JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Last week, the Missouri House of Representatives achieved a significant milestone with the passage of HB 2352, a transformative piece of legislation aimed at revolutionizing port development and bolstering economic growth across the state.
HB 2352, sponsored by Representative Cyndi Buchheit-Courtway, received resounding bipartisan support, reflecting its widespread recognition as a crucial step forward for Missouri’s infrastructure and economic prosperity. The bill, which passed with overwhelming approval, represents a collaborative effort to modernize regulations governing the utilization of the Waterways and Ports Trust Fund.
Under the previous framework, moneys in the Waterways and Ports Trust Fund were subject to stringent restrictions, limiting their use solely for specific undertakings related to port development. However, HB 2352 marks a paradigm shift by repealing these constraints, granting port authorities greater flexibility in allocating funds for statutorily permitted port purposes.
“This legislation is a game-changer for Missouri,” Buchheit-Courtway, R-Festus, said. “By removing outdated restrictions and empowering port authorities, we’re paving the way for enhanced infrastructure, increased economic activity, and job creation throughout our state. As Missouri charts a course towards a brighter future, HB 2352 stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and bold leadership in driving progress and prosperity for all.”
Among the key provisions of HB 2352 is the expansion of eligible land for receiving appropriations, including land owned by St. Louis City and managed by port authorities. Additionally, the bill modifies the completion requirement for projects, aligning it with the appropriation of funds by the General Assembly, thereby streamlining the process and expediting project timelines.
“This bill represents a win-win for Missouri communities and businesses,” House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, said. “By investing in port development and infrastructure, we’re not only unlocking new economic opportunities but also strengthening our state’s competitive edge in the global marketplace.”
With its passage in the Missouri House, HB 2352 now advances to the Senate for further consideration.
Representative Cyndi Buchheit-Courtway, a Republican, represents parts of Festus, Hillsboro, De Soto, Valles Mines and Dittmer in Jefferson County (District 115). She was elected to her first two-year term in November 2020. For more information, please contact Rep. Buchheit-Courtway’s office at 573-751-7735 or via email at Cyndi.Buchheitcourtway@house.mo.gov.