JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A newly filed bill in the Missouri Senate could temporarily halt all solar energy construction projects across the state, placing a moratorium on development until the end of 2027 amid growing environmental and community concerns.
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Senate Bill 849, introduced by Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin (R), seeks to amend the Revised Statutes of Missouri to suspend the construction of any solar project statewide. If approved, the legislation would also pause the issuance of new permits and require any solar developments currently under construction to immediately stop work.
The proposed moratorium would remain in effect until Dec. 31, 2027, or until the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) establishes and implements new rules governing the environmental impacts of solar projects.
Under the bill, the Department of Natural Resources would be tasked with developing comprehensive regulations addressing environmental concerns related to the construction, placement, and operation of solar facilities. Lawmakers backing the proposal argue that clearer statewide standards are needed to address land use, ecological impacts, and community disruption tied to large-scale solar developments.
The legislation includes an emergency clause, stating that the measure is necessary for the “preservation of public health, welfare, peace and safety.” As written, the rule changes would take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the governor.
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Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe publicly endorsed the bill during his State of the State Address, emphasizing the need to balance renewable energy development with long-term environmental stewardship and community concerns.
"I am supportive of efforts from Senator O’Laughlin to put basic guardrails around industrial solar developments that are dividing our rural communities," said Gov. Kehoe. "Because we have to protect our resources for the generations to come."
O’Laughlin represents Missouri’s 18th Senate District, which encompasses all of northeast Missouri. She also serves as President Pro Tem of the Missouri Senate, making history as the first woman to hold the position.
If enacted, Senate Bill 849 would mark one of the most significant statewide pauses on renewable energy construction in Missouri, potentially reshaping the timeline for solar development projects while environmental rules are reassessed.
Originally reported by Jordan Bahr - KTVO/KHQA in KTVO.
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