Governor Kehoe announces first 15 Missouri communities to achieve Blue Shield designations

MISSOURI (KBSI) – Governor Mike Kehoe announced 15 Missouri counties, cities, and towns as the first to earn Missouri Blue Shield designations, recognizing their commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.

The Blue Shield Program, established by Executive Order 25-03, is part of the Governor’s Safer Missouri initiative.

The following communities have achieved Blue Shield designation:
Counties: Jefferson County, Carter County, Miller County, Johnson County, Cole County
Cities: Arnold, Warrensburg, Sedalia, Kennett, Branson, Desloge, Grandview, Vinita Park, Greenwood, Town and Country

Communities with Blue Shield designation can access state grants for law enforcement training and equipment.

Governor Kehoe is working with the General Assembly to make $10 million in grant funding available for this program.

To achieve Blue Shield designation, communities must demonstrate their commitment to public safety through:

Resolution: Passage of a resolution to reduce violent crime
Funding: Extraordinary investments in public safety funding
Community Policing: Initiatives or partnerships to improve public safety
Law Enforcement Recruitment: Recruitment and retention programs
Crime Reduction: Demonstrated effectiveness in reducing crime
Regional Partnerships: Participation in anti-crime task forces
Compliance: Adherence to Missouri crime reporting and traffic stop data requirements

The Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) administers the Blue Shield Program. Applications are accepted online, and DPS reviews submissions within two weeks.

For more information, contact Courtney Kawelaske at Courtney.Kawelaske@dps.mo.gov.