April 20, 2023

Protecting Missouri’s Farmland

Both the Missouri House of Representatives and Senate are working tirelessly on behalf of the people of Missouri. While the process and procedures can be slow moving, it is important for both bodies to pass the best possible legislation. This week, and in the next couple of week, the Senate will be working on the state operating budget.

The budget is the General Assembly’s only constitutionally required task during session. It is my hope that we are able to provide the proper funds to essential state services as well as exercise fiscal restraint and give the taxpayers more economic freedoms.

On the House side, a few of my bills took further steps towards the finish line. Senate Bill 72, the Judicial Privacy Act, was heard and passed in the House Judiciary Committee. I am particularly excited about this bill because it provides the proper protections for judicial officers, public servants and their families. We are all endowed privacy and protection under the law regardless of one’s profession and status.

Senate Bill 222, which prevents a county, municipality or political subdivision from enforcing moratoriums on eviction proceedings, was passed out of the House Special Committee on Small Business.

Both of these bills are now eligible for debate on the House floor.

On the Senate floor, Senate Bill 275 was third read and passed and sent to the House. This bill provides a sales tax exemption for the utilities, equipment and materials used in the production of electricity.

One of the more critical and pertinent issues facing Missouri is foreign land ownership. The United States is currently at a cross roads with several adversaries. I believe China, Russia, North Korea and Iran all pose a threat to the sovereignty and independence of the United States, and that extends to Missouri’s farmland.

The Senate amended and passed House Bill 903, a bill that would bar any foreign country from further buying land in the state of Missouri. Current law limits foreign ownership of Missouri land to 1% of total acreage. The bill passed with overwhelming support and bipartisanship with a final vote was 31-3 in favor of the bill.

This bill is about food security and state sovereignty. As the world becomes more complex, it is important for legislators to act swiftly and proactively. The threat of foreign entities not only remains at the national level, but also the state and local level. Protecting Missouri business and land is vital for future generations.

Please visit Sen. Trent’s official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Trent for more legislative and constituent resources.

Senator Curtis Trent proudly serves the citizens of Barton, Dade, Greene and Webster counties in the Missouri Senate.