In a significant move for environmental protection, the Missouri House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 105 on May 15, just one day before the close of the 2025 legislative session. The bill, which passed with strong bipartisan support in a 124–19 vote, aims to halt the sale of six invasive plant species in the state. It now awaits the signature of Governor Mike Kehoe, who has until July 14 to sign it into law.
The legislation marks a major step forward in the fight against invasive plant species that threaten Missouri’s natural ecosystems and working lands. If enacted, the law will ban the sale of sericea lespedeza, burning bush (‘Compactus’ cultivar), Callery pear, Japanese honeysuckle, perilla mint, and wintercreeper (‘Coloratus’ variety). To ease the transition for plant sellers, a phase-out period extends sales of five of the plants through January 1, 2027, and two through January 1, 2029.
“This is a grassroots win for Missouri’s lands and habitats,” said Carol Davit, Chair of the Missouri Invasive Plant Council (MoIP), which helped spearhead the effort. Administered by the Missouri Prairie Foundation, MoIP has long advocated for policy action to curb the spread of invasive species and engaged nearly 100 stakeholders to shape the proposal.
MoIP acknowledged broad coalition support, including from the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Missouri Municipal League, Missouri Stream Teams United, and the Conservation Federation of Missouri. The legislation is scheduled to take effect August 28, 2025, pending the Governor’s approval.
