Mo. Rev. Stat. § 444.590

Where one operator succeeds another at any uncompleted operation, either by sale, assignment, lease or otherwise, the commission may release the first operator from all liability under sections 444.500 to 444.755 as to that particular operation, but only if the successor operator applies for and qualifies for a permit under sections 444.500 to 444.755 and assumes as part of his obligation under sections 444.500 to 444.755 all liability for the reclamation of the area of land affected by the former operator and sufficient bond is filed with the commission as provided in section 444.570. The successor operator shall not be required to pay the acre fee for any acre or fraction thereof for which a fee has already been paid.