Carnahan’s “Red Tape Reduction Act”  Takes Effect on January 1

The New Year brings new, convenient options for Missouri businesses

Jefferson City, Missouri – Secretary of State Robin Carnahan today announced that the “Red Tape Reduction Act” goes into effect on January 1st. Beginning next week, businesses will have the option of filing corporate registration reports with the Secretary of State’s Office every two years rather than annually. In addition, the “Red Tape Reduction Act” will allow businesses to change the date of their filing to match tax and other paperwork deadlines.

“I’m proud to have championed this law to make it easier for Missouri’s more than 400,000 businesses,” Carnahan said. “My office has saved businesses over $10 million in reduced fees since 2005, and I will continue to work to help small businesses grow and succeed in our state.” 

Dan Mehan, President and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the changes will make a difference for business owners. “In the current economy, anything that makes it easier for businesses to succeed in Missouri is an advantage for our state as we look to grow jobs and recover,” Mehan said. “While allowing businesses to file every other year may seem like a small change, what it really does is allow companies to spend less time filling out paperwork and sending in forms so they can focus on what’s important – running their businesses and conducting commerce.”

Carnahan made this bill one of her major legislative priorities last session, and it was signed into law July 10, 2009, by Governor Jay Nixon as part of HB 481. Other provisions of the Act, which reduce fees by more than 50 percent for limited liability companies that file online, went into effect Aug. 28.

The “Red Tape Reduction Act” furthers Carnahan’s commitment to increasing efficiency and streamlining the way businesses interact with government. In 2007, Carnahan launched the Missouri Business Portal (www.business.mo.gov), a joint venture with the governor’s office, as a “one stop shop” for businesses to file reports or acquire licenses.

For more information on the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, visit www.sos.mo.gov.