubator at the Southeast Innovation Center. The center will help make it easier for new businesses to succeed.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs bills that further his commitment to enhancing the delivery of services for Missouri's children. The governor also signed two bills championed by Missouri students.

"I am committed to providing our children the tools they need to succeed and will continue to support policy and budget priorities that put Missouri children first. Missourians can be proud that this legislation continues our efforts to improve the Amber Alert system in Missouri, to ensure that Missouri students receive proper screening for vision problems and to improve the educational resources available to Missourians who are hearing impaired. I am also pleased that some of Missouri's students have made the trip to the Capitol to be here as I sign legislation they championed while learning about the legislative process."

Gov. Matt Blunt’s appointee, Derio Gambaro, is sworn by his father as the newest member of the State Board of Education.

Gov. Matt Blunt joins First Lady Melanie Blunt as she leads a team of more than 100 members in the Susan G. Komen St. Louis Race for the Cure®. The race raises support for breast cancer education, research, support and treatment.

Gov. Matt Blunt today visits with Missouri students to announce his successful effort to provide more than half a billion dollars in new funding to Missouri students and classrooms over the last three years.

"Education is the most important investment our state makes and is my highest priority. Today I am pleased to sign a budget that delivers to Missouri classrooms more than half a billion dollars in new funding over the last three years. I commend the members of the General Assembly who share my commitment to ensuring our children receive the world-class education they must have in order to reach their full potential."

Gov. Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt join the residents of Kahoka for a Flag Day Parade.

Gov. Matt Blunt met with workers at Handi-Shop Incorporated in Mexico where he signed House Bill 352 that will benefit more than 7,000 Missouri workers and strengthen opportunities for Missourians with disabilities to be active participants in Missouri's workforce.

"This legislation ensures that Missourians with disabilities will have opportunities to continue making vital contributions in their communities and access to jobs that will help them meet their full potential. Sheltered workshops employ some of Missouri's most dedicated workers and play an important part in educating and building skills for the employees."  

Gov. Matt Blunt signs House 680 designating the Big Bluestem as the official grass of Missouri. Students from Harry S. Truman Elementary School in Rolla suggested the grass be honored with the official designation and worked with Rep. Bob May to see their proposal through the legislation process.  Over the last four years, students in Christine Schmidtgall’s fourth grade attended hearings, tracked the legislation and testified for the bill.

Gov. Matt Blunt appoints former Democrat State Representative Derio Gambaro to the State Board of Education. The announcement took place at the Missouri Bakery.

Gov. Matt Blunt participates in a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the relocation of Express Scripts new headquarters on the campus of the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The location will promote collaboration between Express Scripts, one of the largest companies headquartered in St. Louis, and the region's largest university. The collaboration was the first to utilize the Missouri Quality Jobs Act.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs House Bill 579 that will allow doctors, nurses and other licensed health care professionals protections to better serve Missouri families during declared disasters. Blunt called for this legislation in his State of the State address.

Gov. Matt Blunt and Branch attend the Cardinals game to help promote the INOBTR campaign, an education tool designed to educate parents and students about Internet dangers and threats. 

Gov. Matt Blunt presents a $150,000 check to the INOBTR (text shorthand for “I Know Better”) celebrity advocate Nick Lachey to help fight against online sexual predators.

Gov. Matt Blunt participates in the groundbreaking for the Highway Patrol's new Troop C Headquarters. The new state-of-the-art facility will improve efficiency, streamline operations and enhance public safety, while at the same time generating more than $1 million for Missouri taxpayers. The new facility is designed to meet current and future growth needs. The building will be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week and in addition to administrative offices and a communications center will house a memorial for fallen officers, an automotive service and storage area and an indoor shooting range.

