Show-Me State Times

Gov. Mike Kehoe has signed several pro-business bills into law, as announced by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The legislation, passed during the 2025 legislative session, addresses concerns related to public safety, workforce development, and business costs.

One of the bills supported by the Missouri Chamber is SB 71, introduced by Gregory. It establishes the First Responder Recruitment and Retention Act, providing free college tuition for first responders and their children pursuing degrees relevant to their careers. This initiative aligns with recommendations from the Missouri Chamber's Safer Missouri, Stronger Missouri report.

SB 150, sponsored by Carter, includes measures to strengthen the workforce. It introduces a Career-Tech Certificate Program reimbursing students for expenses incurred while obtaining credentials in fields with workforce shortages. Additionally, it waives professional licensing requirements for spouses of Missouri law enforcement officers and renames a loan repayment program to support healthcare professionals in high-need areas.

HB 1041, proposed by Diehl, aims to reduce regulatory burdens on domestic brewers by lowering inspection fees for American-brewed malt liquor from $1.86 per barrel to $0.62 per barrel.

SB 68 by Henderson focuses on promoting STEM career awareness among high school students through a dedicated fund for competitions and extends a teacher externship program that has been operational since 2019.

Lastly, HB 594 from Perkins offers corporations a deduction of 100% on capital gains income when Missouri's top corporate income tax rate falls to 4.5% or lower. It also grants sales tax exemptions for broadband equipment used by service providers starting January 1.