2026 Missouri Legislative Update
- Ralph Pfremmer
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
📅 Friday, February 27, 2026
📍 DoubleTree Hotel — Chesterfield🕢 Registration begins at 7:30 AM
Progress 64 West is pleased to host our 2026 Missouri Legislative Update, an annual event we believe is critically important as Missouri’s policy landscape continues to evolve. After a legislative session in 2025 that struggled to pass major measures, this year promises spirited discussion and significant proposals that could shape the future of our state’s economy, workforce, and long-term competitiveness.
Why This Update Matters
The Missouri General Assembly convened in early January to begin the 2026 session, which is scheduled to run through mid-May. Lawmakers enter this session facing increased pressure to deliver results after a year marked by legislative gridlock and high-impact debates on key issues.
Governor Kehoe’s Signature Priority: Income Tax Reform
One of the headline items shaping the 2026 session — and a major reason this legislative update is so timely — is Governor Mike Kehoe’s proposal to phase out and ultimately eliminate the Missouri individual income tax.
In his 2026 State of the State address, Governor Kehoe highlighted this proposal as a cornerstone of his vision for Missouri’s future, calling for a tax system that reflects modern economic realities and encourages growth. The plan would phase out income tax over several years and potentially replace revenue with broader taxation on certain services not currently taxed.
This proposal has already sparked strong reactions across the political spectrum. Some lawmakers and stakeholders warn that eliminating income tax could shift tax burdens or create budget challenges, while others champion it as a way to spur economic growth and give Missourians more control over their earnings.
Other Legislative Priorities on the Table
Beyond income tax reform, lawmakers are considering a wide range of bills and constitutional amendment proposals that could have long-lasting effects:
Property Taxes & Constitutional Amendments: Lawmakers have pre-filed amendments aimed at changing how property taxes are assessed and managed, including exemptions and caps on growth in property valuations.
Initiative Process Reform: Proposals are moving forward to require approval in each congressional district for citizen-initiated constitutional amendments, which could affect how future statewide ballot measures qualify and pass.
Election Integrity & Institutional Reform: Some legislators are prioritizing bills that focus on election security, government efficiency, and legislative structure, reflecting ongoing debates over governance and representation.
Organizations across the state — including business groups like the Missouri Chamber of Commerce & Industry — are also pushing lawmakers to address issues like child care access, workforce development, legal reform, and economic competitiveness.
A Year After 2025
The 2025 legislative session saw significant disagreement among lawmakers, particularly around tax policy and congressional redistricting, which led to delays, special sessions, and contentious votes.
As legislators return in 2026, many observers believe this session could be markedly different — with early bill filings reaching record numbers, robust debate anticipated on both sides of the aisle, and key policy proposals ready to advance.
Join Us on February 27
Progress 64 West’s legislative update is designed to give business leaders, community stakeholders, and regional partners the insight they need to understand what’s ahead for Missouri policy and the economy. Join us for a morning of expert perspectives, meaningful conversation, and networking with those who are shaping the policy agenda in Jefferson City and beyond.
👉 Registration opens at 7:30 AM — save the date and plan to be there.
Stay tuned — we’ll share additional speaker and session details as they are finalized.