Gov. Matt Blunt meets with Maggie Gross after signing House Bill 952 that enacts important safety measures in Missouri’s long term facilities. The legislation was passed in response to a November 2006 fire that took 11 lives at the Anderson Guest House. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt signs House Bill 818 that expands health coverage for Missourians and includes a tax relief measure designed to help lower the cost of health insurance for families.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits Autism centers across the state to announce the successful effort to more than double the funding for Missouri families facing Autism. The state’s newest budget includes the governor’s recommendation of $3.9 million in additional state funding to focus on improvements to Autism treatment and diagnosis. In addition, another budget bill will provide $2.6 million to be used to construct a new state-of-the-art learning center at Southeast Missouri State University to diagnose and treat Missourians who suffer from Autism.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs an historic higher education plan for Missouri students and families. The plan increases funding for student scholarships, introduces accountability measures, provides tuition stabilization and includes the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative, which will provide $335 million for new state-of-the-art learning and research centers for Missouri students. The governor is shaking hands with Rep. Ester Haywood. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt applauds the General Assembly's significant accomplishments and valuable investments for Missourians at the close of the legislative session.

Gov. Matt Blunt issues a proclamation honoring AmeriCorps volunteers for their outstanding civic service. 

Gov. Matt Blunt monitors areas in Mid-Missouri affected by flooding.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor flood levels and get an up close look at state resources at work to help Missouri communities impacted by severe flooding.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces the Missouri Virtual Instruction Program is open for registration and will be available to students in the coming school year.  The governor signed legislation authorizing the program, which introduces an online alternative to enhance traditional classroom learning for thousands of Missouri students.

After assessing areas in Northwest Missouri impacted by flooding and meeting with local emergency coordinators to help ensure state emergency resources are reaching those in need, Gov. Matt Blunt assists with the Department of Transportation’s sandbagging effort. The sandbags will be used if needed to help hold back waters to keep Highway 63 open or will be made available to other areas.

Gov. Matt Blunt honors Missouri’s fallen law enforcement officers at the 20th Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service.

"We cannot express enough gratitude to the families of the heroes who have lost their lives to serve our state and protect Missourians’ welfare. Our hearts and prayers go out to those who continue to risk their lives daily to protect Missourians."

Gov. Matt Blunt marks the National Day of Prayer by gathering with Missourians in prayer and thanksgiving for the many blessings God has bestowed on each of us.

Gov. Matt Blunt helps launch the Show-Me Scholars Initiative for Mexico and Houston School Districts.  The program brings local business leaders into eighth-grade classrooms to motivate students to take challenging classes in high school.

Missouri’s First Family welcomes members of the General Assembly and their families to the Governor’s Mansion for the Annual Legislative Barbecue to thank the General Assembly for their dedication to Missouri and work during the 2007 Legislative Session.

Gov. Matt Blunt names Katie Smith as his new director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

"Her experience in Missouri fields, our nation’s legislative chambers and the executive branch of government will provide tremendous knowledge, insight and perspective to benefit Missouri agriculture and farm families."

Cindy Brinkley, president of AT&T Missouri, announces that as a result of SB 284 signed in law by Gov. Matt Blunt, which enacts a statewide cable franchise agreement, AT&T will invest $335 million over the next three years to bring cutting edge video and Internet services to Missourians.

Gov. Matt Blunt signs House Bill 453 that authorizes income tax credits for donations to local food pantries that will help keep shelves stocked with food.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits Ridgewood Middle School to highlight the schools nationally recognized character education program.  

"Education is my highest priority and the importance of character is among the most valuable lessons we can teach our children. Helping children understand the importance of character and integrating character education into the school day helps ensure our students are prepared to succeed academically and professionally, as well as personally." (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt today addressed a rally of Missouri families who came to the Capitol to help bring attention to Autism Spectrum Disorders.  The group held a Capitol rally and applauded the governor’s recommendation to more than double funding for autism diagnosis and treatment. The governor is pictured with Samuel Luetkemeyer who introduced him during the rally.

Gov. Matt Blunt urges the House to pass legislation to enhance protections for sexual assault and domestic violence victims.  At a Capitol ceremony Blunt marked Crime Victims’ Rights Week and stood with women’s and community groups in support of Senate Bill 429. 

Gov. Matt Blunt today launches an historic energy sharing initiative projected to save Missouri taxpayers an estimated $8 million. The cooperative effort will generate steam to heat the Jefferson City Correctional Center. The partnership launched today will create renewable energy and heat using byproducts from the Jefferson City Landfill.

