Under The Dome with Empower Missouri

The week of April 21, 2025

Welcome to another episode of Under the Dome, where Empower Missouri brings you the latest updates from Jefferson City. Our focus remains steadfast on advancing evidence-based public policy to combat poverty, drawing insights from over a century of advocacy.  Join Sarah Owsley, Advocacy Director, and her expert panel, including Misha Smith, Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, and Mallory Rush, as they dissect current legislative issues marked by fervent discussions on tenant rights, potential threats to the Head Start program, and the controversial measures targeting paid sick leave.
And Easter Candy.

Empowering Tenants: A Discussion on Organizing for Affordable Housing

Welcome to the latest episode of Under the Dome by Empower Missouri, where we dive into the critical issue of tenant organizing and its impact on affordable housing. Join Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, Chief of Policy Staff, and Vee Sanchez, Affordable Housing Policy Manager as they lead a discussion with some of our tenants leaders. Listen in as they share valuable experiences, transformative stories, and the challenges faced in advocating for tenants' rights in Missouri. This episode promises an engaging narrative on how tenant activism is shaping better housing policies and fighting poverty on local and state levels.

The week of April 7th 2025

Welcome to the latest episode of "Under the Dome," where we update you on the pivotal happenings in Jefferson City, with a spotlight on efforts to combat poverty. In this episode, we celebrate the perfection of House Bill 953, the "Clean Slate" bill, marking a significant step towards better criminal justice policies. While it awaits further proceedings in the Senate, our optimism and resolve remain strong. We discuss the progress of House Bill 828, which aligns with Senate Bill 67, aiming to amend the Donated Food Pantry Tax Credit Law. Also on the agenda is House Bill 1222, which faces challenges due to potential SNAP purchase restrictions. Finally, we delve into the promising prospects of the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Fund (HB 245), designed to invigorate housing developments in rural areas. Join us as we navigate the complexities, celebrate the wins, and press on with determination.

Special Episode: Clean Slate for Missouri

Welcome to "Under the Dome," Empower Missouri's podcast that keeps you updated on significant happenings in Jefferson City with a focus on advancing policies to end poverty. In this special episode, Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley is joined by Rika White, Kim Neu, and Patrick Benson for a special discussion on Clean Slate legislation, a key policy priority aimed at automating expungement processes for individuals with criminal records in Missouri.
Hear compelling stories and expert insights as Patrick shares personal experiences with the burdens of a criminal record and Kim elucidates the complexities of current expungement laws. Discover the economic and social benefits of passing Clean Slate legislation and learn how it can transform lives and strengthen the workforce across the state.
Join the conversation about Missouri's path to Clean Slate, the challenges faced, and the progress being made. Find out how you can get involved and advocate for change that provides second chances and growth opportunities for many Missourians.

The week of March 31 2025

Welcome to "Under the Dome," an insightful update from Empower Missouri, where we explore the happenings in Jefferson City focusing on our anti-poverty mission. With over a century of experience, we advance evidence-based policies tackling affordable housing, criminal legal system reform, and food security, while supporting partners in addressing wages, healthcare, childcare, and voting rights. In this episode, Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley, alongside Criminal Justice Policy Managers Rika White and Gwen Smith-Moore, and Chief of Policy Staff Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, discuss the latest legislative developments, personal anecdotes, and impactful policies designed to alleviate poverty in Missouri.

The week of March 24 2025

Welcome to the latest episode of Under the Dome, your source for updates from Empower Missouri on the ongoing legislative developments in Jefferson City. Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley is joined by Criminal Justice Policy Managers Rika White and Gwen Smith-Moore to discuss their recent testimonies in both the Senate and House.
The discussions highlight the need for external accountability in Missouri's Department of Corrections and introduce Senate Bill 378, aiming to establish an Office of State Ombudsman. The episode also delves into House Bill 989, the Missouri Survivors Justice Act, addressing the sentencing concerns for domestic abuse victims. Explore how these legislative efforts resonate with Empower Missouri’s enduring commitment to evidence-based public policy.
In addition, learn about the Missouri Violent Crime Clearance Grant Program and the ongoing debates around affordable housing, with a spotlight on House Bill 595’s implications. This episode is a call to action for those passionate about social justice and offers avenues for citizens to participate actively in shaping Missouri’s future. Don't miss the updates on key bills and upcoming lobby days focused on correctional oversight and survivors’ rights.

