Missouri lawmakers are moving forward with Senate Bill 849 (SB 849), which would place an immediate, statewide halt on both new and ongoing commercial-scale solar projects. The bill, sponsored by Senate President Pro Tem Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin, passed the Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy & the Environment Committee on February 10, 2026, with a “Do Pass” vote.
The legislation includes an emergency clause that could make it effective immediately upon the Governor’s signature. Governor Mike Kehoe has expressed support for the bill, stating on January 13, 2026: “I endorse Sen. O’Laughlin’s efforts to put basic guardrails on industrial solar projects.” Sen. O’Laughlin is supported by a significant agricultural bloc in Missouri, reflecting concerns from the agriculture sector about large-scale solar development.
If enacted, SB 849 would stop construction of all new and existing solar projects across Missouri starting from the date it becomes law. Any project not fully completed at that time would have to suspend work. The bill also instructs the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to develop new environmental and operational rules for future solar projects. If these rules are not finished by December 31, 2027, the moratorium would remain in place indefinitely. State agencies would be prohibited from issuing permits for solar projects during this period.
The proposed legislation presents several risks for utilities, lenders, and investors involved in Missouri’s solar industry:
– Projects under construction could be halted immediately due to the emergency clause.
– Projects near completion may face additional restrictions if amendments are added during legislative negotiations.
– Delays in rulemaking by the DNR could extend the moratorium beyond its initial timeline.
– Legal challenges and requests for temporary restraining orders could arise because of the broad language and retrospective effect of the bill.
– Political developments and possible rapid amendments may change siting, permitting, or other key provisions as debate continues.
Stakeholders are advised to engage with developers to confirm awareness of SB 849 and their participation in discussions about its impact. They should review financing agreements and contracts to understand how an immediate construction halt might affect them and prepare legal strategies for potential litigation or injunctions related to project delays. Close monitoring of legislative activity is recommended due to the likelihood of fast-moving changes.
This update is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.