Missouri Senate Legislative Updates: Missouri lawmakers debated income tax elimination, higher education funding, and new DWI laws this week, with key bills advancing in the Senate.
Legislative Highlights from the Week of April 13, 2026
This week, the Missouri Senate tackled a range of legislative priorities, including bills on education, insurance, tax reform, and public safety. Key measures advanced include Senate Bill 863, which establishes the Interscholastic Athletic Oversight Commission, and House Joint Resolution 173 & 174, which proposes eliminating the state income tax.
Bills Discussed on the Senate Floor
The Missouri Senate debated several impactful bills this week:
- Senate Bill 1085: Prohibits school staff from encouraging students to socially transition to a gender different from their biological sex.
- Senate Bill 1376: Enhances consumer protections for homeowners filing insurance claims after natural disasters.
First-Round Approvals
The Senate granted initial approval to the following bills:
- Senate Bill 1586: Updates provisions related to solid waste management.
- Senate Bill 1033: Exempts farm vehicles over 10 years old from emissions inspections.
- Senate Bill 1135: Establishes Bentley and Mason’s Law, requiring child maintenance payments from individuals convicted of DWI offenses that result in a parent’s death.
Bills Passed by the Senate
The Senate advanced several bills to the governor’s desk or the House for further consideration:
- Senate Bill 1553: Modifies incentives for producing critical materials and pharmaceuticals.
- Senate Bill 1196: Updates grants for workforce training programs.
- House Bill 1786: Allows the Missouri State Highway Patrol to purchase vehicles and equipment up to $500,000 without General Assembly approval.
- House Bill 1866: Permits the denial of peace officer licenses to non-U.S. citizens or individuals with permanently revoked licenses.
- Senate Bill 863: Establishes the Interscholastic Athletic Oversight Commission to oversee appeals related to school sports decisions.
Tax Reform: Eliminating Missouri’s Income Tax
The Senate narrowly approved a controversial plan to phase out the state income tax, potentially replacing it with higher sales taxes on goods and services. This measure, outlined in House Joint Resolution 173 & 174, would:
- Allow lawmakers to levy sales taxes on services and real estate transactions.
- Gradually eliminate the income tax, which currently generates $9.33 billion annually—two-thirds of Missouri’s general revenue.
Concerns and Next Steps
Opponents argue the plan disproportionately burdens lower- and middle-income Missourians. An analysis by the Missouri Budget Project estimates 80% of residents would pay more in taxes, while the wealthiest 20% would see a net tax cut. The resolution now returns to the House and, if approved, will appear on the November 3 ballot.
Budget Updates: Higher Education and Childcare Funding
The Senate Appropriations Committee passed its version of the $52 billion state budget for FY 2027. Key highlights include:
- Higher Education: Rejected the House’s controversial funding reallocation plan, opting for the governor’s traditional model. Funding remains frozen at FY 2026 levels.
- K-12 Education: Approved a $15 million increase for student transportation but left overall funding $190 million below statutory requirements.
- Childcare Subsidies: Restored $51.5 million in cuts, benefiting over 27,000 low-income children.
Judiciary Committee Hearings
The Judiciary Committee reviewed several bills, including:
- House Bill 1740: Increases penalties for driving while intoxicated offenses.
- House Bill 2592: Restores voting rights to individuals on probation and parole.
- House Bill 2610: Allocates Legal Expense Fund money for foster care-related claims.
Other Legislative Developments
Private School Voucher Program Challenge Dismissed
A Cole County judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging Missouri’s private school tuition voucher program, citing lack of legal standing and sovereign immunity. The ruling is expected to be appealed to the Missouri Supreme Court.
Investment Restrictions Revisited
The House approved House Joint Resolution 159, which seeks to loosen restrictions on how the state treasurer invests taxpayer funds. If passed by the Senate, the measure will appear on the November 3 ballot.
Show-Me America 250: A Patriotic Celebration
The Senate adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 21, encouraging Missourians to participate in patriotic events for the nation’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.
Related Reading
For more insights into Missouri’s legislative process, visit The Narrative Matters.
Learn more about the Missouri Budget Project’s analysis of tax reform at Missouri Budget Project.
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