JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Veterans seeking to start a business could see fewer governmental fees due to a bill given initial approval by the Senate Wednesday.
Senate Bill 799, sponsored by Sen. Will Kraus (R-Lee’s Summit), would eliminate Secretary of State filing fees for new businesses owned by veterans. Waiving the fees for veterans is a way to honor those who served, Kraus said.
“It is important that our government and lawmakers show our appreciation for the men and women who bravely served our country,” Kraus said. “Waiving governmental fees is one more way for us to thank them.”
Active duty military members are already exempted from the new business fees by a law passed in 2014, sponsored by Sen. David Sater (R-Cassville). Senate Bill 799 expands the law to include veterans, reservists and active duty members’ spouses.
Filing fees are usually a one-time fee for business owners paid to the Missouri Secretary of State when a business opens. The fees range from $7 to $205, depending on the structure of the business.
“This bill would give a boost to veterans and active members’ spouses looking to start their own businesses,” Kraus said. “This will help veterans transition back into civilian life and boosts Missouri’s start-up economy as well.”
