AGP Executive Report

Infant Formula Lawsuit Fallout: A Missouri-linked case highlights how Mead Johnson closed a 2016 infant formula complaint after internal review, using the company’s memo in later court fights—raising fresh questions about how formula makers handle death claims. Public Health & Regulation: The FDA moves to limit PFAS in bottled water, setting up new standards tied to EPA limits. Food & Agriculture: USDA data shows Missouri broiler-type egg sets and placements running ahead of last year, signaling steadier chicken production. Workforce & Training: Crowder College and MoDOT’s Southwest team won a Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity for a diesel training partnership that helps address repair and technician shortages. Infrastructure & Local Growth: Rep. Sam Graves announced a $9.3M BUILD grant for Milan, Mo., to rebuild key downtown and access routes tied to the hospital and school. Transportation Updates: MoDOT schedules overnight ramp closures on U.S. 54 and other I-70/61-67 work affecting drivers across mid-Missouri. Energy & Industry: Missouri joins a federal program to fast-track nuclear energy development. Legal/Consumer Watch: Missouri AG warns residents about HVAC scams during extreme heat. Healthcare Access: Scotland County Hospital’s rural clinics earned NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home recognition, expanding Monday hours. Housing: Joplin’s Agape Apartments will add 10 affordable veteran units, funded through Mid-Missouri Bank’s program. Business Tech: A robotic pharmacy startup, Queue, raised $18.6M to automate prescription filling without a pharmacist on-site.

Transportation & Infrastructure: Missouri’s Highways and Transportation Commission approved the FY2027-31 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, setting up about $13B in federal and state funding for roads, bridges, airports and other modes, including roughly $9.3B in contractor awards for road and bridge work. Local Construction Disruptions: MoDOT is also moving ahead with Route 66 (7th Street) work in Joplin, with overnight lane closures and utility relocations, plus a separate Foristell I-70/Route T-W interchange roundabout shift starting July 13. Manufacturing Pulse: A Creighton Mid-America Business Conditions Index report points to improving regional manufacturing activity even as hiring stays constrained and food processing job losses weigh on the outlook. Agribusiness: USDA data shows broiler placements running ahead of 2025 pace, while cattle producers are bracing for heat stress that can cut feed intake and gains. Banking & Dealmaking: Commerce Bank in St. Louis plans to buy boutique investment bank Nolan & Associates to expand middle-market advisory services. Workforce Training: Crowder College and MoDOT’s Southwest District partnership won a Missouri Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity, targeting diesel and transportation shortages. Food Industry Legal Watch: The Justice Department proposed a settlement in alleged egg price-fixing involving major producers, with donations to food banks and nonprofits.

State Budget Watch: Gov. Mike Kehoe signed Missouri’s $50.7B FY27 budget, touting “smart and necessary investments,” while vetoing and restricting hundreds of millions tied to earmarks and mid-Missouri programs. Public Finance & Accountability: A new Missouri State Auditor report slams Wright County with a “poor” rating, citing jail-expansion mismanagement, late payments, and record-keeping failures. Fraud in Local Housing Programs: A former St. Louis building inspector pleaded guilty to a $1.64M wire fraud scheme involving city property rehabilitation funds. Agriculture Under Pressure: Missouri farmers face drought-driven feed and irrigation strain, with hay costs soaring and some operations forced to sell cattle early. SNAP Funding Shift: States could owe millions due to SNAP payment error rates under a new federal cost-share rule, raising hunger concerns. Infrastructure & Construction: MoDOT will pause I-70 work for the July 4 holiday and continues bridge/road projects with upcoming lane closures and public input meetings. Data Center Backlash: St. Charles County is considering a temporary ban while officials study impacts on water, power demand, and public health. Manufacturing Talent Pipeline: UMSL is running engineering summer camps to build the next St. Louis-area workforce.

Missouri Agriculture & Food Prices: Egg producers say the bottom fell out—U.S. egg prices dropped from $4.55 per dozen (May 2025) to $2.19 (May 2026), squeezing major players like Rose Acre Farms and Cal-Maine, with Missouri producers reporting sharp revenue hits. Animal Health & Biosecurity: Missouri tightened rules for New World Screwworm risk, requiring a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection within 14 days for animals entering from infested-zone states and adding permit/document steps for direct moves from infested areas. Local Ag Infrastructure: Residents in Cassville and the Neosho area pushed back at a Missouri DNR meeting over proposed large sludge storage tanks tied to meat-processing residuals, raising concerns about impacts on farms and nearby communities. Farming Operations & Compliance: USDA’s Farm Service Agency is rolling out an acreage reporting modernization pilot, including Harrison County, aiming to replace paper maps with an electronic interface. Energy & Industry: Bear River Midstream launched as an independent natural gas storage company after I Squared’s acquisition of Spire’s storage assets, citing growing demand from power and AI data centers. Public Finance Oversight: Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick released a report finding Wright County’s jail expansion put the county in debt in violation of state law, and flagged control failures across multiple offices. Transportation: MoDOT scheduled lane reductions on I-70 and U.S. 61/67 for paving and drainage work, with motorists urged to plan for delays.

