Tracking List: Education Policy

HB1405 - Enacts provisions relating to the use of identifying pronouns by school employees and independent contractors
Sponsor: Rep. Hardy Billington (R)
Summary: HB 1405 -- SCHOOL EMPLOYEES AND CONTRACTORS

SPONSOR: Billington

This bill prohibits any school employee or independent contractor from using a pronoun for a student that does not align with such student's biological sex as indicated on the student's birth certificate without written permission from the student's parent.

The bill restricts schools from requiring any employee or independent contractor from using a pronoun for a student that is different from that student's biological sex if doing so is contrary to the employee's or contractor's religious or moral convictions.

This bill is similar to HB 1258 from 2023.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1408 - Prohibits an employer from terminating an employee for having a firearm in the employee's vehicle on the employer's premises
Sponsor: Rep. Hardy Billington (R)
Summary: HB 1408 -- EMPLOYEE POSSESSION OF FIREARM

SPONSOR: Billington

This bill prohibits an employer from terminating an employee for having a firearm in his or her vehicle when arriving to or leaving from the employer's property for employment purposes or when the employee is acting within the scope of his or her employment. This provision shall only apply to employees who are not prohibited from possessing a firearm by law. The employer is not civilly liable for injuries or damages resulting from the use of the firearm.

This bill is the same as HB 38 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1410 - Changes the law regarding primary elections
Sponsor: Rep. Dan Stacy (R)
Summary: HB 1410 -- CLOSED PRIMARY ELECTIONS

SPONSOR: Stacy

This bill provides that no person shall be entitled to vote in a primary election of an established political party unless their voter registration establishes affiliation with said party.

Under the provisions of this bill, a candidate, a campaign committee, or a political party can request from the Secretary of State the political party affiliations of voters who applied for an absentee ballot.

Registered voters must select a party affiliation before the 23rd Tuesday prior to the date of the election in order to select that party's ballot at the primary election.

If a voter changes their party registration within 23 weeks of a party primary election, they will only be entitled to vote the ballot of the party with which they were registered prior to their change of registration.

Any person not previously registered in this state must select their party affiliation by the fourth Wednesday prior to the primary election in order to select that party's ballot at the primary election.

Voters voting in-person or absentee who are unaffiliated with a political party shall be entitled to cast only an unaffiliated ballot.

Any person who files a declaration of candidacy or is selected by a party nominating committee as a candidate in a primary election must be affiliated with that political party as evidenced by their voter registration no later than the 23 weeks prior to the last Tuesday in February immediately preceding the primary election.

Any person who files a declaration of candidacy as an independent candidate or as the candidate of a new political party must be unaffiliated with an established party as evidenced by their voter registration no later than the 23rd Tuesday prior to the opening date of candidate filing for the primary election.

No later than 19 weeks prior to the primary election date the Secretary of State shall distribute a list of eligible voters for each political party to local election authorities. Any political party entitled to ballot access is allowed to exempt itself from a closed primary and conduct a party caucus at its own expense.

The state shall pay the costs of implementing and providing notice of the closed primary system.

Provisions of this bill have a January 1, 2025, delayed effective date.

This bill is similar to HB 31 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1412 - Modifies provisions for candidate filing
Sponsor: Rep. Dan Stacy (R)
Summary: HB 1412 -- CANDIDATE FILING

SPONSOR: Stacy

This bill requires any person who files a declaration of candidacy or is selected by a party nominating committee as a candidate in a primary election to be affiliated with that political party as evidenced by their voter registration no later than 23 weeks prior to the last Tuesday in February immediately preceding the primary election.

The bill requires any person who files a declaration of candidacy as an independent candidate or as the candidate of a new political party to be unaffiliated with an established party as evidenced by their voter registration no later than the 23rd Tuesday prior to the opening date of candidate filing for the primary election.

This bill has an delayed effective date of January 1, 2025.

The bill is similar to provisions of HB 1410 (2024).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1414 - Requires the national motto to be posted in all public buildings, including public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Dan Stacy (R)
Summary: HB 1414 -- NATIONAL MOTTO IN PUBLIC BUILDINGS

SPONSOR: Stacy

This bill specifies that, if funds are available, the national motto shall be displayed in public buildings, including public schools and state institutions of higher education.

This bill also specifies the display requirements, poster specifications, and display locations.

The posters or framed copies authorized by this section are to be either donated or purchased solely with funds made available through voluntary contributions to the local school boards or the State Board of Public Buildings for the specified purpose.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1417 - Modifies provisions governing the minimum school term
Sponsor: Rep. Robert Sauls (D)
Summary: HB 1417 -- NUMBER OF SCHOOL DAYS REQUIRED

SPONSOR: Sauls

Current law requires 1044 hours of pupil instruction with a minimum of 174 days for schools with a five-day school week or 142 days for schools with a four-day school week.

This bill modifies current provisions of law relating to the minimum school term and school day by requiring specific school districts, located wholly or partially in a county with a charter form of government or any school district located wholly or partially within a city with more then 30,000 inhabitants with a five-day week to have a minimum school term that consists of 1044 hours or 169 school days of actual pupil attendance.

This bill provides that such school districts may adopt a four-day school week in lieu of a five-day school week for a period of 10 years and only by submitting to the qualified voters of the school district a ballot measure authorizing the same.

This bill provides for additional funding in an amount equal to 2% of the schools preceding year's June state aid to any district that has more than 169 school days, provided such funding is used for teacher salaries.

The bill also modifies current law that no public school district shall select an earlier start date than 14 calendar days prior to the first Monday in September to allow any district to vote to allow an earlier opening date, provided such district has a minimum term of 175 days.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1418 - Exempts the retail sale of food from state and local sales and use tax
Sponsor: Rep. Robert Sauls (D)
Summary: HB 1418 -- TAX EXEMPTION ON FOOD

SPONSOR: Sauls

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill eliminates any state or local sales or use tax from being levied or imposed on any retail sale of food.

The bill modifies the term "food" to include only the types of food that are included in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

This bill is similar to HB 591 (2023) and HB 2530 (2022).
Last Action:
02/20/2024 
** REVISED for TIME CHANGE ** - House-Agriculture Policy - 2/22/24 - 8:30 am or Upon Adjournment - HR 6
HB1423 - Modifies provisions relating to income tax deductions for private pensions
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HB 1423 -- PRIVATE PENSIONS

SPONSOR: McGirl

This bill increases an individual's income tax adjustments related to private pensions in the following manner:

(1) Married Filing Combined -- increases from $32,000 to $40,000;

(2) Single, Head of Household -- increases from $25,000 to $29,000; and

(3) Married Filing Separate -- increases from $16,000 to $20,000

This bill increases the maximum amount to be subtracted from a taxpayer's adjusted gross income for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, to the first $12,000 of any retirement allowance received from any privately funded sources. The previous maximum was $6,000.

This bill is the same as HB 356 (2023).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Not heard in committee
HB1424 - Creates new provisions relating to COVID-19 vaccination requirements
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HB 1424 -- BANNING COVID-19 VACCINE MANDATES

SPONSOR: McGirl

This bill modifies current law to prohibit political subdivisions from requiring a COVID-19 vaccination to access transportation systems, services, or public accommodations. Under this bill, no public or private entity receiving public funds or any other public accommodation shall require documentation of a COVID-19 vaccination to access transportation systems, facilities, services, or public accommodations, as defined in the bill.

No student in grades K-12 shall be required, as a condition of school attendance or participation in any school-sponsored extracurricular activities, to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or to undergo any testing policy as an alternative to a COVID-19 vaccination. Additionally, no public institution of higher education shall require a COVID-19 vaccine or diagnostic testing in order for a student to access facilities, services, or activities, including attending class in person. These provisions expire on December 31, 2028.

The bill prohibits any day care center, preschool, or nursery school from requiring a child to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of his or her attendance. This provision expires on December 31, 2028.

The bill makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer to require employees to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment without permitting employees to be exempted on the grounds of their religious, moral, ethical, or philosophical beliefs; for medical reasons, including pregnancy; or due to previous exposure and subsequent recovery from COVID-19. The employer shall not require the employee to provide any kind of explanation or proof regarding his or her religious, moral, ethical, or philosophical beliefs or medical conditions relating to requesting an exemption from vaccination. The Commission on Human Rights is required to develop and make available to employers and employees a form that employees may use to make requests for exemption. No employer shall require an employee to undergo testing as an alternative to receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. This provision expires on December 31, 2028.

This bill contains an emergency clause.

This bill is similar to SB 201 (2023) and SCS SBs 702, 636, 651, & 693 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1426 - Establishes provisions relating to civil liability for publishing or distributing material harmful to minors on the internet
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HB 1426 -- AGE VERIFICATION FOR PORNOGRAPHIC WEBSITES

SPONSOR: McGirl

This bill requires any commercial entity that knowingly or intentionally publishes or distributes on the internet material harmful to minors, as defined in the bill, to verify that any person attempting to access the material is at least 18 years old. The requirement to verify the age of users only applies to websites for which more than 33 1/3% of the total material meets the definition of material harmful to minors. Any commercial entity that violates these provisions will be subject to civil liability for damages resulting from a minor's access to the material. The bill does not impose an obligation or liability on a provider or user of an interactive computer service on the internet.
Last Action:
03/12/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1993
HB1427 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1427 -- TAXATION

SPONSOR: McGirl

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Ways and Means by a vote of 10 to 1.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1427.

This bill modifies provisions relating to taxation.

MEDICAL DEVICES (Sections 144.030 and 144.813)

This bill authorizes a sales tax exemption for sales of class III medical devices that use electric fields for the purposes of treating cancer, including components, repair parts, and disposable or single-patient-use supplies required for such devices.

Current law provides a sales tax exemption for certain durable medical equipment as defined on January 1, 1980, by the federal Medicare program. This bill removes the reference to January 1, 1980.

Additionally, current law provides a sales tax exemption for the sales or rental of manual and powered wheelchairs, including parts. The bill also applies the exemption to accessories for such wheelchairs.

PERSONAL PROPERTY (Sections 144.030 and 144.615)

This bill exempts from sales tax all sales of used tangible personal property, including any tangible personal property that is sold a second time or any number of additional subsequent times after the initial point of sale, at an auction. The provisions of this bill shall not apply to motor vehicles, trailers, boats, or outboard motors purchased or acquired for use on the highways or waters of this state which are required to be titled.

RESEARCH AND EXPERIMENTAL EXPENDITURES (Section 143.121)

Currently, Missouri taxpayers are unable to deduct certain research and experimentation expenditures from their adjusted gross income for tax purposes. This limitation is a result of the federal "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" of 2017. This bill de-couples Missouri from the provisions of the federal law, and allows taxpayers to deduct specified research and experimental expenditures from their federal adjusted gross income, beginning with the 2022 tax year. BINGO (Sections 313.057 & 313.057)

This bill repeals a 2% tax on the gross receipts of retail sales paid on each pull tab card sold in the state.

The bill also repeals a tax imposed on each organization conducting a game of bingo which annually awards at least $5000 and more than $100 in a single day.



The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill will allow tax exempt organizations to utilize all income that they generate to help pay for necessities. Such tax exempt organizations would include VFWs, Elks Clubs, and American Legions. Most of these organizations hold bingos, and any organization hosting a bingo must be classified as tax exempt. Supporters further say that the income that these tax exempt organizations receive is used to promote their objectives, such as helping veterans. A large amount of the income they receive is paid towards the current 2% tax, which gives the organizations much less of an opportunity to use those funds to promote their charitable objectives. Bingo games are the highest producing revenue activities that these organizations host, requiring that a lot of people are hired to run the event, and making it much less profitable for smaller tax exempt organizations.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative McGirl; Gary Grigsby, Association of Charitable Games of Missouri; and John E. Mueller.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that games of chance, such as bingo, are very profitable, and provide a good deal of revenue to state schools. Therefore, the 2% tax should be viewed as the cost of doing business for these tax exempt organizations to support state services.

Testifying in person against the bill was Arnie C. Dienoff.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1428 - Modifies the "circuit breaker" tax credit by increasing the maximum upper limits and adjusting the property tax credit income phase-out increment amounts
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1428 -- PROPERTY TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: McGirl

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform by a vote of 21 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1428.

This bill amends statutes related to senior citizens property tax relief, also known as the Circuit Breaker tax credit.

This tax credit is available to eligible senior citizens and disabled veterans for a portion of their real estate taxes or rent that such individuals have paid for the year.

Currently, the tax credit is limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $30,000 or less in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year. An additional exemption of $4,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $34,000 for a married homestead owner.

This bill increases such maximum income in the following manner:

For an unmarried homeowner: from $30,000, now $40,000;

For a married homeowner: the additional exemption is increased from $4,000 to $5,000 making the total credit now $45,000;

For an unmarried renter: from $27,200, now $32,000;

for a married homeowner: the additional exemption is increased from $2,000 to $5,000 making the total credit now $37,200.

Currently, the tax credit is set at a maximum of $1,100 in actual property taxes paid for a homeowner, and a maximum of $750 in rent constituting property taxes actually paid for renters.

This bill increases the maximum amount of the tax credit in the following manner:

For a homeowner: from $1,100, now $1,550;

For a renter: from $750, now $1,055. If the income on a return is over the minimum base but not over the maximum upper limit, the property tax shall be in increments of $25 and the income in increments of $495.

This bill is similar to HCS SS SCS SB 133 (2023).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that with an increase in the maximum income levels, more seniors can take advantage of the program. With the cost of living rising each year, more and more seniors are cut out of the program. The last time the maximum income levels were adjusted to reflect inflation was 2008, which makes change long overdue.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative McGirl; AARP; and Catholic Charities Archdiocese of St. Louis.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
02/26/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1429 - Prohibits counties from charging interest on entire personal property tax liabilities when a taxpayer has made installment payments
Sponsor: Rep. Willard Haley (R)
Summary: HB 1429 -- INTEREST ON PROPERTY TAX LATE PAYMENT

SPONSOR: Haley

This bill prohibits counties from charging interest on an entire real or personal property tax liability when a taxpayer misses an installment payment. This bill requires that the county charge interest but only on the amount of property taxes still owed for that year, including the late installment.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1430 - Modifies provisions governing tangible personal property assessments of boats
Sponsor: Rep. Willard Haley (R)
Summary: HB 1430 -- PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT ON BOATS

SPONSOR: Haley

This bill clarifies that certain items of tangible personal property used for lodging must be assessed for property tax purposes in the county where the items are located. These items include houseboats, cabin cruisers, and manufactured homes.

Other items of tangible personal property also must be assessed in the county where the items are located. These items include floating boat docks and motor boats, if the motor boats as defined in Section 306.010, RSMo, are housed or stored outside the owner’s county of residence on a boat lift or in a marina, and are not regularly transported to the owner’s county of residence.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1431 - Establishes minimum teacher's salaries and provides grant moneys to assist school districts with increasing teacher salaries
Sponsor: Rep. Willard Haley (R)
Summary: HB 1431 -- TEACHER SALARIES

SPONSOR: Haley

The current minimum teacher salary is $25,000 and for those teachers with a Master's Degree and 10 years of experience the minimum is $33,000. This bill raises the minimum in the 2025- 26 school year to a minimum of $38,000. For a teacher with a Master's Degree and 10 years of experience these minimums are raised to $44,000 and increase to $46,000 by the 2027-28 school year.

The bill creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" and the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant" program, with the purpose of providing a 70/30 matching grant to school districts. Beginning in the 2025-26 school year through June, 30, 2028, districts may apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for grants to increase minimum teacher salaries.

This bill is similar to HB 2357 (2022).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1432 - Adds a condition under which a certificate of license to teach will be granted
Sponsor: Rep. Willard Haley (R)
Summary: HB 1432 -- TEACHER EXEMPTION FROM TESTING

SPONSOR: Haley

This bill creates an alternative teaching certification process. Beginning in the 2024-25 school year the state board may authorize teaching certification to anyone with a bachelor's degree or higher. This teaching certification will be limited to the holder's major area of study.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1435 - Allows electrical corporations to charge for services based on the costs of certain construction work in progress
Sponsor: Rep. Willard Haley (R)
Summary: HB 1435 -- CONSTRUCTION WORK IN PROGRESS

SPONSOR: Haley

This bill establishes the "Missouri Nuclear Clean Power Act", which allows clean baseload electric generating plants or facilities rated at 600 megawatts or less that utilize clean baseload electric generating plants to produce energy not in commercial operation as of August 28, 2024, to charge for costs associated with construction work in progress before the facility is operational.

Before any construction begins, the electrical corporation seeking to include construction work in progress (CWIP) in its rates must file with the Public Service Commission a plan detailing the costs and the plan to recover those costs through rates. The costs recovered by an electrical corporation are subject to inclusion or exclusion in a ratemaking proceeding under the authority of the Public Service Commission. The Commission may also authorize an electrical corporation to charge for additional amortization to maintain the corporation's financial ratios that will better allow it to cost-effectively construct a clean baseload generating plant.

This bill is the same as HB 225(2023).
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1804
HB1438 - Modifies criteria to issue permits for the construction and operation of solid waste processing facilities.
Sponsor: Rep. Sherri Gallick (R)
Summary: HB 1438 -- SOLID WASTE PERMITTING

SPONSOR: Gallick

Currently, the Department of Natural Resources is prohibited from issuing a permit for the operation of a solid waste disposal area designed to serve a city with a population greater than 400,000 inhabitants located in more than one county, if the site is located within one-half mile of an adjoining municipality without approval of the adjoining municipality.

This bill changes the required distance from the adjoining municipality from one-half mile to one mile for any construction or operating permit for a solid waste disposal area or a solid waste processing facility. In addition, the bill increases the time frame in which the governing body of the municipality must hold a public hearing from 15 days to 30 days from receipt of notice.

The bill also specifies the Department is prohibited from issuing a permit if the site is within one mile of certain school districts without the approval of the governing body of the school district. The school district must meet the same public notification requirements as a municipality.
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1440 - Modifies provisions relating to school protection officers
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Dinkins (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1440 -- SCHOOL PROTECTION OFFICER

SPONSOR: Dinkins

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education by a vote of 14 to 3.

Currently, school districts may designate teachers or administrators to be school protection officers.

This bill adds other school personnel to the list of employees a school district may designate as a school protection officer and allows designated school personnel the authority to carry a weapon on school grounds if he or she has obtained a concealed carry endorsement or permit.

This bill is similar to HB 70 (2023).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill would authorize additional school district employees to serve as a school protection officer. Often it is difficult for schools to have enough eligible teachers to serve as a school protection officer so additional staff options are the better fit for that role.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Dinkins; and Missouri Council of School Administrators.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1441 - Expands the definition of special victim to include sports officials at a sporting event and limits civil liability for sports officials
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Dinkins (R)
Summary: HB 1441 -- SPORTS OFFICIALS

SPONSOR: Dinkins

This bill provides that sports officials who officiate athletic contests at any level of competition in this state shall not be liable, with exceptions, in a civil action for injuries or damages claimed to have arisen because of actions or inactions related to their officiating duties.

The bill also adds to the definition of "special victim" a sports official assaulted while he or she is performing sports official duties or as a direct result of such duties.

This bill is the same as HB 72 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1444 - Authorizes a tax credit for donations made to certain organizations
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Smith (R)
Summary: HB 1444 -- TAX CREDIT FOR DONATIONS TO CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS

SPONSOR: Smith (155)

Subject to appropriation, beginning on or after January 1, 20025, this bill establishes a tax credit against a taxpayer's state tax liability of up to 50% of their contribution to a qualified organization that provides support services and assistance to justice-involved individuals and people in recovery from substance use disorders.

Qualified organizations shall not have an annual budget in excess of $5 million, any employee who receives more than $125,000 in annual compensation, or include any housing organization unless accredited by the National Alliance of Recovery Residences or Adult and Teen Challenge USA. Qualified organizations are permitted to decline contributions.

Any tax credit that cannot be claimed for the tax year in which the contribution is made may be carried forward to the next four succeeding tax years until the full credit has been claimed.

No taxpayer shall be allowed to claim a credit unless the total amount of their contribution has a value of at least $250, except for any excess credit carried forward.

The cumulative amount of tax credits allowed to all taxpayers shall not exceed $2.5 million per tax year. In any given calendar year, no more than 20% of the total available tax credits shall be authorized for contributions to a single qualified organization.

The tax credit created in this bill shall be subject to the provisions of the Tax Credit Accountability Act.

This bill sunsets on December 31st, 6 years after the effective date.

This bill is similar to HB 1028 (2023) and HB 2527 (2022).
Last Action:
02/28/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1445 - Creates a new state holiday for election day and requires colleges and universities to close unless used as a polling place
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Johnson (D)
Summary: HB 1445 -- ELECTION DAY

SPONSOR: Johnson (12)

This bill adds the general election day that occurs in November of even numbered years to the list of public holidays in Missouri.

Additionally, the Coordinating Board of Higher Education must require that all colleges and universities be closed on the general election day, unless such college or university serves as a polling place.
Last Action:
04/15/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1447 - Modifies provisions governing teacher recruitment and retention
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1447 -- TEACHER RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education by a vote of 12 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1447.

The current minimum teacher salary is $25,000 and for those teachers with a Master's Degree and 10 years of experience the minimum is $33,000. This bill raises the minimum in the 2025-26 school year to $38,000. For a teacher with a Master's Degree and 10 years of experience the minimum is raised to $44,000 with increases each year until the 2027-28 school year when the minimum shall be $46,000.

Beginning in the 2028-29 school year and in all subsequent years the minimum teacher salary base will be adjusted annually by a calculated percentage increase in inflation, not to exceed 3% as outlined in the bill. The State Board of Education shall publish the calculated minimum salaries beginning in February, 2026.

The bill creates a "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" to assist school districts with a grant from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to increase the districts minimum teacher salary to the required level. The grant will be necessary funds used to increase the districts minimum salary.

The bill authorizes the State Board for Education to grant an additional teaching certificate in a specific content or subject area to already certificated teachers based upon successfully completing the state-approved teacher evaluation system comprised of seven walk-through evaluations, two formative evaluations, and one summative evaluation, a recommendation from the school district, and the completion of a background check..

The bill removes the requirement that salary schedules adopted by a district's board of education apply to all teachers in the district and allows school boards to include differentiated placement of teachers on the salary schedule for hard-to-staff subject areas and hard-to-staff schools. Districts may annually review and modify hard-to-staff subject areas and schools, as defined in the bill, and are prohibited from placement of any teacher on a schedule that would result in a salary demotion. The bill modifies the "Missouri Professional Teacher and Administrator Act" by removing the requirement that prospective teacher education students pass an entry-level test with a satisfactory rating before being admitted into a university or college teaching program.

The bill modifies the "career plan or program" requirement that qualifying career ladder responsibilities and volunteer effort occur after school hours by clarifying that they must be outside of duties that require a teaching certificate and includes teacher mentorship to the suggested options. The bill also exempts military members and the member's spouse from the two year residency requirement if such individual has experience in another state..

The bill modifies the existing "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" by changing the name to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program". The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly. Additional provisions of the existing program are modified including increasing the maximum number of two-year scholarships from 200 in the 2025 academic year to 600 such scholarships by the 2030-31 school term.

Scholarships for up to 100% of eligible tuition and fees are to be awarded to "eligible students" as defined in the bill for up to two years. Students must agree to teach in "hard-to-staff schools" or "hard-to-staff subject areas" for two years for every year the scholarship is received.

The repayment rate of the scholarships for a failure to fulfill the agreement is set forth in the bill as 1% over the prevailing prime rate in effect on January 1st of the year the student is ineligible, with annual adjustments.

The bill includes provisions from HB 2092 and HB 1986 (2024)



The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that the Blue Ribbon Commission pointed out that for past several years Missouri teachers have been leaving the profession or are not entering the profession in large enough numbers to sustain the numbers of teachers needed to effectively teach. Missouri salaries are some of the lowest in the surrounding area and in the nation. Teachers have the biggest impact on student learning and investments in this resource need to be made. Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Lewis; Aligned; Missouri Retired Teachers Association; Missouri State Teachers Association; Perry Gorrell, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education; Quality Schools Coalition; Missouri School Boards Association; and Missouri NEA.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say local school boards and local communities do not spend the local effort raised the same way, with some districts focused on teacher salaries while others spend it in other areas. This state approach may not solve the teacher salary issue if local districts do not act accordingly.

Testifying in person on the bill was John T. Grady.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1448 - Modifies provisions governing tuition reimbursement calculations for schools that do not maintain a high school through grade twelve
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 1448 -- K-EIGHT TUITION REIMBURSEMENT

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

This bill modifies the calculation of tuition for students from a district that only offers grades K-Eight that are attending a district offering a high school program. The current calculation is based on the average attendance of the receiving district. This bill modifies the calculation to reflect the actual average daily attendance of the sending school's students or by an agreed upon percentage of enrollment that must not exceed 95%.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Elementary and Secondary Education
HB1450 - Modifies and establishes provisions relating to the protection of children and vulnerable persons
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 1450 -- PROTECTION OF CHILDREN AND VULNERABLE PERSONS

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

This bill replaces the term "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" throughout statute, but child pornography as it will have existed prior to the effective date of this legislation will still be subject to the provisions of the relevant statutes.

The term "child sexual abuse material" now includes any anatomically correct doll, mannequin, or robot meant to resemble a minor under 18 years of age and intended to be used for the purpose of arousing or gratifying the sexual desire of any person or for the purpose of terrorizing or causing emotional distress to any person.

The bill also establishes the "Statewide Council Against Adult Trafficking and Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children" to replace the "Statewide Council on Sex Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation of Children", which expires on December 31, 2023. The new council must be created within 30 days of August 28, 2024, is required to meet at least quarterly, and is within the Office of the Attorney General of Missouri and the Attorney General or his or her designee shall be the chair of the council. The members of the council are specified and include two members of the Senate appointed by the President Pro Tem of the Senate rather than one being appointed by the Minority Floor Leader of the Senate, and the two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives rather than one being appointed by the Minority Floor Leader of the House of Representatives. The bill creates the "Anti-Trafficking Fund", of which the state Treasurer will be the custodian. Money in the fund will be used solely to pay for the position of the executive director of the statewide council, education and awareness regarding human trafficking, and anti-trafficking efforts throughout the state.

Currently, under certain circumstances, a statement made by a child under the age of 14 or a vulnerable person, or the visual and aural recording of a verbal or nonverbal statement of such child or vulnerable person, is admissible in evidence in criminal proceedings as substantive evidence to prove the truth of the matter asserted. This bill increases the age to a child under the age of 18 and it amends the definition of "vulnerable person" to include a person whose developmental level does not exceed that of an ordinary child of 17 years of age, increased from 14 years of age. The bill amends Section 537.046, RSMo, to add to the definition of "childhood sexual abuse" the offenses of rape in the second degree, sodomy in the second degree, sexual abuse in the second degree, sexual trafficking of a child in the first degree, sexual trafficking of a child in the second degree, sexual exploitation of a minor, and child used in a sexual performance. Currently, a person may file a cause of action to recover damages from injury or illness caused by childhood sexual abuse within 10 years of the plaintiff turning 21 years old or within three years of discovering the cause of the injury or illness. This bill increases the time from 10 years to 20 years and adds that a person can file a cause of action to recover damages from injury or illness caused by tortious conduct that caused the victim to be a victim of childhood sexual abuse within 20 years of the plaintiff turning 21 years old or three years of discovering the cause of the injury or illness.

