February 21, 2008 - The Missouri Senate today gave final approval to SB 718, an omnibus economic development package sponsored by Senator Harry Kennedy (D-1, St. Louis, pictured at left). The bill will now be sent to the Missouri House for further deliberations.Senator Kennedy shepherded the legislation through the Missouri Senate and obtained passage after just a few days of debate. The bill is still a very conservative, but effective, package of incentive increases for proven programs that should have a very positive impact on Missouri's ability to compete in the increasingly challenging economic times that may lie ahead.
The Missouri Quality Jobs program would be increased by $20 million and the Enhanced Enterprize Zone increased by $10 million under the Senate plan. A House committee debated and approved similar legislation in Committee earlier this week.
The MEDC thanks Senator Kennedy for his strong leadership in helping create and preserve true quality jobs in Missouri.
