JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — On Monday, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe officially signed the Water Preservation Act into law during a ceremony at the Missouri Soybeans’ headquarters, the Center for Soy Innovation. The bill, known as Senate Bill 82, establishes a permitting framework to track and regulate bulk water exports—an essential measure to protect Missouri’s water resources for future generations.
The signing marked a significant milestone after years of legislative advocacy and stakeholder engagement. Surrounded by farmers, legislative leaders and agricultural stakeholders, Governor Kehoe praised the bill’s pragmatic approach to balancing resource stewardship and legal compliance.
“This legislation represents smart, Missouri-driven policy that prioritizes our long-term needs,” said Gov. Kehoe. “By establishing safeguards without overstepping constitutional boundaries, we’re taking a proactive step to ensure the state’s water stays available for Missouri’s future.”
Missouri Soybeans Interim CEO Casey Wasser emphasized the bill’s importance for the state’s agricultural future.
“Water is one of Missouri agriculture’s most precious resources, and we commend Governor Kehoe for his leadership in safeguarding it,” Wasser said. “This bill is the result of years of hard work, negotiation and consensus-building. We’re proud to host today’s signing and celebrate this victory with the farmers and partners who helped make it possible.”
The Missouri Soybean Association (MSA) played a key role in advocating for the legislation alongside other agricultural organizations. Policy Chairman Ryan Wilson, a farmer from Portageville, said the bill demonstrates Missouri’s proactive approach to long-term resource management.
“This bill is a win for every Missouri farmer and for our rural communities,” Wilson said. “We can’t take water for granted—and this law helps ensure it stays where it’s needed most. We appreciate Governor Kehoe for standing with farmers.”
The signing ceremony at the Center for Soy Innovation highlighted the agricultural community’s unified support for forward-thinking policy. The new law goes into effect Aug. 28, 2025.