Missouri News and Info Daily Tracker

In Missouri, political tensions are rising as a referendum challenging the state's new congressional redistricting map has cleared a key signature hurdle, with over 300,000 verified submissions forcing a statewide vote in November. According to People Not Politicians Missouri, as reported by Democracy Docket and Missouri Independent, this suspends the Trump-backed map under the state constitution, potentially derailing Republican gains in the 5th District and spotlighting gerrymandering debates. The Missouri Times details a competitive state Senate primary landscape, with toss-up races in districts featuring candidates like Rep. Ed Lewis, Rep. Greg Sharpe, and former Rep. Lisa Thomas, amid a 24-10 Republican...

Missouri's legislative session is in full swing, with lawmakers tackling key reforms amid economic growth and community revitalization. Top headlines include a judge striking down the ballot summary for a Trump-backed congressional redistricting plan, according to KSAT reports, ongoing battles over the state's gerrymander as noted by Democracy Docket, and counties preparing for April votes on property tax caps under Senate Bill 3, per KY3 and KSMU. St. Louis is advancing plans to block new ICE detention centers, as covered by the Post-Dispatch.

In government and politics, the House passed a bipartisan bill to restore voting rights to over 53,000...

Missouri's legislature is advancing several major initiatives during its 2026 session as lawmakers prepare for potential ballot measures later this year. The Missouri House passed a resolution calling on voters to eliminate the state income tax, a proposal that could fundamentally reshape how the state funds government operations[1]. According to the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, legislators are simultaneously working on expanding health coverage for small businesses, with the House passing HB 2596 unanimously last month[11].

On criminal justice, the House gave final approval to Senate Bill 888, which would classify older juveniles who commit crimes as adults and mandate longer prison...

In Missouri, a dramatic tornado struck Willow Springs on March 16, ripping away a barn while donkeys fled unharmed, as captured in striking footage from CityNews. This marked the state's most notable recent weather event, with no widespread damage reported.

Economically, the Show-Me State shows resilience. Forge Construction relocated to an expanded Kansas City headquarters, investing over $2.9 million and creating nearly 20 jobs at above-average wages, according to the Missouri Department of Economic Development. In the St. Louis region, more than $1 billion in investments bolster the food and agriculture tech sector, including American Foods Group's $800 million beef plant in Warren...

Missouri lawmakers are pushing bold tax reforms as the states legislative session progresses toward spring break. The House approved a proposal backed by Governor Mike Kehoe and House Speaker Jon Patterson to eliminate the individual income tax, potentially by 2032, replacing it with expanded sales taxes on services like professional and digital offerings, according to Anders CPA and KCUR reports. This could reshape business costs and attract jobs from states like Tennessee, though it requires Senate approval and voter consent.

In higher education, the House Budget Committee advanced a plan redistributing 250 million dollars among four-year universities, aiming to adjust...

Missouri lawmakers are advancing key business incentives as the legislative session progresses. The Missouri Chamber supports Senate Bill 1425, sponsored by Sen. Kurtis Gregory, to extend the business headquarters tax credit eligibility from 2030 to 2040, aiming to attract corporate expansions and jobs. According to Mike Brown, president of Burns & McDonnell, the measure provides certainty for growth, with the firm planning 500 new employees in Kansas City this year. Similar House Bill 3095 also gained backing. In education, the House passed HB 2710 to grade public and charter schools on an A-F scale based on student performance, finances, and efficiency, following Gov. Mike Kehoes executive order...

Missouri's state legislature wrapped a busy week with key votes on education funding, infrastructure protections, and tax reforms. Senator Karla May successfully amended Senate Bill 1029 to cap funds the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education can withhold from school districts at 10 percent and added support for early childhood education, according to her May Report for the week of March 2. The Senate also passed bills raising rural interstate speed limits to 75 miles per hour, modifying the sex offender registry, and creating offenses for damaging critical infrastructure. In the House, lawmakers approved a $3 billion supplemental budget including road and bridge funds, as...

Missouri's political landscape buzzes with contention as opponents of a Republican-backed congressional redistricting map announce they have gathered enough signatures to force a voter referendum this November, potentially halting its implementation and preserving a Democratic seat through the midterms, according to election analysts. The Missouri Chamber reports lawmakers are advancing bills like SB 1425 and HB 3095 to extend a key tax credit for corporate headquarters until 2040, aiming to retain jobs amid growth at firms like Burns & McDonnell, which plans to add 500 employees in Kansas City this year. Meanwhile, the House approved a sweeping property tax overhaul in HB 2780, mandating separate rate...