Supreme Court & Pesticides: The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Monsanto/Bayer in Roundup “failure to warn” liability claims, and the EPA says it’s still moving ahead with a glyphosate scientific review—while Missouri’s case is at the center of the backlash. Healthcare & Pharmacy Access: Missouri pharmacy leaders warn pharmacist shortages are being worsened by pharmacy benefit manager reimbursement disputes, with some stores cutting hours or losing money on prescriptions. Data Centers & Local Control: Springfield approved a 120-day moratorium on new data center applications, while Stoddard County residents pressed commissioners over rumors and the lack of planning/zoning authority. Energy & Environment: A North Little Rock environmental firm, NLR’s Onterris, landed a $4.13M Australian contract tied to permitting for a Queensland coal operation. Public Safety & Infrastructure: MoDOT rescheduled an I-70 westbound on-ramp closure in Columbia and set major bridge work on Route Y in Henry County; Missouri State Highway Patrol issued July 4 travel reminders. Agribusiness: USDA crop conditions show corn ratings dipping slightly as winter wheat harvest continues.

Transportation & Construction: MoDOT rescheduled the westbound I-70 on-ramp closure at Providence Road in Columbia to overnight July 1, July 6 and July 7 (8 p.m.–6 a.m.), with weather-driven schedule changes; crews also plan a 73-day Route Y bridge closure over East Tebo Creek in Henry County starting the week of July 6, with signed detours. Roadwork Updates: MoDOT also set a mid-July closure of Route 7 over I-44 west of Waynesville for bridge deck replacement, plus a continuous 55 mph speed limit for a 25-mile I-70 widening work zone between Route 7 and Route H through late 2028. Agriculture: USDA’s weekly Crop Progress report showed corn ratings slipping slightly but the Pro Farmer Crop Condition Index ticking up overall; Missouri also faces new animal movement rules after New World screwworm detections. Courts & Food Safety: The U.S. Supreme Court backed Monsanto/Bayer in a Roundup “failure to warn” fight, limiting state-court claims under federal pesticide law. Data Centers & Power: Springfield approved a 120-day moratorium on new data center applications, while Patmos is reportedly pursuing a major Independence project; Missouri also faces potential budget pressure tied to SNAP payment accuracy. Defense & Manufacturing: Sen. Eric Schmitt says Boeing’s F-47 next-gen fighter work is headed to north St. Louis County, with final assembly at a new St. Louis-area facility. Local Community: Springfield’s Andy’s Frozen Custard filed for about $4.4M in tax breaks for a new HQ, and concerns continue over relocating the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial at Washington Square Park.

Roundup Legal Fallout: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked thousands of “failure to warn” lawsuits against Bayer/Monsanto over Roundup cancer claims, ruling federal pesticide labeling preempts state suits—an outcome that reshapes pending litigation tied to Missouri and other agricultural states. Energy & Rates: Ameren Missouri asked the Missouri Public Service Commission to reset base electric rates in mid-2027 to recover storm-hardening and new generation costs, with an 11-month PSC review expected; the utility says upgrades cut outages. Data Center Governance: Nodaway County shared that a draft agreement with a data center developer is with the county attorney, while residents pressed questions about water sourcing and land impacts. Water & Agriculture: A Missouri DNR aquifer study open house is set for Kirksville, and separate reporting highlights how drought and “freshwater browning” are changing Midwest farming and lake ecosystems. Local Infrastructure: MoDOT reopened the Moniteau County Route CC bridge over South Moreau Creek after a deck replacement ahead of schedule. Workforce & Skills: A national look at apprenticeship expansion points to funding gaps and outdated rules as barriers to scaling registered apprenticeships.

Supreme Court Roundup Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court (7-2) barred Bayer/Monsanto from state “failure to warn” lawsuits over Roundup cancer claims, overturning a $1.25 million Missouri verdict and potentially narrowing thousands of pending cases. Missouri Heat Preparedness: A dangerous heat wave is moving into the Jefferson City area, with heat indexes near 105 degrees and a reminder that Missouri’s hot-weather rule limits power shutoffs during extreme conditions. Capitol Avenue Revamp: Jefferson City’s East Capitol Avenue is seeing a wave of public and private investment, including Missouri Chamber plans to renovate its headquarters as the corridor’s long-dormant properties get new life. Agriculture Biosecurity: The Missouri Department of Agriculture updated animal movement requirements after New World screwworm was detected in Texas, tightening entry rules for animals coming from infested zones. Food Security Funding: Arvest Bank’s Million Meals campaign raised $633,513, supporting hunger relief across its footprint including Missouri. Local Business/Community Notes: Missouri-related updates included new hires and appointments in the region’s business community, plus ongoing public works and community events.

