Missouri Legislative Actions from the 2008 Session
Great strides were made in the energy and environmental efforts in Missouri Legislation in the last session. Here are some of the highlights.
Green Energy (read the bill-SB 1181)
- All state buildings over 5,000 square feet will have to meet minimum energy efficiency standards by July 1, 2009.
- Alternative energy producers and sellers are eligible for low-interest loans.
- Individual tax payers may receive $1000 income tax deduction per year for conducting energy audits and recommendations on their homes.
- Show Me Green Sales Tax holiday will be effective April 19-25 for purchases of any Energy Star certified appliances.
- State universities will receive funding for teaching energy efficiency.
Electronic Waste (read the bill –SB 720)
- Producers and distributors of computers and other electronic equipment must establish and maintain recycling and recovery programs.
Utilities (read the bill-SB 720)
- Increases from $600 to $800 annually per household, the maximum allowable financial assistance for heating and cooling expenses
- Natural gas and electricity providers cannot cut services from June 1 to September 30 when the temperature will be higher than 95 degrees or heat index above 105 degrees.
Green Cleaning in Schools (read the bill – SB 1181)
- By March 2009, all public elementary and secondary schools will have guidelines in place for green cleaning programs and environmentally sensitive cleaning products.
Agriculture (read the bill –SB 931)
- Incentives and loans provided for alternative fuel stations, biomass production, family farming and feed and crop loan guarantees
State parks
- Funding for capital improvements, land and stream acquisitions for state parks passed