Missouri continues to navigate a mix of economic resilience and weather challenges amid steady political developments. In top headlines, recent wintry precipitation brought snow and ice to Mid-Missouri, prompting live updates from ABC 17 News on March 1 as accumulation affected roads and travel in Columbia and surrounding areas.[3] No major injuries were reported, but drivers were urged to exercise caution.

On the government and politics front, the state legislature is advancing bills on education funding and tax reforms, with bipartisan talks focusing on property tax relief amid rising costs. Governor Mike Parson recently signed measures enhancing public safety grants...

Missouri's legislative session is in full swing as lawmakers tackle budget priorities and key reforms. The Senate Appropriations Committee advanced House Bill 2014, a supplemental appropriations bill to address funding gaps, amid concerns over disability services like Day Habilitation, according to Senator Rusty Black's update. Senator Jason Bean secured immediate property tax relief for data center developments, while lawmakers filed a Supreme Court brief supporting glyphosate use, as reported by The Missouri Times. State Sen. Mike Moon revived a personhood amendment that could criminalize abortions by treating embryos as legal persons, drawing concerns over IVF access from Sen. Tracy McCreery, per...

Missouri's state legislature is advancing key priorities amid budget pressures and policy debates. The House unanimously passed HB 2189, allowing drivers with vehicles under six years old to register for five years at a $45 fee, simplifying renewals while maintaining insurance and tax checks, according to St. Louis Public Radio. Speaker John Patterson secured a tight win on a video lottery terminals bill, though its Senate fate remains uncertain, as discussed on This Week in Missouri Politics. Senate Appropriations hearings covered Public Safety, Auditor, Attorney General, and Commerce departments for FY2027 funding, per Senator Rusty Black's update.

In business news...

Missouri's state legislature is in full swing as the 2026 session advances, with the House narrowly passing House Bill 2989, the Missouri Video Lottery Regulatory Act, by an 83-66 vote to legalize and tax gray gaming machines found in gas stations and bars, according to Missouri News Network reports. The measure now faces skepticism in the Senate, where President Pro Tem Cindy O'Laughlin has downplayed its priority. House Budget Committees are scrutinizing Governor Mike Kehoe's proposals, including higher education funding and debates over $2 billion in potential cuts amid video lottery revenue discussions, as covered in This Week in Missouri Politics. Property tax...

Missouri lawmakers are tackling property tax reforms amid ongoing debates, as the Senate Select Committee on Property Taxes reviewed proposals like SB 919 to cap assessment increases, following backlash in Jackson County where some property values surged dramatically, according to Missouri News Network reports. The House sent back HB 2780 for revisions to better silo tax subclasses and adjust election timing for tax measures, praised by both parties for its leadership approach. In other key developments, the House narrowly passed HB 2989 to regulate gray gaming machines with a centralized system, though it faces Senate skepticism from leaders like Sen. Cindy OLaughlin. Hemp...

Missouri's state legislature is advancing key bills amid budget pressures and redistricting debates. The House passed HB 2033, removing the sunset on restrictions for prescribing sex change hormones to minors under 18, sending it to the Senate, according to the Missouri News Network. Lawmakers also approved measures on policing standards via HB 1866 and protections for born-alive infants in HB 1667, while pushing back against Governor Mike Kehoe's proposed cuts to developmental disability programs, with families flooding committees with protests. The Missouri Press Association reports ongoing hearings on gerrymandered congressional maps, spurred by lawsuits and former President Trump's calls for redistricting to favor Republicans.<...

Missouri's state legislature is in full session with significant activity across multiple fronts this week. The Missouri House of Representatives passed House Bill 2033, which removes the sunset provision on restrictions for prescribing sex change hormones to individuals under 18 years old[1]. The measure passed 102-40 and moves forward to the Senate.

The House Budget Committee has become a focal point for families advocating for developmental disability services. According to Missouri News Network, dozens of families testified against proposed cuts in Governor Mike Kehoe's budget for the Department of Mental Health programs that support at-home care and daytime activities[1]. Representative...

Missouri has experienced significant developments this week across energy, healthcare, and legislative initiatives that will shape the state's future.

The Missouri Public Service Commission approved the Big Hollow Energy Center on February 11th, marking a historic milestone for the state. According to Ameren Missouri, this hybrid facility will combine an 800-megawatt natural gas plant with a 400-megawatt lithium-ion battery storage system in Jefferson County, with operations expected to begin in 2028. The facility represents Missouri's first large-scale battery storage installation and addresses growing energy demands across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

The state legislature has advanced several...

