Dec 07 2024 1 mins
Missouri has seen a flurry of political and economic developments recently. In the political sphere, the state legislature is gearing up for the 2025 session, with several bills already making headlines. A proposal by Sen.-elect David Gregory (R-Chesterfield) to pay residents $1,000 for reporting illegal aliens has sparked controversy[1]. Meanwhile, Rep. Bishop Davidson (R-Republic) is pushing a bill to eliminate the state income tax[1].
On the economic front, Missouri saw a net employment gain of 10,468 jobs in the private sector during the first quarter of 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[3]. This growth is attributed to expanding establishments, which added 115,511 jobs, and opening establishments, which accounted for 28,428 jobs gained.
In community news, a new hands-free law is set to go into effect on January 1, aiming to improve road safety[1]. Additionally, Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D-Columbia) has proposed a bill to limit in-school cellphone use statewide[1].
Environmental concerns have also been a focus, with the western half of the Missouri River Basin experiencing significant drought degradation over the summer[4]. The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center predicts continued drought conditions and above-normal temperatures for the region.
Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 Missouri legislative session is expected to address various contentious bills, including those on immigration and taxation.
- The Missouri Gaming Commission anticipates the launch of sports betting this summer, which could have significant financial implications for the state[1].
- Ongoing drought conditions in the Missouri River Basin will continue to be monitored, with potential impacts on agriculture and water resources.
On the economic front, Missouri saw a net employment gain of 10,468 jobs in the private sector during the first quarter of 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[3]. This growth is attributed to expanding establishments, which added 115,511 jobs, and opening establishments, which accounted for 28,428 jobs gained.
In community news, a new hands-free law is set to go into effect on January 1, aiming to improve road safety[1]. Additionally, Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D-Columbia) has proposed a bill to limit in-school cellphone use statewide[1].
Environmental concerns have also been a focus, with the western half of the Missouri River Basin experiencing significant drought degradation over the summer[4]. The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center predicts continued drought conditions and above-normal temperatures for the region.
Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 Missouri legislative session is expected to address various contentious bills, including those on immigration and taxation.
- The Missouri Gaming Commission anticipates the launch of sports betting this summer, which could have significant financial implications for the state[1].
- Ongoing drought conditions in the Missouri River Basin will continue to be monitored, with potential impacts on agriculture and water resources.