Agriculture & Livestock: Missouri updated animal movement rules after New World screwworm was detected in Texas, tightening requirements for animals entering from infested zones and adding inspection and permitting steps. Courts & Business Regulation: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that FIFRA expressly preempts state “failure to warn” lawsuits tied to Roundup’s cancer warnings, a decision that could reshape liability risk for pesticide makers and the legal costs facing agriculture. Energy & Infrastructure: MoDOT reopened the Gene Field Road Bridge over I-29 in St. Joseph after a replacement project, with possible short lane closures as crews finish shoulder work. Local Economy & Jobs: Prime Inc., a Springfield refrigerated carrier, sued the IRS seeking a refund of about $11.0M over fuel excise tax it paid on diesel used to run trailer refrigeration units. Public Services & Health: Central Missouri Humane Society is raising about $20M for a new shelter and vet clinic in Columbia, with roughly $14M already pledged. Data Centers & Rural Impact: Opposition to a proposed AI data center near Maryville continues to grow, with residents pushing for more transparency and raising concerns about water and power use.

Fuel Tax Fight: Springfield refrigerated carrier Prime Inc. is suing the IRS for about $11.0M, arguing diesel used only to run trailer refrigeration (not to propel trucks) shouldn’t be treated like highway fuel. Animal Health & Livestock: U.S. CBP reminds travelers that even U.S.-origin dogs returning from Mexico must meet USDA/CDC entry rules tied to New World screwworm. Agribusiness Watch: MU Extension found corn leafhoppers in Boone County, an early-season concern for Missouri growers as the pests spread north. Public Works: The Gene Field Road Bridge over I-29 in St. Joseph reopened after a replacement project; MoDOT warns of possible short lane closures for remaining shoulder work. Local Growth & Housing: Republic unveiled plans for an 80-bed memory care assisted living complex, with council review likely next month. Community Health: Central Missouri Humane Society says it has about $14M toward a $20M campaign for a new shelter and vet clinic in Columbia. Weather/Power: Storms caused scattered Heartland outages, with some areas in Cape Girardeau and Livingston seeing the highest counts.

Data Centers & AI Infrastructure: Edged topped out the first building of its Project Lola data center in Council Bluffs, Iowa—two facilities totaling about 200MW, with Missouri among Edged’s broader footprint. Local Governance & Energy: A proposed large solar farm near Ada and Canyon county lines drew more than 100 public comments, with residents citing farmland loss, livestock impacts, and property values. Agriculture & Farm Economics: Kentucky farmers face mounting pressure from higher input costs and inflation, with farm bankruptcies reported at a six-year high and calls for farm bill reauthorization. Legal & Consumer/Ag Policy: The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Bayer/Monsanto in Roundup warning-label litigation, a major blow to thousands of cancer-related lawsuits and a fresh flashpoint for pesticide policy. Waterways & Regional Development: Missouri Rep. Sam Graves and others released the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2026, targeting ports, inland waterways, and flood control, including Missouri River work. Workforce & Higher Ed: SEMO unveiled a $160.6M budget and “Fearlessly Forward” plan to expand internships amid projected state funding shortfalls. Public Safety & Immigration Enforcement: A joint ICE operation in Sedalia led to 18 arrests, according to local officials and DHS.

Supreme Court Watch: In a major win for Bayer/Monsanto, the U.S. Supreme Court limited Roundup-related state lawsuits, ruling pesticide labeling claims are constrained by federal law—an outcome that could reshape thousands of cancer-warning cases, including one tied to a Missouri plaintiff. Missouri Infrastructure: MoDOT is tightening traffic around the I-70 corridor with overnight ramp closures in Columbia (Providence Road) and Callaway County changes near Kingdom City, plus a July 1 lane shift at the I-64/I-70/U.S. 61 interchange in St. Charles County. Veterans Housing: Joplin’s JEHDI and Agape Apartments announced a new affordable rental initiative for veterans, funded through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines and built with local construction support. Agriculture & Workforce: FreightWeekSTL highlighted inland waterways career pathways and the need to boost awareness of maritime jobs, while MASDA’s Midwest meeting in Wisconsin brought Missouri ag leaders together on policy and collaboration. Consumer & Business Costs: Seventeen GOP attorneys general, including Missouri’s, sued California over its single-use plastics packaging law, arguing it will raise costs nationwide.