Missouri's legislative session is in full swing, with lawmakers tackling education oversight, voting rights, and anti-trafficking measures. The Senate agreed on new rules making it harder to cut debate, according to the Missouri Press Association's Capitol Report. Senate Bill 863, aimed at creating a state commission to oversee the Missouri State High School Activities Association, faced pushback from MSHSAA executive director Jennifer Rukstad, while Attorney General Catherine Hanaway filed a federal lawsuit alleging discrimination in its board selection, Missouri News Network reports. Bipartisan support advanced House Bill 2273 to protect child sex trafficking victims, with preliminary House approval after testimony highlighted flaws...

Missouri lawmakers are advancing key bills amid a bustling legislative session. The House approved House Bill 2273 with bipartisan support to protect child sex trafficking victims, ensuring they are not charged under current prostitution laws, according to Missouri News Network reports. A House committee advanced House Bill 3155 to streamline felony sentencing with stricter parole minimums, passing on party lines. Senate debates continue on Senate Bill 863, pushing for state oversight of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, while Attorney General Catherine Hanaway filed a federal lawsuit alleging discrimination in its board selection, as detailed by Missouri News Network and Missouri NEA...

Missouri's legislature entered its fifth week of session this February with significant activity across education, workforce development, and economic policy. The state continues to navigate competing priorities while businesses report optimism about growth prospects.

Governor Mike Kehoe's education budget proposals are reshaping state spending priorities. According to the Missouri Press Association, the governor proposed a 10 million dollar increase in funding for the MO Scholars program, bringing total program funding to 60 million dollars when combined with existing tax credits. The budget also allocates 50 million dollars each to basic and special education increases, with more than 500 million dollars in additional...

Missouri's state legislature is in full swing this session, with the Senate approving five appointments to the state-controlled St. Louis police board, according to St. Louis Public Radio, and changing rules to make it harder to cut off debate, as reported by Missouri Independent. Lawmakers are debating bills to restrict solar projects on farmland, protect schools in open-enrollment plans, and shift school board elections from April to November, per JCNT and Missouri Independent. Governor Mike Kehoe proposes a second year of public transit cuts, KMOV reports, amid budget pressures exceeding revenues by billions, warns MNEA.

In business and...

Missouri's legislative session is underway amid debates over tax reform and education policy. Republicans are advancing Governor Mike Kehoe's plan to phase out the state income tax through resolutions like HJR 173 and HJR 174, which would expand sales taxes if approved by voters, though critics warn of a potential $5 billion revenue shortfall and harm to public services, according to the Missouri National Education Association[2]. Democrats aim to slow the pace after last year's contentious overrides, as reported by KCUR[7]. Meanwhile, the Missouri Technology Corporation awarded $5.8 million to 10 startups via its IDEA Fund, boosting high-growth tech firms and creating jobs statewide[6].
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In Missouri, the Supreme Court unanimously struck down Senate Bill 22, ruling the ballot measure law unconstitutional for violating the state's original purpose clause, according to Missouri Lawyers Media. This decision prompted Republican senators to boycott Chief Justice W. Brent Powell's State of the Judiciary address, with Senator Rick Brattin decrying judicial overreach in a video statement. Meanwhile, the legislature grapples with budget woes, facing a $2.5 billion shortfall amid proposals like House Joint Resolutions 173 and 174 to phase out the individual income tax by expanding sales taxes, as reported by the Missouri National Education Association and STLPR. Democrats, including Rep. Betsy Fogle...

Missouri's political landscape simmers with tension as the state legislature grapples with judicial clashes and policy battles. Senate Republicans canceled the State of the Judiciary address, protesting a unanimous Missouri Supreme Court ruling that struck down Senate Bill 22, which aimed to shift ballot summary authority from judges to the Secretary of State, according to St. Louis Public Radio and The Missouri Times. Lawmakers also advanced bills to permanently extend restrictions on transgender athletes and gender-affirming care for minors, passing through a House committee on party lines, as reported by KCUR and St. Louis Public Radio. House Speaker Jon Patterson introduced...

In Missouri, protesters gathered at the state Capitol this week, decrying legislative efforts to roll back voter-approved abortion rights from Amendment 3 and mandatory paid sick leave, with advocates like those from Indivisible St. Louis and Abortion Action Missouri vowing to fight a potential November ballot ban. STLPR reports hundreds rallied, united against what they call an affront to the 2024 electorate. Meanwhile, the legislature advances a constitutional amendment to undo 2020 Medicaid expansion protections, as noted in Senator Karla May's report, while House Majority Leader Alex Riley anticipates a challenging session marked by GOP factions and Democratic filibusters over Governor Mike Kehoe's...