This bill allows a prosecuting or circuit attorney to request assistance from the Attorney General to assist in prosecution of child sex trafficking cases.

The bill specifies that the term of imprisonment for the offense of sexual trafficking of a child in the second degree when it is committed by a parent, legal guardian, or other person having custody or control of a child is "life imprisonment", which, in this instance, means for the duration of the person's natural life.

Any real or personal property that was used, attempted to be used, or intended to be used to commit a certain unlawful sexual offense may be seized and remaining proceeds from the sale of the seized property owned by the defendant will be first allocated to pay an order of restitution to a victim of human trafficking and any remaining funds will be deposited into the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund.

Currently, the offense of patronizing prostitution is a class D felony if the individual the person patronizes is 14 years of age or younger. This bill increases the penalty to a class B felony if the individual the person patronizes is 15 years of age or younger.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1464 - Creates a sales tax exemption for food
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Sander (R)
Summary: HB 1464 -- GROCERY SALES TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Sander

Currently, there is a statutory sales tax of 1% on all retail sales of food, as defined in the bill, with the revenue from sales being deposited into the School District Trust Fund.

This bill provides that all retail sales of food are exempt from sales and use tax.

This bill is similar to HB 260 (2023) and HB 6 (2022 Special Session).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1465 - Exempts eye glasses and contact lenses from sales tax
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Sander (R)
Summary: HB 1465 -- TAX EXEMPTION OF EYE GLASSES

SPONSOR: Sander

This bill provides a sales tax exemption for prescription eye glasses and contact lenses.

This bill is similar to HB 261 (2023) and HB 1 (2022 Special Session).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1467 - Changes the assessment cycle for determining the assessed valuation of subclass (1) residential real property from two years to four years, beginning in 2027.
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Sander (R)
Summary: HB 1467 -- PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Sander

This bill adjusts the manner and timing that a County Assessor shall assess certain classes of real property.

Currently, assessments of subclass (1) real property are conducted on a two-year cycle, every odd-numbered year. Beginning January 1, 2027, the assessment for the valuation of subclass (1) real property shall be conducted on a four-year cycle.

On or before January 1 of the first year of the four-year cycle in which the newly assessed values apply to subclass (1) real property, the Assessor shall prepare and submit a four-year assessment maintenance plan for subclass (1) real property to the county governing body and the State Tax Commission for their respective approval or modification.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1468 - Modifies the duties of the state tax commission
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Sander (R)
Summary: HB 1468 -- STATE TAX COMMISSION

SPONSOR: Sander

This bill adds additional duties to the State Tax Commission. The new duties shall be as follows:

1) To review and approve or reject all assessor office assessment software;

2) To review, audit, and investigate the assessment processes of any assessor office with a parcel assessment appeals rate of 10% or more in a calendar year;

3) To serve as the Board of Equalization for personal property registered in Missouri and real property located in Missouri, and that is owned by any Missouri resident deployed and engaged in military service outside of the state; and

4) To review, audit, and investigate unresolved property assessment appeals still pending at the time property tax bills are due each December 31st.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1469 - Enacts provisions establishing an elected city assessor of the City of St. Louis
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Sander (R)
Summary: HB 1469 -- ST. LOUIS CITY ASSESSOR

SPONSOR: Sander

Currently, the Assessor of the City of St. Louis is appointed by the city's Mayor. Under this bill, the City Assessor would become an elected position.

Beginning on the general municipal election day in 2025, the voters of the City of St. Louis will elect an assessor to a four year term of office.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1474 - Reduces the tax on diapers and feminine hygiene products
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Sharp (D)
Summary: HB 1474 -- DIAPERS AND FEMININE HYGIENE TAX

SPONSOR: Sharp (37)

Beginning October 1, 2024, this bill reduces the tax rate on retail sales of feminine hygiene products and diapers to equal the reduced sales tax rate imposed on the retail sale of food.

This bill is similar to HB 114 (2023) and HCS HB 1679, 2859, & 2272 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1475 - Requires the observation of black history month in school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Sharp (D)
Summary: HB 1475 -- BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Sharp (37)

This bill requires public schools to conduct educational programs and activities to honor the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans for at least one class period in the month of February.

This bill is similar to HB 112(2023) and HB 2689 (2022).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Crime Prevention and Public Safety
HB1479 - Establishes earnings tax opportunity zones
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Christ (R)
Summary: HB 1479 -- EARNINGS TAX OPPORTUNITY ZONES

SPONSOR: Christ

This bill establishes "earnings tax opportunity zones." Such opportunity zones, as described in the bill, shall correspond to existing federal census tracts described as "distressed communities."

Beginning January 1, 2024, the following types of income shall be exempt from the city earnings tax:

1) Salaries, wages, commissions, and other compensation earned by any resident of an earnings tax opportunity zone;

2) Salaries, wages, commissions, and other compensation earned by any person who earns salaries, wages, commissions, and other compensation for work done or services performed or rendered in an earnings tax opportunity zone;

3) Net profits of associations, businesses, or other activities conducted by any person in an earnings tax opportunity zone; and

4) Net profits earned by all corporations as the result of work done or services performed or rendered and business or other activities in an earnings tax opportunity zone.

If a distressed community that is found within an opportunity zone imposes a city earnings tax, that distressed community shall publish and maintain an updated map of earnings tax opportunity zones on its website and shall provide a copy of such map upon request.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1480 - Incentivizes advanced manufacturing
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Christ (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1480 -- ADVANCED MANUFACTURING RECRUITMENT (Christ)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Economic Development

Beginning January 1, 2025, a qualified manufacturing company may be allowed a tax credit of up to 20% of a capital investment in property within the state of Missouri for a period of 5 years. Such capital investment must equal at least $1 billion and create 500 or more jobs, 150 of which shall be reserved for full-time Missouri residents at the time of hiring. Qualifying full-time employees must work an average of at 35 hours per week for a 12 month period and whose annual wage is equal to or above the county average. The total amount of tax credits issued annually under this section must not exceed 200 million dollars per tax year.

A qualified manufacturing company shall submit an application to the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) in order to be eligible for consideration. A qualified company shall also enter into a written agreement with DED that details performance requirements and repayment penalties in the event of non- performance. The agreement shall specify, at a minimum:

(1) The committed number of retained jobs, payroll, and new qualified manufacturing capital investment for each year during the project period;

(2) Clawback provisions, as may be required by the DED; and

(3) Any other provisions DED may require.

In determining the amount of tax credits to award to a qualified company, DED shall consider the following factors:

(1) The significance of the qualified manufacturing company's need for program benefits;

(2) The amount of projected economic impact to the state of the project and the period in which the state would realize such net fiscal benefit;

(3) The overall size and quality of the proposed project, including the number of new jobs, new qualified manufacturing capital investment, proposed wages, growth potential of the qualified manufacturing company, the potential multiplier effect of the project, and similar factors;

(4) The financial stability and creditworthiness of the qualified manufacturing company; (5) The level of economic distress in the area; and

(6) An evaluation of the competitiveness of alternative locations for the project facility, as applicable.

DED shall award tax credits to a qualified manufacturing company that satisfies the qualified manufacturing capital investment requirement in four separate installments of equal value, equivalent to 1/4 of the total agreedupon value of awarded incentive when the value reaches:

(1) 25% of the agreed-upon qualified capital investment;

(2) 50% of the agreed-upon qualified capital investment;

(3) 75% of the agreed-upon qualified capital investment; and

(4) 100% of the agreed-upon qualified capital investment.

Qualified manufacturing companies shall have three years after DED has approved a tax credit to meet 25% of its qualified manufacturing capital investment. Once the 25% threshold is met, a qualified company has five years to receive the full agreed-upon tax credits. If a qualified company does not meet the 25% threshold by year three, the agreement shall be deemed void.

A qualified company shall provide an annual report detailing the number of jobs and such other information as may be required by DED no later than 90 days prior to the end of the qualified company's tax year. Tax credits may be claimed within one year of the close of the tax year for which they were issued.

If a qualified manufacturing company is owned by entities domiciled in the United States and such manufacturing company is relocating or reshoring from China or any country designated as a foreign adversary, as designated in 15 C.F.R 7.4, to a project facility in Missouri, DED shall expedite the approval process by giving priority to such applications. DED shall make a determination on expedited applications within 60 days of receipt.

Before January 1, 2026 and the first day of each quarter thereafter, DED must present a quarterly report to the General Assembly that details the benefits of the program.

These provisions sunset on December 31, 10 years after the effective date.
Last Action:
04/15/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1483 - Modifies provisions relating to tax credits for sporting events
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Christ (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1483 -- TAX CREDITS FOR SPORTING EVENTS (Christ)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Tourism

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1483.

This bill provides a tax credit to nonprofit organizations, described as "certified sponsors," that are active members of the Sports Events and Tourism Association.

Such certified sponsor shall supply the Department of Economic Development (DED) with a ticket sales or box office statement verifying the total number of tickets sold for a qualifying sporting event, or, if such event was participant based, a list of all registered participants, no more than 90 days after the sporting event.

After DED receives documentation of the ticket sales or registered participants, it shall issue refundable tax credits in the following manner:

1) An amount equal to $6 for every admissions ticket; or

2) An amount equal to $12 for every registered participant.

The Department of Revenue shall pay the amount of the refundable tax credit to the applicant within 90 days of the applicant's submission of a valid tax credit certificate.

The amount of tax credits issued by the DED shall not exceed $6 million in any fiscal year. For all events located within the following counties, the total amount of tax credits issued shall not exceed $5.5 million in any fiscal year:

1) A county with a charter form of government and with more than 600,000 inhabitants; or

2) A city not within a county.

Support contracts shall not be certified by DED after August 28, 2031, provided that the support contracts may be certified on or prior to August 28, 2031, for sporting events that will be held after such date.

This program sunsets six years after August 28, 2025.

This bill is similar to SB 1036 (2023).
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
HB1485 - Authorizes the establishment of charter school in school districts in St. Louis County
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Christ (R)
Summary: HB 1485 -- CHARTER SCHOOLS EXPANSION ST. LOUIS COUNTY

SPONSOR: Christ

This bill allows for charter schools to be established in any school district located primarily in a county with more than one million inhabitants. Currently this would apply to St. Louis County.

The bill also allows for the funding mechanism for charter schools to include any newly established charters.
Last Action:
01/29/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1486 - Changes provisions governing early childhood education programs
Sponsor: Rep. Brenda Shields (R)
Summary: HB 1486 -- STATE FUNDING FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAMS (Shields)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education

Currently, children between three and five years old who are eligible for free and reduced price lunch and attend an early childhood education program operated by a school district or a charter school may be included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance. The total number of such pupils shall not exceed 4% of the total number of pupils between five and 18 years old who are eligible for free and reduced price lunch and who are included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance.

Beginning with the 2024-25 school year, this bill provides that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall remit to school districts and charter schools an amount equal to the product of the state adequacy target, the dollar-value modifier, and the average daily attendance of pupils who are eligible for free and reduced price lunch and who attend, in the year prior to their kindergarten enrollment eligibility, an early childhood education program that is operated by a school district or a charter school.

Three-year-old pupils and other pupils who are more than one year prior to kindergarten enrollment eligibility, who are eligible for free and reduced price lunch, and who attend such early childhood education programs shall be included in a district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance under existing law, although such increases will not disqualify districts from specific funding sources outlined in the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 833 (2023).
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
HB1487 - Requires bleeding control kits in all public school and charter school classrooms
Sponsor: Rep. Brenda Shields (R)
Summary: HB 1487 -- BLEEDING CONTROL KITS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Shields

This bill establishes the "Stop the Bleed Act", defines "bleeding control kit" and requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to develop a traumatic blood loss protocol for school personnel by January 1, 2025.

The bill outlines the specific requirements for the blood loss protocol which shall include that a bleeding control kit be placed in areas where there is likely to be high traffic or congregation, and areas where risk of injury may be elevated.

Additionally, each district must designate a school nurse or school health care provider, or if no school nurse or school health care provider is available, a school personnel member to receive annual training on the use of a blood control kit.

The bill requires DESE and each school district and charter school to maintain information regarding the traumatic blood loss protocol and the Stop the Bleed national awareness campaign on their respective websites.

This bill is the same as HB 116 from (2023) and HB 1722 (2022).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on General Laws
HB1488 - Authorizes the "Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Act", "Employer-Provided Child Care Assistance Tax Credit Act", and "Child Care Providers Tax Credit Act", relating to tax credits for child care
Sponsor: Rep. Brenda Shields (R)
Summary: HB 1488 -- TAX CREDITS FOR CHILD CARE (Shields)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Workforce and Infrastructure Development

CHILD CARE CONTRIBUTION TAX CREDIT ACT

This bill establishes the "Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Act". Beginning January 1, 2025, a taxpayer may claim a tax credit, against his or her state liability for that tax year, for verified contributions to a child care provider in an amount equal to 75% of the contribution. The tax credit issued shall not be less than $100, and shall not exceed $200,000 per tax year.

To be eligible for the tax credit, a donation must be:

(1) Used directly by a child care provider to promote child care for children 12 years of age or younger;

(2) If made to an intermediary, distributed in full by the intermediary within two years of receipt to one or more child care providers;

(3) Made to a child care provider or intermediary in which the taxpayer or a person related to the taxpayer does not have a direct financial interest; and

(4) Not made in exchange for care of a child or children in the case of an individual taxpayer that is not an employer making a contribution on behalf of its employees.

The tax credits authorized by this section shall not be refundable and shall not transferred, sold, or otherwise conveyed. The cumulative amount of tax credits authorized shall not exceed $20 million for each calendar year. If the maximum amount of tax credits allowed in any calendar year is authorized, the maximum amount of tax credits shall be increased by 15%, provided that all such increases of tax credits shall be reserved for contributions made to child care providers located in a child care desert.

Tax credits allowed under this section are considered a "domestic and social tax credit" under the provisions of the Tax Credit Accountability Act.

The program sunsets on December 31, 2030.

EMPLOYER PROVIDED CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE TAX CREDIT ACT This bill also establishes the "Employer Provided Child Care Assistance Tax Credit Act". Beginning January 1, 2025, a taxpayer with two or more employees may claim a tax credit in an amount equal to 30% of the qualified child care expenditures paid or incurred with respect to a child care facility. The maximum amount of any tax credit issued shall not exceed $200,000 per taxpayer per tax year.

For the purposes of this provision, "taxpayer" is defined as a corporation defined in Chapter 143, RSMo; any charitable organization exempt from federal income tax and whose Missouri unrelated business taxable income, if any, would be subject to the state income tax under Chapter 143; or individuals or partnerships subject to the state income tax imposed by the provisions of Chapter 143.

A facility shall not be treated as a child care facility with respect to a taxpayer unless enrollment in the facility is open to the dependents of the taxpayer's employees during the tax year, provided that the dependents are within the age range ordinarily care for by, and only require a level of care ordinarily provided by, such facility.

The tax credits shall not be refundable, transferable, sold, assigned, or otherwise conveyed. The cumulative amount of tax credits shall not exceed $20 million for each calendar year. If the maximum amount of tax credits allowed in any calendar year is authorized, the maximum amount of tax credits shall be increased by 15%, provided that all such increases of tax credits shall be reserved for contributions made to child care providers located in a child care desert.

The program sunsets on December 31, 2030.

CHILD CARE PROVIDERS TAX CREDIT ACT

This bill also establishes the "Child Care Providers Tax Credit Act". Beginning January 1, 2025, a child care provider with three or more employees may claim a tax credit in an amount equal to the child care provider's eligible employer withholding tax, and may also claim a tax credit in an amount up to 30% of the child care provider's capital expenditures.

No tax credit for capital expenditures shall be allowed if the capital expenditures are less than $1,000. The amount of any tax credit issued shall not exceed $200,000 per child care provider per tax year. To claim a tax credit for capital expenditures, a child care provider shall present proof acceptable to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that the expenditures fall within the definition of capital expenditure, as defined in the bill.

The tax credits shall not be refundable, transferred, sold, assigned, or otherwise conveyed. Any amount of credit that exceeds the child care provider's state tax liability for the tax year for which the tax credit is issued may be carried back to the child care provider's immediately prior tax year or carried forward to the child care provider's subsequent tax year for up to five succeeding tax years. The cumulative amount of tax credits authorized pursuant to this section shall not exceed $20 million for each calendar year.

If the maximum amount of tax credits allowed in any calendar year is authorized, the maximum amount of tax credits shall be increased by 15%, provided that all such increases of tax credits shall be reserved for contributions made to child care providers located in a child care desert.

The program sunsets on December 31, 2030.

This bill is similar to HB 870 (2023) and SB 509 (2023).
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1502 - Requires school districts to provide instruction in cursive writing
Sponsor: Rep. Gretchen Bangert (D)
Summary: HB 1502 -- INSTRUCTION IN CURSIVE WRITING (Bangert)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Education Reform

This bill requires school districts and charter schools to provide instruction in cursive writing by the end of the fifth grade, including a proficiency test of competency in reading and writing cursive.

This bill is the same as HB 2852 (2024) and HB 232 from (2023).
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1505 - Establishes the "Missouri Teachers Classroom Supply Assistance Program"
Sponsor: Rep. Gretchen Bangert (D)
Summary: HB 1505 -- MISSOURI TEACHERS CLASSROOM SUPPLY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

SPONSOR: Bangert

This bill establishes the "Missouri Teachers Classroom Supply Assistance Program", which, beginning with the 2025-26 school year, requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide money to each school district and charter school specifically for teachers to purchase classroom materials and school supplies. The Department shall calculate the amount for school districts and charter schools based on the average daily attendance of resident pupils enrolled in the previous year and distribute such amount to each district and school before August 1st of each year.

School districts and charter schools will provide each teacher in their district with a pre-loaded debit card issued specifically for this Program, and with a tax exempt number. The Department shall determine all necessary procedures and requirements for use of the cards. Any teacher using the card must submit receipts for all purchases to be maintained by the school district or charter school for five years.

This bill is the same as HB 235 from 2023.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1513 - Establishes the "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Jim Murphy (R)
Summary: HB 1513 -- MEDIA LITERACY AND CRITICAL THINKING ACT

SPONSOR: Murphy

This bill establishes the "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act". This bill defines "media literacy" to include concepts such as but not limited to: an individual's ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and participate with all forms of media, including news in print and social media content, and recognize bias and stereotypes in media, as well as Internet safety.

The bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to establish a "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking" pilot program for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. Between five and seven diverse schools shall be selected by DESE to participate in the Pilot Program as specified in the bill.

The Program shall address media literacy, develop strategies for student learning in classroom curricula, and demonstrate various literacy strategies used. Pilot program schools shall provide a report to DESE before August 1, 2027 and before January 1, 2028 DESE shall compile and submit a summary report to the General Assembly. The Pilot Program shall terminate June 30, 2027.

This section shall terminate on December 31, 2027.

This bill is similar to HB 492 from 2023.
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1517 - Modifies provisions relating to tax levies by political subdivisions
Sponsor: Rep. Jim Murphy (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1517 -- BALLOT LANGUAGE RELATING TO TAXATION

SPONSOR: Murphy

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Tax Reform by a vote of 8 to 3.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1517.

This bill specifies that the election authority for a political subdivision or special district must label taxation-related ballot measures submitted by the political subdivision or special district numerically or alphabetically, and that ballot measures cannot be labeled in any other descriptive manner.

The bill requires any ballot measure seeking approval to add, change, or modify a tax on real property to express the effect of the proposed change within the ballot language in terms of the change in real dollars owed per $100,000 of a property's market valuation.

The bill specifies that, if the voters in a political subdivision approve a temporary levy increase prior to the expiration of a previously approved temporary levy increase, the new tax rate ceiling will remain in effect only until the temporary levy increase expires under the terms originally approved by a vote of the people. At that time, the tax rate ceiling will be decreased by the amount of the temporary levy increase unless voters of the political subdivision are asked to approve an additional permanent increase and such increase is approved.

This bill requires that when voters in a political subdivision pass an increase in the political subdivision's tax rate, the political subdivision shall use the current tax rate ceiling and the increase approved by the voters in establishing the rates of levy for the tax year immediately following the election. If the assessed valuation of real property in a political subdivision sees a reduction in value in the tax year immediately following the election, the political subdivision may raise its tax rates so that the revenue received from the local real property tax rates equals the amount the political subdivision would have received from the increased rates of levy had there been no reduction in the assessed valuation of real property in the political subdivision. In the event of an increased tax rate ceiling, such rate shall be revenue neutral as required in Article X, Section 22 of the Constitution of Missouri.

This bill is similar to HS HCS HB 186 (2023). The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that when a political subdivision passes a tax increase, but does not "roll back" its local tax rates according to the provisions of the Hancock Amendment, the political subdivision has deceived the voters. This bill would require political subdivisions to present potential tax increases in an honest and ethical manner, without making use of any loopholes to skirt the law.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Murphy; and Arnie C. Dienoff.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1523 - Changes provisions relating to student interactions in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Hudson (R)
Summary: HB 1523 -- INSTRUCTION IN HUMAN SEXUALITY

SPONSOR: Hudson

This bill defines "gender identity" and "sexual orientation".

Currently, schools are required to notify parents of certain information related to the school's human sexuality instruction and make all curriculum materials used in the human sexuality instruction available for public inspection.

This bill expands those requirements to also include any curriculum, material, test, survey, questionnaire, activity, or instruction of any kind related to sexual orientation and gender identity.

The bill prohibits school districts from providing false or misleading information to a parent or guardian relating to the student's gender identity or intention to transition to a gender other then that listed on the student's birth certificate. Additionally, the bill requires district and charter school employees to report any request to be addressed by a name or pronoun different than the name or pronoun used for such student's registration to school administration which must report such information to the student's parent or guardian.

The bill provides authorization for civil action for any violation of this section with outlined compensations.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1527 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation of vehicles over seven years old
Sponsor: Rep. Cyndi Buchheit-Courtway (R)
Summary: HB 1527 -- TAXATION ON VEHICLES

SPONSOR: Buchheit-Courtway

This bill specifies that motor vehicles seven years of age or older, based on the model year and used solely for noncommercial purposes, will be assessed at 5% of their true value in money.

This bill is similar to HB 206 (2023) and HB 2164 (2022).
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1531 - Modifies provisions relating to the liability of employers
Sponsor: Rep. Cyndi Buchheit-Courtway (R)
Summary: HB 1531 -- LIABILITY OF EMPLOYERS

SPONSOR: Buchheit-Courtway

The bill provides that when an injury or death of an employee is caused by the failure of the employer to comply with any safety standard issued by the employer or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), regulation, or statute in this state or any lawful order of the Division of Workers' Compensation within the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations or the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission (LIRC), the compensation and death benefit provided to such employee shall be increased at least 25% but not more than 50%.

This bill provides that the exclusive remedy provision of the Workers' Compensation law shall not apply to any cause of action that may be brought on behalf of an unborn child or their representative in the case of an injury or death which caused the death of an unborn child.

The bill increases from $5,000 to $15,000 the maximum compensation owed to persons furnishing burial expenses for deceased employees under Workers' Compensation laws (Sections 287.120, 287.240, RSMo).

This bill increases the amount of liability insurance for tort claims that may be purchased by the Commissioner of the Office of Administration or the governing body of any political subdivision as follows:

(1) From $2 million to $4 million arising out of a single occurrence; and

(2) From $300,000 to $500,000 for any one person in a single accident or occurrence.

The bill increases the liability of all public entities on claims that fall under the sovereign immunity exceptions as follows:

(1) From $2 million to $4 million arising out of a single occurrence; and

(2) From $300,000 to $500,000 for any one person in a single accident or occurrence.

Current law prohibits punitive damages against a public entity. This bill allows punitive damages to be awarded if a plaintiff shows by clear and convincing evidence that the public entity violated a safety standard issued by the employer or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), regulation, or statute in this state, or any lawful order of a court or other judicial body (Section 537.610).

This bill is similar to HB 1077 (2023) and HB 2831 (2022).
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1535 - Modifies the offense of unlawful possession of a firearm to include any minor possessing a firearm on public property
Sponsor: Rep. Donna Baringer (D)
Summary: HB 1535 -- MINOR POSSESSING A FIREARM IN PUBLIC

SPONSOR: Baringer

Currently, an individual unlawfully possesses a firearm if such person knowingly has a firearm in his or her possession and: has been convicted of a felony in Missouri, a crime in any other state, or a federal crime that, if committed in Missouri, would be a felony; or such person is a fugitive, is habitually intoxicated or drugged, or is mentally incompetent.

This bill adds to that list a person under 18 in possession of a firearm on public property. However, possession of a firearm is not an offense if such person possesses the firearm while with someone who is at least 21 years of age; for a school-sanctioned, firearm-related event or club; for legal hunting; or for an otherwise lawful purpose.

This bill contains a penalty provision.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1536 - Modifies provisions relating to employment modifying work hours on school nights for certain students less than eighteen years of age
Sponsor: Rep. Donna Baringer (D)
Summary: HB 1536 -- CHILD LABOR

SPONSOR: Baringer

As specified in this bill, a person who is 16 years of age or older but under 18 years of age, who is enrolled in a secondary school as a full-time student, and is employed for wages, shall not be permitted, forced, or compelled to work beyond 10:00 p.m. on an evening before a school day when the school is in session.

The bill includes exceptions for:

(1) A person who is employed by or working under the direct control of the person's parent or legal guardian;

(2) A student who attends home school;

(3) A full-time student who is eligible to receive credit for work that is performed during the school year;

(4) A full-time student who is a member of a professional sports team or entertainment group.

This bill is similar to HB 960 (2023).
Last Action:
02/15/2024 
H - Referred to House Special Committee on Tourism
HB1540 - Modifies sunshine fee provisions for geographical information system data
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Coleman (R)
Summary: HB 1540 -- GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM DATA

SPONSOR: Coleman

This bill provides that no fee in excess of the reasonable replacement costs of materials provided be charged for sunshine requests related to geographical information system products.

This bill is the same as HCS HB 50 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1543 - Modifies the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Coleman (R)
Summary: HB 1543 -- EXPLICIT SEXUAL MATERIAL

SPONSOR: Coleman

This bill amends the definition of "explicit sexual material" as it relates to the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student. The definition was amended to apply to any material, including written material, if, taken as a whole and applying contemporary community standards: the predominant appeal of the material is to prurient interest in sex; the average person would find the material describes or depicts sexual conduct in a patently offensive way; and a reasonable person would find the material lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1568 - Modifies provisions governing school employee training requirements
Sponsor: Rep. Ann Kelley (R)
Summary: HB 1568 -- SCHOOL EMPLOYEE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

SPONSOR: Kelley (127)

Beginning with the 2024-25 school year this bill modifies the current required training that school employees must receive annually.

The bill requires that newly hired employees receive instruction on a variety of topics annually for the first three years of employment, such topics include: school discipline, seclusion and restraint, school bullying, employee-student communications, mandatory reporting, dyslexia and related disorders, youth suicide awareness and prevention, and active shooter and intruder response training. All other employees shall be provided training and education on such topics as determined by the school district based on the specific needs of the district and employee instead of annually.

All employees shall be required to train for a minimum of three years for any newly developed trainings required by state law in the 2025-26 school year. Additionally, employees shall receive federal trainings and trainings for specific job requirements as specified.

The bill modifies active shooter and intruder response training to make such training a requirement as outlined in the bill.

