News briefs
Court orders rewrite of Missouri map ballot summary
A Missouri appeals court ordered changes to the ballot summary for a potential referendum on the state’s new congressional map, finding the original language misleading.
The revised wording must more clearly explain the measure to voters.
Opponents say the Republican-backed map could eliminate one of Missouri’s two Democratic congressional districts — both represented by Black members of Congress — allowing voters to weigh in on whether to overturn it.
The targeted district, the 1st Congressional District, is represented by Rep. Emanuel Cleaver.
County to pay Black officers nearly $600,000 in bias cases
St. Louis County has agreed to pay nearly $600,000 to resolve two separate racial discrimination cases involving Black officers, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.
Lt. James Morgan is expected to receive $320,000 in a pending settlement, while former Officer Shanette Hall finalized a $250,000 agreement in April.
Both cases had been set for trial this month and are among several recent claims alleging discrimination or retaliation within the county police department.
Southern Illinois abortion clinics resume mail access to pills
Southern Illinois abortion clinics can again provide abortion medication through telehealth and mail delivery after the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily halted a lower court ruling restricting access to mifepristone.
The order restores, for now, rules allowing patients to receive the medication remotely while litigation continues.
Clinic operators said the ruling returns operations to the “status quo” after uncertainty created by a federal appeals court decision last week.
Free Loop Trolley rides resume through October
The Loop Trolley has resumed seasonal service, offering free rides through Oct. 25 along a 2.2-mile route linking the Delmar Loop and Forest Park.
The vintage-style trolley operates Thursdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with 10 stops between the University City Library and the Missouri History Museum. Riders do not need tickets or reservations, with boarding available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bi-State Development, which has managed the line since 2022, will continue operating the trolley through 2028. Officials say service hours will be extended during some major events in Forest Park and the Delmar Loop district.
Governor-appointed panel to oversee high school sports appeals
Missouri lawmakers have approved legislation creating a governor-appointed commission to oversee certain appeals involving the Missouri State High School Activities Association.
The panel would review issues including student transfer eligibility and disputes involving contests or procedures.
Supporters said the measure adds accountability to the organization that governs high school athletics and activities statewide, while critics warned it could inject politics into decisions traditionally handled by the association.
The bill now heads to Gov. Mike Kehoe.