Missouri lawmakers have returned to Jefferson City for the 2026 legislative session, filing hundreds of health care bills amid concerns over potential Medicaid cuts. According to The Beacon, priorities include reforming prior authorization rules, expanding insurance coverage for oral contraceptives and doula services, and an omnibus package like HB 2372 and SB 841 to streamline reforms and boost maternal health support. Senate Democrats, frustrated by prior Republican tactics, filibustered gubernatorial appointments for a second week, as reported by Missouri News Network, while progressive groups rallied in the Capitol rotunda against rollbacks of voter-approved paid sick leave and abortion rights under Amendment 3.

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Missouri lawmakers are back in Jefferson City for the 2026 legislative session, which kicked off this week with significant activity focused on tax reform, healthcare, education, and economic development[2][6].

Governor Mike Kehoe outlined his priorities in his State of the State address, calling for a foundation for growth while maintaining fiscal discipline[6]. His most ambitious proposal targets Missouri's tax code, with House Speaker Jon Patterson filing legislation to replace the state income tax with higher sales taxes, though the plan includes exemptions for real estate, agriculture, and healthcare[2]. The proposal has faced considerable opposition, but leadership remains committed to...

Missouri's 2026 legislative session is in full swing, with Governor Mike Kehoe delivering his State of the State address this week, framing priorities around building a foundation for growth through fiscal discipline and economic competitiveness. According to the governor's office, Kehoe proposed cutting over 600 million dollars from the general revenue budget to address shortfalls while protecting Medicaid, education, and disaster relief, and unveiled a bold plan to phase out the state's individual income tax over five years, putting the decision to voters via ballot.[1][13] The Missouri Technology Corporation reports investing millions in 2025 to spur small businesses statewide, creating 8,000 jobs, bolstered by 33...

Missouri's 2026 legislative session kicked off January 7th with nearly 700 proposals already filed and a ambitious agenda taking shape. Governor Mike Kehoe delivered his State of the State address on January 13th, outlining what he called "A Foundation for Growth" with sweeping proposals to reshape the state's tax policy and address mounting budget challenges.

The headline item from Kehoe's address was his plan to phase out Missouri's individual income tax over five years, a dramatic shift in state tax policy. According to Missouri Press, the governor is calling on the legislature to place this proposal on the ballot for...

Missouri's legislature convened this week for the 2026 regular session, with lawmakers already filing over 2,000 bills as Governor Mike Kehoe outlined his vision for the state. The governor delivered his State of the State address on January 13th, centering on what he called a foundation for growth.

Kehoe's most ambitious proposal involves eliminating Missouri's individual income tax, a move he argues is essential for the state's competitiveness. According to the governor's office, his budget cuts more than 600 million dollars from the core to address a future spending imbalance of potentially over 2 billion dollars. The income tax represents a significant...

Missouri's 2026 legislative session kicked off on January 7 with over 2,000 bills filed, including more than 80 proposed constitutional amendments targeting property taxes, income taxes, and school funding, according to The Beacon. Lawmakers like Sen. Mike Cierpiot and Rep. Rick Brattin are pushing measures to cap property tax hikes, exempt seniors, and boost transparency in school budgets, amid Republican priorities for tax relief in a tighter budget year, as STLPR reports. House Speaker Jon Patterson emphasized property tax cuts, while Democrats like Minority Leader Ashley Aune warn against income tax elimination that could raise sales taxes and living costs.

Governor Mike...

Missouri is entering the new year with an intense focus on taxes, infrastructure, and long-term economic growth, as state lawmakers return to Jefferson City and local governments advance big-ticket projects. St. Louis Public Radio reports that the 2026 legislative session opened with Republican leaders prioritizing additional tax cuts even as they brace for a tighter state budget and potential revenue shortfalls[9][4]. According to The Beacon, lawmakers have already filed more than 80 proposed constitutional amendments, including measures to cap or eliminate state income tax and reshape property tax rules, moves that could significantly change how Missouri funds schools and local services[1].
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Missouri is opening the new year with a busy agenda at the Capitol, shifting economic currents, and a series of local projects reshaping life in communities across the state. St. Louis Public Radio reports that lawmakers have convened for the 2026 session amid lingering tensions from last year, with Republican leaders pressing to cut the state income tax while Democrats vow to resist after GOP moves to end filibusters on redistricting, abortion, and paid sick leave measures. According to St. Louis Public Radio, tax cuts are a top priority even as Missouri faces a tighter budget outlook and reduced revenue growth.<...