This bill is similar to HCS HB 633 (2023).
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1569 - Support for students attending institutions of higher education
Sponsor: Rep. Ann Kelley (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1569 -- STUDENTS ATTENDING INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION (Kelley (127))

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Higher Education

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1569.

This bill relates to support for students attending institution of higher education.

STEM GRANT (Section 173.685)

This bill directs the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) to make available a STEM grant for up to $2000 to eligible recipients. Eligibility for a STEM grant is outlined in the bill, and includes financial considerations similar to the Missouri Access Program under Sections 173.1101 to 173.1107, RSMo.

Recipients must also be working toward a STEM degree, which includes science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields as specified in the bill. Specific requirements for STEM grant renewal are also provided and include satisfactory academic progress, five or less semesters at a two-year institution, or a total of 10 semesters at an approved four-year institution, or a combination of the two.

These provisions sunset six years after the effective date.

CAREER-TECH CERTIFICATE PROGRAM (Section 173.836)

Beginning with the 2025-26 academic year, this bill creates the “Career-Tech Certificate (CTC) Program” and the "Career-Tech Certificate (CTC) Program Fund".

This Program is for students who have met the GPA, attendance, and service requirements for the A+ Program and are eligible for reimbursement of tuition, books, and fees, and are attending an approved institution of postsecondary education, as defined in the bill, for an eligible program of study or specified training program

The bill specifies that DHEWD will develop a tuition reimbursement authorization request form and procedure for private entities to use to seek prior approval before accepting students if the entities offer a similar program as a public institution.

This bill provides reimbursement for students for one certificate program or completion of a program of study or until a student has completed 150% of the time usually required to complete such a program.

ACCESS MISSOURI FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (Section 173.1105)

Beginning in the 2024-25 academic year, this bill specifies an increase for eligible recipients of the Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program.

For public two-year institutions the maximum increases by $400 to $1700 and the minimum by $200 to $500.

For public four-year institutions and the State Technical College, and approved private and virtual institutions, the maximum increases by $700 to $3500 and the minimum by $250 to $1750.

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE EXAMINATIONS (Section 173.1352)

This bill requires public community colleges, colleges, and universities to adopt a policy for undergraduate course credit for any student who receives a score of 4 or higher on an international baccalaureate exam.

FAST TRACK WORKFORCE INCENTIVE GRANT (Section 173.2553)

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill increases the maximum gross income for eligibility for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant from $80,000 to $100,000 for taxpayers who are married filing jointly and from $40,000 to $50,000 for all other taxpayers, adjusted annually based on inflation.

This bill contains language from HB 2313, HB 1569, HB 2326, HB 2415, and 2278 (2024).
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
HB1575 - Exempts political subdivisions with fewer than five hundred inhabitants from fines levied for late filings of annual financial statements
Sponsor: Rep. Mazzie Christensen (R)
Summary: HB 1575 -- POLITICAL SUBDIVISION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SPONSOR: Christensen

This bill exempts political subdivisions with fewer than 500 inhabitants from the fine imposed for not filing a financial statement with the State Auditor’s Office, and any fine previously assessed but not paid will be deemed void. Political subdivisions exempted from fines will still be required to file financial statements.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1576 - Requires instruction on human sexuality and development in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Mazzie Christensen (R)
Summary: HB 1576 -- INSTRUCTION IN HUMAN SEXUALITY AND DEVELOPMENT

SPONSOR: Christensen

This bill modifies the course materials and instruction relating to human sexuality to include beginning in the 2024-25 school year a human growth and development discussion. The bill requires districts and charter schools to require such instruction beginning in grade 3 and outlines requirements including requiring a high definition video of fetal development and the "Meet Baby Olivia" video showing the process of fertilization and every stage of human development.

The bill provides the Attorney General standing as parens patriae to enforce the requirements and provides a cause of action for damages and relief.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1578 - Requires in-state public educational institutions to grant undergraduate course credit for students who score 4 or higher on international baccalaureate examinations
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 1578 -- INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE EXAMINATIONS

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

This bill requires public community colleges, colleges, and universities to adopt a policy for undergraduate course credit for any student that receives a score of 4 or higher on an international baccalaureate exam.

This bill is the same as HB 1173 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1579 - Changes the laws regarding the taxation of feminine hygiene products and diapers
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 1579 -- TAXATION OF FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS AND DIAPERS

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

Beginning October 1, 2024, this bill reduces the state sales tax rate on retail sales of feminine hygiene products and diapers to equal the reduced state sales tax rate imposed on the retail sale of food.

As specified in this bill, if the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service creates and makes available to the states a waiver permitting recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC) to use such benefits to purchase diapers or certain feminine hygiene products, the Department of Social Services or the Department of Health and Senior Services must apply for the waiver. If the waiver is approved the Department will adopt rules and make changes as necessary to implement the approved waiver.

This bill is similar to HB 126 (2023) and HB 1971 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1580 - Modifies provisions relating to school buses
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 1580 -- SCHOOL BUSES

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

This bill requires that school districts have a written policy on access to school buses, and modifies the definition of a school bus in regards to offense of trespass of a school bus which is a class A misdemeanor.

This bill is similar to HB 1172 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1581 - Modifies provisions relating to corporal punishment in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 1581 -- CORPORAL PUNISHMENT IN SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

This bill mandates that each district prohibit the use of corporal punishment and spanking in schools. It defines corporal punishment as the infliction of pain by an adult upon the body of a child as penalty for doing something that has been disapproved of by the adult.

This bill is the same as HB 160 and HB 121 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1584 - Establishes the "Biometric Information Privacy Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Clemens (D)
Summary: HB 1584 -- BIOMETRIC INFORMATION PRIVACY ACT

SPONSOR: Clemens

This bill establishes the "Biometric Information Privacy Act". Any private entity in possession of biometric identifiers or information, as defined in the bill, must have a written and publicly available retention schedule and guidelines for permanently destroying such identifiers and information when the initial purpose for collecting or obtaining them has been satisfied, or within one year of the individual's last interaction with the private entity, whichever occurs first.

No private entity may collect, purchase, receive, or otherwise obtain an individual's biometric identifier or information without first informing such individual in writing of the information being collected and the purpose for collection, and receiving a written release from the individual authorizing the collection. No private entity in possession of biometric identifiers or information may sell, lease, trade, or otherwise profit from an individual's identifier or information.

Any entity or individual required to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act shall treat biometric identifiers and information as individually identifiable health information protected under the Act.

No private entity may disclose or disseminate an individual's biometric identifier or information unless it has a written release from the individual, the disclosure completes a financial transaction requested or authorized by the individual, the disclosure is required by law, or the disclosure is required pursuant to a warrant or subpoena.

A private entity in possession of biometric identifiers or information shall securely store such identifiers or information in accordance with the provisions of the bill.

A private entity shall not:

(1) Condition the provision of a good or service on the collection, use, disclosure, transfer, sale, retention, or processing of a biometric identifier unless the biometric identifier is strictly necessary to provide the good or service; or

(2) Charge different prices or rates for goods or services or provide a different level of quality of a good or service to any individual who exercises the individual's rights. Any person aggrieved by a violation of the provisions of this bill shall have a right of action in court. The court shall award all attorney's fees and costs, including expert witness fees and other litigation expenses, to a prevailing plaintiff. A prevailing plaintiff may recover against a private entity for each violation:

(1) If the private entity was found negligently in violation, liquidated damages of $1,000 or actual damages, whichever is greater;

(2) If the private entity was found intentionally or recklessly in violation, liquidated damages of $5,000 or actual damages, whichever is greater; and

(3) Other relief, including an injunction, as the court may deem appropriate.

This bill is the same as HB 1047 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1587 - Modifies provisions for "paid for by" statements on political advertisements
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Clemens (D)
Summary: HB 1587 -- POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS

SPONSOR: Clemens

This bill requires any printed material paid for by a campaign committee to include a statement identifying the three largest donors to the committee in the preceding quarter.

This bill is the same as HB 599 (2023) and HB 2312 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1589 - Expands the definition of special victim to include sports officials at a sporting event and limits civil liability for sports officials
Sponsor: Rep. Jerome Barnes (D)
Summary: HB 1589 -- SPORTS OFFICIALS

SPONSOR: Barnes

This bill provides that sports officials who officiate athletic contests at any level of competition in this state shall not be liable, with exceptions, to any person or entity in a civil action for injuries or damages claimed to have arisen because of actions or inactions related to officiating duties.

The bill also adds to the definition of "special victim" a sports official assaulted while he or she is performing sports official duties or as a direct result of such duties.

This bill is the same as HB 108 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1590 - Establishes the offenses of harassment of a school or recreation athletic official and entry or remaining on site of a school or recreation athletic contest after being forbidden
Sponsor: Rep. Jerome Barnes (D)
Summary: HB 1590 -- RESPECT THE WHISTLE ACT

SPONSOR: Barnes

A person commits the offense of harassment of a school or recreation athletic contest official if the harassment occurs while the official is actively engaged in the conducting, supervising, refereeing, or officiating of a school-sanctioned athletic contest or a sanctioned recreation athletic contest, or in the immediate vicinity of a school-sanctioned athletic contest or a sanctioned recreation athletic contest and is based on the official's performance in conducting, supervising, refereeing, or officiating of an athletic contest.

A person who commits the offense of harassment of a school or recreation athletic contest official will be fined no more than $500, imprisoned for no more than 90 days, or both. In addition, the person will be ordered to perform court-approved community service work and to participate in a court-approved counseling program.

A person commits the offense of entry or remaining on site of a school or recreation athletic contest if the person, without authority, goes into or upon or remains in or upon, or attempts to go into or upon or remain in or upon, any immovable property that is used for any school or recreation athletic contest after having been forbidden to do so by any owner, lessee, or custodian of the property or by any other authorized person. A person who commits this offense will be fined no more than $500, imprisoned for no more than six months, or both.



This bill is the same as HB 103 (2023) and HB 1731 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1604 - Modifies the deadline for filing a declaration of candidacy
Sponsor: Rep. Dave Hinman (R)
Summary: HB 1604 -- DEADLINE FOR FILING DECLARATIONS OF CANDIDACY (Hinman)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Elections and Elected Officials

Currently, the filing time for declarations of candidacy for offices in political subdivisions or special districts not otherwise specified in law or charter is from the 17th Tuesday prior to the election through the 14th Tuesday prior to the election. This bill moves the filing time by one week, from the 16th Tuesday prior to the election to the 13th Tuesday prior to the election.

The bill also specifies that if the 13th Tuesday prior to the election is a State or Federal holiday, the closing filing date shall be the next day that is not a State or Federal holiday.

This bill is the same as HCS HB 1214 (2023).
Last Action:
04/15/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
HB1606 - Provides a sales tax exemption for certain used tangible personal property
Sponsor: Rep. Dean Van Schoiack (R)
Summary: HB 1606 -- SALES TAX FOR USED TANGIBLE PROPERTY

SPONSOR: Van Schoiack

This bill exempts from sales tax all sales of used tangible personal property, including any tangible personal property that is sold a second time or any number of additional subsequent times after the initial point of sale, at an auction.

The provisions of this bill shall not apply to motor vehicles, trailers, boats, or outboard motors purchased or acquired for use on the highways or waters of this state which are required to be titled.

This bill is similar to HB 1141 (2023).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1610 - Establishes provisions relating to law enforcement officers or employees of a state agency or political subdivision surveilling or entering private property
Sponsor: Rep. Dean Van Schoiack (R)
Summary: HB 1610 -- SEARCHING PRIVATE PROPERTY

SPONSOR: Van Schoiack

Subject to exceptions specified in the bill, this bill prohibits a law enforcement officer or an employee of a state agency or political subdivision from placing or using surveillance equipment on private property unless the officer or employee has reasonable suspicion that a violation of a law or regulation has occurred, and it prohibits such officer or employee from entering private property without a valid search warrant or permission from the land owner or lessee. A land owner or lessee may refuse entrance onto the private property by a law enforcement officer or employee of a state agency or political subdivision unless the officer or employee has a valid search warrant.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1615 - Changes the definition of "qualified student" for purposes of Missouri empowerment scholarship accounts
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Hudson (R)
Summary: HB 1615 -- MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP

SPONSOR: Hudson

This bill modifies the definition of "qualified student" to expand which students may qualify for a Missouri empowerment scholarship account. The definition changes from elementary or secondary school students in specific counties and cities to all elementary or secondary school students residing in the state.
Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1622 - Creates provisions relating to workforce development investments of public utilities
Sponsor: Rep. Doyle Justus (R)
Summary: HB 1622 -- WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS OF PUBLIC UTILITIES

SPONSOR: Justus

This bill requires the Public Service Commission to permit electrical corporations and gas corporations to recover workforce development investments.

An electrical or gas corporation is entitled to defer to a regulatory asset such corporation's workforce development investments made between August 28, 2024, and December 31, 2034, up to .55% of the corporation's total operating revenues as reported to the Commission for calendar year 2023.

This bill is the same as HB 874 and SB 140(2023).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1623 - Requires public schools to establish the general municipal election day and the general election day as a school holiday
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Gragg (R)
Summary: HB 1623 -- PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLOSED ON ELECTION DAYS

SPONSOR: Gragg

This bill requires that beginning with the 2024-25 school year school districts and charter schools must set the general municipal and general election day as a school holiday and not be in session.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1626 - Modifies provisions relating to school bus endorsements
Sponsor: Rep. Danny Busick (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 1626 & 1940 -- SCHOOL BUS ENDORSEMENTS (Busick)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Transportation Accountability

Currently, for persons 70 years and older who have school bus endorsements on their drivers license, the license is issued or renewed for only one year at a time, the renewal fee is waived, the school bus portion of the drivers license examination must be taken annually, and a commercial drivers license with a school bus endorsement must be issued annually.

This bill changes the age for these specific provisions to age 77 or over.

This bill contains an emergency clause.
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
HB1636 - Modifies provisions related to the "circuit breaker" property tax credit, reenacts the "Missouri Homestead Preservation Tax Credit Program", and implements a homestead exemption for certain individuals
Sponsor: Rep. Marlene Terry (D)
Summary: HB 1636 -- REAL PROPERTY TAXES

SPONSOR: Terry

This bill amends statutes related to senior citizens property tax relief, also known as the Circuit Breaker tax credit.

This tax credit is available to eligible senior citizens and disabled veterans for a portion of their real estate taxes or rent that such individuals have paid for the year.

Currently, the tax credit is limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $30,000 or less in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year. An additional exemption of $4,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $34,000 for a married homestead owner.

Currently, the tax credit is further limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $27,200 or less in the case of a renter. An additional exemption of $2,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $29,200 for a married renter.

This bill increases the maximum income levels in the following manner:

For an unmarried homeowner: from $30,000, now $42,200;

For a married homeowner: the additional exemption is increased from $4,000 to $5,800, making the total credit now $48,000;

For an unmarried renter: from $27,200, now $38,200;

For a married renter: the additional exemption is increased from $2,000 to $2,800, making the total credit now $41,000.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the maximum upper limits shall be increased annually for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index.

Currently, the tax credit is set a maximum of $1,100 in actual property taxes paid for a homeowner, and a maximum of $750 in rent constituting property taxes actually paid for renters.

This bill increases the maximum amount of the tax credit in the following manner:

For a homeowner: from $1,100, now $1,550; For a renter: from $750, now $1,055.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the maximum property tax credits shall be increased annually for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index.

If the income on a return is over the minimum base but not over the maximum upper limit, the property tax shall be in increments of $25 and the income in increments of $495.

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill provides a tax credit for senior citizens or for disabled individuals who:

(1) Have reached the age of 65;

(2) Are the owners of a home used as their primary residence;

(3) Are liable for real property taxes on the property; and

(4) Have a total household income of $125,000.

Qualifying taxpayers are eligible for an annual tax credit for such property that is used as a homestead equal to 100% of the tax assessed on their homestead. Each eligible homeowner who has been granted an exemption shall reapply on an annual basis.

A qualifying taxpayer shall not claim such a tax credit if such taxpayer has also claimed the Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief tax credit (the Circuit Breaker) for the same tax year. Such tax credit shall be refundable, but shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned. This program expires December 31, 2030.

This bill is similar to HB 1351 (2023).
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Referred to House-Special Committee on Property Tax Reform
HB1643 - Establishes a one-time one year period to set up payment plans for unpaid vehicle sales tax
Sponsor: Rep. Marlene Terry (D)
Summary: HB 1643 -- MOTOR VEHICLE SALE TAX PAYMENT PLAN

SPONSOR: Terry

This bill defines the terms "qualified amount" and "qualified purchaser" and specifies that beginning October 1, 2024, and ending September 30, 2025, the Department of Revenue may accept applications to establish payment plans from qualified purchasers to pay for a qualified amount. The Department is encouraged to work with the qualified purchaser to establish an equitable plan that isn't overly burdensome, taking into consideration the qualified purchaser's income and any other financial obligations.

The bill allows a qualified purchaser to apply for a payment plan on or before September 30, 2025. The Department must review all applications received in a timely manner and to contact all qualifying applicants to provide them with an opportunity to establish a payment plan before December 31, 2025. After entering into a payment plan, the qualified purchaser is required to make a down payment equal to one month's payment before the Department will issue a new temporary permit.

The bill authorizes the Department to establish protocols such as how payments are to be processed, how updated payment counts will be made accessible to the qualified purchaser, and what forms or documents the qualified purchaser will need to carry in his or her motor vehicle for presentation to law enforcement during motor vehicle stops or other entities requesting verification of the payment plan status.

For the period beginning October 1, 2024, and ending December 31, 2025, this bill grants discretionary authority to the Director of the Department of Revenue to issue a temporary permit to an individual who establishes a payment plan with the Department.

The provisions of the motor vehicle sales tax payment plan shall automatically sunset December 31st one year after the effective date.

This bill is similar to HB 1350 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1645 - Requires particular topics to be included in history curriculum in grades seven to twelve
Sponsor: Rep. Marlene Terry (D)
Summary: HB 1645 -- SCHOOL CURRICULUM

SPONSOR: Terry

Under the provisions of this bill, the State Board of Education must require that the history curriculum taught in grades seven through 12 includes topics of Native American history and African American history, as specifically described in the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 66 from (2023) and HB 1776 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1646 - Requires the state board of education to provide for a transition to a special administrative board for certain unaccredited school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Marlene Terry (D)
Summary: HB 1646 -- SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDS

SPONSOR: Terry

This bill provides, as an option upon the classification of a school district as unaccredited, for the State Board of Education to suspend the governing or managing authority of the elected school board members of the unaccredited district, and take additional actions relating to special administrative boards as specified in the bill. Currently, a special administrative board for a school district shall have no less than five members.

As specified in this bill, such board shall have seven members, four of whom shall be residents of the district. Each member of the board shall serve for three years, the qualifications of the members are listed in the bill. The special administrative board shall meet at least once per month and each member shall receive a salary of $500 a month. Within 30 days after the vote to appoint a member to the special administrative board, if a member of the Missouri House of Representatives whose district touches the school district, in whole or in part, submits a request to the President Pro Tem of the Senate, the appointment shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. The members of the district's elected school board shall be ex-officio non-voting members of the special administrative board.

Upon failure of the school district to be classified as provisionally or fully accredited for at least two successive academic years, the State Board of Education shall require the special administrative board to establish a specific plan and timeline for achieving accreditation, including appointing a new superintendent of the school district every three years.

A special administrative board may be extended for no more than three years after its expiration date by the State Board of Education. Governance of the school district shall be returned to the elected school board upon the expiration of the authority of the special administrative board.

The bill repeals a provision of law that allows the State Board of Education to appoint additional members to any special administrative board and sets final terms of office for members of such board.

This bill is the same as HB 63 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1647 - Changes provisions relating to charter school funding and state pupil transportation aid
Sponsor: Rep. John Black (R)
Summary: HB 1647 -- CHARTER SCHOOL FUNDING & STATE PUPIL TRANSPORTATION AID

SPONSOR: Black

Beginning in the 2024-25 school year and in all subsequent school years, this bill specifies that if the amount appropriated for pupil transportation under Section 163.161, RSMo is not at the highest percentage for allowable costs of such transportation, the calculation for state aid disbursement to charter schools in the state shall be prohibited.

This bill is the same as HB 226 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1648 - Creates incentive programs for public employees
Sponsor: Rep. John Black (R)
Summary: HB 1648 -- PUBLIC EMPLOYEE INCENTIVES

SPONSOR: Black

In order to encourage retention or exceptional employment achievement, this bill provides for personnel payments to be made according to specific, written criteria, predetermined and approved by the department director in writing, at least one year prior to the exceptional employment achievement. The payments authorized by the bill shall not exceed 20% of the employee's base wages or salary and are awarded upon the completion of the retention period in question and not more frequently than annually. The payments indicated in the bill are not considered a bonus in violation of Article III, Section 39 of the Missouri Constitution. These provisions shall not apply to any public employee whose salary is set by statute.

This bill allows school districts to adopt written policies describing criteria, to be approved by their school boards, allowing exceptional employment achievement payments in contracts between school districts and individual district employees.

This bill also allows the board of education of a school district to include differentiated placement of teachers on the salary schedule to increase compensation for teachers in hard-to-staff subject areas or hard-to-staff schools, as defined in the bill. Each school district that includes differentiated placement of teachers on the district salary schedule shall submit an annual report to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The contents of the report are specified in the bill

This bill is the same as HCS HB 471 (2023).
Last Action:
01/17/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1663 - Establishes written parental consent requirements for individualized education programs (IEPs)
Sponsor: Rep. Tara Peters (R)
Summary: HB 1663 -- PARENTAL CONSENT

SPONSOR: Peters

This bill requires public schools that serve students with an individualized education program (IEP) to implement parental consent procedures. Written parental consent shall be obtained and maintained for initial placement, annual placement, or other revisions to a student's IEP as outlined in the bill.

If the parents and local educational agency (LEA) only reach an agreement on certain IEP services or interim placement, the child's new IEP shall only be implemented in the areas of agreement with the current services remaining unchanged unless the local education agency follows procedures set forth in the bill which include a due process complaint and hearing.

If a child is identified as eligible for special education services, the parents have the right to visit any program proposed for their child. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall adopt a parental consent form, as described in the bill, that each school district shall provide to parents, and districts may not proceed with implementation of a student's IEP without the parental consent form completed except as provided in the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 1163 (2023).
Last Action:
04/03/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1667 - Authorizes taxpayers to submit petitions to reduce local tax rate levies
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1667 -- TAXATION OVERSIGHT AND REDUCTION ACT

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

This bill establishes the "Taxation Oversight and Reduction Act".

A taxpayer may submit a petition to the local election authority with jurisdiction over a political subdivision for the reduction of the political subdivision's property tax rate, excluding any tax rate set to pay for bonds or debt services.

The reduction must not exceed 5% of the tax rate in effect on the day the question is submitted to voters, unless the maximum authorized levy is more than 5% higher than the current tax rate ceiling, in which case the reduction may be equal to the percentage necessary to reduce the maximum authorized levy to equal the tax rate ceiling.

A reduction of the same political subdivision's property tax rate may be submitted to voters no more than once every four years.

Petitioners must notify the political subdivision's local election authority of their intent to submit a petition and provide the local election authority a copy of the petition.

Upon notification, the local election authority shall notify the taxpayer of the minimum required number of signatures to approve the petition, the estimated cost for signature verification, and the date by which the petition will be due in order for the question to be placed on the ballot.

The minimum signature requirement to place a tax reduction on the ballot will be 5% percent of the number of registered voters who voted in the most recent election of the political subdivision's governing body. The local election authority shall verify that signatures are from registered voters of the political subdivision in question. Election authorities may charge petitioners a fee for signature verification, provided that the fee shall not exceed $0.50 per signature.

If petitioners meet all requirements, the local election authority shall place the tax reduction on the ballot of the next general municipal election. The form of the ballot question is specified in the bill.

If a majority of the registered voters of the political subdivision approve the reduction, the political subdivision shall reduce the property tax rate by the percentage approved by the voters.
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1668 - Changes the percentage of the cap on the inflationary growth factor for the assessment growth of real or personal property occurring within a political subdivision
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1668 -- INFLATIONARY ASSESSMENT GROWTH RATE

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform by a vote of 15 to 6, 1 present.

This bill modifies the manner in which a political subdivision may revise each tax levy to allow for inflationary assessment growth for all subclasses of real and personal property.

Currently, the inflationary growth factor for any subclass of real and personal property is limited to the actual assessment growth, exclusive of new construction and improvements, but not to exceed the consumer price index, or 5%, whichever is lower.

This bill limits the inflationary growth factor for any subclass of real or personal property to the actual assessment growth, but not to exceed the lower of the following:

(1) The consumer price index; or

(2) The following percentages:

(a) For tax levy revisions before January 1, 2025, 5%; or

(b) For tax levy revisions on or after January 1, 2025, 3%.



PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill will slow the growth in assessment valuations, which will in turn reduce the amount of new revenue for local governments to spend. Supporters further say that when inflation is high, and prices are pushing upwards, government officials should be constrained in what they can do.

Testifying in person for the bill was Representative Matthiesen.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say enacting a number of tax reforms all at once can prove difficult once the time comes to implement them.

Testifying in person on the bill was the Missouri Association of Counties.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1669 - Reduces the assessment percentage of certain personal property and provides a personal property tax exemption for certain personal property upon adoption of a constitutional amendment authorizing such exemption
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1669 --PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

Beginning January 1 of the calendar year immediately following the adoption of a Constitutional amendment authorizing the exemption of tangible personal property from taxation under Article X, Section 6 of the Constitution of Missouri, this bill will exempt farm machinery and motor vehicles from personal property taxation.

Currently, assessors annually assess all personal property at 33.3% of its true value in money. Beginning January 1, 2025, the percentage of the true value in money at which personal property is assessed shall be 30% of its true value in money and such amount shall be reduced annually by 2% until the calendar year 2036 and every year thereafter, when personal property will be assessed at 6% of its true value in money.

This bill also decreases the percentages of true value in money for the following subclasses of personal property on or after January 1, 2034:

(1) Livestock, currently taxed at 12%, reduced to 6%;

(2) Farm machinery, currently taxed at 12%, reduced to 6%;

(3) Poultry, currently taxed at 12%, reduced to 6%; and

(4) Tools and equipment used for pollution control, currently taxed at 25%, reduced to 6%.

This bill is the same as HB 1103 (2023) and similar to HB 1103 (2023).
Last Action:
03/27/2024 
H - Voted Do Not Pass as substituted
HB1670 - Modifies the "circuit breaker" tax credit by increasing the maximum upper limit and property tax credit amounts
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1670 -- PROPERTY TAX RECORDS

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

This bill amends statutes related to the Senior Citizens Property Tax Relief, also known as the Circuit Breaker tax credit.

This tax credit is available to eligible senior citizens and disabled veterans for a portion of their real estate taxes or rent that such individuals have paid for the year.

Currently the tax credit is limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $30,000 or less in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year. An additional exemption of $4,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $34,000 for a married homestead owner.

Currently, the tax credit is further limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $27,000 or less in the case of a renter. An additional exemption of $2,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $29,200 for a married renter.

This bill increases the maximum income levels in the following manner:

For an unmarried homeowner: from $30,000, now $42,200;

For a married homeowner: the additional exemption is increased from $4,000 to $5,800, making the total credit now $48,000;

For an unmarried renter: from $27,000, now $38,200;

For a married renter: the additional exemption is increased from $2,000 to $2,800, making the total credit now $41,000.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the maximum upper limits shall be increased annually for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index.