Gov. Matt Blunt presents a proclamation in remembrance of victims of workplace injuries, disease and fatalities. Pictured with the governor from left to right are Allen Dillingham, director of the Division of Labor Standards at DOLIR; Roberta Broeker,chief financial officer at MoDOT; Robert Simmons, safety manager at the Division of Labor Standards at DOLIR; Luana Gifford with Missouri AFL-CIO; Herb Johnson, secretary/treasurer with Missouri AFL-CIO; Rod Chapel, director of DOLIR; Leon Lawson, safety manager at the Division of Labor Standards at DOLIR; and Steve Dunn, safety manager at the Division of Labor Standards at DOLIR.

Gov. Matt Blunt and Speaker Rod Jetton again called for an end to the unfair cut on Social Security benefits. The Senior Tax Justice Act would eliminate state tax on Social Security benefits. The plan today earned the endorsements of the Silver Haired Legislators, Association of Retired Missouri State Employees, Missouri Kidney Program and the Missouri Retired Teachers Association.

Gov. Matt Blunt presents a proclamation to the Freedom of the Road Riders declaring May 2007 as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

Gov. Matt Blunt discusses the state's focus on campus security with University of Missouri-Kansas City educators and safety officials and names Michael Boxler, Missouri Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), to serve on his Campus Security Task Force. Blunt formed the task force to evaluate Missouri's campus emergency response plans and ensure close communications between higher education and public safety communities.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces a new Campus Security Task Force to examine the safety and security at Missouri's higher education institutions and to help ensure a more powerful partnership between school administrators and the public safety community. The task force will focus on initiatives to improve safety standards and heighten security within buildings and facilities on campus.  Mark James, Director of Public Safety and Dr. Robert Stein, Commissioner of Higher Education will serve as co-chairs. Pictured with the governor is Dr. Stein.

Gov. Matt Blunt joins more than 15,000 runners for the St. Louis Marathon and Family Fitness Weekend. The governor, together with two state teams he mobilized as part of the CEO Wellness Campaign, compete in the four-person Marathon Relay.

Gov. Matt Blunt attends the National Rifle Association's annual conference opening session where he signs legislation securing Missourians' right to bear arms during an emergency.

"I am very pleased to sign legislation approved by Missouri's legislature to ensure that every single Missourian can keep their firearm during times of emergency. This important legislation guarantees that law abiding citizens' freedom to bear arms will not be taken away, especially during an emergency. I applaud the Senate and House, and the bill's sponsor, Senator Engler, for passing this important legislation."

Gov. Matt Blunt visits Giant Steps of St. Louis, an Autism care and education facility, to discuss his plan to help Missouri families facing autism by more than doubling the state's funding for autism diagnosis and treatment. The governor's visit to Giant Steps comes during National Autism Awareness Month. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt is joined by Department of Corrections Director Larry Crawford and Probation and Parole Board Chairman William Seibert in highlighting the state’s investment in global positioning satellite (GPS) technology as a tool to track paroled offenders. Tough new sexual predator laws the governor signed dictate that the tracking technology will ultimately be used statewide to help protect children from sexual predators.

Gov. Matt Blunt participates in the Line of Duty Memorial Service honoring the lives and memories of Missouri’s fallen firefighters. Today's memorial service honored the memory of Captain Alan Leake who died while on duty last April.

Gov. Matt Blunt launches the Missouri Mentor Initiative to encourage state employees to participate in mentoring programs such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters.  The governor created the innovative program to help expand the number of adult role models for children. The pilot project will provide state employees with flexibility to invest in Missouri students during school hours.

Gov. Matt Blunt participates in a Support Your Troops Rally honoring the men and women of our Armed Forces.