Missouri's 2026 legislative session kicks off Wednesday in Jefferson City, with lawmakers eyeing major tax reforms amid a tightening budget. House Speaker Jon Patterson, according to KCUR, aims to phase out the state income tax over time while cutting personal property taxes on vehicles and capping commercial property tax hikes. KSHB 41 reports Patterson prioritizing these changes as revenue flatlines, adjusted for inflation, following prior cuts and fading federal funds. Prefiled bills from LegiScan target property tax relief, utilities, health care, and restrictions on foreign agricultural land ownership.

Property tax woes persist, especially in Jackson County, where 2023 spikes led to...

Missouri enters 2026 with steady progress across key sectors, marked by legislative momentum, local infrastructure gains, and economic optimism. Top headlines include Governor Mike Kehoes reflections on 2025 achievements in public safety and growth, alongside ongoing resolutions in the states Regular Session tracked by LegiScan. In government and politics, the legislature tracks numerous resolutions for the 2026 session, while Governor Kehoe highlighted 2025 investments like 50 million dollars in the MOScholars school choice program and Executive Order 25-14 forming the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force to overhaul funding formulas. Local decisions shine in the Houston suburbs, where Sugar Land City Council approved a 3.85 million...

Missouri is experiencing significant shifts in tax policy, economic development, and government operations as the new year begins. Governor Mike Kehoe is positioning the state as a leader in pro-business legislation and tax relief measures.

The most consequential development comes from Kehoe's administration, which made Missouri the first state to eliminate taxation on capital gains when the governor signed House Bill 594 into law in July 2025[1]. This landmark legislation allows residents to deduct 100 percent of capital gains when calculating state income tax liability, providing immediate relief to retirees, investors, and workers with retirement accounts[1]. Building on this momentum, Kehoe...

Missouri wraps up 2025 with steady political momentum under Governor Mike Kehoe, who recently ordered flags flown at half-staff to honor St. Charles County Ambulance District Lieutenant Sarah McCarthy and signed Executive Order 25-36 to ease heating fuel transport amid winter demands, according to the Governor's office press releases. Top headlines include Kehoe's announcement of the Fiscal Year 2027 Consensus Revenue Estimate alongside legislative leaders, signaling fiscal planning ahead of the January 6 legislative session start, as noted by John Combest's Missouri Political News. In Jackson County, voters ousted Executive Frank White in a landslide over property tax hikes, paving the way for...

Missouri wraps up a dynamic 2025 with political turbulence, economic momentum, and community advancements defining the year. Top headlines include St. Louis Aldermen suing to hold a special sheriff election after ousting controversial Sheriff Alfred Montgomery amid scandals over spending and prisoner transport, as reported by St. Louis Public Radio and KSDK. Republicans redrew congressional maps at President Trump's urging, sparking lawsuits and a referendum threat, according to STLPR. Legislation targeted voter-approved paid sick leave and abortion rights, drawing backlash and signature drives for reforms. ICE agents in Kansas City captured an undocumented immigrant, per Fox4 KC via TonysKansasCity.com.
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Missouri's political landscape dominated headlines this Christmas season, with lawsuits challenging the state's new Trump-backed congressional map. According to St. Louis Public Radio and Missouri Independent, the ACLU and voters filed suits alleging gerrymandering and constitutional violations, as Republicans push to split Kansas City's district for midterm gains. Politico reports opponents seek to suspend the map pending a referendum on petition signatures, while Attorney General Catherine Hanaway insists it remains in effect. In St. Louis, a judge ousted Sheriff Alfred Montgomery amid scandals involving spending disputes and a deputy handcuffing incident, per St. Louis Public Radio and the Post-Dispatch.
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Missouri wraps up 2025 with a mix of political shifts, economic momentum, and community investments shaping its future. Top headlines include St. Louis County Executive Sam Page announcing he won't seek re-election, citing personal reasons discussed on Westplex Talk radio, and former Attorney General Andrew Bailey poised to become the FBI's sole deputy director, as reported by KOMU. China has sued Missouri over a $25 billion court judgment related to COVID origins, with Attorney General Catherine Hanaway vowing to fight back, according to The Missouri Times and Gray Media outlets.

In politics, lawmakers have pre-filed 1,571 bills for the 2026 session starting...

Missouri is closing out the year with a mix of political maneuvering, economic ambition, and community investment that listeners will want to watch closely. The Missouri Bar reports that lawmakers have already pre-filed more than 1,500 bills for the 2026 legislative session, signaling heated debates ahead on taxes, education, and social policy as the General Assembly returns to Jefferson City. According to The Missouri Bar’s legislative update, 910 bills have been filed in the House and 661 in the Senate, an unusually heavy load even for a pre-session period.

Budget pressures are mounting. Missouri Independent reports that Governor Mike Kehoe has wa...