Currently, the tax credit is set at a maximum of $1,100 in actual property taxes paid for a homeowner, and a maximum of $750 in rent constituting property taxes actually paid for renters.

This bill increases the maximum amount of the tax credit in the following manner:

For a homeowner: from $1,100, now $1,550; For a renter: from $750, now $1,055.

If the income on a return is over the minimum base but not over the maximum upper limit, the property tax shall be in increments of $25 and the income in increments of $495.



This bill is similar to HCS HB 1134 (2023) and HB 135 (2023).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1671 - Changes the definition of "qualified student" for the "Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program"
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1671 -- MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

This bill modifies the definition for "qualified student" for the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship program. Currently students must attend a public school for one semester or be eligible to begin kindergarten or 1st grade. The bill removes those requirements.
Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1672 - Changes provisions governing optional home school declarations of enrollment
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1672 -- HOME SCHOOLING REQUIREMENTS

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

Currently, parents or guardians of a home school child may provide a declaration of enrollment stating said parent or guardian's intent to home school within 30 days of the establishment of the home school and annually thereafter.

This bill removes the annual reporting requirement for such home schooled children.
Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1674 - Establishes the "Employee Restroom and Locker Room Access Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HB 1674 -- EMPLOYEE RESTROOM AND LOCKER ROOM ACCESS ACT

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

This bill creates the "Employee Restroom and Locker Room Access Act," effective January 1, 2025. The Act does not apply to any other provision of Chapter 213, RSMo, concerning human rights and does not limit action under that chapter. The bill defines terms including, among others,"employee," "employer," "gender identity," "hostile work environment," and "sex." The bill contains findings and declares it the public policy of the state to prohibit employers from requiring employees to share multiple-occupancy restrooms, changing areas, or locker rooms with members of the opposite sex. Employers cannot require sharing restrooms or locker rooms with members of the opposite sex, but they may provide single-occupancy restrooms or locker rooms designated as unisex and gender-neutral facilities open to all employees regardless of gender identity in addition to facilities designated for single-sex use.

Under the Act, it is an unlawful employment practice to discriminate against an individual on the basis of sex in employee restroom use. An exception is established for employees who have completed a full medical procedure to change the employee's sex, regardless of whether the change is reflected on the employee's birth certificate. A general exception covers employees who require assistance to use the restroom or locker room and employees who provide such assistance.

The Commission on Human Rights will enforce the Act. Corrective actions available to the Commission upon finding an employer violation include paying damages to the employee for harm suffered, reinstatement to the employee's prior position, or other equitable relief. A willful violation is a misdemeanor, which upon conviction creates liability for a civil penalty of not more than $250 for each violation.
Last Action:
01/23/2024 
Scheduled for Committee Hearing
01/24/2024 4:30 PM - House-Emerging Issues, HR 6
House-Emerging Issues
HB1677 - Bans using seclusion to confine a student
Sponsor: Rep. Ian Mackey (D)
Summary: HB 1677 -- BAN THE USE OF SECLUSION ROOMS

SPONSOR: Mackey

This bill requires that beginning in the 2025-26 school year school districts, charter schools, and publicly contracted private providers stop using seclusion on students as a form of punishment. Districts and charter schools must adopt a policy that defines and prohibits seclusion.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1688 - Requires public schools to offer a driver education course that students must complete before graduating
Sponsor: Rep. Rodger Reedy (R)
Summary: HB 1688 -- DRIVER EDUCATION COURSE OFFERINGS

SPONSOR: Reedy

This bill requires the State Board of Education to develop a driver education instruction and training program to be offered as part of the health curriculum in public and charter schools to pupils in grades 10 to 12. The instruction and training shall be made available by the 2025-26 school year and districts and charter schools will offer such instruction or a similar program. The instruction shall include, but is not limited to, habits and skills necessary for the safe operation of motor vehicles, distracted driving hazards, and traffic stop procedures.

The instruction does not require physical operation of a vehicle and the bill does not prohibit schools from offering additional driver education courses.

This bill is the same as HB 603 (2023) and HCS HB 2745 (2022).
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1690 - Modifies provisions relating to motor vehicle assessment valuations
Sponsor: Rep. Rodger Reedy (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1690 -- MOTOR VEHICLE ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Reedy

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Ways and Means by a vote of 9 to 2.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1690.

Currently, county assessors must use the October issue of the National Automobile Dealers' Association Official Used Car Guide to determine the true value of a motor vehicle. The assessor cannot use a value that is greater than the average trade-in value without performing a physical inspection, unless the car is two years old or newer.

This bill requires that the county assessor determine the true value in money for motor vehicles by using the trade-in value published in the October issue of a nationally recognized automotive trade publication selected by the State Tax Commission. The assessor will not use a value that is greater than the average trade-in value for such motor vehicle without performing a physical inspection of the vehicle, but for vehicles two years or newer from a vehicle's model, the assessor may use a value other than the average without performing a physical inspection.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the assessor applies a 15 year depreciation table to the trade-in value of motor vehicles; but in no case shall the assessed value of a motor vehicle depreciate below $300.

To implement the provisions of this bill without large variations from the prior method of assessment, the assessor will assume that the last valuation tables used prior to October 1, 2024, are fair valuations, and that these valuations are depreciated using the table described above until the end of the vehicle's useful life.

The State Tax Commission or the State of Missouri is the registered user of the nationally recognized automotive trade publication with rights to allow all assessors access to the publication. The publication will be made available to all vendors by December 15 of each year.

This bill is similar to HB 713 (2023).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill. PROPONENTS: Supporters say that as the assessed values of motor vehicles go up people pay higher taxes, but political subdivisions do not roll back their local tax rates. Taxpayers have no choice but to pay the higher taxes, because otherwise the Division of Motor Vehicles will not provide renewed license plates. But the increasingly higher valuations of these motor vehicles do not represent the true value of the car. As a result, taxpayers are paying levels of tax that are far too high. Supporters further say that this bill will provide certainty that the assessed values of motor vehicles will go down, and therefore supply consistency in how the tax is applied.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Reedy; and the Missouri Association of Counties.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1698 - Creates provisions relating to public health
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Sparks (R)
Summary: HB 1698 -- CONTAGIOUS DISEASE HEALTH ORDERS

SPONSOR: Sparks

This bill requires any public health order, ordinance, rule, or regulation that is issued by a political subdivision at a time other than during a statewide emergency to receive explicit prior approval from the General Assembly; if the General Assembly is not in session, the Governor may call an extraordinary session to consider whether to grant such approval. Additionally, a political subdivision issuing an order in violation of the provisions specified in the bill shall be liable to any person subject to the order for damages incurred by the person.

The bill also provides that, notwithstanding any laws, rules, orders, or directives made or promulgated in response to certain types of emergencies, individuals retain the right to be free, independent, and maintain their inalienable and fundamental right of self-determination to make their own health decisions including, but not limited to, the right to refuse any of the health-related countermeasures and procedures that are specified in the bill.

A person who has been directed or ordered by a government or its designees, or by a public or private business or entity, may decline to comply with, respond to, or participate in any countermeasure that may be described in the directive or order. The government or its designees, employers, businesses or nonprofit organizations, institutions, churches, travel carriers, or any other public or private entities shall not infringe upon or otherwise restrict or remove a person's ability to fully participate in any necessary and important services, as well as lifestyle choices and preferences, which are specified in the bill.

A person who declines to comply with a countermeasure directive or order may be required to isolate or quarantine if the person is infected, or reasonably believed to be infected, with a communicable disease or has been exposed to a toxic agent that can be transferred to other people, or if they have been exposed to a communicable disease; additionally, the toxic agent or communicable disease in question must be the basis of a declared emergency or nonemergency order, law, or rule. If an individual must isolate or quarantine, it shall be done so under the least restrictive means possible, shall include reasonable notice and due process, shall protect the right of the person to remain in their home and live with family, friends, and significant others, and shall not require any kind of renovation or alteration to any home.

Any kind of requirement to quarantine must be based on sufficient and credible evidence of contact or close proximity with an infected individual, and shall not be imposed based on any third- party location data. Moreover, any treatment, tracking, testing, or prevention orders cannot be imposed as a condition for ending the isolation or quarantine. A person's status in quarantine does not remove or alter in any way the legal or medical custody they may possess over another person. Before a health care provider or an individual who has been ordered to enforce a directive or order performs a countermeasure described in this bill, they must notify the person to whom the directive or order is being given of his or her rights under this bill by reading aloud to them certain subsections of this section, as well as providing a written copy and obtaining a signature that acknowledges receipt of the notification.

This bill is similar to HB 1130 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1699 - Prohibits state contracts with companies that engage in economic boycotts based on environmental, social, or governance criteria
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Sparks (R)
Summary: HB 1699 -- ELIMINATING ECONOMIC BOYCOTTS

SPONSOR: Sparks

This bill proposes to regulate state contracts with companies, specifically addressing economic boycotts. The contractual requirements, exceptions, and enforcement measures, including penalties for violations are specified in the bill.

The bill defines the following terms: "company", "economic boycott", "government entity", and "ordinary business purpose".

This bill specifies that its provisions apply exclusively to contracts meeting two criteria:

(1) The contract must be between a governmental entity and a company with ten or more full-time employees, and

(2) The contract's value must be $50,000 or more, with payment either wholly or partially funded by the public funds of the governmental entity. Additionally, in the case of multiple party contracts, the stipulations of this bill apply individually to each company involved in the contract.

Any governmental entity is prohibited from entering into a contract with a company unless the contract contains a written verification that the company does not engage in economic boycotts and will not do so during the contract term. The bill provides exceptions for governmental entities if the requirements are inconsistent with constitutional or statutory duties or if they hinder the entity from obtaining supplies or services economically.

This bill prohibits any party from penalizing or threatening to penalize a financial institution for compliance with the bill.

The bill specifies that the regulations in this bill shall be enforcement by the Attorney General or a county prosecutor. The Attorney General or prosecutor has the authority to require statements, examine individuals, and impound records related to potential violations.

This bill imposes penalties on companies engaging in economic boycotts during the contract term, requiring payment to the state equal to three times the amount paid under the contract.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1700 - Modifies provisions relating to the fiduciary duty and proxy voting activities of public retirement systems
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Sparks (R)
Summary: HB 1700 -- PUBLIC RETIREMENT SYSTEMS

SPONSOR: Sparks

This bill modifies provisions relating to fiduciaries' duties for public employee retirement systems. This bill specifies that, an investment fiduciary shall discharge his or her duties in the interests of the participants in a public employee retirement system and their beneficiaries for the exclusive purpose of providing financial benefits and paying reasonable expenses for administering the public employee retirement system. Additionally, when discharging fiduciary duties, which shall be the same as a member of the board of trustees of a system, an investment fiduciary shall take into account only financial factors. The term "financial" is defined in the bill as a material effect on the financial risk or the financial return of an investment, but does not include any action taken, or factor considered, by an investment fiduciary with a purpose to further social, political, or ideological interests.

This bill further provides that all shares held by or on behalf of a public employee retirement system, the participants, and their beneficiaries shall be voted solely in the financial interest of participants in the system and their beneficiaries. Unless no economically practicable alternative is available, the following actions shall not be allowed unless there is a practice and commitment to follow guidelines that match the system's obligations to act solely upon financial factors:

(1) The board of a system granting proxy voting authority to persons not on the board;

(2) The system entrusting assets to investment fiduciaries; and

(3) The system adopting a practice of following the recommendations of a proxy advisor or other service provider.

All proxy votes shall be tabulated and provided in an annual report containing certain information described in the bill to the board of trustees. Such report shall be posted on the system's website.

The Attorney General may enforce the provisions of this bill, or any contract subject to the provisions of this bill. If the Attorney General has reasonable cause to believe that a person is engaging in a violation of this bill, the Attorney General may require such person to file a written statement or report, under oath, as to all the facts and circumstances concerning the violation, and provide other necessary data and information. In addition to any other remedies available, a company who serves as an investment fiduciary and who violates this bill shall be obligated to pay damages in an amount equal to three times all moneys paid to the company by the system.

This bill is the same as HB 1333 (2023) and similar to SB 436 (2023).
Last Action:
02/13/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1713 - Modifies provisions relating to income tax deductions for enlistment bonuses paid to members of the armed forces
Sponsor: Rep. Adam Schnelting (R)
Summary: HB 1713 -- TAX DEDUCTION FOR ARMED FORCES MEMBERS (Schnelting)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Tax Reform

Current law authorizes an income tax deduction for active and reserve members of the Armed Forces for a percentage of such taxpayer's income received as salary or compensation as a member of the Armed Forces. This bill provides that the term "salary or compensation" shall include any signing bonus.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
HB1714 - Enacts provisions providing protections for parents in school district interactions
Sponsor: Rep. Tricia Byrnes (R)
Summary: HB 1714 -- PARENTAL PROTECTIONS

SPONSOR: Byrnes

This bill requires public schools that serve students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to implement parental consent procedures. Written parental consent shall be obtained and maintained for initial placement, annual placement, or other revisions to a student's IEP as outlined in the bill. If the parents and local educational agency (LEA) only reach an agreement on certain IEP services or interim placement, the child's new IEP shall only be implemented in the areas of agreement with the current services remaining unchanged unless the local education agency follows procedures set forth in the bill which include a due process complaint and hearing. If a child is identified as eligible for special education services, the parents have the right to visit any program proposed for their child. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall adopt a parental consent form, as described in the bill, that each school district shall provide to parents, and districts may not proceed with implementation of a student's IEP without the parental consent form completed except as provided in the bill (Section 161.854, RSMo).

This bill creates code of conduct standards for members of the school boards and for governing board of charter schools. The bill requires a public disclosure of member and employee conflicts of interest as outlined and including payments in excess of $500 per year to the following: superintendents, administrative staff, chief purchasing officers, and general counsel for school districts. Such individuals must disclose additional information as outlined in the bill. The bill prevents school districts from retaining any attorney or law firm for the purpose of providing counsel during an administrative or legal proceeding concerning a student if such attorney or law firm employs or contracts with the school district's members or employees (Section 162.106).

This bill requires that for hearings for children with disabilities the burden of proof and the burden of production shall be on the school district regarding any matter related to identification, evaluation, reevaluation, classification, educational placement, disciplinary action, or the provision of free appropriate public education.

The bill provides protections for students in a IEP proceeding, including mediation, to be allowed to remain in the present educational placement or stay put during the pendency of the proceedings(Section 162.961). This bill requires that the most recent student special education records as defined in the bill are to be retained by school districts as part of the student's permanent record and such records may not be destroyed by the district (Section 167.027).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1715 - Establishes antibullying requirements for school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Tricia Byrnes (R)
Summary:

HCS HBs 1715 & 2630 -- ANTIBULLLYING POLICIES (Byrnes)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education

This bill modifies Section 160.775, RSMo, by naming the Section the "Missouri Childhood Hero Act". The bill defines "act of school violence" or "violent behavior" the same as bullying and provides a definition for a "zero-tolerance disciplinary policy".

The bill requires any school bullying policy to include a restriction on zero-tolerance disciplinary policies for any student that is a victim of bullying. A statement regarding any student who engages in self-defense must be considered by the school district or charter school administration when determining any disciplinary action for a student who was responding to an act of school violence or violent behavior committed against the student. The bill requires charter schools to adopt and school districts to update current school bullying policies.

Currently, employee's that witness an incident of bullying must report the incident within two days. This bill lowers the reporting requirement to one day and requires that all reported incidents be submitted in writing. Results of investigations must include a description of any interventions, initiatives, techniques, or discipline provided to all students involved on a standardized form developed by the district.

The policy is required to outline a procedure for responding to an investigation that finds an act of bullying has occurred. The procedure must include notifying the parents of the bullying student and a referral to law enforcement or to the Children's Division, for a student that is under 11 years old, if the investigation finds that the bullying was 2nd degree harassment. Additionally, students committing acts of bullying are included in educational trainings and prevention initiatives.

The bill requires the policy to outline annual mandatory training for any district employee and volunteer that has contact with students; training on appropriate interventions and associated liability for action or inaction must be included in the training.

This bill requires the school administration to report monthly to the school board all acts of bullying, discipline for bullying, and all other disciplinary referrals. The School board must review the monthly report in a closed meeting and address concerns related to reported incidents within 30 days. The bill provides immunity from liability for any school district employee and volunteer who intervenes in an incident of school violence, violent behavior, or criminal actions against any student that is a victim of bullying; the bill specifies that the employee must follow the proper procedure and act in good faith to intervene under the defense of justification provided under Chapter 563.

The bill provides protection from civil liability for any school district or charter school for disciplinary actions if the procedures were properly followed and if a suit is brought the school may recoup attorney's fees if they prevail.

This bill requires that for reporting requirements for mandated reporters under Section 210.115, bullying, incidents of school violence, and crime, are considered abuse and required to be reported, with protections provided for reporting compliance.

The bill prevents charter schools from expelling or transferring a student out of the school solely due to reports of bullying.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
HB1717 - Provides A+ scholarships for home school students who meet the program's eligibility requirements
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HB 1717 -- EXPANSION OF A+ ELIGIBILITY FOR HOME SCHOOL STUDENTS

SPONSOR: McGirl

This bill expands the A+ Schools Program grant awards for tuition reimbursements to home school students beginning in the 2024-25 school year. To qualify for reimbursement home school students must meet the specified requirements similar to those of a public or private school recipient.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Referred to House-Special Committee on Education Reform
HB1720 - Modifies provisions of the sunshine law
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Falkner (R)
Summary:

 

SCS/HCS/HB 1720 - This act authorizes a public governmental body to close any portion of a record that contains individually identifiable information of a minor that is seventeen years of age or under if the public governmental body is a city, town, village, or park board, except when such records are requested by the Division of Labor Standards to enforce child labor laws.

 

This act authorizes a public governmental body to close records, meetings, and votes that relate to individually identifiable customer information for visitors who make a camping, lodging, or shelter reservation for a Missouri State Park or State Historic Site, unless the records are requested by the visitor or authorized for release by the visitor. This provision is identical to SB 1019 (2024).
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1722 - Modifies provisions relating to school employee retirement systems
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron Crossley (D)
Summary: HB 1722 -- PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEES WORKING AFTER RETIREMENT

SPONSOR: Crossley

When a Public School Retirement System school district has declared a shortage of noncertificated employees, it may employ a retired noncertificated employee for up to four years without affecting his or her retirement benefit. Currently, a cap of the lesser of 10% of noncertificated staff or five employees is in place. This bill changes the cap to the greater of 1% of the total of certificated teachers and noncertificated staff or five employees.
Last Action:
03/26/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1724 - Modifies provisions relating to contracts with public entities
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Falkner (R)
Summary: HB 1724 -- CONTRACTS WITH PUBLIC ENTITIES

SPONSOR: Falkner

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on Financial Institutions by a vote of 13 to 0.

This bill adds the definition of a "public official" to Section 107.170, RSMo, regarding bonds and public works contractors and modifies the definition of "public entity" to include any municipality.

This bill makes it the duty of all public entities in making contracts over $50,000 for public works exempt from attachment and execution to require the contractor to furnish a bond.

Currently, a school board member is not required to independently confirm that a bond company exists and is solvent if a contractor represents that it is, but the school board member is not exempt from liability if he or she has actual knowledge of the insolvency or does not in good faith comply with the law in requiring the contractor to have a sufficient lawful bond. The bill expands both the lack of duty to verify the status of the bond company and the lack of exemption from liability for actual knowledge regarding a bond company from a school board member to all public officials.

No public official who would be personally liable under law or at equity to a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier at any tier, because of a public entity's failure to require a contractor to furnish a payment bond will be liable unless the contractor provides to the presiding official and secretary of the public entity a written notice identifying the persons who will have personal liability for payment if no payment bond meeting the statutory requirements is furnished. Compliance with this written notice requirement is a condition precedent to the personal liability of any public official for a claim of payment. Any original contractor who fails to provide the written notice described in the bill, with intent to defraud, will be guilty of a class B misdemeanor. If consent that meets the requirements of Section 513.455, as specified below, is acknowledged and recorded as required, no bond is required. A lessee of a public entity contracting for a public works project to be used for nongovernmental purposes is not required to furnish a bond when the contractor furnishes a bond.

Currently, courthouses, jails, clerks' offices, and other buildings and the lots on which they stand owned by a county or municipality, as well as all burial grounds, are exempt from attachment and execution. This bill expands the exemption to other lands owned by the state; any public body corporate and politic; any county, city, town, municipality; any road, water, sewer, fire, library, hospital, or school district; and any other political subdivision of this state.

The bill also provides that the state or any political subdivision, as specified, may consent to have certain projects and the lands thereon become subject to the attachment of mechanics' liens filed under Chapter 429 if the consent is in writing, contains a legal description of the property subject to the attachment, and is acknowledged by an authorized official in a form that can be and is recorded in the office of the recorder of deeds for the county where the property is located.

This bill is the same as HB 926 (2023).

PROPONENTS: Allowing the use of mechanics' liens lowers the cost to the public when a construction project on public property has a nongovernmental purpose, by giving the option to require a payment bond or to consent to mechanic's liens being filed against an industrial revenue bond project.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Falkner; Brad Lau, St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce & St. Joseph Economic Development Partnership; Missouri Economic Development Council; Missouri Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Missouri Municipal League; Missouri Economic Development Financing Association.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that the law currently makes the individuals who had the duty to obtain the bond and failed to do so personally liable for failing to perform their duty as governmental officials, so the change in this bill weakens this remedy. Some school districts do not need bonds for construction projects.

Testifying in person against the bill were American Subcontractors Association Midwest Council; and Arnie C. Dienoff.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1725 - Modifies standards in regards to financial transactions in this state
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1725 -- FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS

SPONSOR: O'Donnell

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Financial Institutions by a vote of 13 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1725.

This bill relates to financial investments.

BONDS (Section 108.170)

This bill provides that bonds, notes, or other forms of indebtedness may be issued in book-entry rather than bearer form and bear interest at the current rate of 10% or at a rate up to 250 basis points above the longest maturity United States Treasury bond, whichever is greater. Such bonds may be sold at a competitive market yield not less than 50% rather than the current 95% of the par value. Such bonds may bear interest at 14% or at a rate up to 250 basis points above the longest maturity United States Treasury bond, whichever is greater, if sold at the lowest true interest cost bid received.

The bill prescribes similar requirements for industrial development revenue bonds, bonds issued by any housing authority, and revenue bonds issued for airport purposes. The bill repeals the current language which provides for a political subdivision to have an unenhanced bond rating of AA+ or higher or comparable rating, and replaces it with a bond rating that is one of the two highest long- term ratings or the highest short-term rating issued by a nationally recognized rating agency on its outstanding general obligation. The principal amount of general obligation bonds, currently $12.5 million, is increased to $20 million.



GREEN BONDS (Section 108.371)

Under the provisions of this bill, to be rated as a green bond, at least 85% of the bond proceeds should be used for eligible green projects, and interest on income from such bonds is exempt from income tax. Capital gains taxes on such bonds are not exempt from income taxation.

An "eligible green project" is a project or activity that supports a positive environmental impact that includes assets, investments and other related expenditures that relate to categories such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, pollution prevention and control, environmentally sustainable management of living natural resources and land use, clean transportation, terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity, climate change adaptation, circular economy adapted products, sustainable water and wastewater management and green buildings, all as defined in the bill.

This bill provides that a municipality that issues a municipal green bond shall establish a green bond holder protection fund separate from the municipality's debt service reserve fund or an equivalent fund upon a finding by the state auditor that a bond does not meet the percentage required. The amount in the fund must be equal to at least the amount of interest paid each year multiplied by the top state income tax rate applicable to individuals under Section 143.011, RSMo.



PRIVATE TRUST COMPANIES (Section 362.245)

This bill exempts private trust companies described under Section 361.160, RSMo, from certain residency requirements governing board of directors of a corporation as indicated in the bill.



UNIFORM FIDUCIARY INCOME AND PRINCIPAL ACT (Sections 214.330, 469.399 to 469.467, and 469.471 to 469.487)

This bill specifies that the income and principal of the Endowed Care Trust Fund is determined under the laws applicable to trusts with an exception that the trustee has no power: of adjustment; of conversion; no discretion to determine or modify the unitrust rate or to determine applicable value to compute the unitrust amount beyond that granted by law. A unitrust definition of income shall be determined by the cemetery operator in the terms of the Endowed Care Trust Fund Agreement and not by the trustee. Further, no principal from the Trust Fund shall be distributed except if a unitrust amount is required under the Agreement. The cemetery operator may instruct by record for the trustee to distribute less than all the income distributable for the year if the cemetery operator determines that the money is not needed.

This bill establishes the "Missouri Uniform Fiduciary Income and Principal Act" (MUFIPA). Some of the current provisions of the Principal and Income Act (PIA) have been updated to achieve compliance with the MUFIPA.

The bill modifies certain definitions and adds definitions such as "asset-backed security",“court”, “current income beneficiary”, “distribution”, “estate”, “independent person”, “personal representative”, “record”, “settlor”, “special tax benefit”, “successive interest”, “successor beneficiary”, “trust”, and “will”. It removes reference to current definitions of "income beneficiary", "qualified beneficiary", and "remainder beneficiary".

The bill provides that the MUFIPA applies to a trust or estate and a life estate or other term interest in which the interest of one or more persons will be succeeded by the interest of one or more other persons, except as otherwise provided in the terms of a trust or in MUFIPA. In addition, the MUFIPA applies when Missouri is the principal place of administration of a trust or estate or the situs of property that is not held in a trust or estate and is subject to a life estate or other term interest.

This bill details the fiduciary's duties including the power to adjust, convert an income trust to a unitrust and vice versa. In addition, the bill specifies the business or other activity conducted by the fiduciary, the allocation of receipts, the determination of "internal income of a separate fund", "marital trust", interest in minerals, water or other natural resources, interest in land used for growing and cutting timber, "derivative", "asset-backed security", and disbursements from income, all as further explained in the bill. The bill calls for the application of MUFIPA to a trust or estate existing or created on or after August 28, 2024 with exceptions.

The bill defines "unitrust" to mean a trust for which net income is a unitrust amount, including an express unitrust.

The bill defines terms such as "applicable value", "express unitrust", "income trust", "net fair value of a trust", "unitrust policy", and "unitrust rate". The provisions that apply to unitrusts do not create a duty to take or consider action or to inform a beneficiary about the applicability of the provisions. A fiduciary that in good faith takes or fails to take an action under the unitrust provisions is not liable to a person affected by the action or inaction.

The bill details the actions that the fiduciary can take without court approval. The bill specifies determinations, considerations, and procedures required of a fiduciary in taking actions. The requirements include sending a notice in a record, describing and proposing to take the action, to certain persons all as detailed in the bill. The MUFIPA includes provisions allowing these persons to object to a proposed action, whereupon the fiduciary or a beneficiary may request the court to have the proposed action taken as proposed, taken with modifications, or prevented. The bill contains requirements relating to the unitrust policy and unitrust rate. The bill provides for uniformity in the interpretation and application of the MUFIPA; contains a severability clause; and explains MUFIPA's interaction with the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 7001 et Seq. .



This bill contains provisions from HCS HB 1726, HB 1938, and HB 1987.



The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that the bill makes green bonds more clear and simple. Instead of ongoing proof, the bond needs to qualify at the beginning. Because 85% must go to one of the defined categories, it should reduce greenwashing.