Legislative Spring Break

Welcome to 'Under the Dome,' where we unravel Empower Missouri's efforts in addressing key legislative issues in Jefferson City, focusing particularly on poverty alleviation. In this special Spring Break episode, join Sarah Owsley and Christine Woody alongside Jessica Seitz and Meg Boyko from the Missouri Network Against Child Abuse as they discuss their impactful journey with the Missouri Foundation for Health's Exemplary Advocate cohort.
Throughout six transformative years, this dedicated team of advocates has worked shoulder-to-shoulder, building strong coalitions, fostering deep connections, and aligning diverse advocacy agendas to enhance Missouri's health equity landscape. From developing pivotal tools for advocacy networking to curating equity assessment resources, their collaborations promise to leave a lasting impact.
Tune in for insightful stories, the shared experiences of coalition-building, and the exhilarating pursuit of social justice and systemic change. Discover how these advocates are shaping the future of nonprofit work and ensuring that the voices of the underserved are amplified in a rapidly changing world. Learn how you can use the tools they created for advocates to improve your daily work and check out MOAdvocates.org.

The week of March 10 2025

Welcome to the latest episode of Under the Dome, where we delve into the dynamic developments in Missouri's legislative landscape. Hosted by Sarah Owsley, Advocacy Director at Empower Missouri, this episode brings together key policy leaders including Gwen, Lucas, Misha, and Mallory to discuss the week's legislative actions and their implications.
This episode covers the rapid progression of Senate Bill 4, which poses significant concerns over increased utility costs for Missouri residents and the potential impact on housing stability. With utility rate hikes expected to affect vulnerable communities, the conversation highlights the vital need for testimonies in the legislative process, despite the expedited decision-making witnessed this week.
Additionally, House Bill 495, focusing on state control of the St. Louis City Police Force, raises questions about local governance and resource allocation. Despite concerns, some positive provisions, including cost caps on jail phone calls and protective measures for pregnant women in incarceration, were included.
The discussion also sheds light on a promising voting rights initiative, House Bill 617, aiming to restore voting rights to individuals on probation and parole, showcasing bipartisan support towards empowering reintegrated community members.

Week of March 3 2025

Join us on 'Under the Dome' for the latest news from Empower Missouri, where Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley and her team discuss current legislative efforts in Jefferson City to combat poverty. In this episode, we explore crucial topics such as affordable housing, food security, and criminal justice reform.
Christine Woody shares insights from recent hearings on food security bills, highlighting the fight against restrictive measures on programs like TANF and SNAP. We also delve into the efforts to pass important housing legislation, including the source of income discrimination and workforce housing investment fund for rural communities.
Hear firsthand accounts from Gwen Smith-Moore and Rika White on advocacy days for criminal justice reform, emphasizing the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals and the push for fair treatment. Additionally, we discuss the significance of Missouri's treatment courts, particularly for veterans, and the ongoing struggle against legislation that undermines voters' choices and expands police control. Tune in for an insightful and comprehensive look at the policies shaping the battle against poverty and injustice in Missouri.

The week of Feb 24 2025

Welcome to "Under the Dome," the podcast bringing you updates from Empower Missouri on significant happenings in Jefferson City, especially focusing on anti-poverty efforts. For over a century, Empower Missouri has pushed for evidence-based public policies designed to eliminate poverty. In this episode, we delve into recent legislative activities and efforts to drive change in areas such as affordable housing, criminal justice reform, and food security.
Join us as we share insights on the Day of Action, a significant event where over 200 advocates engaged with lawmakers on vital poverty issues. The episode highlights the passion and commitment of various coalitions working toward social justice and fighting for systemic change in Missouri.