An informational look at two statewide ballot measures and what voters should know before August 4
By Scott Tate President & CEO
Missouri voters will consider several statewide ballot issues during the August 4, 2026 election, including Amendments 4 and 5. While the St. Charles Regional Chamber has not taken a position on either amendment, we believe it is important for voters to understand the issues, review the official ballot language, and consider the potential impact of each proposal before casting their vote.
Amendment 4 would change the approval process for citizen-initiated constitutional amendments in Missouri. Under the current process, citizen-led constitutional amendments can be approved by a simple statewide majority vote. Amendment 4 would require both a statewide majority vote and majority approval in each of Missouri’s congressional districts. The proposal would apply only to constitutional initiative petitions; the statutory initiative petition process would remain unchanged.
Supporters of Amendment 4 say the change would ensure that proposed constitutional amendments have broad support across the entire state before becoming part of Missouri’s Constitution. Opponents say the proposal would make citizen-led constitutional amendments much harder to pass and could allow a minority of voters to block measures supported by a statewide majority.
Amendment 5 would amend Missouri’s Constitution to require the legislature to phase out the individual state income tax based on revenue growth and authorize changes to Missouri’s sales and use tax system. The measure would leave many implementation details to future lawmakers, including the pace of the income tax phase-out and any potential changes to goods, services, or other taxes.
Supporters of Amendment 5 say it could provide long-term tax relief, improve Missouri’s economic competitiveness, and encourage growth and investment. Opponents raise concerns about uncertainty, including how the income tax would be phased out, what taxes could be affected, and how the state and local governments would address potential revenue impacts.
To help members better understand both measures, the Chamber has prepared educational Issues Briefs for each amendment:
Amendment 4 Issues Brief
Amendment 5 Issues Brief
As with any ballot issue, the Chamber encourages members and voters to review trusted sources, consider the arguments on both sides, and make an informed decision on August 4.
Your voice matters. Be informed. Be engaged. Vote on August 4, 2026.