Testifying in person for the bill was Representative O'Donnell.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say the bill does a good job of preventing greenwashing. The bondholder protection fund creates an extra cost, especially for an entity that does nothing but green bonds.

Testifying in person on the bill was Tim Snoke, The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
02/26/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1726 - Changes the laws regarding bonds
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1726 -- BONDS (O'Donnell)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Financial Institutions

This bill specifies that bonds, notes, or other forms of indebtedness may be issued in book-entry rather than bearer form and bear interest at the current rate of 10% or at a rate up to 250 basis points above the longest maturity United States Treasury bond, whichever is greater. Such bonds may be sold at a competitive market yield not less than 50% rather than the current 95% of the par value. Such bonds may bear interest at 14% or at a rate up to 250 basis points above the longest maturity United States Treasury bond, whichever is greater, if sold at the lowest true interest cost bid received.

The bill specifies similar requirements for industrial development revenue bonds, bonds issued by any housing authority, and revenue bonds issued for airport purposes. The bill repeals the current language which provides for a political subdivision to have an unenhanced bond rating of AA+ or higher or comparable rating, and replaces it with a bond rating that is one of the two highest long- term ratings or the highest short-term rating issued by a nationally recognized rating agency on its outstanding general obligation. The principal amount of general obligation bonds, currently $12.5 million, is increased to $20 million.
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1727 - Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to develop a curriculum on personal finance to be used by school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HB 1727 -- CURRICULUM ON PERSONAL FINANCE

SPONSOR: O'Donnell

This bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to convene a work group to develop and recommend academic performance standards relating to the one-half unit of credit in personal finance required for high school graduation to be taken after the ninth grade unless a specific waiver is granted as provided in the bill.

Members of the work group shall include educators who provide instruction in personal finance, a representative from the Missouri Association of Career and Technical Education, and others specified in the bill. The State Board of Education (SBE) shall adopt and implement academic performance standards for the 2025-26 school year and all subsequent school years.

Every seven years, the SBE shall review the academic performance standards to determine whether they should be updated to reflect trends and best practices in the current economy.

This bill is similar to HCS HB 809 (2023).
Last Action:
02/07/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1730 - Modifies provisions related to the food pantry tax credit
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Amato (R)
Summary: HB 1730 -- FOOD PANTRY DONATION TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Amato

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Special Committee on Public Policy by a vote of 6 to 0.

Currently, the cumulative amount of tax credits which may be allocated to all taxpayers contributing to a local food pantry is $1.75 million. This bill increases the amount to $3 million and extends the sunset from December 31, 2026 to December 31, 2030.

This bill is similar to HCS HB 653 (2023).

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this tax credit was created to help food pantries increase donations. In recent years, donors have not been able to receive the entire tax credit because the maximum amount of credits have been reached. This bill would help increase donations to food pantries, thereby increasing food security for low income Missourians, by increasing the cap on donations.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Amato; and Feeding Missouri.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1731 - Authorizes a tax credit for certain charitable donations to local hospital foundations
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Amato (R)
Summary: HB 1731 -- TAX CREDIT FOR DONATIONS TO HOSPITALS

SPONSOR: Amato

Beginning January 1, 2024, this bill authorizes a nonrefundable tax credit for local hospital foundation donations. A qualified taxpayer, as defined in the bill, may claim a tax credit in an amount equal to the taxpayer's qualified amount of the donations made to a local hospital foundation. The amount of the tax credit claimed shall not exceed the amount of the taxpayer's state tax liability for the tax year that the credit is claimed and cannot exceed $2,500 per taxpayer claiming the credit. The cumulative amount of tax credits allowed to all taxpayers cannot exceed $2 million per tax year. This credit constitutes a domestic and social tax credit under the provisions of the Tax Credit Accountability Act.

This program sunsets December 31, 2030

This bill is similar to HCS HB 654 (2023).
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1734 - Changes provisions governing testing of community water system hydrant inspections
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Falkner (R)
Summary: HB 1734 -- COMMUNITY WATER SYSTEM HYDRANT INSPECTIONS

SPONSOR: Falkner

Currently, a valve inspection program for a community water system must include annual testing of every hydrant in the system. This bill would only require a program to include scheduled testing of every hydrant.

This bill is the same as HB 891 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1738 - Changes provisions governing educational scholarships
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 1738 -- EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill modifies language related to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship tax credit. The bill raises the maximum cumulative amount of the tax credit from $50 million to $75 million and allows for such maximum to be adjusted for inflation and by any percentage increase provided for pupil transportation above 90% of the annual projection necessary to fully fund transportation costs in the fiscal year.

The bill modifies the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship awardable amounts from a maximum based on the State Adequacy Target(SAT) to the following:

(1) For a student with limited English proficiency 160% of the SAT;

(2) For a student eligible for free and reduced price lunch 125% of the SAT; and

(3) For a qualified student with an individualized education program (IEP) 175% of the SAT

The bill clarifies that background checks are not necessary for any parent that home schools their child.

Currently, the State Treasurer must limit the number of educational assistance organizations that are certified to administer scholarship accounts to 10 in any single school year. This bill allows the Treasurer to certify one additional educational assistance organization if the total contributions to educational assistance organizations exceed $25 million in a school year.

The bill modifies the definition of "qualified student" by removing the requirement that such student live in a county with a charter form of government or a city with at least 30,000 inhabitants and increasing the maximum income standard above the free and reduced lunch qualifier from 200% to 400%.
Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1739 - Enacts provisions governing public elementary and secondary school students
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 1739 -- PUBLIC ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill creates the "Parents' Bill of Rights Act of 2024", which shall be construed to empower parents to enforce rights, as outlined in the bill, to access records maintained by schools in which their children are enrolled in a timely manner or as specified in the bill. The bill defines a "school" as a public school, school district, charter school, or virtual school authorized under the provisions of the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program. No school shall require nondisclosure agreements for a parent's review of curricula, and each school shall allow parents, within two business days upon request, to review or make a copy of curriculum documents or to receive such documents in an electronic format, provided that no request would cause an infringement of copyright protections. Where the curricular materials being made available to parents for review are subject to copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property protection, the review process shall include technical and procedural safeguards to ensure that the materials are not able to be widely disseminated to the general public in violation of the intellectual property rights of the publisher or any contractual agreements between the publisher and the school, and that content validity is not undermined. If more than 20 pages are being copied using the school's equipment, the school may, at the school's discretion, charge the parent a fee described in the bill. No school shall collect any biometric data of a minor child without obtaining parental consent, except for biometric data necessary to create and issue appropriate school identification cards. A school that collects such data shall ensure that all copies of such data are destroyed within one year of a student's withdrawal of participation in all school activities. Finally, each school shall notify parents of certain safety incidents and criminal charges filed against teachers, employees, and any guests or visitors to a school, as outlined in the bill (Section 161.841, RSMo). This bill prohibits public school officials from encouraging a student under the age of 18 years old to adopt a gender identity or sexual orientation. The bill additionally prohibits public school officials from withholding information regarding a student's gender identity from the student's parent. The bill defines a student's "documented identity" as such student's gender identity or sex as registered by the student's parent during enrollment. If a student's parent does not register such student's gender identity or sex during enrollment, the student's documented identity shall be their biological sex as correctly stated on their birth certificate or other government record, as specified in the bill. A school official shall inform a student's parent within 24 hours if the student expresses confusion about his or her documented identity or requests to use personal pronouns that differ from his or her documented identity. A school official shall obtain written parental consent before allowing a student to use a name other than the name provided by the parent when registering the student for school and before encouraging a student to wear certain items of clothing. Finally, a school official shall not encourage a student to pursue gender reassignment therapy or surgical procedures. Any teacher or school counselor, who violates the provisions of the bill shall be subject to suspension or revocation of his or her professional license based on incompetence, immorality, and neglect of duty. The State Board of Education shall promptly investigate any claim from a parent of a public school student that a teacher of such student has violated the bill. If the claim is found to be valid, the State Board shall discipline such teacher as set forth in the bill. The Board of Nursing shall promptly investigate any claim from a parent of a public school student that a school nurse has knowingly violated the bill. If the Board finds that such claim is valid, the Board shall file a complaint against such school nurse's license with the Administrative Hearing Commission on grounds of unethical or unprofessional conduct involving a minor. Any other school staff member who knowingly violates the provisions of the bill shall have his or her employment terminated for gross misconduct, and shall additionally be ineligible to work in any public school for a period of four years. A parent may bring a civil action against a school district, public elementary or secondary school, or public charter school that violates the provisions of the bill, and the Attorney General may bring a civil action against any school district, public elementary or secondary school, or public charter school that violates the provisions of the bill (Sections 170.385 and 170.386). These provisions are similar to SB 728 (2024) and SCS SB 134 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1740 - Establishes requirements for American history courses for high schools
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 1740 -- AMERICAN HISTORY COURSES FOR HIGH SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill requires that beginning in the 2025-26 school year the assessment tools for American history competencies shall include "document-based questions" that present excerpts of and are focused upon historical documents and that use primary source documents to ascertain student knowledge. The bill requires annual assessments for courses of instruction outlined in the bill (Section 160.518 RSMo).

The bill requires that beginning in the 2025-26 school year school districts and private schools must offer courses of instruction in the development of Western civilization to freshman, American History from the Age of Discovery through the 19th century to sophomores, American History in the 20th century and beyond to juniors, and American Civics & Government, to seniors.

Courses must be two semesters in length and students beginning ninth grade must complete all four courses before they may graduate. The bill requires that the course of instruction in the development of Western civilization shall include: Greek history, philosophy, and literature, with the study of specified Greek works; literature written by Roman authors, with the study of specified works by Roman authors; and the works of early church fathers and literature written from the Early Medieval period through the Early Modern period that the framers of the United States Constitution referred to specifically as having influenced the philosophical and political thought of such framers (Section 170.011).

This bill is similar to HB 595 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1742 - Establishes provisions governing statewide athletic association employees and members
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 1742 -- STATEWIDE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATIONS

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill defines a "screened volunteer" as any individual who assists a school by providing uncompensated service, who may be left alone with students, and who has successfully completed a criminal background check. School districts are currently required to have policies about how and what information they release about former employees to other public schools. Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill requires such policies to also include information about screened volunteers. The bill further applies existing requirements related to allegations of sexual misconduct against school employees to screened volunteers as well (Section 162.068, RSMo).

The bill establishes "Emilyn's Law". The bill defines "association" as a statewide athletic association or organization that receives any public money and has at least one public school district as a member. As specified in the bill, all employees of such an association are mandated reporters. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to create and maintain a database listing each person who is employed as coach or a member of the coaching staff, or serves as a screened volunteer, for an association member school district. The database must contain information related to specified substantiated allegations of sexual misconduct against such employees and volunteers, as well as specified information obtained by the school districts as a result of criminal background checks. Prior to hiring any new coach or member of the coaching staff, or accepting a screened volunteer, all association members must consult this database(Section 168.631).

This bill is the same as HB 139 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1743 - Provides a sales tax exemption for the production of electricity
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 1743 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR ENERGY

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill creates a state sales tax exemption for utilities, equipment, and materials used to generate or transmit electricity.

This bill is the same as HB 258 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1744 - Changes the filing location for school board candidates
Sponsor: Rep. Renee Reuter (R)
Summary: HB 1744 -- SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS

SPONSOR: Reuter

This bill modifies the current process for school board candidate filing for school board elections in school districts located wholly within one county. The bill requires candidates to file at the county clerk's office of the county in which the candidate resides. The election authority of the county in which the school district is located shall designate the order and process for any drawing of candidate names for the order of the ballot.

This bill is similar to HB 825 (2023).
Last Action:
01/09/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1746 - Modifies provisions relating to utilities
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary:

HCS HB 1746 -- UTILITIES (O'Donnell)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Utilities

This bill modifies the laws relating to utilities.

SOLAR ENERGY ASSESSMENT (Sections 137.010, 137.080 and 137.115)

The bill provides that the definition of "tangible personal property", for the purposes of property taxation, includes solar panels, racking systems, inverters, and related solar equipment, components, materials, and supplies installed at commercial solar photovoltaic energy systems that were constructed and producing solar energy prior to August 9, 2022.

The bill also creates a new subclass of tangible personal property that includes solar panels, racking systems, inverters, and related solar equipment, components, materials, and supplies installed at commercial solar photovoltaic energy systems that were constructed and producing solar energy prior to August 9, 2022, and specifies that it be assessed at 5% of its true value in money.

DEPRECIATION OF REAL PROPERTY (Section 137.122)

Beginning January 1, 2025, the depreciation tables used to assess tangible personal property shall be used to assess real property that is used for the transportation or storage of liquid and gaseous products including water, sewage, and natural gas that is not propane or LP gas, but not including petroleum products.

SALES TAX EXEMPTION (Section 144.058)

The bill exempts from sales tax electrical energy and gas, whether natural, artificial, or propane; water, coal, and energy sources; chemicals, machinery, equipment, parts, and material used or consumed by a public utility or rural electric cooperative in connection with or to facilitate the generation, transmission, distribution, sale, or furnishing of electricity for light, heat, or power; and any conduits, ducts, or other devices, materials, apparatus, or property for containing, holding, or carrying conductors used or to be used for the transmission of electricity for light, heat, or power service to consumers.

COUNTY BOARD OF TRUSTEES COMPENSATION (Section 204.300)

The bill sets the rate of compensation for members of a County Board of Trustees. Each trustee of the Board may receive an attendance fee not to exceed $100 for attending each regularly called board meeting, or special meeting, but shall not be paid for attending more than two meetings in any calendar month, except that in a county of the first classification, a trustee shall not be paid for attending more than four meetings in any calendar month. However, no trustee shall be paid more than one attendance fee if such trustee attends more than one board meeting in a calendar week. Each trustee of the Board shall be reimbursed for his or her actual expenditures in the performance of his or her duties on behalf of the district.

SEWER DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES COMPENSATION (Section 204.610)

The bill sets the rate of compensation for members of a Sewer District Board of Trustees. Each trustee of the Board may receive an attendance fee not to exceed $100 for attending each regularly called board meeting, or special meeting, but shall not be paid for attending more than two meetings in any calendar month, except that in a county of the first classification, a trustee shall not be paid for attending more than four meetings in any calendar month. However, no trustee shall be paid more than one attendance fee if such trustee attends more than one board meeting in a calendar week. Each trustee of the Board shall be reimbursed for his or her actual expenditures in the performance of his or her duties on behalf of the district.

RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS PROGRAM (Section 386.895)

The bill requires the Public Service Commission to adopt rules no later than July 1, 2025, allowing gas corporations to voluntarily institute a renewable natural gas program. The rules must be limited to establishing a process for gas corporations to submit filings pursuant to the renewable natural gas program. The bill also repeals the provision giving the Commission general rule- making authority and provides for limited rulemaking authority relating to the renewable natural gas program.

The bill specifies that an investment must be deemed prudent when the aggregate investment does not exceed certain thresholds based upon the size of the gas company.

A filing by a gas corporation must include a timeline for the investment and completion of the proposed renewable natural gas infrastructure. For any filing for a project with an aggregate cost of less the $5 million, the Commission must issue a decision on any filing by a gas corporation within 90 days of submission, but can extend the review period for up to an additional 60 days for good cause.

By January 1, 2026, the Division of Energy within the Department of Natural Resources is required to provide a report on the renewable natural gas program to the chairman of the commission, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President Pro Tem of the Senate, and the chairs of certain legislative committees.

The provisions of this bill and any rule enacted under this bill expire nine years from the date the Commission promulgates rules to implement the renewable natural gas program.

ACQUISITIONS OF SMALL WATER UTILITIES (Section 393.320)

The bill expands the definition of a "large water public utility" to state that such an entity will regularly provide sewer services to more than 8,000 customer connections, or regularly provide a combination of either to more than 8,000 customer connections. For any acquisition of a small water utility with an appraised value of $5 million or less, the Public Service Commission must issue its decision within six months of the submission of the application by the large water public utility to acquire a small water utility. The Public Service Commission or the Office of Public Counsel may request an extension for approval of 30 days upon a showing of good cause.

RENEWABLE ENERGY STANDARDS (Section 393.1030)

This bill specifies that electric utilities with more than 250,000 but less than 1 million retail customers in Missouri as of the end of 2022 with energy that meets the criteria of the renewable energy portfolio requirements and is contracted for by an accelerated renewable buyer must:

(1) Have all associated renewable energy certificates retired by the accelerated renewable buyer and the certificates may not be used to meet the electric utility’s portfolio requirements;

(2) Be excluded from the total electric utility’s sales used to determine the portfolio requirements; and

(3) Be used to offset all or a portion of its electric load to determine compliance with the portfolio requirements.

The bill specifies that the accelerated renewable buyer is exempt from any renewable energy standard compliance costs as established by the utility and approved by the Public Service Commission. Each electric utility must certify, and verify as necessary, to the Commission that the accelerated renewable buyer has satisfied the exemption requirements as specified in the bill. The accelerated renewable buyer may also certify the exemption requirements to the Commission individually. DEFERRALS BY ELECTRICAL CORPORATIONS (Section 393.1400)

This bill removes "new natural gas units" from the definition of "qualifying electric plant" for the purposes of certain deferrals by electrical corporations.

Currently an electrical corporations must defer to a regulatory asset 85% of all depreciation expense and return associated with all qualifying electric plant recorded to plant-in-service on the utility's books. Beginning August 28, 2024, the bill requires an electrical corporation to defer 90% of a qualifying electric plant consisting of investment in new generating units including new energy storage systems.

The cost of investments in new generating units and energy storage systems are excluded from the total investments reflected in each year's capital investment plan for which required investments in grid modernization projects are determined.

The bill extends the sunset date of certain provisions relating to deferrals by electrical corporations from December 31, 2028 to December 31, 2035. The deadline to file an application seeking permission from the Public Service Commission relating to deferrals shall be extended from December 31, 2026 to December 31, 2033.

Provisions relating to electrical corporations seeking deferrals will expire on December 31, 2040, instead of on December 31, 2033.

WATER AND SEWER INFRASTRUCTURE RATE ADJUSTMENT (WSIRA) (Section 393.1506)

The bill allows a public utility with sewer service to more than 8,000 customer connections, or a combination of either water and sewer to more than 8,000 customer connections to file a petition and proposed rate schedules with the Public Service Commission to establish or change a WSIRA that will provide for the recovery of the appropriate pretax revenues associated with the eligible infrastructure system projects.

GAS CUSTOMER DISCOUNTS (Section 393.1645)

The bill makes adjustments to the way in which a gas corporation may apply certain discounts to its customers in their use of the service. The way in which a customer may qualify for one of the discounts is set forth as follows:

(1) When the customer is a new customer and the new load is reasonably projected to be at least 270,000 ccf annually, the discount shall equal up to 25% subject to the limiting provisions of this section and shall apply for four years; or

(2) When the customer is an existing customer and the new load is reasonably projected to be at least 135,000 ccf annually, the discount shall equal 25% subject to the limiting provisions of this section and shall apply for four years.

To obtain the discount, the customer's load must be incremental; receive local, regional, or state economic development incentives; and meet the criteria set in the gas corporation's economic development rider tariff sheets.

In each general rate proceeding, the difference in revenues generated by applying the discounted rates and the revenues that would have been generated without such discounts will not be imputed into the gas corporation's revenue requirement. Instead, the revenue requirement should be set using the revenues generated by the discounted rates and allocated to all customer classes as specified in the bill.

CONTRACTING AUTHORITY OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION (Section 393.1700)

The bill authorizes the Public Service Commission to directly contract counsel, financial advisors, or other consultants necessary to implement the provisions of the law allowing for the Commission to approve the issuance of securitized utility tariff bonds by an electrical corporation. The Commission must establish a process for bidding such contracts and make the policy and rate case-specific contract information publicly available.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS OF PUBLIC UTILITIES (Section 393.1750)

The bill requires the Public Service Commission to permit electrical, water, and gas corporations to recover workforce development investments.

An electrical, water, or gas corporation is entitled to defer to a regulatory asset such corporation's workforce development investments made between August 28, 2024, and December 31, 2034, up to .55% of the corporation's total operating revenues as reported to the Commission for calendar year 2022.

HYDRANT VALVE INSPECTIONS (Section 640.144) The bill changes the frequency of inspections done to water hydrants from annually to a time at which such an inspection can be scheduled by the parties.

SMALL WIRELESS FACILITIES (Repeal of Section 67.5122)

Currently the Small Wireless Facility Deployment Act expires on January, 1, 2025. This bill repeals the expiration date for the Act.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
HB1751 - Modifies provisions governing solid waste disposal area permits
Sponsor: Rep. Mike Haffner (R)
Summary:

SS/HB 1751 - Under the act, the Department of Natural Resources shall not issue a permit for the operation of a solid waste processing facility, demolition landfill, or sanitary landfill located in the city of Kansas City without receiving approval from an adjoining municipality if such area is located within one mile of the adjoining municipality, instead of one-half mile as in the current law.

 

The act is similar to SB 739 (2024), SB 769 (2024), SB 1139 (2024), HB 2254 (2024), SCS/SB 590 (2023) and HCS/HB 909 (2023).
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
G - Sent to the Governor
HB1756 - Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to develop, use, and report student grade-level equivalence data
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HB 1756 -- GRADE-LEVEL EQUIVALENCE DATA

SPONSOR: Pollitt

This bill defines "Grade-level equivalence", a metric developed and used by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to show a student's proximity to doing grade-level work, and requires DESE to establish panels to review and revise the performance-level descriptors for each academic subject and grade level. The bill identifies and describes the performance level descriptors as: advanced; proficient, grade level, basic, and below basic with specified characteristics for each level.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year and in each subsequent year the school accountability report card must provide each student's grade-level equivalence as measured on the statewide assessment. Data relating to the grade-level equivalence must be searchable on a building-by-building, school-by-school, district-by-district, and statewide level. Such data must display a percentage of students at grade level or above for each level, provided that no data will disclose personal identification of any student except to a student's parent.

This bill is the same as HB 255 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1757 - Establishes transfer procedures to nonresident districts for students in public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HB 1757 -- WITHDRAWN
Last Action:
12/19/2023 
H - Withdrawn
HB1758 - Establishes the Education Stabilization Fund
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HB 1758 -- EDUCATION STABILIZATION FUND

SPONSOR: Pollitt

This bill creates the "Education Stabilization Fund" to which the Governor may transfer appropriated money. In any fiscal year in which actual revenues are less than revenue estimates upon which appropriations are based, the Governor, subject to appropriations may transfer from the Education Stabilization Fund to the foundation formula administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education an amount necessary to provide public schools full funding. The bill limits the Fund to 10% of the previous fiscal year appropriation to the foundation formula, and any excess over 10% shall be transferred by appropriation to the General Revenue Fund.

This bill is the same as HB 901, HB 821, and HB 843 (2023).
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1761 - Requires every school district to comply with enhanced safety and security standards
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Hicks (R)
Summary: HB 1761 -- ENHANCED SAFETY FEATURES FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS

SPONSOR: Hicks

This bill outlines safety and security measures for public school buildings and provides definitions for "Bullet-Resistant security laminate" and "Riot-resistant Security Laminate" as a film resistant based on specific standards.

The bill requires that all school districts implement safety and security compliance standards for all attendance centers. Access points must be secured by design, maintained, and appropriately monitored.

Alphanumeric characters must be displayed on exterior doors. Standards for primary entrances, construction of exterior doors and windows, and roof access door are specified. As are standards for all ground-level windows, interior doors with access to gathering spaces, and locking mechanisms. Specified windows and doors must be covered in either bullet proof or riot proof laminate as specified.

School districts are required to conduct weekly inspections of exterior doors, report findings, and maintain certifications of compliance.

These standards must be implemented beginning in the 2025-26 school year. Existing security laminate not compliant with standards must be upgraded by July 1, 2025 and districts must have a contractor procured by this date to be in compliance.

The bill creates a matching grant program to assist school districts in implementing safety and security projects. School districts can apply for matching grants to cover 50% of the project cost beginning in the 2025-26 school year, beginning July 1, 2026 districts may only use Classroom Trust Fund proceeds for school safety provisions until the district is in compliance.

Beginning July 1, 2028, noncompliance shall result in a school district being classified as unaccredited by the State Board of Education.

The program and its provisions will automatically sunset six years after the effective date.
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1762 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers and feminine hygiene products
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Hicks (R)
Summary: HB 1762 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR CERTAIN PURCHASES

SPONSOR: Hicks

This bill authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of all diapers and all feminine hygiene products, as both are defined in the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 290 and SB 73 (2023), and HB 2384 and SB 1124 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1764 - Authorizes the establishment of charter school in school districts in St. Charles County
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Hicks (R)
Summary: HB 1764 -- CHARTER SCHOOLS EXPANSION TO ST CHARLES COUNTY

SPONSOR: Hicks

This bill allows for charter schools to be established in any school district located primarily in a county with more than 400,000 but fewer than 500,000 inhabitants. Upon enactment this would apply to St. Charles County.

The bill also allows for the funding mechanism for charter schools to include any newly established charter schools.
Last Action:
01/29/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1767 - Modifies the time period during which the amount for a traded-in motor vehicle may be credited to the purchase price of another motor vehicle for sales tax calculations
Sponsor: Rep. Alan Gray (D)
Summary: HB 1767 -- SALES TAX ON TRADE-IN PURCHASES

SPONSOR: Gray

Currently, sales tax is charged on the purchase price of a motor vehicle, trailer, boat, or outboard motor less any trade-in allowance for vehicles, trailers, boats, or outboard motors traded or sold within 180 days.

This bill extends that period to one year if the person receiving the allowance is 65 years of age or older.

This bill is similar to HB 897 (2023); and HB 1818 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1771 - Establishes provisions governing automated external defibrillators in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Chad Perkins (R)
Summary: HB 1771 -- AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR IN SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Perkins

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year this bill requires that each school campus in the state install automated external defibrillators (AEDs). School personnel shall be trained annually on the use of an AED beginning in 2025-26. Specifications for the AED are provided in the bill, and school districts must designate personnel to maintain and ensure availability for the AED. The location for AEDs shall include high traffic areas and easily accessible locations.

Schools must appoint a program coordinator to be responsible for administration of the AED program and perform additional duties as outlined in the bill. The bill requires appropriate training to meet standards set by the American Heart Association, and such training counts for professional development requirements (Section 160.111, RSMo).

The bill also expands existing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training requirements for employees beginning in the 2024-25 school year to include training on AEDs. Trained employees shall be held harmless and immune for any civil liability for the use of an AED in good faith if they follow standard medical practice (Section 167.624).

The bill requires that beginning with the 2024-25 school year instruction in CPR shall include appropriate training in the use of AEDs (Section 170.310).

This bill is the same as HB 426 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1778 - Modifies provisions governing eligibility for the A+ scholarship program
Sponsor: Rep. Chad Perkins (R)
Summary: HB 1778 -- THE A+ SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

SPONSOR: Perkins

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this bill prevents eligible students from being disqualified from receiving a grant under the A+ program solely because of a guilty plea or conviction for the possession of a controlled substance under Section 579.015, RSMo, or possession of drug paraphernalia under Section 579.074.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1785 - Establishes the "Uniform Public Expression Protection Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Chad Perkins (R)
Summary: HB 1785 -- UNIFORM PUBLIC EXPRESSION PROTECTION ACT

SPONSOR: Perkins

This bill establishes the "Uniform Public Expression Protection Act".

