During the 2026 legislative session, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry supported legislation aimed at strengthening America’s domestic supply chain for critical minerals and pharmaceuticals — industries that are essential to the nation’s economy, health care system, and national security.
Senate Bill 1553, sponsored by Sen. Kurtis Gregory (R-Marshall), was passed by the legislature and is awaiting consideration by Gov. Mike Kehoe.
The legislation is designed to incentivize the production of critical materials and pharmaceuticals in Missouri by expanding manufacturing sales tax exemptions for qualifying products, creating tax credits for companies that invest in facilities producing priority materials or medicines, and establishing grant opportunities to help offset early-stage project costs.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, Missouri contains 36 of the 60 minerals identified as critical to the nation’s economy and national security — positioning the state as a strong contender to lead in the development of a more secure domestic supply chain.
The Missouri Chamber and industry leaders supported the measure as an important step toward reducing the nation’s reliance on foreign sources for essential goods and materials.
“This legislation helps Missouri capitalize on its natural resources and existing industry partnerships,” said Jared Hankinson, vice president of governmental affairs for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “It provides the tools needed to build the infrastructure necessary for long-term economic growth while strengthening America’s supply chain resilience.”
