taxes

In January, Gov. Mike Kehoe called for a phase-out of the state's income tax and an expansion of sales and use taxes, which he wants voters to approve. That vote is Tuesday.

Plaintiffs argue that the proposal, known as Amendment 5, violated constitutional prohibitions on addressing more than one subject. They plan to appeal the ruling.

Kansas lawmakers have promised for years to fix sky-high property tax bills. But the 2026 session ended with both Democrats and Republicans disappointed and vowing to try again next year.

The proposed constitutional amendment gives lawmakers five years to expand transaction-based taxes to make up for revenue lost by eliminating the state income tax.

Missouri's legislature is debating a proposal that would gradually eliminate the state's income tax and allow the legislature to hike or expand sales taxes. Economists warn it could add a financial burden to people who can least afford it —and mean less money for schools and transit.

Organizers are raising concerns that Missouri lawmakers' plan to eliminate the state's income tax will raise costs for lower-income residents and lessen state funding for schools, roads and senior services.

The Missouri House also approved sex trafficking legislation on Thursday.

The City of Rock Port is moving to regulate businesses selling hemp and marijuana products within city limits as the industry continues to expand locally.

The legislation approved by the House on Wednesday is designed to temper tax increases on personal property such as vehicles.

State lawmakers arrive in Jefferson City on Wednesday for the start of the 2026 legislative session. It runs until mid-May.