MO HB2998

Missouri Department of Transportation must prioritize rural roads and highways with high fatality rates in the statewide transportation improvement program, with rural project funding proportional to rural population percentage

Department of Transportation must conduct a feasibility study on upper Mississippi River basin improvements, including 12-month navigation, upgrading locks to 1,200-foot capacity, and adding hydropower to existing dams, with findings due to the General Assembly by December 1, 2026

Five-year moratorium on closing or ceasing operations of any coal-fired power plant by electric corporations, utilities, and cooperatives

Solar energy projects must use at least 90% U.S.-made equipment and materials, with 90% of installation labor from Missouri-based businesses; solar projects limited to 2% of cropland per county unless local governing bodies approve increases

Establishes a Rural Development Office within the Department of Economic Development to advocate for rural communities, coordinate federal/state programs, and conduct needs surveys on housing, childcare, broadband, healthcare, workforce, and community development