Governor Kehoe Signs Congressional Redistricting Bill into Law

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Governor Mike Kehoe has signed House Bill 1 of the 103 General Assembly’s Second Extraordinary Session into law, officially approving new congressional redistricting provisions for Missouri ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

The bill, sponsored by Representative Dirk Deaton and Senator Rusty Black, establishes updated federal congressional districts under what has been named the Missouri First Map. The new map, crafted by Governor Kehoe’s team and passed by the General Assembly earlier this month, is described as more compact and contiguous than the current map. It splits fewer counties and municipalities, preserves two congressional districts in their existing form, and keeps each current member of Missouri’s congressional delegation within their current district boundaries.

Democratic Missouri Congressman Emanuel Cleaver has represented Kansas City for decades, but his seat is now in jeopardy after this move. 

Governor Kehoe first convened lawmakers in a special session on August 29 to address congressional redistricting and changes to the state’s initiative petition process. The Missouri First Map was passed as part of House Bill 1, while House Joint Resolution 3, titled the “Protect Missouri Voters” amendment, was also passed and will appear on the ballot for voter approval.

The signing of HB 1 marks the official adoption of Missouri’s updated congressional districts, setting the framework for representation in the 2026 elections.