Bill would allow utilities to seek rate increases for construction before projects are completed. Critics say this and other changes could cost consumers more than $1,100 a year. The post Gov. Mike Kehoe poised to sign legislation that could raise Missouri utility bills appeared first on The Beacon.

In addition to putting the St. Louis Metropolitan Police under state control, this bill covers immigration, restitution and much more. Democratic senators were able to negotiate many of their priorities into the bill as well.

House Bill 495 is part of Gov. Mike Kehoe's tough-on-crime "Safer Missouri" initiative. The sweeping public safety bill has provisions related to crime, controlled substances, immigration and school safety.