Bill > HB2799

This bill establishes the "Missouri Small Business Property Crime Prevention Grant Program" within the department of economic development to provide grants to small businesses, defined as for-profit enterprises with fewer than fifty employees, to help them improve their security and recover from property crimes. Subject to available funding, the program will award grants starting in fiscal year 2028, with individual businesses eligible for a maximum of one thousand dollars per fiscal year. To apply, small businesses must submit a detailed application outlining their needs and proposed use of funds, including a cost breakdown for security systems or repairs, at least sixty days before July first of the grant year. Eligible businesses must be located in Missouri and demonstrate a clear need for security enhancements or repair costs due to property crimes. Grant funds can be used for security measures like surveillance systems, alarm systems, improved storefront design, or to cover costs associated with damage from property crimes. A review committee will evaluate applications based on the severity of security needs, extent of damage, feasibility of proposed uses, and the business's ability to complete the work. Businesses receiving grants must submit an annual report on their progress and complete any funded repairs or security upgrades within eighteen months, or risk having remaining funds revoked. A dedicated fund, the "Missouri Small Business Property Crime Prevention Program Fund," will be created to hold appropriated moneys and other contributions, with unexpended balances transferring to general revenue six years after the program's effective date, at which point the program will automatically sunset unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. The department is authorized to create rules to implement the program.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2799&year=2026&code=R