The bill relates to causes of action filed against individuals who exercise certain constitutional rights. The bill specifies that, when a person, defined in the bill as "an individual, estate, trust, partnership, business or nonprofit entity, governmental unit, or other legal entity", has a cause of action filed against him or her or it based upon his or her or its communication in a governmental proceeding or on an issue under consideration in a governmental proceeding, or when he or she or it exercises his or her or its right of freedom of speech or of the press, the right to assemble, or the right of association, that person may file a special motion to dismiss the cause of action.

The bill establishes procedures for such special motions to dismiss. The bill specifies under which circumstances a court may award costs, reasonable attorneys' fees, and reasonable litigation expenses. The provisions of the bill apply to civil actions filed on or after August 28, 2024.

This bill is similar to HB 750 (2023) and HB 2624 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1786 - Enacts additional teacher subject area certification for content knowledge or specialty areas
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HB 1786 -- CERTIFICATE OF LICENSE

SPONSOR: Pollitt

This bill authorizes the State Board for Education to grant an additional teaching certificate in a specific content or subject area to already certificated teachers based upon successfully completing the state-approved teacher evaluation system comprised of seven walk-through evaluations, two formative evaluations, and one summative evaluation, a recommendation from the school district, and the completion of a background check.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Elementary and Secondary Education
HB1790 - Creates provisions relating to employer liability for injuries from required immunizations
Sponsor: Rep. Mitch Boggs (R)
Summary: HB 1790 -- REQUIRED IMMUNIZATION LIABILITY ACT

SPONSOR: Boggs

This bill establishes the "Required Immunization Liability Act", which states that an employer that requires its employees to receive an immunization as a condition of employment shall be liable for damages or injury resulting from the required immunization solely due to the employer's requirement.

This bill is the same as HCS HB 336 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1793 - Creates provisions relating to mental health leave for employees
Sponsor: Rep. Michael Johnson (D)
Summary: HB 1793 -- MENTAL HEALTH LEAVE

SPONSOR: Johnson (23)

This bill allows employees to be able to take unpaid leave from work to attend mental health appointments. Employees shall be entitled leave for at least one mental health appointment per week. The employee must provide at least 48 hours advance notice to the employer of their intention to take leave, unless providing advance notice is not practicable.

The employer may require the employee to provide certification to the employer that leave is being taken for a mental health appointment, and the employee must provide that certification within a reasonable period after it has been requested. For the purposes of this bill, the certification requirement may be satisfied by providing the employer a sworn statement and documentation from the health care provider who treated the employee at the mental health appointment.

All information provided to the employer under the provisions of this bill, including a statement or any other documentation, record, or evidence, and the fact that the employee has requested or obtained leave, shall be retained in the strictest possible confidence by the employer.

Every employer must annually notify its employees of the requirements of this bill, and no rights or remedies established for employees shall be diminished by any federal, state, or local law, collective bargaining agreement, or employment benefits program or plan.

This bill is similar to HB 1070 (2023).
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1799 - Specifies that no more than twenty percent of land within a county may be collectively owned by the state, a county, and municipalities
Sponsor: Rep. Ron Copeland (R)
Summary: HB 1799 -- PUBLIC LAND

SPONSOR: Copeland

This bill specifies that in any 3rd or 4th class county in which the federal government, the state, the county, and the municipalities collectively own at least 20% of all real property, any state agency or political subdivision, except agencies with Constitutional authority to acquire real property, is prohibited from purchasing or receiving by donation, gift, bequest or any other method any additional property unless the county commission adopts a resolution in support of the purchase.

This bill is similar to HB57 (2023) and HCS HB 1758 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Referred to House Committee on Rural Community Development
HB1800 - Modifies provisions relating to criminal history background checks
Sponsor: Rep. Ron Copeland (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1800 -- CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

SPONSOR: Copeland

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Professional Registration and Licensing by a vote of 8 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1800.

This bill modifies provisions related to criminal background checks.

This bill specifies that, if an application for a license or permit requires a fingerprint submission, the applicant must submit his or her fingerprint to the State Highway Patrol (MSHP) for the purpose of undergoing State and Federal criminal background check. The following boards, commissions, departments, divisions, and committees are listed in the bill:

(1) The State Board of Education, for applicants seeking certificates to teach or substitute teach in public schools and as otherwise required by law;

(2) The Department of Health and Senior Services, for applicants seeking licensure as an emergency medical technician, an advanced emergency medical technician, or a paramedic, or seeking certification as an emergency medical technician-community paramedic;

(3) The Medicaid Audit and Compliance Unit of the Department of Social Services, for a provider seeking to be enrolled as a MO HealthNet provider for the purpose of providing MO HealthNet services;

(4) The State Committee of Interpreters, for applicants seeking licensure as an interpreter or seeking temporary license to practice as an interpreter;

(5) The Department of Revenue, for applicants seeking licensure as a new motor vehicle franchise dealer, used motor vehicle dealer, powersport dealer, wholesale motor vehicle dealer, motor vehicle dealer, public motor vehicle auction, recreational motor vehicle dealer, trailer dealer, boat dealer, manufacturer, or boat manufacturer;

(6) The Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, for applicants seeking a liquor license or permit; (7) The Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy, for applicants seeking licensure as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant;

(8) The State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts, for applicants seeking licensure as a clinical perfusionist or provisional licensed clinical perfusionist, and for applicants seeking a permanent, temporary, or limited license as a physician or assistant physician, and applicants seeking licensure as an anesthesiologist assistant or a temporary license to practice as an anesthesiologist assistant, and for applicants seeking permanent or temporary license as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, and applicants seeking licensure as an athletic trainer, and for applicants seeking a license or temporary license as a physician assistant, and applicants seeking a license or provisional license as an audiologist, an audiology aide, a speech- language pathologist, a speech-language pathology aide, or a speech-language pathology assistant;

(9) The Board of Therapeutic Massage, for applicants seeking a license, provisional license, or student license as a massage therapist;

(10) The State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, for applicants seeking licensure as an acupuncturist or to practice chiropractic;

(11) The Board of Private Investigator and Private Fire Investigator Examiners, for applicants seeking licensure as a private investigator or private fire investigator;

(12) The State Board of Accountancy, for applicants seeking licensure as a certified public accountant or seeking permit for a certified public accounting firm;

(13) The State Board of Podiatric Medicine, for applicants seeking a permanent or temporary license to practice podiatric medicine or seeking a permanent podiatric medicine license with ankle certification;

(14) The Missouri Dental Board, for applicants seeking licensure as a dentist, a dental specialist, a volunteer dentist, a temporary dentist, a dental hygienist, or a volunteer dental hygienist, or for applicants seeking a limited dental teaching license or a dental faculty permit;

(15) The Board for Respiratory Care, for applicants seeking licensure as a respiratory care practitioner, and applicants seeking an educational or temporary permit to practice respiratory care;

(16) The State Board of Nursing, for applicants seeking licensure to practice as a registered nurse, practical nurse, or advanced practice registered nurse, and for those seeking employment with the Board;

(17) The State Board of Optometry, for applicants seeking licensure as an optometrist;

(18) The State Committee of Psychologists, for applicants seeking licensure as a licensed psychologist or provisional licensed psychologist, or seeking a temporary license to practice as a psychologist, and applicants seeking licensure, provisional licensure, or temporary licensure as a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst;

(19) The Committee for Professional Counselors, for applicants seeking licensure as a licensed or provisional licensed professional counselor;

(20) The State Committee for Social Workers, for applicants seeking a license or temporary permit to practice as a licensed clinical social worker, licensed advanced macro social worker, master social worker, or licensed baccalaureate social worker;

(21) The State Committee of Marital and Family Therapists, for applicants seeking licensure or provisional licensure as a marital and family therapist;

(22) The Board of Pharmacy, for applicants seeking licensure to practice as a pharmacist or temporary pharmacist, an intern pharmacist, a wholesale drug distributor, third-party logistics provider, drug outsourcer, seeking a permit for the practice of pharmacy described in Section 338.220, RSMo, seeking a certificate of registration as a pharmacy technician, or seeking a permit for work as a wholesale drug distributor facility manager-in-charge, wholesale drug distributor facility manager or owner, or third- party logistics provider facility manager or owner;

(23) The Missouri Real Estate Commission, for applicants seeking licensure as a real estate broker, real estate salesperson, or real estate broker-salesperson;

(24) The Missouri Real Estate Appraisers Commission, for applicants seeking licensure or certification as a state-certified residential real estate appraiser, residential appraiser trainee, general real estate appraiser, or general appraiser trainee, or a state-licensed real estate appraiser or appraiser trainee, or an appraisal management company or a controlling person of an appraisal management company;

(25) The Department of Commerce and Insurance, for applicants seeking a license, or renewal of license, as a general bail bond agent, a bail bond agent, or a surety recovery agent;

(26) The Division of Professional Registration, for applicants seeking licensure as an athlete agent;

(27) The Division of Finance, for applicants seeking licensure as a mortgage loan broker or mortgage loan originator;

(28) The Supreme Court of Missouri, for applicants seeking admission or reinstatement to the state bar for the purpose of licensure to practice law as attorneys and counselors in this state; and

(29) The Department of Natural Resources, for applicants seeking to be employed or to volunteer with the Department.

The fingerprints and any required fees will be sent to the MSHP central repository and will be forwarded to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The MSHP will notify the respective agency, board, or other oversight body of their applicants' criminal history or lack thereof.

This bill is similar to SCS SB 875 (2024).



The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that we need this bill and it will bring our state into compliance with the FBI's background check requirements. We need to make sure we are doing complete background checks that show criminal histories in other states.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Copeland; Alexander R. Vivas, Missouri State Highway Patrol; and the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that this is a violation of our right to privacy. Applicants should not have to submit their fingerprints in order to have a profession.

Testifying in person against the bill was Armorvine. Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/03/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1803 - Increases aggregate investment amount that the state treasurer may invest in linked deposits and changes disbursement criteria for eligible parties.
Sponsor: Rep. Terry Thompson (R)
Summary: HB 1803 -- STATE TREASURER'S AUTHORITY TO INVEST

This bill raises the aggregate amount that the State Treasurer may invest in linked deposits, so that the total amount deposited at any one time does not exceed $1.2 billion. Currently, the cap is $800 million. The bill specifies that the aggregate deposits will be used for linked deposits to eligible small businesses in addition to the businesses currently allowed. Currently, there is a maximum dollar amount that can be deposited in linked deposits applicable to the various businesses; this bill changes the maximum to a percentage of the aggregate deposit.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
G - Sent to the Governor
HB1806 - Prohibits zero-tolerance policies or practices of discipline in public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Ian Mackey (D)
Summary: HB 1806 -- ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICY

SPONSOR: Mackey

This bill requires school districts to prohibit any zero-tolerance disciplinary policy. Zero-tolerance discipline that results in an automatic disciplinary consequence without reviewing each pupil in a case by case manner is prohibited.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1807 - Prohibits educational institutions from mandating COVID-19 vaccines or gene therapy
Sponsor: Rep. Kurtis Gregory (R)
Summary: HB 1807 -- MEDICAL MANDATES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Gregory

Beginning in the 2024-25 school or academic year this bill prohibits school districts, public schools, and institutions of higher education from requiring any employee or student to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or gene therapy treatment in order to be physically present at any events, premises, or facilities.

Additionally, a vaccine or gene therapy treatment may not be required as a condition for employment or for acceptance as a student. Testing for COVID-19 may not be done without written consent of the school employee, student, or in the case of a minor student, by all parents or guardians. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development are authorized to investigate and report violations and penalty provisions as outlined in the bill.

The bill allows civil action to be taken against an individual who violates the provisions of this section for any physical, mental or emotional injury.

This bill is similar to SB 159 and HB 1347 (2023) and to HB 1475 (2022)
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1810 - Establishes a fund for matching school district expenditures of reserve moneys to increase teacher salaries
Sponsor: Rep. Louis Riggs (R)
Summary: HB 1810 -- GRANTS TO INCREASE TEACHERS SALARIES

SPONSOR: Riggs

This bill creates the "Matching Grants for Teachers Plan" and a subsequent fund in the State Treasury. The purpose of the plan will be to provide a grant match of up to $1 million for any school district that uses district's reserves to solely increase teacher salaries. The bill provides guidance to districts to prevent district reserves from being exhausted.

This bill is similar to HB 578 (2023).
Last Action:
04/04/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1812 - Authorizes an income tax deduction for amounts paid towards tangible personal property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Louis Riggs (R)
Summary: HB 1812 -- DEDUCTION FOR AMOUNTS PAID FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX

SPONSOR: Riggs

Beginning January 1, 2025, a qualified taxpayer shall be allowed a deduction from the taxpayer's Missouri adjusted gross income in an amount equal to 100% of all tangible personal property taxes actually paid by the qualified taxpayer in a given tax year on all tangible personal property taxes owed.

Only the amounts of such personal property taxes actually paid by the taxpayer shall qualify for the deduction and only if such amounts are paid during the tax year for which this deduction is claimed. No deduction shall be claimed for the amount of tangible personal property tax that has been or is used in obtaining a state tax credit, exemption, subtraction, or a different deduction.

This bill is similar to HB 1097 (2023).
Last Action:
03/07/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1815 - Requires an audit of all state departments every four years
Sponsor: Rep. Louis Riggs (R)
Summary: HB 1815 -- AUDIT OF STATE DEPARTMENTS

SPONSOR: Riggs

This bill requires independent performance audits for economy and efficiency to be conducted once every four years on each state department, the General Assembly, the judiciary, and executive branch offices. The Office of Administration shall solicit bids and select an independent auditor. Results of these audits must be posted on the public website of each public agency.

This bill is the same as HB 310 (2023) and HB 2507 (2022).
Last Action:
02/28/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1817 - Provides a sales tax exemption for sales of certain medical devices
Sponsor: Rep. Lisa Thomas (R)
Summary: HB 1817 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION OF CERTAIN MEDICAL DEVICES

SPONSOR: Thomas

This bill authorizes a sales tax exemption for sales of class III medical devices that use electric fields for the purposes of treating cancer, including components, repair parts, and disposable or single-patient-use supplies required for such devices.

Current law provides a sales tax exemption for certain durable medical equipment as defined on January 1, 1980, by the federal Medicare program. This bill removes the reference to January 1, 1980.

Additionally, current law provides a sales tax exemption for the sales or rental of manual and powered wheelchairs, including parts. The bill also applies the exemption to accessories for such wheelchairs.

This bill is similar to HCS HB 154 (2023) and HB 1864 (2022).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1820 - Authorizes and establishes standards for virtual schools or programs administering statewide assessments
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 1820 -- ASSESSMENT OF VIRTUAL SCHOOL STUDENTS

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

This bill provides that any virtual school or program that is part of the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program may administer any statewide assessment virtually.

The bill outlines requirements for such virtual assessments, including the monitoring of students via a camera and the maintaining of a student-to-proctor ratio that is targeted at 10-1 or lower.

This bill is similar to SB 1049 from (2024).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1821 - Modifies provision relating to solid waste permits
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 1821 -- SOLID WASTE PERMITTING

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

Currently, a permit is not required to operate a waste stabilization lagoon, settling pond or other water treatment facility that has a valid permit form the Clean Water Commission. This bill modifies the facilities that are exempted from permitting.

The bill also specifies that solid waste permits are not transferable and any subsequent assignee, purchaser, or transferee must submit a new application to the department and comply with all public notice, public meeting, financial disclosure, background check and financial assurance requirements.

Any facility that accepts and stores solid wastes and that formerly operated under a fertilizer distributor permit issued by the Fertilizer Control Board must apply for solid waste permits from the Department of Natural Resources.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1822 - Requires all state departments to report the cost of complying with federal regulations to the department of economic development
Sponsor: Rep. Louis Riggs (R)
Summary: HB 1822 -- COST OF COMPLYING WITH FEDERAL REGULATIONS

SPONSOR: Riggs

Beginning September 1, 2024, this bill requires all state departments to report, on a quarterly basis, the cost of complying with federal regulations to the Department of Economic Development. The reports must be delivered to the General Assembly and made public on the Department's website.

This bill is the same as HB 313 (2023) and HB 2713 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1823 - Requires public schools to provide annual instruction and training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid for choking to high school pupils
Sponsor: Rep. Dave Griffith (R)
Summary: HB 1823 -- CPR INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING

SPONSOR: Griffith

Currently, school districts must provide a minimum of 30 minutes of CPR and Heimlich maneuver training before graduation. This bill requires that beginning in the 2024-25 school year all high schools students will receive a minimum of 30 minutes of such training per year.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1824 - Authorizes a tax credit for certain railroad expenses
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Smith (R)
Summary: HB 1824 -- QUALIFIED RAILROAD INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS

SPONSOR: Smith (155)

Beginning January 1, 2025, eligible taxpayers may claim a nonrefundable tax credit of an amount equal to 50% for qualified railroad track expenditures, or for new qualified rail infrastructure expenditures.

Such tax credits shall not exceed the following limits:

(1) Railroad track expenditures: not to exceed an amount equal to the product of $5,000 multiplied by the number of miles of railroad track owned or leased by the state; or

(2) New rail infrastructure expenditures: not to exceed $1 million for each new rail-served customer project of an eligible taxpayer.

An eligible taxpayer shall submit a Certificate of Eligibility to the Department of Economic Development describing all qualified expenditures. If the Department determines that such expenditures do qualify for the tax credit, the Department may issue the certificate to the taxpayer.

The cumulative amount of tax credits for qualified railroad track expenditures shall not exceed $4.5 million per year. If the amount exceeds $4.5 million, the tax credits shall be distributed in the order in which they are claimed. Any unused portion of such tax credit may be carried forward up to five subsequent tax years. An eligible taxpayer who earns a tax credit may transfer all or a portion of the unused credit by written agreement to any other eligible taxpayer during the year in which the credit is earned and the five years following.

The cumulative amount of tax credits for qualified new rail infrastructure expenditures shall not exceed $10 million per tax year. If the amount exceeds $4.5 million, the tax credits shall be distributed in the order in which they are claimed.

The Department of Economic Development shall submit an annual report to the General Assembly outlining tax credit transfers that take place each calendar year. The report will include a listing of the qualified railroad track and new rail infrastructure expenditures and a summary of the investments made by each eligible taxpayer.

This bill sunsets on December 31st, six years after the effective date. This bill is similar to HCS HB 657 (2023).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1827 - Modifies provisions for giving preference to Missouri companies in state contracts
Sponsor: Rep. Cyndi Buchheit-Courtway (R)
Summary: HB 1827 -- STATE CONTRACTS

SPONSOR: Buchheit-Courtway

Currently, in making purchases, the Commissioner of Administration shall give preference to commodities and tangible personal property produced within Missouri, as specified in the bill.

This bill adds Missouri-based business to the list of list of businesses that are given preference for purchases made by the state. A "Missouri-based business" is defined as a corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership, or limited liability partnership formed or domiciled in Missouri, whose principal place of business has a physical location within the state.

Currently, anyone authorized to make purchases for the state may give preference to Missouri products whenever competing bids, in their entirety, are comparable. This bill requires Missouri products or businesses to be giver preference.

The bill specifies that if a contract is terminated early due to any reason other than breach of contract, any remaining compensation and costs must be paid within 60 days of the termination date.
Last Action:
04/03/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1828 - Modifies provisions governing the minimum school term
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HB 1828 -- FOUR DAY SCHOOL WEEK

SPONSOR: McMullen

This bill provides that school districts located wholly or partially in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants may adopt a four-day school week in lieu of a five-day school week for a period of 10 years and only by submitting to the qualified voters of the school district a ballot measure authorizing the same. Schools located wholly or partially in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants that adopted a four-day school week prior to July 1, 2023 may continue until the district adopts a different school week.

The bill modifies current provisions of law relating to the minimum school term and school day by requiring schools to have a minimum school term that consists of 1044 hours, or for school districts located wholly or partially in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants a minimum of 168 school days, unless the district has adopted a four-day school week, in which case it shall have a minimum of 142 school days.

This bill has a delayed effective date for multiple sections of July 1, 2025.

This bill is similar to HB 1417 from (2024).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1831 - Reduces the assessment percentage of certain real property
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HB 1831 -- PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: McMullen

Currently, the subclasses of real property are assessed as follows:

(1) Residential property: 19% of its true value in money;

(2) Agricultural and horticultural property: 12% of its true value in money; and

(3) Utility, industrial, commercial, railroad, and all other property not included in Subclasses (1) and (2): 32% of its true value in money.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the subclasses of real property shall be assessed as follows:

(1) Residential property: 15% of its true value in money;

(2) Agricultural and horticultural property: 12% of its true value in money; and

(3) Utility, industrial, commercial, railroad, and all other property not included in Subclasses (1) and (2): 15%.



This bill is similar to SB 105 (2023).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1836 - Modifies provisions relating to the assessment of solar energy property
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1836 -- SOLAR PROPERTY ASSESSMENT

SPONSOR: McMullen

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform by a vote of 17 to 2.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1836.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the tax liability owed for solar energy property that was built or was contracted to sell power on or after August 9, 2022, but on or before December 31, 2024, must not exceed $1,000 per megawatt.

For all solar energy property that was built or was contracted to sell power on or after January 1, 2025, the liability must not exceed $2,000 per megawatt.

All solar property, including panels, racking systems, inverters and other related solar equipment, that was constructed and producing solar energy prior to August 9, 2022, constitutes its own separate subclass of tangible personal property and will be assessed and valued for the purposes of taxation at 3%.

This bill is similar to HB 1246 and SB 607 (2023).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that most solar projects operate at slight profit margins, and that as a result, many of those projects will fail. The solar project industry has no issue with paying tax on their products, but the rate of taxation should be fair, so as not to drive them out of business. Currently, there is no uniform standard of taxation on solar projects, which means that each county gets to set their own individual rate and manner. Supporters also say that municipalities across the State need renewable energy, and if there are not any solar projects nearby, then those municipalities have no choice but to purchase such energy from companies located much further away, which is more expensive, and reduces the overall efficiency of the energy that reaches those local municipalities.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative McMullen; Renew Missouri Advocates; Clean Grid Alliance; Strata Clean Energy; Jonathan Dolan, Missouri Solar Energy Industries Association; Arevon; and Renew Missouri Advocates. OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1843 - Adds tobacco products and vapor products to the "Drug-Free Schools Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Sarah Unsicker (D)
Summary: HB 1843 -- DRUG FREE SCHOOLS ACT

SPONSOR: Unsicker

This bill adds tobacco products and vapor products to the current definition for "drugs" as used in Sections 161.500 to 161.508, RSMo. and included in the "Drug-Free Schools Program".

This bill is the same as HB 607 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1845 - Changes the laws regarding real property to require the filing of a certificate of value before transferring an interest in real property
Sponsor: Rep. Sarah Unsicker (D)
Summary: HB 1845 -- TAXATION OF PROPERTY

SPONSOR: Unsicker

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill specifies that a recorder of deeds cannot accept for recording any deed or instrument by which any interest in residential, commercial, or industrial real property within the state can be granted, assigned, transferred, or otherwise conveyed to or vested in any person unless the deed or instrument indicates that a completed Certificate of Value has been delivered to the Assessor. The Certificate of Value form must report specified information including the amount of the full actual consideration paid or to be paid, whether the transaction was at arm's length, and the actual or intended use of the property. A $10 filing fee is required.

Information contained in a Certificate of Value must be made available to the State Tax Commission for developing ratios, and for other statistical purposes or public proceedings. The Assessor is allowed to use the information for statistical purposes in implementing a general reassessment plan or an assessment and equalization maintenance plan. The required financial data need not be provided on a Certificate of Value for a transfer of title or other interest in residential, commercial, or industrial real property under specified situations.

This bill is the same as HB 615 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1847 - Expands the definition of special victim to include sports officials at a sporting event
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HB 1847 -- SPORTS OFFICIALS

SPONSOR: Pollitt

This bill expands the definition of "special victim" under Section 565.002, RSMo, to include sports officials at a sporting event while performing their duties as sports officials.

This bill is the same as HB 1883 (2022) and HB 102 (2021).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1851 - Changes provisions governing the statewide assessment system for public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Paula Brown (D)
Summary: HCS HB 1851 -- STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Brown (87)

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education by a vote of 13 to 1.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1851.

This bill modifies language relating to the Statewide Assessment System by requiring that the State Board of Education (SBE) make the system student-centered and use assessments across the school year that support teaching, learning, and program improvement, so that a summative profile is developed of the student's learning.

The bill replaces current language with an updated specified list describing what the assessment system should be comprised of, including but not limited to: aligning to state standards; accessing to national norms, measuring growth during and across years; and shall only be used for the purpose of compliance with federal law.

The bill additionally repeals existing language relating to exemplary levels and the "Outstanding School Waivers", and requires the SBE to identify and recognize a minimum of two national school accreditation agencies and allows for districts that have an accreditation from either of the national agencies to be considered fully accredited for state purposes.

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, schools must create ways to measure student learning that are meaningful and relate to students' real-life experiences. These measures can include things like portfolios, assessments based on performance, and projects with public demonstrations.

The local measures should:

(1) Be authentic to what students are learning;

(2) Keep students engaged;

(3) Provide feedback to students;

(4) Involve a variety of partners in the development; and

(5) Be available for the community to see. These assessments and systems should be developed with the input of teachers, administrators, students, parents, and the community to give a complete picture of student learning and meet statewide academic standards.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) may offer feedback and support by creating model units with embedded assessments or identifying high-quality curricula. The results of these assessments may be added to the school report card, along with any comments from the Department's review.

The bill modifies the school accountability report card requirements and allows local assessment results and local quality indicators to be included. This bill further modifies the reporting elements to include among other data points student growth, charter school tax rate and operating budget, and criteria relating to the federal accountability system.

The bill defines "Grade-level equivalence", a metric developed and used by DESE to show a student's proximity to doing grade-level work, and requires DESE to establish panels to review and revise the performance-level descriptors for each academic subject and grade level. The bill identifies and describes the performance level descriptors as: advanced; proficient, grade level, basic, and below basic with specified characteristics for each level.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year and in each subsequent year the school accountability report card must provide each student's grade-level equivalence as measured on the statewide assessment. Data relating to the grade-level equivalence must be searchable on a building-by-building, school-by-school, district-by-district, and statewide level. Such data must display a percentage of students at grade level or above for each level, provided that no data will disclose personal identification of any student except to a student's parent.

The bill requires the SBE to identify and recognize by July 1, 2025, a minimum of two national school accreditation agencies and beginning in the 2027-28 school year allow for districts that have an accreditation from either of the national agencies to be considered fully accredited for state purposes.

The bill modifies provisions of the School Turnaround Program to reflect updates to the State Accountability System and to provide comprehensive support and improvement schools or targeted support and improvement schools with assistance. The bill repeals Section 162.084, RSMo relating to required mailings and reporting for districts or charter schools that are in the bottom 5% on the annual performance report.

This bill includes HB 1756 (2024).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill provides a sense of structure to accreditation and that is important to have tied to accountability however having it tied to assessments missed the point of assessments which are to drive instruction. Having national accreditation standards allows a better comparison between districts and allows districts to stop teaching to a test that isn't as valuable because it is not a locally controlled product and has too much DESE influence.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Brown; Armorvine; Missouri NEA; Coop School Districts of Greater of Kansas City; Dava-Leigh Brush, Missouri Equity Ed Partnership Action; and Missouri Council Of School Administrators.

