Gives preferential treatment in state purchasing contracts to Missouri-grown agricultural products

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matthew Overcast

The bill requires state purchases to favor Missouri-grown or produced agricultural products if available, of good quality, and not more than 10% more expensive than similar out-of-

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)

#administration #officeof #agriculture #counties #politicalsubdivisions #taxcredits

Overview

HB 3385, introduced in the Missouri House during the 2026 session, would require state purchasing authorities to give preferential treatment to Missouri-grown or Missouri-produced agricultural products in state purchases, provided certain conditions are met. The bill adds a specific procurement preference alongside existing laws governing state contracts.

Main purpose and intent

To support Missouri agriculture by prioritizing purchases of Missouri-grown/produced agricultural goods by the state and its political subdivisions.

To ensure that such preferences are applied only when products are available in sufficient quantity and quality and are not more than 10% more expensive than comparable out-of-state products.

Key provisions and changes

Section 34.072 establishes a statewide preference rule:

When making purchases, the commissioner of administration or any purchasing agent must give preference to Missouri-grown or Missouri-produced agricultural products if they meet availability, quality, and cost criteria.
Availability: products must be available in sufficient quantity.
Quality: products must be of good quality.
Price: the cost must not exceed the cost of similar products produced outside Missouri by more than 10%.
The term “produced” is broadly defined to include planting, growing, harvesting, raising, collecting, processing, or manufacturing.

Competitive bidding: Purchases under this section still follow the competitive bidding process described in section 34.042.

Bidding preference: In procurements for the state and its agencies, political subdivisions, institutions, or school districts, there is a 5% bidding preference for Missouri-grown or Missouri-produced agricultural products.

Supersession and compatibility: The Missouri preference is in addition to existing Missouri laws or regulations that favor Missouri-grown foods and products.

Rulemaking: The Commissioner of Administration must promulgate rules on specifications, quality standards, delivery, performance, bidding preferences, and related matters. Rules must comply with Chapter 536. The bill notes that if rulemaking authority is deemed unconstitutional or fails to comply with review powers, the authority and any rules adopted after August 28, 2026, could be invalidated.

Who is affected

State agencies and officials responsible for purchasing goods.

Political subdivisions, state institutions, and school districts that procure agricultural products.

Missouri farmers and agricultural producers seeking to supply state-related entities with their products.

Vendors bidding on state contracts for agricultural products, who may benefit from a 5% bid preference if Missouri-sourced.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Effective and enforceable rules depend on compliance with Chapter 536. The bill emphasizes that rules adopted after August 28, 2026, could be invalid if constitutional review provisions are triggered.

Action history shows introduction in February 2026, second reading and referral in May 2026, indicating ongoing consideration for the 2026 session.

Practical impact

Potentially increased demand for Missouri-grown/produced agricultural products in state procurement.

Possible price considerations for buyers, given the 10% cap on premium over out-of-state prices.

Administrative burden on the Commissioner of Administration to develop and implement new specifications and quality standards.