Missouri's state legislature is advancing key bills amid budget pressures and redistricting debates. The House passed HB 2033, removing the sunset on restrictions for prescribing sex change hormones to minors under 18, sending it to the Senate, according to the Missouri News Network. Lawmakers also approved measures on policing standards via HB 1866 and protections for born-alive infants in HB 1667, while pushing back against Governor Mike Kehoe's proposed cuts to developmental disability programs, with families flooding committees with protests. The Missouri Press Association reports ongoing hearings on gerrymandered congressional maps, spurred by lawsuits and former President Trump's calls for redistricting to favor Republicans.

In business and economy news, Representative Brad Christ proposes innovation zones through HB 3231 to revitalize downtowns like St. Louis, offering tax credits for office-to-residential conversions and incentives for out-of-state movers, earning tentative support from city leaders despite revenue concerns, as noted by St. Louis Magazine. The Missouri Chamber of Commerce urges enhancements to the Missouri Works program via HB 2654, allowing larger tax credits for investments over $50 million to boost job growth. Meanwhile, the House voted to limit personal property taxes on items like cars, per St. Louis Public Radio.

Community efforts shine with over $12.3 million in federal funding secured by Representative Wesley Bell for St. Louis-area projects, including airport upgrades, smart traffic systems, university manufacturing hubs, and public safety training at Harris-Stowe State University. Infrastructure gains include Brickline Greenway expansions and Ferguson community spaces.

No major recent weather events have disrupted the state.

Looking Ahead: Watch for Senate action on House-passed bills before mid-March spring break, a February 17 court review of the People Not Politicians redistricting case, and progress on Governor Kehoe's income tax elimination plan amid tightening revenues.

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