OPPONENTS: The was not opposition voiced to the committee.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/11/2024 
H - Returned to committee: House-Elementary and Secondary Education
HB1852 - Requires implementation of health and safety measures in public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Tara Peters (R)
Summary: HB 1852 -- HEALTH AND SAFETY STANDARDS IN PUBLIC SCHOOL

SPONSOR: Peters

Beginning with the 2024-25 school year this bill requires that each school campus in the state install automated external defibillators (AEDs). School personnel shall be trained annually on the use of an AED beginning in the 2024-25 school year. Specifications for the AED are provided in the bill, and school districts must designate personnel to maintain and ensure availability of the AED. The location for AEDs shall include high traffic areas and easily accessible locations. Schools must appoint a program coordinator to be responsible for administration of the AED program and perform additional duties as outlined in the bill.

The bill requires appropriate training to meet standards set by the American Heart Association, and such training counts for professional development requirements (Section 160.111, RSMo).

The bill also expands existing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training requirements for employees beginning in the 2024-25 school year to include training on AEDs. Trained employees shall be held harmless and immune for any civil liability for the use of an AED in good faith if they follow standard medical practice (Section 167.624).

The bill requires that beginning with the 2024-25 school year instruction in CPR shall include appropriate training in the use of AEDs (Section 170.310).

The bill requires that beginning with the 2024-25 school year instruction in preventing opioid use and training on the proper administration of naloxone shall be provided to all students during the pupil's four years of high school. Any staff teaching such course must be certified in Narcan administration.

The bill creates the "Public Access to Naloxone (Narcan) Kits Act" and requires that any individual or entity that acquires naloxone must ensure such kits are maintained and inspected. The bill requires school districts and charter schools to develop and implement a program to educate and train pupils and employees on the use and administration of naloxone, and allows the district or charter school to require the completion of the program to be a requirement for graduation (Section 170.321).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1855 - Establishes provisions relating to civil liability for publishing or distributing material harmful to minors on the internet
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Banderman (R)
Summary: HB 1855 -- INTERNET PORNOGRAPHY

SPONSOR: Banderman

This bill establishes that any commercial entity that knowingly or intentionally publishes or distributes material harmful to minors, as defined in the bill, through a website shall verify that any person attempting to access such material is 18 years of age or older.

Any commercial entity in violation of this section is subject to civil liability for damages resulting from a minor's access to such material and reasonable attorney's fees and costs.

This section does not impose an obligation or liability on a provider or user of an interactive computer service on the Internet.
Last Action:
03/12/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1993
HB1856 - Authorizes counties and other political subdivisions to grant real property tax credits to eligible taxpayers with homesteads
Sponsor: Rep. Danny Busick (R)
Summary: HB 1856 -- HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Busick

Currently, eligible senior citizens may receive a credit against real property taxes in an amount equaling the difference between the taxpayer's real property tax liability on the taxpayer's homestead, minus the real property tax liability on the homestead in the year that the taxpayer became eligible for the credit.

Eligible senior citizens must be:

(1) A Missouri resident;

(2) Eligible for Social Security retirement benefits;

(3) An owner of record of a homestead or have a legal or equitable interest in such property; and

(4) Liable for the payment of real property taxes on such homestead.

Any county that is authorized to impose a property tax may grant a credit described above either by way of an ordinance or ballot petition. The procedures for an ordinance or ballot petition are described in current statute.

This bill designates two separate categories of the existing homestead property tax credit: a "county real property tax credit", which shall be administered by the governing body of a county; and a "political subdivision real property tax credit", which shall be administered by the governing body of a political subdivision.

COUNTY REAL PROPERTY TAX CREDIT

When a county imposes a real property tax upon an eligible taxpayer's homestead, the county may grant a county real property tax credit to a taxpayer residing within said county, subject to the following:

(1) The county adopts an order or ordinance to grant the tax credit;

(2) No tax credit shall be awarded for any tax year prior to adoption of an order or ordinance;

(3) No tax credit shall be awarded to a taxpayer for any tax year prior to the taxpayer becoming eligible; (4) The tax credit shall be only for current real property taxes assessed against a taxpayer's homestead in the current tax year.

(5) A political subdivision shall not grant a county real property tax credit, nor shall a county grant a political subdivision real property tax credit created by any other political subdivision's authority to impose a tax on real property in such county.

POLITICAL SUBDIVISION REAL PROPERTY TAX CREDIT

The bill defines a "political subdivision" as local public entity that:

(1) Is not a county;

(2) Is created by the Missouri Constitution or General Assembly;

(3) Exercises governmental functions; and

(4) Has the power to levy and impose taxes on real property.

When a political subdivision imposes a real property tax upon an eligible taxpayer's homestead, the political subdivision may grant a political subdivision real property tax credit to a taxpayer residing within said political subdivision, subject to the following:

(1) The political subdivision receives a petition signed by at least 10% of the number of registered voters of the political subdivision voting in the last election for a member of the governing body, calling for the governing body of the political subdivision to grant a political subdivision real property tax credit, in which case the governing body shall adopt an order or ordinance granting the tax credit at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the governing body;

(2) The order or ordinance shall not become effective unless the governing body submits to the registered voters residing within the political subdivision at a general municipal election or a state general, primary, or special election a proposal to authorize the governing body to grant the tax credit;

No tax credit shall be awarded for any tax year prior to adoption of an order or ordinance.

No tax credit shall be awarded to a taxpayer for any tax year prior to the taxpayer becoming eligible. The tax credit shall be only for current real property taxes assessed against a taxpayer's homestead in the current tax year.

A county shall not grant a political subdivision real property tax credit, nor shall a political subdivision grant a county real property tax credit created by any other political subdivision's authority to impose a tax on real property in such county.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1857 - Limits the availability of the design-build method to certain state and local entities
Sponsor: Rep. Danny Busick (R)
Summary: HB 1857 -- ARCHITECT REQUIREMENT

SPONSOR: Busick

Beginning August 28, 2024, all projects intending to use the design-build method under Sections 8.285 to 8.291 or Sections 67.5060 to 67.5070,RSMo, only a state political subdivision or a local political subdivision, as defined in subsection 2 of the bill, can be authorized to require the use of an architect for designing building or remodeling projects.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1863 - Changes a pilot agricultural education program in elementary schools to a statewide program
Sponsor: Rep. Adrian Plank (D)
Summary: HB 1863 -- AGRICULTURE EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Plank

This bill ends the current pilot program for agriculture education in elementary schools in the 2024-25 school year and requires that beginning in the 2025-26 school year the program be implemented by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education(DESE) statewide for all elementary schools. The Department shall convene a work group to develop academic performance standards as outlined in the bill and the State Board of Education shall adopt the standards for the 2025-26 school year and review such standards every 10 years to reflect best practices and trends.

This bill is similar to HB 1092 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1869 - Modifies provisions relating to investments of public employee retirement and pension systems, requiring divestment of fund holdings in certain Chinese entities or products
Sponsor: Rep. Dirk Deaton (R)
Summary: HB 1869 -- PUBLIC RETIREMENT AND PENSION SYSTEMS DIVESTMENT FROM CHINESE ENTITIES

SPONSOR: Deaton

As specified in the bill, after August 28, 2024, the public retirement and benefit systems shall not knowingly invest in a restricted entity or a restricted investment product, as these terms are defined in the bill, and shall divest any investment that the system has on behalf of a fund, defined in the bill, including particular investments publicly confirmed to be controlled by the People's Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party.

Before December 1, 2024, and annually on or before December first of each subsequent year, the board is required to make a good faith effort to identify all restricted entities and restricted investment products in which the system holds an investment. The bill sets forth the time period and the percentages of the divestments in a restricted entity or a restricted investment product that the board determines needs to be removed from the fund.

On or before December 31, 2024, and annually on or before December 31st of each subsequent year, the board is required to submit a report to the General Assembly including the information that is specified in the bill.

The bill grants immunity from civil liability to the State and any political subdivision; its officers, agents, and employees; and the board and employees of a system for any act or omission related to the removal of an asset from a fund and indemnifies the system for all losses, costs, and expenses as detailed in the bill.

The divestment requirements included in the bill do not apply to private market funds as detailed in the bill.
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1871 - Creates provisions related to the maximum contaminant level of vinyl chloride in drinking water
Sponsor: Rep. Adam Schwadron (R)
Summary: HB 1871 -- DRINKING WATER

SPONSOR: Schwadron

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill specifies that the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of vinyl chloride in drinking water can not exceed 1.8 part per billion (ppb). The bill also reduces the MCL by .2 ppb each year until it reaches 1 ppb starting January 1, 2029.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1880 - Requires health benefit plans to provide coverage for the treatment of obesity
Sponsor: Rep. Patty Lewis (D)
Summary: HB 1880 -- TREATMENT OF OBESITY COVERAGE

SPONSOR: Lewis (25)

Beginning January 1, 2025, health carriers or health benefit plans are required to provide coverage for the treatment of obesity and morbid obesity and the diseases and ailments caused by obesity and morbid obesity including, but not limited to, intensive family- based behavioral treatment, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. The services shall not be subject to any greater deductible or co- payment than any other health care service provided by the health benefit plan. This provision does not apply to supplemental insurance policies, as determined by the Director of the Department of Commerce and Insurance.

This bill is similar to HB 292 (2023) and HB 2385 (2022).
Last Action:
01/25/2024 
H - Referred to House Committee on Insurance Policy
HB1884 - Modifies provisions relating to income tax refunds
Sponsor: Rep. Patty Lewis (D)
Summary: HB 1884 -- INCOME TAX REFUNDS

SPONSOR: Lewis (25)

This bill expands the definition of a "state agency" to include municipalities with populations over 250,000 that may receive a taxpayer's tax refund, or any portion thereof, to set off a debt to that municipality, for eligible debts arising on or after January 1, 2025.

This bill is similar to HB 1241 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1890 - Establishes minimum teacher's salaries and provides grant moneys to assist school districts with increasing teacher salaries
Sponsor: Rep. Stephanie Hein (D)
Summary: HB 1890 -- MINIMUM TEACHER SALARY

SPONSOR: Hein

The current minimum teacher salary is $25,000 and for those teachers with a Master's Degree and 10 years of experience the minimum is $33,000. This bill raises the minimum in the 2025-26 school year to $38,000. For a teacher with a Master's Degree and 10 years of experience these minimums are raised to $44,000 with increases each year until the 2027-28 school year when the minimum shall be $46,000.

The bill creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" and the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant" program, Beginning in the 2025-26 school year through June, 30, 2028, districts may apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for grants to increase minimum teacher salaries.

This bill is the same as HB 1431 (2024) and similar to HB 2357 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1891 - Authorizes a tax credit to offset amounts paid on gun safety items
Sponsor: Rep. Stephanie Hein (D)
Summary: HB 1891 -- GUN SAFE TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Hein

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill allows a taxpayer to claim a tax credit against the total amount paid for the purchase of firearm safes and firearm safety devices up to $500.

The tax credit claimed shall not exceed the amount of the taxpayer's tax liability.

The bill adds that the cumulative amount of tax credits allowed to all taxpayers shall not exceed $500,000 per year. If the amount of tax credits does exceed $500,000, authorization of tax credits will be based on the order in which credits are claimed.

No credit issued under the provisions of this bill shall be carried forward to the subsequent tax year, nor be assigned, transferred, or sold.

These provisions sunset on December 31st, six years after the effective date.

This bill is similar to HB 620 (2023) and HB 2040 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1895 - Establishes the Task Force on Juvenile Justice and Education
Sponsor: Rep. Raychel Proudie (D)
Summary: HB 1895 -- JUVENILE JUSTICE AND EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Proudie

This bill establishes the "Task Force on Juvenile Justice and Education", which is created to study and make recommendations on the processes, procedures, and protocols regarding education for adjudicated youth in Missouri. The task force consists of seven members, as specified in the bill. Four members are from the General Assembly and include one each to be appointed by the President Pro Tem of the Senate, the Minority Floor Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Minority Floor Leader of the House of Representatives.

Members of the task force must be individuals who are actively involved in or have a well-documented interest in the fields of education, special education, or adjudicated youth. The task force must meet within two months of August 28, 2024, and submit a report on its findings to the Governor and to the General Assembly by December 31, 2024.

This bill is similar to HB 1226 (2023).
Last Action:
03/14/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1899 - Requires certain public schools to offer breakfast after the bell
Sponsor: Rep. Raychel Proudie (D)
Summary: HB 1899 -- BREAKFAST AFTER THE BELL

SPONSOR: Proudie

This bill requires a public or charter school to offer "breakfast after the bell" as defined in the bill beginning in the 2024-25 school year if 70% or more of the school's students were eligible for free or reduced price meals in the previous year, the school uses the United States Department of Agriculture Community Eligibility Option, or the school has an individual site percentage for free or reduced price meals of 70% or more and is a Provision 2 school as described in 7 CFR 245.9.

Any school in which 70% or more of its students who are eligible for free or reduced price meals are already participating in the School Breakfast Program shall not be required to offer breakfast after the bell.

If a school initially required to offer breakfast after the bell falls below the 70% threshold the school must continue to offer breakfast after the bell for two consecutive years and if during the second year the school does not meet the requirements the school may stop serving breakfast after the bill at the end of the two-year period. If the school becomes eligible they must begin serving breakfast after the bill.

Schools shall offer breakfast after the bell to all students in the school, including students who arrive late or by a different mode of transportation than most students. Schools may choose a service model that best suits their students, including breakfast in the classroom or breakfast after first period.

Schools shall not be required to offer breakfast after the bell if the federal per-meal reimbursements for free or reduced price breakfasts are decreased below 2024 levels or if the program is eliminated by Congress.

The bill also requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to notify schools required to offer breakfast after the bell; recognize up to 15 minutes spent by students consuming breakfast as instructional time if the students receive instruction while consuming breakfast in the classroom; assist schools as specified in the bill; collect information as specified in the bill; and submit a report each year on or before December 31st, to the General Assembly on the implementation and effectiveness of the provisions of the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 446 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1900 - Prohibits certain discriminatory practices on the basis of race
Sponsor: Rep. Raychel Proudie (D)
Summary: HCS HBs 1900, 1591 & 2515 -- DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES (Proudie)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Urban Issues

This bill creates the "Missouri Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (Missouri CROWN) Act", which governs discriminatory practices as they relate to protective hairstyles.

This bill specifies that no person shall be subjected to discrimination based on the person's hair texture or protective hairstyle, if that protective hairstyle or texture is commonly associated with a particular race or origin, in any program or activity conducted by an educational institution that receives or benefits from "State financial assistance", as that term is defined in the Act, or that enrolls pupils who receive State student financial aid; provided, however, that such institution may require the use of hair nets or coverings or may require that hair be secured for safety purposes in any career and technical training course or class to comply with safety regulations and standards of the course or class throughout the duration of the course or class.

The provisions of this bill do not apply to an educational institution that is controlled by a religious organization if the application of such provision would not be consistent with the religious tenets of that organization.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
Scheduled for Committee Hearing
05/01/2024 11:00 AM - Senate-Progress and Development, SCR 1
Senate-Progress and Development
HB1904 - Modifies the offense of abuse or neglect of a child
Sponsor: Rep. Josh Hurlbert (R)
Summary: HB 1904 -- CHILDHOOD INDEPENDENCE ACT

SPONSOR: Hurlbert

This bill modifies provisions relating to the offense of abuse or neglect of a child.

As specified in this bill, a person does not commit the offense of abuse or neglect of a child by virtue of the sole fact that the person allows the child to engage in independent activities without adult supervision, and that the person is a parent or guardian to the child, provided that:

(1) Independent activities are appropriate based on the child's age, maturity, and physical and mental abilities; and

(2) The lack of adult supervision does not constitute conduct that is so grossly negligent as to endanger the child's health or safety.

As defined in the bill, "independent activities" include traveling to or from school or nearby locations, either by bicycle or on foot; playing outdoors; or remaining at home for a reasonable period of time without adult supervision.
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1905 - Establishes provisions relating to the participation of elementary and secondary school students in nontraditional educational settings
Sponsor: Rep. Josh Hurlbert (R)
Summary: HB 1905 -- ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY STUDENTS

SPONSOR: Hurlbert

The bill defines a "Family-Led Educational eXperience (FLEX) school" or "FLEX school" as a school that meets certain criteria that also apply to home schools, except that a FLEX school may enroll students who participate in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program or activities offered by a public school district. The definition of "home school" is modified to exclude students who participate in such Program or activities. The bill modifies certain provisions of law to include FLEX schools in provisions that also apply to home schools. The bill also modifies the definition of "qualified schools" in provisions relating to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program to include FLEX schools instead of home schools. However, any state laws or regulations that apply to the Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program shall not apply to FLEX school students who do not participate in such Program. The bill specifies that no state agency shall have regulatory oversight or rulemaking authority over FLEX schools unless such oversight or authority is specifically delegated under state law. Public schools, state agencies and employees, and certain private entities shall not refer to FLEX schools or to publicly funded programs, including but not limited to virtual school programs, as home schooling. Additionally, public schools, state agencies and employees, and certain private entities shall not refer to students who are enrolled in an attendance center of a public school district, including full-time virtual school programs, students who receive education funding from the state of Missouri, or students who participate in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program, as home schooled students.

The bill prohibits school districts from being a member of any activity association that restricts FLEX school or virtual school students in participating in school activities. Districts may establish attendance policies for rehearsals, practice, and training sessions and enforce an academic and discipline policy.

The bill provides an attendance excuse for students that are unable to attend due to mental or behavioral health concerns, provided that the school receives documentation from a mental health professional.

The bill repeals a section of law that provides for school attendance officers.

This bill is similar to HCS SS SCS SB 411 & 230 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1906 - Modifies provisions relating to the assessed valuation of real property
Sponsor: Rep. Darin Chappell (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1906 -- REAL PROPERTY VALUATION ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Chappell

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform by a vote of 21 to 2.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1906.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the true value in money of real property maintained and used by the owner as a primary residence for assessment purposes will be equal to the most recent purchase price of such real property. Such true value in money shall be the true value in money for all subsequent assessments until the next sale of such property.

As specified in the bill, if a homeowner makes additions or improvements to the property, and those additions or improvements increase the value of said property by 50% or more, the homeowner must notify the assessor. The assessor must then establish a new assessed valuation, which will be the true value in money for all subsequent assessments until the next sale of such property.

If the sale of a piece of real estate results in a transaction that is below market value, the assessor must provide evidence to the Board of Equalization or other equivalent entity that such sale price should not be used as the new true value in money for assessment purposes.

Participation in the assessment process is optional. If a homeowner wishes to participate in the assessed valuation provisions as specified in this bill, such owner may opt in by notifying the assessor's office, and the homeowners' real property must be assessed under the assessment process in existence on or before December 31, 2024.

This bill is the same as HB 1078 (2023).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that the State is not supposed to tax unrealized gains, and yet that is what happens when homeowner's real estate taxes increase because of rising home values. As a result, many people are being taxed out of their homes. Supporters further say that most homeowners are unaware of why or by how much the value of their property is rising, but that this bill would treat all property owners equally.

Testifying in person for the bill was Representative Chappell.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Testifying in person against the bill was Lisa Pannett, Armorvine.

OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say if the price at which a home is sold is not a required disclosure, this will negatively affect companies or investors when they evaluate the price-to-sales ratio.

Testifying in person on the bill was Kenneth Mohr, Boone County Assessor's Office.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1911 - Establishes the "Missouri Parental Choice Tax Credit Act" relating to a tax credit for certain educational expenses
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 1911 -- EDUCATION TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill establishes the "Missouri Parental Choice Tax Credit Act" and provides a tax credit to parents/guardians of any "qualified student" enrolling in a "qualified school" as defined in the bill.

The amount of the tax credit set forth in the bill is for eligible expenses which are outlined and include the cost of tuition and fees at qualified schools. Such tax credit shall not exceed the lesser of the eligible qualified expenses or the state adequacy target for each tax year.

The bill outlines specific provisions for claiming the tax credit along with eligibility restrictions. Taxpayers participating in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Program are ineligible. Tax credits are refundable but not transferable. This program sunsets six years after the effective date.
Last Action:
02/26/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1912 - Modifies provisions relating to the taxation of pass-through entities
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HB 1912 -- TAXATION OF PASS-THROUGH ENTITIES (McGirl)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Ways and Means

Currently, the law authorizes a taxpayer to claim a tax credit for income tax paid to another state on income that is also taxable in Missouri. This bill allows S Corporation shareholders to take a similar tax credit for the shareholder's share of the S Corporation's income derived from sources in another state.

Currently, the SALT Parity Act allows for an alternative method for the taxation of income in pass-through entities, as well as a tax credit against those sources of income tax. Current law also allows a taxpayer to reduce his or her tax burden through use of the federal business income deduction. This bill would alter such calculation by allowing the use of the Missouri state business income deduction instead.

This bill also allows a member of an affected business entity to opt-out of the SALT Parity Act's taxation methods . If one or more members opt-out, the affected business shall subtract the opt-out members' allocable income and deduction items. If a member does not file a timely opt-out election for a tax year, that member shall not be precluded from timely filing an opt-out election for subsequent tax years.

If a nonresident member choses to opt out, that nonresident shall agree to:

(1) File a return based on Missouri nonresident adjusted gross income and to make timely payment of taxes with respect to income of the affected business entity; and

(2) Be subject to personal jurisdiction in this state for purposes of tax collection with respect to the income of the affected business entity.

This bill also applies the SALT Parity tax credit to a fiduciary of an estate or trust that is also a member of an affected business entity.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
HB1913 - Modifies provisions relating to the "Missouri Working Family Tax Credit Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Smith (R)
Summary: HB 1913 -- TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Smith (155)

Currently, a taxpayer is authorized to claim a tax credit equal to a percentage of the amount such taxpayer would receive under the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, and designating any amount of such tax credit that exceeds the taxpayer's tax liability as being non-refundable.

This bill makes any amount of the tax credit that exceeds the taxpayer's tax liability refundable.

This bill is similar to HB 1027 (2023) and SB 13 (Special 2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1917 - Requires hearing screenings for students
Sponsor: Rep. Jo Doll (D)
Summary: HB 1917 -- HEARING TESTS IN SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Doll

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this bill requires that all schools, public, private, parochial, or parish, conduct a hearing screening for any student enrolled for the first time in kindergarten or 1st grade.

Schools must provide notice to parents before August 1st of each school year and hearing screenings must occur before November 1st. If hearing tests reveal a need for special education services additional assessments shall be conducted. Parents may present a certificate by a licensed physician in place of the required hearing test.

The bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in consultation with the Department of Health and Senior Services to develop a model hearing screening program and schools must adopt or adapt such hearing screening program policy.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1920 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers and feminine hygiene products
Sponsor: Rep. Jo Doll (D)
Summary: HB 1920 -- TAX EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN HYGIENE PRODUCTS

SPONSOR: Doll

This bill authorizes a sales tax exemption for all purchases of diapers, feminine hygiene products, and incontinence products, as each are defined in the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 351 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1922 - Requires any legislation originating in the House that adds a new requirement for public schools to include provisions that reduce an existing requirement for public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Herman Morse (R)
Summary: HB 1922 -- PUBLIC SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS

SPONSOR: Morse

This bill prohibits State Representatives from requesting, or any legislative employee from drafting, any legislation in the form of an act or joint resolution that expands or creates a new duty, mandate, or requirement, for public schools unless it is accompanied with a provision reducing or eliminating an existing duty, mandate, or requirement for public schools.

This bill is the same as HB 582 (2023) and HB 1626 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1923 - Allows private schools that meet state requirements for public school districts to receive public funding
Sponsor: Rep. Herman Morse (R)
Summary: HB 1923 -- PUBLIC FUNDING FOR PRIVATE SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Morse

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, any private school may receive state aid and local effort on a per pupil basis providing that such school follows all state requirements for public schools. Any private school that does not meet such requirements will not be allowed to receive state aid or local effort amounts.

This bill is similar to HB 768 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1930 - Establishes a sales tax exemption for livestock and agricultural trailers
Sponsor: Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch (R)
Summary: HB 1930 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Toalson Reisch

This bill exempts all sales of trailers used primarily for the transport of livestock or for other agricultural purposes from sales and use taxes. Additionally, the Department of Revenue shall create a form to be signed and submitted by the purchaser at the time of titling that states the trailer will primarily be used for the transport of livestock or for other agricultural purposes.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Agriculture Policy
HB1931 - Repeals provisions relating to prevailing wages on public works
Sponsor: Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch (R)
Summary: HB 1931 -- PREVAILING WAGE ON PUBLIC WORKS

SPONSOR: Toalson Reisch

Currently, contractors and subcontractors working on public works projects are required to pay employees the prevailing wage for the particular locality in which the project is being completed. This bill repeals such prevailing wage laws.

This bill is similar to HB 1244 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1935 - Establishes tax credits to revitalize Missouri downtowns and main streets
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Wilson (R)
Summary: HB 1935 -- REVITALIZING DOWNTOWNS AND MAIN STREETS

SPONSOR: Wilson

This bill creates the "Revitalizing Missouri Downtowns and Main Streets Act."

Beginning January 1, 2025, a taxpayer may submit an application to the Department of Economic Development to claim a credit against his or her state tax liability:

(1) Equal to 25% of qualified conversion expenditures, as defined in the bill, incurred for converting nonresidential property from office use to residential, retail, or other commercial use; or

(2) Equal to 30% of qualified conversion expenditures with respect to upper floor housing, as defined in the bill, incurred for converting nonresidential property from office use to residential, retail, or other commercial use.

Such tax credits shall be refundable, but may be carried back three years or carried forward 10 years. The total amount of tax credits shall not exceed $50 million in any fiscal year, and may also be transferred, sold, or assigned, as described in the bill.

Of the maximum amount of available tax credits 25% shall be solely for projects located in a qualified Missouri main street district, as defined in the bill. If the total amount of tax credits reserved for this purpose has already been authorized, projects located in a qualified Missouri main street district may receive tax credits from the remaining unreserved credits.

If the maximum amount of allowable tax credits is authorized in any given fiscal year, such maximum allowable amount shall be increased by the percentage increase in inflation. Tax credits authorized for qualified converted buildings of more than 750,000 square feet shall not count toward such maximum amount of annual tax credits, provided that no more than $50 million in tax credits shall be authorized for such buildings in a given fiscal year.

A taxpayer shall apply to the Department of Economic Development to receive tax credits. Such application shall be prioritized in the order of its submission, and shall include the following:

(1) Proof of ownership or site control, as described in the bill;

(2) Floor plans of the existing structure, architectural plans, and where applicable, plans of the proposed conversion of the structure, as well as proposed additions; (3) Estimated cost of conversion;

(4) Anticipated total costs of the project;

(5) Actual basis of the property, as shown by proof of actual acquisition costs;

(6) Anticipated labor costs;

(7) Estimated project start date;

(8) Estimated project completion date;

(9) Proof that the property is an eligible property;

(10) Copy of all land use and building approvals reasonably necessary for the commencement of the project; and

(11) Any other information that the Department may reasonably require to review the project for approval.

All taxpayers with approved applications shall submit, within 60 days following the award of tax credits, evidence of the taxpayer's capacity to finance the costs and expenses for the conversion of the eligible property. All approved applications shall commence conversion within nine months of the date of the letter from the Department granting the approval of the tax credits.

