We, the undersigned, call on Missouri lawmakers to enact commonsense protections for the funds disbursed through the Missouri Access debit card — funds intended solely for the care and support of children.

Currently, these cards can be used at:

Liquor stores

Cannabis dispensaries

Casinos

Lottery retailers

Tobacco shops

This is unacceptable.

These public funds are meant to provide for food, clothing, housing, school supplies, and essential needs — not to fuel addiction, dependency, or consumer vice.

We are calling for immediate legislation to block Missouri Access debit cards from being used at:

1. Alcohol vendors

2. Cannabis dispensaries

3. Gambling or lottery locations

4. Tobacco or vape retailers

 

Furthermore, we propose that if a parent is found guilty of using Missouri Access funds to purchase illicit black-market drugs, an additional criminal charge be added, as it constitutes the misuse of state-disbursed funds meant for a minor's welfare.

This initiative isn’t about control — it’s about accountability.
It’s about making sure child support supports children.
And it's time Missouri led the way.