JEFFERSON CITY — Today, legislation sponsored by state Sen. Rob Schaaf, R-St. Joseph, received unanimous support in its final passage out of the Senate.

“If passed, Senate Bill 628 will help several state colleges join in long-term leases on their campuses. This is of particular benefit to Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, a university that has the space and vision to use its 700-plus acre campus to better the university and surrounding community,” said Sen. Schaaf. “Once the measure passes, several schools will be able to enter into long-term economic development arrangements that were previously hampered by state law.”

Current law states that governing bodies of certain public higher education institutions may transfer the title to certain real property without the approval of the Legislature. SB 628 allows state colleges join in long-term leases.

An emergency clause was adopted, so the measure will become law as soon as it passes the House and the governor signs it. This measure will allow Missouri Western State University to immediately renew many of its current leases, across its 723-acre campus.

“While this legislation will certainly help Missouri Western State University and Northwest Missouri State University, it could really introduce benefits for other campuses across the state. When there are no longer any sunset restrictions for leases, developers can begin to take a serious look at each campus.”

To read more about Sen. Schaaf’s legislation, visit www.senate.mo.gov/schaaf.