The so-called Aerotropolis bill has received first-round approval in the Missouri House. If passed, it would provide up to $480 million in tax credits to encourage global air trade via St. Louis, including incentive for companies to build storage facilities near Lambert International Airport. It’s sponsored by GOP House Member Caleb Jones of Moniteau County.
“This bill will give Missouri the opportunity to become a world-class international air freight gateway and a regional supply point for import, export, and distribution of Missouri goods throughout the world,” Jones said.
The bill was approved on a voice vote, with strong support from both political parties. The only dissension came from St. Louis Democrat Jeanette Mott Oxford. She expressed concern that the bill would give too much power to local politicians and give away too much money in tax breaks.