Cate’s Corner: Policy Success Takes Time

Mickelson & Company Government Affairs Associate Cate Davis (right) in the Missouri Senate Chamber with Joe Arbona from Genesee & Wyoming (left) and Jeff Van Schaick from Jaguar Transport (middle).

Earlier this year, our team at Mickelson & Company read a book that shared a simple story about bamboo. For years, a bamboo plant must be watered, cared for, and nurtured daily. Then, after years of developing without any visible progress, it grows rapidly, sometimes several feet in just a matter of weeks. The lesson is simple: Some of the most important growth happens when no one else can see it.

This story resonates with me because it mirrors so much of what we see in public policy. One of the biggest misconceptions about the legislative process is that good ideas become law in a single session. In reality, meaningful policy often requires months or even years of education, relationship-building, and persistence before the right opportunity presents itself.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe signs SB 913 while bill sponsor Senator Kurtis Gregory (right) looks on.

Missouri's final passage of SB 913 this year, which includes a railroad tax credit, is a perfect example. Many of its key concepts had been introduced, discussed, and refined across multiple legislative sessions. However, the turning point was not a single amendment or committee vote. It was through relationships that were built over years. By combining our efforts with industry partners and identifying a shared opportunity, we were able to become part of a broader agriculture tax credit package.

That story is not unique to Missouri. Across the country, many of the most meaningful legislative achievements follow a similar path. Like bamboo, legislative progress can feel invisible at first. The months or years spent educating policymakers and building consensus rarely make the headlines, but they are what make lasting policy possible.

We are grateful to our industry partners for their teamwork throughout the process and extend our sincere appreciation to the bill sponsors, legislative leadership, and the Governor’s Office for their thoughtful engagement and commitment to advancing policies that strengthen Missouri's economy. Their leadership and willingness to work together made this achievement possible. We are proud of what was accomplished together and look forward to continuing our work in Missouri and beyond.

Contact Mickelson & Company’s Government Affairs Associate Cate Davis at cate@mickco.com or one of our team members for questions or more information. Cate can also help you identify who your current lawmakers are.