The 2026 Missouri legislative session delivered significant progress on some of the state’s most pressing economic and regulatory challenges. Lawmakers took notable steps forward on tax reform, health care access, and occupational licensing, though important work remains. There’s more to be done.
Here’s an overview of some of the legislation passed this session (some of which is still awaiting the governor’s signature):
INCOME TAX ELIMINATION: HJR 173 AND HJR 174
- Both chambers approved a proposed constitutional amendment that, if passed by voters, would authorize the legislature to begin phasing out Missouri’s individual income tax, and once eliminated, the tax could not be reinstated
- Does not eliminate the income tax overnight, but gives the legislature clear authority to move in that direction while forcing long-avoided decisions about the pace of phase-out and the modernization of Missouri’s outdated sales tax system
- Authorizes the general assembly to expand the sales and use tax base, with any additional revenue required to offset reductions in the income tax rate, and requires local governments receiving additional sales tax revenue to reduce other local taxes by a commensurate amount
EXPANDING LICENSE PORTABILITY: SB 1233
- Offers temporary licenses to individuals with at least three years of work experience in a profession from a state that does not require a license for that occupation
- Provides a transition step so experienced professionals can continue working while obtaining a permanent Missouri license
TELEHEALTH AND SCOPE OF PRACTICE REFORMS: HB 2372, HB 2974, SB 878, SB 1233
- Removed outdated barriers, allowing more patients to establish provider relationships remotely
- Eased restrictions on prescribing medications through telehealth
- Expanded access by allowing providers licensed through reciprocity to serve Missouri patients statewide
- Expanded pharmacist authority to test and treat for common illnesses and prescribe certain medical devices
FAILURE TO ACT IN A CRISIS
Missouri’s reading crisis did not get the urgent attention it requires during the 2026 session. Forty-two percent of the state’s fourth graders can barely read, the worst results in twenty years. When students reach third grade without strong reading skills, they fall behind in every subject and many never catch up.
The reforms Missouri needs are not complicated or untested. States like Mississippi, Florida, Indiana, and Louisiana have already acted and seen results.
Inaction is a choice, and Missouri’s children are paying for it.
Download a copy of the report here.
