What is the role of the Missouri Secretary of State?

The role of the Missouri Secretary of State is primarily focused on overseeing elections and maintaining public records. This position is essential to ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes within the state, as the Secretary of State is responsible for managing the state's election laws, providing guidance to local election authorities, and certifying elections.

In addition to election oversight, the Secretary of State maintains official documents such as business registrations, notary public commissions, and various public records. This responsibility is crucial for ensuring that the state's documentation and public information systems are accurate, accessible, and secure.

The other options pertain to roles that are not within the purview of the Secretary of State. Managing state budgets typically falls under the responsibilities of the State Treasurer or the Office of Budget and Planning, while regulating state laws involves the legislative and judicial branches rather than a single executive office. Coordinating educational programs would be under the jurisdiction of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or other educational entities, making it distinct from the Secretary of State's duties.