Gov. Matt Blunt participates in "A Grateful Nation Remembers" -Veterans Recognition Ceremony in the House Chamber to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women of our armed forces as well as the veterans who served our country in uniform.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces that with the collective efforts of Missouri officials and business leaders, St. Louis earned the distinction of being named Yellow Pages official headquarters, preserving nearly 700 Missouri jobs at Yellow Pages. St. Louis had faced very stiff and competitive competition from Atlanta, Georgia, to earn the headquarters. (Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt, First Lady Melanie Blunt and Branch host the annual Easter Egg Hunt for children with developmental disabilities on the front lawn of Missouri’s Governor’s Mansion.  Thumbelina, the world’s smallest horse, was featured in the festivities. Also on the Mansion grounds children enjoyed face painting, a petting zoo and pictures with the Easter Bunny.

Gov. Matt Blunt and Department of Labor and Industrial Relations Director Rod Chapel view a photo display honoring the Women Ordnance Workers of the Cornhusker Ordnance Plant. The display is coordinated by the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and the National Archives-Central Plains Region to honor working women during World War II.

Gov. Matt Blunt today held a ceremonial bill signing for Senate Bill 339 which creates the Fairness in Public Construction Act to help safeguard taxpayer dollars and protect employee wages.

"I applaud Senator Mayer and the other Senate and House members for their work to pass the Fairness in Public Construction Act. Missourians can be pleased with the compromise legislation that will help ensure Missouri taxpayer dollars are used wisely on public construction projects.  The legislation also assists Missouri workers by increasing the penalty for an employer that does not pay the prevailing wage rate to its employees."

Gov. Matt Blunt welcomes Canadian Consul General Georges Rioux to the Governor’s Office. Canada was Missouri’s top export recipient in 2006.

 "My administration will continue to build relationships with our existing trade partners and to open new markets for Missouri products."

Gov. Matt Blunt hosts a Summit on Health Care Access and Affordability where he and health care providers discussed potential solutions to decrease the number of Missourians who do not have access to health insurance. (Photo: Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt and Rudy Farber of Neosho address reporters after the governor announces Farber’s appointment to the State Highway and Transportation Commission, marking the first time ever a Newton County resident will serve as a commissioner.

Gov. Matt Blunt calls for $500,000 in state funds for the Show Me Healthy Women program. The Show Me Healthy Women program offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings to thousands of Missouri women who meet specific residency, age and income guidelines.  The additional funding is more than six times current state funding and will allow the program to serve an additional 1,225 women next year. 

Gov. Matt Blunt and St. Louis Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce applaud after presenting Jeannette Graviss with the Excellence in Prosecution award. (Photo: Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt presents a proclamation to Officer Gary Wagster of the Kirkwood Police Department.

Gov. Matt Blunt unveils a community partnership plan to improve safety, care and quality of life for the residents of Bellefontaine Habilitation Center that will allow the facility to remain open. (Photo: Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt discusses his plan to expand a cutting-edge state program to Medicaid patients with sickle cell disease, a painful and debilitating blood disorder that primarily affects African Americans. The Chronic Care Improvement Program is part of the state’s efforts to improve health care for low income and disabled Missourians. It is a key component of MO HealthNet. (Photo: Bill Greenblatt)

Branch blows out the candles on his Birthday cupcake.

Gov. Matt Blunt presents a proclamation to Nancy Lieberman honoring the Read, Right & Run Marathon. Students participating in the marathon are challenged to read 26 books, perform 26 good deeds in their community, and run 26.2 miles over a six-month period.  Nearly 3,000 students, from 80 schools will be taking part in the Read, Right & Run Marathon this year, which is part of the Spirit of St. Louis Marathon and Family Fitness Weekend. (Photo: Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt cancels a state contract with Sam’s Janitorial Services and barred them from doing further business with the state after local and federal law enforcement agencies identified dozens of suspected illegal immigrants working under falsified documents.

The governor signs an executive order directing state agencies to audit all contractors to ensure that contract employees are legally eligible to work in the U.S. and to terminate contracts if it is determined a contractor employs illegal immigrants.

Gov. Matt Blunt announces that Missouri’s economy is flourishing with nearly 80,000 new jobs created since January 2005.

Gov. Matt Blunt visits the Eldon R-1 School District to highlight the district’s successful early childhood development programs.

