Missouri Economy

As AI continues to evolve, each of the five colleges at SEMO has had to adapt to new technology entering the lives of their students and faculty.

With the increase in costs squeezing agricultural operations, some farmers and ranchers are getting creative to survive. A Missouri rancher turned her property into a thriving short-term rental for horseback riding lessons, helping her hold onto the place she’s called home for more than 40 years. Now, a new grant program aims to help others do the same.

A proposed constitutional amendment on Missouri's August ballot would give lawmakers the authority to replace the state's income tax with broader sales taxes. Critics worry the change could eventually affect healthcare costs.

Consumer specialists with the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance are participating in a Multi-Agency Resource Center in Reynolds County to answer insurance questions about damage to homes and businesses caused by the recent flash floods.

A national campaign is gaining support from Missouri small-business leaders seeking to permanently eliminate the Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting requirement, or B-O-I. The mandate requires companies to report personal information about their owners and controllers to help authorities identify shell companies used in financial crimes.

SEMO approves a $160.6M 2026-27 budget, braces for possible 10% state funding cut, and launches a “Fearlessly Forward” plan to expand required internships.

Missouri lawmakers cut funding for a program that helps SNAP recipients buy fresh fruits and vegetables, raising concerns about access to healthy food. Advocates warn it could make it harder to expand the program into underserved communities.

Cuts proposed in the next federal budget could impact a nationwide river program active across Missouri waterways, including the Mississippi River north of St. Louis. Conservation groups say the effort improves water quality, wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation while generating strong returns for taxpayers.

Supporters say the $15 billion project will bring jobs and tax revenue. Some residents say no one asked them.

A new AARP report shows family caregivers in Missouri contribute around $17.5 billion in unpaid labor each year. This uncompensated work forms the backbone of the state’s long-term care system, according to the leader of a national nonprofit.