Mar 07 2025 2 mins
Missouri continues to see economic growth and legislative activity as spring approaches. The state recorded the second-highest job growth rate in the nation for 2024, with a 2.8% increase in nonfarm jobs compared to the national average of 1.4%. Manufacturing and real estate sectors showed particularly strong gains, according to the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
In Jefferson City, the legislature has been busy with several key bills advancing. The Missouri Senate recently approved measures to ban child marriage by raising the minimum age to 18, and to prohibit discrimination against natural Black hairstyles. Both bills passed with bipartisan support and now move to the House for consideration.
Governor Mike Kehoe delivered his first State of the State address, emphasizing the importance of tax cuts to drive economic growth. He called for reforms to the state's education funding formula and increased support for alternatives to abortion. The governor also signed an executive order directing state agencies to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in hiring and operations.
On the environmental front, below-average runoff and reservoir storage are expected for the Missouri River basin in 2025. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers forecasts runoff to be 79% of average, based on current trends and below-average snowpack. This could impact navigation, hydropower, and other river uses throughout the year.
The Missouri House approved a $1.9 billion supplemental budget to fund state government through June. Key allocations include $300 million for public education and new funding for mental health services and agriculture programs.
In community news, Columbia saw the largest job growth among Missouri metro areas at 2.4%. The state is also investing in workforce development, with plans to make land acquisition easier for businesses and promote education initiatives.
Looking ahead, Missouri faces ongoing challenges with drought conditions expected to persist in parts of the state. The legislature will continue debating key issues like education funding and economic development policies. Additionally, the state will be closely watching spring weather patterns and their potential impact on agriculture and water resources.
In Jefferson City, the legislature has been busy with several key bills advancing. The Missouri Senate recently approved measures to ban child marriage by raising the minimum age to 18, and to prohibit discrimination against natural Black hairstyles. Both bills passed with bipartisan support and now move to the House for consideration.
Governor Mike Kehoe delivered his first State of the State address, emphasizing the importance of tax cuts to drive economic growth. He called for reforms to the state's education funding formula and increased support for alternatives to abortion. The governor also signed an executive order directing state agencies to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in hiring and operations.
On the environmental front, below-average runoff and reservoir storage are expected for the Missouri River basin in 2025. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers forecasts runoff to be 79% of average, based on current trends and below-average snowpack. This could impact navigation, hydropower, and other river uses throughout the year.
The Missouri House approved a $1.9 billion supplemental budget to fund state government through June. Key allocations include $300 million for public education and new funding for mental health services and agriculture programs.
In community news, Columbia saw the largest job growth among Missouri metro areas at 2.4%. The state is also investing in workforce development, with plans to make land acquisition easier for businesses and promote education initiatives.
Looking ahead, Missouri faces ongoing challenges with drought conditions expected to persist in parts of the state. The legislature will continue debating key issues like education funding and economic development policies. Additionally, the state will be closely watching spring weather patterns and their potential impact on agriculture and water resources.