JEFFERSON CITY — The Lemonade Stand Freedom Act, sponsored by Missouri State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, was approved and sent to the governor’s desk as the First Regular Session of the 103rd General Assembly came to a close on Thursday.
Early business ventures, whether lemonade stands, lawn care services or handmade crafts, are often a child’s first experience with entrepreneurship, responsibility and financial literacy. Senate Bill 145 would exempt individuals under the age of 18 from licensure, taxation and regulation of their small business ventures.
Senator Coleman, who supports Missouri’s next generation of business leaders, says young entrepreneurs should be encouraged and not burdened when they take the initiative to start a small business. She believes this simple, but effective, piece of legislation takes a stand against the abuse of power while also providing a better future for Missouri’s kids.
“Missouri’s young entrepreneurs should not have to navigate onerous red tape and regulations to set up a lemonade stand or a booth selling handmade products,” said Sen. Coleman. “I’m pleased our legislation reinstating common sense and giving Missourians, especially young people, the freedom to build something of their own without government interference is now heading to the governor’s desk.”