"The early years of a child's life are among the most crucial and form the foundation for all future learning. We need to nurture our children's desire to learn so they can be successful throughout their lives."

Gov. Matt Blunt and U.S Secretary of Health and Human Services Michael Leavitt host a summit to discuss ways to build a health care system that has better patient care, higher quality care and increased value for the consumer. (Photo: Bill Greenblatt)

Gov. Matt Blunt visits with Missouri seniors and discusses the proposal to end the unfair tax on their Social Security benefits.

"The Social Security tax is an unjust Social Security cut, and with the help of leaders like Speaker Jetton in the General Assembly we are working to put an end to that cut. This is not a problem we created but it is one we can fix. This tax cut will ensure that Missouri seniors keep more of their well deserved and well earned Social Security benefits."

Gov. Matt Blunt joins with anglers as they cast their lines to mark the start of trout season at Bennett Springs State Park near Lebanon. 

“The generosity of Missouri’s state employees has led to another successful campaign. With the help of many small and large contributions, state employees donated more than $1 million to help more than one thousand charitable organizations provide much needed services.”

Blunt and Carnahan listen as Mark Arcabaso, owner of Domenico's, talks about the benefits of the Missouri Business Portal.

“We all know someone whose life has been affected by autism. I have heard heartbreaking stories from families with autistic children. The earlier we can diagnosis Autism, the earlier treatment can begin. My plan more than doubles the funding for autism diagnosis and treatment to help children struggling with the disorder live up to their full potential. With this funding we will expand the availability of services for autism diagnosis and treatment which will help eliminate waiting lists so children who need help can get that help faster.”

“This is an example of what better management and oversight can mean for important programs like child care,” Blunt said. “Now we can take the money we saved and use it to help additional low-income children and families access child care.”

”Arts in Missouri have a significant and lasting impact on our state’s culture and economic development. Whatever the medium, the genre, the presentation - the arts enrich the lives of all Missourians. I congratulate this year’s winners for their commitment to the arts.“

“Reading provides learning opportunities and enjoyment that last a lifetime. I have encouraged students of every age to become lifelong readers.”

“We often say that our children are our future of our country, and we say it because it is true. The investment we make today in our children by keeping them safe, healthy and giving them access to a world class education is an investment in Missouri’s future. I am pleased to join with Missouri’s child advocates in our shared commitment to ensuring we provide our children with the opportunities they deserve and the tools they need to be successful in life.”

“Education is my highest priority, which is why I have directed more money to classrooms in every budget I have signed. The increases I am recommending this year will push the total new funding for education to more than a half a billion dollars. We have a responsibility to work together, Republicans and Democrats, to provide a world class education for our children to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed in the global economy.”

The governor mobilized the guard to provide needed assistance. Guard members have helped transport generators, gone door-to-door in affected areas to check on the well being of their fellow Missourians, and have distributed food, water and blankets.

“My first concern as we design a new health care system is to improve access for patients and help lower the cost of health insurance for everybody. I have talked, and more importantly, listened to Missourians about their health care needs. One change I am proposing is the Health Care Home model. Under our plan, patients who participate would have a homebase for health care where professionals know their medical history and can recommend care, early detection and preventative actions to improve their wellness. Preventing or treating health care problems before they become hospital emergencies will dramatically improve the quality of life and care for Missourians.”

“It is our responsibility to ensure a brighter future for all our children. Increasing rates for residential care facilities ensures the centers have resources to support children who have been victims of abuse and neglect and secures our vision that today's vulnerable children will grow to become tomorrow's invaluable citizens.”

“No Missourian should have to choose between heating their home and the necessities of life such as food and prescription medicine. When I became Governor, Utilicare had not been funded since 2001. We changed that when my administration was the first to fully fund Utilicare. The plan we are announcing today would fully fund this energy assistance for those who need it the most for the second year in a row. The leaders joining me today believe as I do in the need to help low-income families with rising energy costs.”

“Education is my highest priority as Missouri’s Governor. Missouri is a leader in early childhood development and Parents as Teachers is a perfect example of an innovative pr