Biography
Representative Matthew Overcast, a Republican, represents Douglas, Ozark, southern Stone, and Taney Counties (District 155) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected to his first term in November of 2024.
Overcast, born in Houston, Missouri, completed his primary and secondary education in Ozark and Douglas County, eventually graduating from Ava High School. He earned an Associate degree in Legal Studies and a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Drury University, followed by a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Mitchell Hamline School of Law.
Overcast served in the United States Air Force from 2010 to 2014 as a Tactical Aircraft Journeyman and Dedicated Crew Chief, where he received an Air Force Achievement Medal. Overcast is a business professional with experience in executive leadership and as a Missouri small business owner. Prior to his legal career, he worked as a probation officer and law clerk. In 2024, Overcast started his own private law practice, with a focus on business and education law, where he continues to practice today.
Overcast is involved with several organizations, including the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), Missouri Bar Association, the Minnesota Bar Association, the American Legion, the NRA, and the Ava Chamber of Commerce.
Representative Overcast resides on his family farm in Ava, Missouri with his wife Jessica, a local schoolteacher, and their five children: Lyla, Josephine, Adalynn, William, and Jackson.
State representatives serve in their state's lower legislative chamber. Responsibilities include drafting and voting on state laws, representing their district's interests in the state capitol, serving on state committees, and shaping the state budget. State legislation covers areas like education, healthcare, transportation, criminal justice, and local taxation that directly affect residents' daily lives.