U.S. Supreme Court: In a 7-2 ruling, the court sided with Bayer/Monsanto and blocked thousands of Roundup “failure to warn” lawsuits, saying federal pesticide law preempts state claims—an outcome that could reshape liability risk for agricultural chemicals. Missouri Education Funding: Jefferson City Public Schools warned it will see about $2.4M less in state aid for FY 2026-27 after lawmakers didn’t fully fund Missouri’s foundation formula, though officials say staffing won’t change. Ag & Farm Ops: Growers planting soybeans early may be better positioned for weed pressure and late-season canopy closure, with agronomy managers pointing to planting date as a key driver of yield. Local Business & Manufacturing: St. Louis Embroidery in Wentzville is marketing contract embroidery and custom apparel for fire, police, EMS, and corporate clients. Trade & Policy: India’s U.S. envoy met House Ways and Means leaders to push forward an interim trade agreement, with Missouri Rep. Jason Smith among attendees. Public Safety & Governance: A St. Louis public safety overhaul is being traced back to major 2025 legislation that changed how policing is governed. Infrastructure & Travel: Missouri’s Highway Patrol is urging safer Fourth of July travel and boating, citing ongoing road construction and using MoDOT’s traveler map for closures.

Supreme Court Roundup Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court (7-2) sided with Bayer/Monsanto, overturning a $1.25 million Missouri verdict and blocking state “failure-to-warn” cancer lawsuits tied to Roundup labels, citing federal pesticide labeling rules and EPA determinations—an outcome expected to curb thousands of pending cases and reshape how ag and chemical liability fights play out. Missouri Infrastructure: MoDOT crews began resurfacing Boone County Route CC from U.S. 63 to Route V, with one lane open and work targeted to finish before the July 4 holiday. Data Center Water Planning: A draft feasibility study for Nodaway County Public Water Supply District No. 1 outlines water options for the White Cloud Acres data center, projecting large daily cooling needs plus potable water for onsite use. Local Business & Retail: Columbia’s Shops at Sharp End retail incubator is set to close at month’s end as grant funding runs out, though weekend hours may extend. Franchise Growth: MassageLuXe, a St. Louis-area wellness franchise, won a Franchise Innovation Award for service introductions aimed at boosting franchisee performance. AG & Consumer Costs: Seventeen Republican attorneys general, including Missouri, sued California over its Plastics Act, arguing it will raise costs for everyday goods nationwide.

Transportation & Infrastructure: MoDOT reopened the longer westbound I-44 on-ramp at Exit 159 in Pulaski County, with climbing lanes still under construction through fall 2026, and it’s also scheduling public input on Andrew County Route B bridge deck replacement (July 8 open house). Local Business & Housing: Columbia’s Shops at Sharp End retail incubator is set to close at month’s end as grant funding runs out, while Kansas City’s new owners plan to rehab the former Cloverleaf Apartments into “The Enclave South” to restore hundreds of units. Energy & Land Use: Pilot Grove residents packed a town hall over proposed 200-megawatt solar farms, raising concerns about taxes, drainage, wildlife, and farming impacts. Agriculture & Food Systems: Western Illinois University students swept top honors at the NACTA judging conference, and Missouri’s ag workforce pipeline got a boost via a St. Louis construction expo aimed at recruiting young trade workers. Regulation & National Policy: Missouri AG Chris Carr joined a 17-state fight against California’s Plastics Act, arguing it will raise costs and overreach state sovereignty. Public Safety: Missouri’s Division of Fire Safety is warning about fireworks ahead of July 4, with strict bans around major events.

Data Centers & Local Control: Missouri lawmakers are pushing for more transparency and public input as Amazon and other developers expand data centers, with concerns centered on utility costs and whether counties have the structure to evaluate impacts. Transportation & Infrastructure: MoDOT is seeking public feedback on the Route 89 bridge replacement over Indian Creek (Osage County) with an open house July 7 and a comment period through July 21; Route 7 over I-44 near Waynesville will close in early July for about five months for a bridge deck rebuild, with detours in place. Public Works in St. Louis County: MoDOT will hold a July 7 open house for Route 115 (Natural Bridge Rd.) safety and operational improvements, including ADA sidewalk upgrades. Food & Consumer Safety: MorningStar Farms is recalling two products in Walmart stores across Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri due to possible plastic pieces. Agriculture: USDA reports 2026 broiler placements are running faster than 2025, with Missouri placements up year over year. Legal/Environment: A Missouri appeals court revived flood claims tied to the Wakenda Levee District, finding factual disputes remain over whether levee changes contributed to flooding and crop losses. Business & Jobs: Amazon says a new Missouri data center campus in Montgomery County will create 400 jobs and pledges community contributions.