Missouri Economy

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.

In the upcoming April 2026 election, Cape Girardeau County voters will consider two propositions to prevent property tax increases on primary residences. 'Proposition A' would exempt senior citizens aged 62 and older from property tax increases unless their homes are renovated or the tax levy increases. 'Proposition B' would cap annual property tax increases at 5% or the inflation rate, whichever is higher. Dr. David Yaskewich, an economics professor, explained that such measures, similar to California's Prop 13, can provide property tax relief but may limit local government revenue and create economic disparities between long-term and new residents.

In the upcoming April 2026 election, Cape Girardeau County voters will consider two propositions to prevent property tax increases on primary residences. 'Proposition A' would exempt senior citizens aged 62 and older from property tax increases unless their homes are renovated or the tax levy increases. 'Proposition B' would cap annual property tax increases at 5% or the inflation rate, whichever is higher. Dr. David Yaskewich, an economics professor, explained that such measures, similar to California's Prop 13, can provide property tax relief but may limit local government revenue and create economic disparities between long-term and new residents.

The Missouri House narrowly passed a spending bill that reallocates $1 billion in support for colleges and universities as part of a $50.4 billion budget for state operations. Some schools would see their funding cut by 40% or more.