Missouri lawmaker resigns for job as state child advocate

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri state lawmaker has resigned to take a job as the state’s top child advocate. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Tuesday reported St. Louis-area Rep. Becky Ruth’s resignation. The Festus Republican is leaving the House to be the Office of Child Advocate director. The office investigates complaints over the state’s treatment of children and its handling of child abuse allegations. The director also recommends policy changes, among other responsibilities. Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Wilson and Republican Gov. Mike Parson appointed Ruth to the position.