Governor Kehoe has signed multiple bills into law, which is great news for Missouri’s conservation and natural resources community. The bill signing ceremonies were held in the Governor’s office on Monday afternoon.

Senate Bill 105 will phase out the sale of certain invasive plant species in Missouri. It prohibits nurseries and nursery dealers from knowingly and intentionally importing, exporting, buying, selling, transporting, distributing, or propagating specific nonnative invasive plants. The prohibited species include Climbing Euonymus, Japanese Honeysuckle, Sericea Lespedeza, Perilla Mint, Burning Bush, and Callery Pear. Several Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM) affiliates and members made significant contributions to the passage of this bill.

Representing CFM at the signing were President Bill Kirgan, lobbyist Kyna Iman, and Executive Director Tyler Schwartze.

“Being part of three bill signings this legislative session is a powerful testament to the continued progress we’re making for conservation and natural resources in Missouri,” said Schwartze. “It’s clear that the General Assembly and the citizens recognize the importance of protecting our outdoor legacy. These legislative wins are the result of tireless advocacy, strong partnerships, and the dedication of CFM members and allies who continue to show up, speak out, and fight for the future of Missouri’s natural resources.”

House Bill 145 adds new exemptions to Missouri’s Sunshine Law. It allows for the closure of records containing customer billing and usage information for individuals who make camping, lodging, or shelter reservations at Missouri State Parks, historic sites, or county and municipal parks, unless the information is requested or released by the individual. It also allows the closure of records that identify the specific location of plant or animal species listed as endangered, threatened, imperiled, or vulnerable, if public disclosure could increase the risk to those species.

House Bill 225 modifies requirements for police vehicles, including park enforcement vehicles. These vehicles are no longer required to use lights and sirens when gathering evidence of a speeding violation, responding to a suspected crime in progress, or conducting surveillance of another vehicle.

A huge thank you to the many partners, affiliates, advocates, elected officials, and citizens who helped push these bills across the finish line. Together, we are making a lasting impact on conservation and natural resources in Missouri.

For more information about the Conservation Federation of Missouri, visit www.confedmo.org.