Changes the law regarding businesses closed because of a shutdown order
The bill mandates that if a shutdown order lasts for at least 21 consecutive days or 45 cumulative days, businesses will benefit from the waiver of business license fees for the duration of the order or for six months after, whichever is longer. Additionally, it requires local governments to reduce the property tax liability for affected businesses based on the duration of the shutdown, facilitating immediate economic relief. These provisions solidify the state's commitment to promoting and maintaining the economic health of businesses during times of crisis.
House Bill 2753, also known as the 'Protecting Missouri's Small Businesses Act,' introduces new legislation designed to safeguard the economic interests of small businesses during state-declared emergencies. This act aims to provide specific measures that are triggered when businesses are forced to close due to shutdown orders issued by the state due to circumstances outside their control, such as communicable diseases. By clearly defining the terms associated with such orders, the bill seeks to establish a framework for addressing the economic fallout that may arise from mandatory closures.
Although the bill is framed as a measure for economic protection, there may be contention around its implementation and the extent to which local jurisdictions can comply with these requirements without straining their financial resources. Critics might argue that while the intention is to support small businesses, the measures could result in diminished revenue for local governments, which could have long-term implications for public services. This raises questions about the balance of interests between supporting businesses and ensuring local governments can sustain their operational capacities.