MissouriSB1052025 1st Extraordinary SessionSenate

Modifies provisions relating to invasive plants

Sponsored By: Mike Bernskoetter (Republican)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

Cotton haulers gain broader trailer exemptions

Cotton trailers no longer need exclusive cotton use, and their qualifying speed rises from below 40 to below 70 mph. They must be designed to move cotton between fields or from field to market and back. On those trips below 70 mph, qualifying trailers are exempt from the usual cargo-cover or securement requirement. Nothing may fall off, and the load must meet at least one safety option. It must be immobilized against unsafe shifting or tipping, held by strong sides, fully contained and firmly secured with strong structures or materials, or secured under federal law.

Permits let log haulers travel farther

Qualifying Missouri log trucks and truck tractors can travel beyond 150 miles from a forested site with an extended-distance permit. Vehicles must have Missouri registration for public-highway use and carry harvested forest products exclusively within Missouri. Log trucks may have up to four axles, and truck tractors may have up to three. Neither may pull a trailer with more than three axles.

Elementary schools gain farm education option

Missouri's elementary agricultural education pilot is authorized through June 30, 2026. Beginning with the 2026–27 school year, the state education department can extend the program to all elementary schools. Statewide use is optional, not required.

Nursery dealers face invasive plant bans

Missouri nursery dealers must submit a yearly affidavit agreeing not to knowingly and intentionally trade, transport, distribute, or grow listed plants. The rule covers importing, exporting, buying, and selling viable seeds or plant parts. Starting January 1, 2027, it covers climbing euonymus, Japanese honeysuckle, Sericea lespedeza, and perilla mint. Starting January 1, 2029, it also covers burning bush cultivar 'Compactus' and all Callery pear varieties and cultivars. Dealers submit the affidavit with their annual registration-inspection certificate application.

Landowners gain limited fence repair access

Landowners and hired contractors can enter adjoining land up to 10 feet along a qualifying boundary fence enclosing animals. Entry to build, maintain, or repair the fence is not trespass. Those entering remain liable for damage, including crop damage, except damage from necessary clearing of vegetation directly on the boundary. The right does not allow entry into buildings or land owned or operated by utilities or railroads. It also excludes specified accredited zoos, wildlife conservation facilities, and animal sanctuaries.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Mike Bernskoetter
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 18 • No: 0

House vote • 5/1/2025

Reported Do Pass

Yes: 9 • No: 0

House vote • 4/29/2025

HCS Reported Do Pass