The Great American Eclipse is coming. While the past two have been small, the one on April 8, 2024, is expected to garner millions of viewers nationwide. This eclipse crosses major cities from Texas to Maine. While homes and businesses are preparing for the influx of visitors during the eclipse weekend, Missouri legislators are also thinking about the eclipse.
When Is The Eclipse?
The eclipse takes place on Monday, April 8, 2024. Because of its date, many people worldwide are expected to take the weekend off to travel somewhere to enjoy the eclipse.
Alton
Alton is preparing for the eclipse, too. While campsites have filled their reservations since last April, residents are renting their land to tourists. Others are developing tourist ideas like selling food or offering petting zoos. The eclipse will happen over Alton and east of Alton. Although West Plains will participate in darkness, neither Willow Springs nor Springfield will have any darkness.
Government
The legislators in Jefferson City are considering the matter. On April 8, 2023, the House adopted HR 561, establishing April 8, 2024, as ‘Total Eclipse Day’ in Missouri.
Involvement
The state is pushing the eclipse as a way for tourists to come to Missouri. You can take part in the Eclipse task force meetings. They happen via Zoom. The next meeting is December 26, 2023, between 11-12:00 pm.
