Missouri Senators Push for Moratorium on Solar Projects that are spreading like wildfire across the Ozarks

Senate Bill 849 (SB 849), sponsored by Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, proposes an immediate moratorium on all new and ongoing commercial-scale solar projects across the state. This bill, which passed a key committee on February 10, 2026, includes an emergency clause that could make the moratorium effective as soon as the governor signs it into law.

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Solar farm in Missouri facing uncertainty due to proposed moratorium

What Senate Bill 849 Means for Missouri’s Solar Industry

SB 849 aims to halt the expansion of commercial solar projects immediately. The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin, represents a strong agricultural constituency that has expressed skepticism about large-scale solar developments. The bill’s emergency clause means the moratorium could take effect the moment Governor Mike Kehoe signs it, potentially stopping projects mid-construction.

The governor’s public support for the bill, citing the need for “basic guardrails” on industrial solar projects, signals strong political backing. This alignment between legislative leadership and the governor increases the likelihood that the moratorium will become law quickly.

Key Provisions of SB 849

• Immediate statewide moratorium on new commercial-scale solar projects

• Suspension of ongoing solar projects until further legislative review

• Emergency clause enabling instant enactment upon gubernatorial approval

• Focus on addressing concerns from agricultural communities about land use and environmental impact

  
  

This bill reflects growing tensions between renewable energy development and agricultural interests in Missouri. It also highlights the political power of rural landowners and farmers who worry about the long-term effects of industrial solar installations on farmland and local ecosystems.

Timing and Legislative Momentum

SB 849 passed the Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy & the Environment Committee on February 10, 2026, with a “Do Pass” recommendation. Given the emergency clause and the governor’s endorsement, the bill could become law within days or weeks.

Stakeholders should expect rapid developments, including possible amendments or negotiations as various interests weigh in. The political momentum behind the bill means utilities, lenders, and investors must act quickly to assess their exposure and plan next steps.

Broader Implications for Missouri’s Energy Future

Missouri’s solar industry has been quietly yet aggressively targeting poorer and more rural areas, as in other states. The pushback from both agricultural and residential constituents has swelled to a nearly nationwide outcry.

The outcome of SB 849 will shape Missouri’s energy trajectory for years. Elected officials must navigate this complex landscape with clear information and "truth in advertising."

Summary of the Bill

SB 849 would:

• Impose an immediate moratorium on the construction of all new and existing solar projects statewide beginning on the act’s effective date.

• Suspend construction of any project not fully completed at the time the act becomes law.

• Direct the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to develop environmental and operational rules governing future solar projects; the moratorium would extend beyond December 31, 2027, if these rules are not completed.

• Restrict state agencies from issuing permits for solar projects during the moratorium.