To receive a tax credit, a taxpayer with an approved application shall apply for final approval from the Department, which shall determine the final amount of qualified conversion expenditures and whether the completed rehabilitation meets all requirements.

The final application shall demonstrate that the taxpayer has:

(1) Substantially converted a qualified converted building; and

(2) Presented satisfactory evidence of any qualified conversion expenditures for the structure, as determined by the Department; and

(3) Turned over any other information reasonably requested by the Department.

On an annual basis, the Department shall determine the overall economic impact resulting from the rehabilitation of eligible property.
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1936 - Establishes tax credits to revitalize facilities of historic significance
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Wilson (R)
Summary:

tr HCS HB 1936 -- FACILITIES OF HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE (Wilson)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Economic Development

This bill modifies provisions relating to the Historic Preservation tax credit and renames it the "Missouri Historic, Rural Revitalization, and Regulatory Streamlining Act".

The bill specifies the applicable percentages for the rehabilitation of low income properties to receive a 25% State tax credit; properties located in a qualifying county approved for a State tax credit of 35%, and property not located in a qualifying county of a 25% tax credit.

Currently, any tax payer that incurs costs and expenses for the rehabilitation of eligible property, which is a certified historic structure or structure in a certified historic district, may receive a credit of 25% of the total costs and expenses of rehabilitation incurred after January 1, 1998, provided that the costs and expenses exceed 50% of the total basis in the property. The bill states that 10% of such total costs and expenses of rehabilitation upon which the tax credit is based may be incurred before the taxpayer submits an application for tax credits. For costs and expenses incurred for an eligible property in a qualifying county which is also a certified historic structure or a structure in a certified historic district, any taxpayer shall receive a credit in an amount equal to 35% of the total costs and expenses of rehabilitation on or after July 1, 2024. Of such total costs and expenses of rehabilitation upon which the tax credit is based, 10% may be incurred before the taxpayer submits an application for tax credits. The State historic rehabilitation standards must not be more restrictive than the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.

The bill repeals reference to the amount of tax credits that the Department of Economic Development can approve for defined time periods. The amount of tax credits that the Department can approve is limited to $90 million in the aggregate for properties that are not located in a qualified census tract, as defined in the bill. The limitations do not apply to projects that receive less than $475,000 in tax credits, which number is annually adjusted to the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI index).

Currently, $30 million in tax credits is authorized for projects located in the qualified census tract. Under the bill, projects that receive a preliminary approval located in a qualified census tract may receive tax credits under the $90 million or $30 million categories but the $30 million tax credit category must first be applied. The $30 million tax credits that are allowed must be adjusted to the CPI index.

Currently, the eligible property is a non-income-producing single- family owner-occupied residential property and is either a certified historic structure or a structure in a certified historic district. Under the bill, on or after January 1, 2010, no more than $250,000 in tax credits may be issued for eligible costs and expenses incurred in the rehabilitation of a non-income-producing single-family residential property occupied by the taxpayer or any relative within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity of the applicant, that is either in a certified historic structure or a structure in a certified historic district. For properties that are not located in a qualifying county, to receive the tax credits the property should be located in a distressed community as specified in the bill.

The bill authorizes not-for-profit entities to be eligible for the tax credits and provides that the eligible taxpayers may transfer, sell, or assign the credits.

The bill requires the Department to establish an application cycle that allows for year-round submission and year-round receipt and review of the applications. The bill adds a requirement to be included in the application for approval, for proof that a property is an eligible property and a certified historic structure or a structure in a certified historic district or part 1 of a Federal application or a draft national register of historic places nomination that has been submitted to SHPO. Further, the bill modifies existing evaluation criteria for the Department to consider for the projected net fiscal benefit of the project to the State and local municipality to be calculated based upon reasonable methods that exclude proprietary computer models; and for the overall size and quality of the proposed project to factors indicated in the bill. However, said provisions do not apply to vacant schools or theaters or applications for projects to receive less than $475,000 in tax credits annually adjusted to the CPI index.

The bill authorizes a third party review to ensure compliance with the qualified rehabilitation standards. Further, the Department is required to promptly notify SHPO of each preliminary application for tax credits. The State Historic Preservation Act is to make its determination within 60 days of a taxpayer filing an initial application for tax credits. The bill specifies what evidence is to be considered in making such determination. If SHPO approves the application within 60 days, SHPO will forward any review comments to the National Park Service (NPS) and to the applicant. If SHPO fails to approve the application within 60 days the application will be forwarded to NPS without any comments. Conditions noted on the preliminary application or on part 2 of the Federal application are to be addressed as part of the final approval of the application.

The bill includes provisions relating to the submission of a phased rehabilitation project which includes information included in the bill. Upon approval of costs submitted and work completed on each phase of the project, the Department must issue 80% of the amount of the State tax credit. The remaining 20% of the tax credit is issued upon final approval. The bill includes language relating to a change in the scope of the project with material changes after approval of the application.

As specified in the bill, taxpayers are required to notify the Department of any loss of site control or failure to exercise any option of getting site control within 10 days of such loss or failure. The bill includes provisions relating to rescission of tax credits or that taxpayer's voluntary forfeiture of the approval. Taxpayers may voluntarily forfeit project approval at any time. The amount of tax credits authorized for such forfeited or rescinded project will be made available for other projects. If a taxpayer later submits an application for the same project, any expenditures which are incurred after the date of the rescinded or forfeited approval shall remain eligible expenditures for the purposes of determining the amount of tax credits.

The bill includes language governing the taxpayer's application for final approval by SHPO or an approved part 3 of the Federal application.

After completion of a project, the taxpayer is required to submit an application for the final approval of costs and issuance of tax credits. Within 120 days of receipt of such application, the Department must issue to the taxpayer tax credits in the amount of 75% of the total amount of tax credits for which the taxpayer is eligible based on the application for final approval, or 75% of the amount of tax credits approved under the initial application, including amounts approved based upon material change in the scope of the project, whichever is less. Within 120 days of receipt of an application for final approval with the materials, the Department must make a determination of final costs and the amount of tax credits to be issued, and must issue the balance of tax credits owed to the applicant and not issued in the initial tax credit issuance. If the amount initially issued exceeds the amount that the taxpayer is eligible for, as determined by the Department's final approval, the taxpayer must repay such excess amount to the Department. The bill sets forth appeals of any official decisions made by the Department or SHPO. An applicant or the applicant's duly authorized representative may appeal any official decision made by the Department with regard to the application submitted to an independent appeals officer or review panel as designated by the Department. This appeal must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the applicant's receipt of the decision being appealed.

The appeal is considered an administrative review of the decision and is not conducted as an adjudicative proceeding. There is an independent review panel consisting of members of the private sector and the Department. Further, an independent appeals officer will be the chair who receives the information relating to the appeal. Upon providing the information to SHPO or the Department, the latter may respond to the appeal within 30 days. The bill authorizes one meeting with the appeals officer or review panel with discretionary authority to schedule additional meetings. A decision is to be rendered no later than 90 days after the initial receipt of the appeal by the appeals officer or review panel. This bill is similar to HB 316 (2023).
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass as substituted
HB1937 - Modifies provisions related to proxy voting and fiduciary investment duties for certain public employee retirement and pension systems
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Owen (R)
Summary: HB 1937 -- PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS

SPONSOR: Owen

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on Pensions by a vote of 6 to 3.

Currently, an investment fiduciary has to discharge his or her duties relating to the investment, reinvestment, and management of the assets of the system for the participants, based upon certain specified standards. This bill includes additional standards and provides that the investment fiduciary shall not consider environmental, social, or governance characteristics in a manner that overrides his or her fiduciary duties. Further, the investment fiduciary shall not be subject to legislative, regulatory, or other mandates to invest with environmentally, socially, or other noneconomically motivated influence unless they are consistent with the fiduciary's responsibilities, or divest from any direct holdings as specified in the bill.

The bill provides for voting of all shares of common stock solely to further the economic interest of the plan participants and prohibits voting to further noneconomic environmental, social, political, ideological, or other goals. The bill also specifies the methods for voting by proxy.

This bill is similar to HB 769 (2023).

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill provides guardrails that current retirement boards already have in policy. This language will prevent a situation that may not have arisen yet but will address State pension funds and require them to focus on economic interests of the plan members.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Owen; Opportunity Solutions Project; Missouri Lagers; Mike Moorefield, PSRS/PEERS; and the Missouri State Employees Retirement System. .

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say this bill is vague and does not have clearly defined terms. Companies that decide to make a decision based on a long-term vision of environmental impacts are doing so with a long-term outlook for financial benefit. Setting constraints on investments can create a negative impact on a retirement fund.

Testifying in person against the bill were Sierra Club Missouri Chapter; Peter Schneebergr, Sierra Club; and Arnie C. Dienoff. OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say the current MoDoT retirement board is consistent with the intent of the bill but currently there is no policy in place exactly as the bill is written.

Testifying in person on the bill was the MoDoT & Patrol Employees Retirement System.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/28/2024 
H - Removed from House Hearing Agenda - House-Rules-Regulatory Oversight - 4/2/24 - 9:15 am - HR 1
HB1939 - Modifies the "Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief Credit" or "circuit breaker" tax credit by increasing the maximum upper limit amounts
Sponsor: Rep. Adrian Plank (D)
Summary: HB 1939 -- PROPERTY TAX RELIEF

SPONSOR: Plank

This bill amends statutes related to senior citizens property tax relief, also known as the Circuit Breaker tax credit.

This tax credit is available to eligible senior citizens and disabled veterans for a portion of their real estate taxes or rent that such individuals have paid for the year.

Currently, the tax credit is limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $27,500 or less in the case of a renter or part-year owner. An additional exemption of $2,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $29,500 for a married renter.

Currently, the tax credit is limited to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $30,000 or less in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year. An additional exemption of $4,000 is provided when a qualifying taxpayer's spouse resides at the same address, bringing the total credit to $34,000 for a married homestead owner.

This bill increases such maximum income in the following manner:

For an unmarried renter: from $27,500, beginning January 1, 2025 $45,500

For a married renter: beginning January 1, 2025, the additional exemption is increased from $2,000 to $5,000 making the total credit $50,500

For an unmarried homeowner: from $30,000, beginning January 1, 2025 $50,000;

For a married homeowner: beginning January 1, 2025, the additional exemption is increased from $4,000 to $15,000 making the total credit now $65,000.
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Referred to House-Special Committee on Property Tax Reform
HB1940 - Modifies provisions relating to school bus endorsements
Sponsor: Rep. Jim Kalberloh (R)
Summary: HB 1940 -- SCHOOL BUS ENDORSEMENTS

SPONSOR: Kalberloh

Currently, for persons 70 years and older who have school bus endorsements on their drivers license, the license is issued or renewed for only one year at a time, the renewal fee is waived, the school bus portion of the drivers license examination must be taken annually, and a commercial drivers license with a school bus endorsement must be issued annually.

This bill changes the age for these specific provisions to age 75 or over.

This bill contains an emergency clause.

This bill is the same as HB 806 (2023).
Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass as substituted
HB1941 - Modifies provisions relating to charter schools
Sponsor: Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch (R)
Summary: HB 1941 -- CHARTER SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Toalson Reisch

This bill expands the current limits on where charter schools may be operated without local school board sponsorship to include any school district that contains the city of Columbia.

This bill is similar to HB 1205 (2023).
Last Action:
01/29/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1945 - Modifies provisions governing teacher externships
Sponsor: Rep. Brenda Shields (R)
Summary:

HB 1945 -- TEACHER EXTERNSHIPS (Shields)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education

This bill repeals the sunset provision for the teacher externship program that was set to expire August 28th, 2024.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
HB1946 - Modifies provisions governing school safety
Sponsor: Rep. Brenda Shields (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1946 -- SCHOOL SAFETY

SPONSOR: Shields

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Crime Prevention and Public Safety by a vote of 15 to 3, with 4 voting Present.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1946.

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN (Section 160.480)

This bill requires school districts and charter schools to adopt a comprehensive emergency operations plan to address school safety, crises, and emergency operations. The plan shall be shared with local law enforcement, fire protection services and emergency management. Schools must ensure a physical security site assessment annually and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education(DESE) shall develop standards for the emergency operation plans.

STOP THE BLEED ACT (Section 160.485)

The bill establishes the "Stop the Bleed Act", defines "bleeding control kit" and requires DESE to develop a traumatic blood loss protocol for school personnel by January 1, 2025.

The bill outlines the specific requirements for the blood loss protocol, which must include a bleeding control kit be placed in areas where there is likely to be high traffic or congregation, and areas where risk of injury may be elevated. Additionally, each district must designate a school nurse or school health care provider, or, if no school nurse or school health care provider is available, a school personnel member to receive annual training on the use of a blood control kit.

The bill requires DESE and each school district and charter school to maintain information regarding the traumatic blood loss protocol and the Stop the Bleed national awareness campaign on their respective websites.

MISSOURI SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (Section 160.660)

The bill requires that, beginning July 1, 2025, the State Board of Education (SBE) modify school safety criteria in the Missouri School Improvement Program to require a primary and secondary school safety coordinator to complete the Federal Emergency Management Administration's (FEMA) Incident Command System training courses or any successor course created by FEMA to replace the Incident Command System course within one year of being designated a coordinator.

SCHOOL SAFETY (Section 160.663)

The bill requires that school districts and charter schools equip each interior door with an anti-intruder door lock and each exterior door with bullet-resistant window film. This requirement is subject to appropriations to cover all costs; however, a school may receive donations, as specified in the bill.

Any exterior or interior door or entryway installed after the effective date of these provisions must be equipped, as specified in the bill, and, by July 1, 2028, all schools must have all existing doors, both exterior and interior, equipped per the specifications in the bills, and develop and implement policies relating to access to individual classrooms and require that doors with windows be equipped with material to cover windows during a building lockdown. Classroom doors with windows and adjoining sidelights must be equipped with material that conceals students and staff in a lockdown while maintaining some limited visibility into the room for first responders.

BEHAVIOR RISK ASSESSMENTS (Sections 167.020 and 167.022)

The bill requires behavioral risk assessments to be included in the records to be requested by school officials when enrolling a pupil (Sections 167.020 and 167.022).

JUVENILE COURT (Section 167.115)

Currently, school districts must be notified if a petition is filed in juvenile court with specific allegations. This bill expands the current requirements to also include when a charge or indictment is filed, adds the prosecutor to the list of required notifiers, and requires such notice to be within 24 hours and reduces the requirement for a summary of facts from five days to two business days following the case disposition. The bill allows school districts to request an injunction to exclude students from educational services if there is a likelihood of danger to the safety of pupils or employees in the school district (Section 167.115).

AGREEMENTS WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT (Section 167.117)

The bill authorized districts and charter schools to enter into written agreements with law enforcement on procedures for reporting criminal offenses outlined in the bill and allows for certain offenses for students under 11 years of age to be reported to the Children's Division, within the Department of Social Services (Section 167.117).

CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (Section 167.624)

The bill requires that cardiopulmonary resuscitation training be required for school district and charter school employees (Section 167.624).

ACTIVE SHOOTER AND INTRUDER RESPONSE TRAINING FOR SCHOOLS PROGRAM (SECTION 170.315)

The bill requires that, beginning in the 2025-26 school year, the Active Shooter and Intruder Response Training for Schools Program be required for teachers and school employees on an annual basis. The bill requires that initial training be eight hours and continuing training be four hours in length.

Currently, public schools are required to foster an environment where students feel comfortable reporting a potentially threatening or dangerous situation with an adult. This bill adds the requirement that schools must annually provide age-appropriate information on the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Courage2ReportMO reporting mechanism. Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, schools must annually hold active shooter exercises in which students, teachers, and school employees participate in and practice the procedures for safety and protection to be implemented when an active shooter is present.





The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill focuses on all sorts of aspects of school safety, including training to address internal and external threats. It requires school personnel to be trained in stopping bleeding; when there is an emergency it is important to make sure the people on the ground know how to respond. This bill is foundational to good school safety. None of the measures in the bill are required unless funds are appropriated in the budget except for new construction. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will seek out the experts who can develop and provide training for active threats in schools. These requirements apply to public charter schools, too. Supporters say that the training for active shooters provided to children is going to be age appropriate. The training will also include a component for school bus safety. Supporters say there have been more shootings at high school football games this last year than ever before. More than 250 schools have signed up for active shooter training and hopefully more will sign up. Armed security guards in schools are important and they should have great relationships with students, be good decision makers, and be able to keep kids safe. If help is 20 minutes away, you need to own your own safety. Supporters stated that whether teachers should be armed should depend on the community and how far away help is. Supporters emphasized that only school shooters are responsible for students’ death but, if everyone else stands by and does nothing, we are making it easier.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Shields; John McDonald, Missouri School Boards' Association Center For Education Safety; and Travis C. Coleman.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say confidential means for students, parents, or teachers to report school violence is currently called Courage2Report. An incident can be reported by app or phone and there is a process and timeline for addressing how tips are handled. When this was started in 2019 they received 419 tips, with 330 tips in 2020, 594 tips in 2021, 1044 tips in 2022, and 1581 tips in 2023. Bullying, assault, and attempt to kill are the top three complaints with bullying being number one..

Testifying in person on the bill was Scott Lance, Missouri State Highway Patrol.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/26/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB1947 - Provides a sales tax exemption for certain used tangible personal property
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Knight (R)
Summary: HB 1947 -- PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Knight

This bill exempts from sales tax all sales of used tangible personal property, including any tangible personal property that is sold a second time or any number of additional subsequent times after the initial point of sale, at an auction.

The provisions of this bill shall not apply to motor vehicles, trailers, boats, or outboard motors purchased or acquired for use on the highways or waters of this state which are required to be titled.

This bill is similar to HB 1141 (2023).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1950 - Modifies provisions relating to the protection of children
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Gragg (R)
Summary: HB 1950 -- FOSTER YOUTH BILL OF RIGHTS

SPONSOR: Gragg

This bill modifies provisions relating to the protection of children.

The bill changes the statutory reference from "Foster Care Bill of Rights" to "Foster Youth Bill of Rights", and requires the Children's Division within the Department of Social Services to make information on the procedures of filing a grievance and pursuing equitable relief in court readily available to school-age foster children and their foster parents.

The bill specifies that, in order to ensure proper care and protection of a child in the child welfare system, the following rights are afforded to the child, with additional provisions for certain rights that are described in the bill:

(1) The right to live in a safe, comfortable place;

(2) The right to communicate and visit with family, including siblings who are not placed with the child or who are in state custody;

(3) The right to as few disruptions and placements as practicable;

(4) The right to have and maintain belongings;

(5) The right to educational stability;

(6) The right to be notified of all hearings held, if age or developmentally appropriate;

(7) The right to attend all court hearings, either in-person or virtually, if age or developmentally appropriate;

(8) The right to address the court regarding any proposed placement or placement change, if age or developmentally appropriate;

(9) The right to have a client-directed attorney who contacts the child regularly and, if a conflict of interest exists, the right to have a new attorney who will represent the position of the child;

(10) The right to privacy, including the ability to send and receive unopened mail and to make and receive phone calls; (11) The right to regular and private contact with and access to case managers, attorneys, and advocates;

(12) The right to access information that is accurate and necessary for the child's wellbeing from case managers, guardians, and other individuals who, by law, are liable to maintain, care for, or support the child;

(13) The right to have as few case managers are practicable, to be notified if a case manager changes, to have the current case manager's contact information, and to contact the case manager, as necessary;

(14) The right to contact a case manager's supervisor if there is a conflict that cannot be revolved between the child and his or her case manager;

(15) The right to report a violation of the provisions of this bill without any fear of punishment, interference, coercion, or retaliation; and

(16) The right to a timely permanency plan, case plan, and transitional plan, when applicable, as provided in the bill.

The Children's Division is required to work with each child in state custody to develop both a permanency plan and a case plan, which shall be developed within one year of the child's entrance into state custody and shall include immediate and long-term placement goals, in addition to the child's specific mental and emotional needs.

The bill additionally specifies the parameters of participation for the child upon his or her transition out of the child welfare system.

The bill modifies the Foster Parents' Bill of Rights to include references to kinship foster parents, defined as grandparents or other persons related to the child by blood or affinity, or persons who are not related but have a close relationship with the child or the child's family. The bill also specifies that the Children's Division and its contractors shall not discriminate against foster parents or kinship foster parents.

The rights under the provisions of this bill, both for the Foster Youth Bill of Rights and Foster Parents' Bill of Rights, may be enforced through equitable relief as part of the corresponding case under Chapter 210, RSMo. Failure to file a grievance with the Children's Division, their contractors, or the school district shall not preempt or prevent the child, the foster parents, or the kinship foster parents from contemporaneously pursuing equitable relief as part of the corresponding case under Chapter 210.
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1959 - Establishes the "Missouri Religious Freedom Protection Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1959 -- MISSOURI RELIGIOUS FREEDOM PROTECTION ACT

SPONSOR: Riley

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Government Accountability by a vote of 9 to 6.

This bill establishes the "Missouri Religious Freedom Protection Act". The bill provides that no public official may issue an order that has the effect of limiting or prohibiting a religious group or place of worship from holding religious services or meetings. This prohibition does not apply to religious groups using places of worship to intentionally commit or plan acts of violence. This prohibition also does not apply to emergency evacuation orders involving imminent danger from flooding, fires, tornadoes, earthquakes, terrorists threats, civil unrest, or hazardous materials incidents. Once the imminent danger has passed, religious services shall be allowed to resume. This prohibition is not be interpreted to exempt places of worship from complying with applicable building and fire codes.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that five years ago, the need to address infringements on religious freedom wasn't apparent. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lock downs led to government entities closing places of worship. This action violates people's rights to worship as they choose. In Missouri, it's crucial to prioritize citizens' rights to assemble and worship freely. While there may be exemptions for security reasons, places of worship offer unique services such as food pantries and aid for the homeless. Government shutdowns of these establishments are highly inappropriate, particularly considering the mental health benefits associated with attending religious services.

Testifying in person for the bill was Representative Riley.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that religious organizations should not receive exemptions from regulations applicable to other entities. The virus remains indifferent to whether one is worshiping or engaging in recreational activities. Numerous instances have shown churches serving as hubs for virus transmission. Therefore, Sections 6 and 7 of the proposed bill underscore the necessity of public health regulations to safeguard the lives and rights of all individuals. Testifying in person against the bill were Americans United for Separation of Church and State; Brian Kaylor, Word & Way; Armorvine; Abortion Action Missouri (Formerly Pro Choice Missouri); and the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri.

This bill is the same as HB 293 (2023).



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/15/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1960 - Establishes the "Regulatory Sandbox Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HB 1960 -- REGULATORY SANDBOX PROGRAMS (Riley)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Economic Development

This bill establishes the "Regulatory Sandbox Act", which creates the Regulatory Relief Office within the Department of Economic Development. The Regulatory Relief Office will administer the provisions of the bill with the purpose of identifying state regulations that could potentially be waived or suspended for participating businesses during a two-year period in which the participating business demonstrates an innovative product offering to consumers.

The Regulatory Relief Office must maintain a web page on the Department's website that invites residents and businesses to make suggestions regarding regulations that could be modified or eliminated to reduce the regulatory burden of residents and businesses in the state (Section 620.3905, RSMo).

The Regulatory Relief Office will be responsible for evaluating and approving or denying applications to participate in the Sandbox Program. An applicant must submit an application along with a $300 application fee to the Regulatory Relief Office, which must include contact information and a description of the innovative offering to be demonstrated, including statements regarding how the innovative offering is subject to licensing, legal prohibition, or other authorization requirements outside of the Sandbox Program; each regulation that the applicant seeks to have waived or suspended while participating in the Sandbox Program; how the innovative offering would benefit consumers; and what risks might exist for consumers who use or purchase the innovative offering, as described in the bill.

Upon the receipt of a report from all applicable agencies, the Regulatory Relief Office must provide the application and associated reports to the General Regulatory Sandbox Program Advisory Committee, which is established by the bill. The Advisory Committee will be composed of 11 members, as described in the bill including two members of the House of Representatives, one appointed by the Speaker and one appointed by the Minority Leader of the House, and two members of the Senate, one appointed by the President Pro Tem and one appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate. The Advisory Committee shall advise and make recommendations to the Regulatory Relief Office on whether to approve applications to the Sandbox Program, and may meet at its own discretion to override a decision of the Regulatory Relief Office on the admission or denial of an applicant to the Sandbox Program, provided such override is decided with a two-thirds majority vote of the members of the Advisory Committee, and further provided that such vote shall be taken within 15 business days of the Regulatory Relief Office's decision. Meetings of the Advisory Committee will be considered public meetings for the purposes of the Sunshine Law (Section 620.3910).

No later than 15 business days after the day on which a completed application is received by the Regulatory Relief Office, the Office must review the application and refer the application to each applicable agency, as defined in the Act, that regulates the applicant's business. No later than 60 days after the day on which an applicable agency receives a completed application for review, the applicable agency must provide a written report to the Sandbox Program director with the applicable agency's findings, including any identifiable, likely, and significant harm to the health, safety, Missouri's environment, or financial well-being of consumers that the relevant regulation protects against, and a recommendation to the Regulatory Relief Office that the applicant either be admitted or denied entrance into the Sandbox Program. An applicable agency may deny an application for reasons described in the bill. The Regulatory Relief Office cannot approve any application denied by an applicable agency (Section 620.3915).

Upon approval of an application, a Sandbox participant will have 24 months after the day on which its application was approved to demonstrate the innovative offering described in the Sandbox participant's application. During such period, the Sandbox participant shall be exempt from the regulations outlined in an agreement entered into with the Regulatory Relief Office.

Innovative offerings will only be available to consumers who are residents of this state, and no regulation can be waived or suspended if such waiver or suspension would prevent a consumer from seeking restitution in the event that the consumer is harmed. A Sandbox participant will not be subject to prosecution or administrative penalty for a violation of any regulation that is waived or suspended during the duration of the participant's demonstration period (Section 620.3920).

Prior to demonstrating an innovative offering, a Sandbox participant must disclose certain information to consumers, as described in the bill (Section 620.3925).

At least 45 days prior to the end of a participant's demonstration period, the participant must notify the Regulatory Relief Office with the intention to exit the Sandbox Program or seek an extension. The Regulatory Relief Office can grant an extension not to exceed 12 months, and a participant can seek multiple extensions. If a demonstration includes an innovative offering that requires ongoing services or duties beyond the two-year demonstration period, the participant can continue to demonstrate the offering, but will be subject to all regulations that were waived or suspended as part of the Sandbox Program, provided that any participant that receives an extension to the demonstration period will not be subject to the waived or suspended regulations until after the end of the extended demonstration period.

A Sandbox participant must retain certain records for a period of two years after exiting the Sandbox Program.

The Regulatory Relief Office shall establish quarterly reporting requirements for each participant, and each participant shall notify the Regulatory Relief Office and each applicable agency of any incidents that result in harm to the health, safety, or financial well-being of a consumer.

No later than 45 days after a Sandbox participant exits the Sandbox Program, such participant must submit a written report describing an overview of the demonstration. No later than 30 days after receiving such report, an applicable agency must provide a written report to the Regulatory Relief Office that describes any statutory or regulatory reform the applicable agency recommends (Section 620.3930).
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
HB1961 - Requires a state agency to repeal two existing rules before enacting a new one
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 1961 & 2197 -- ADMINISTRATIVE RULES

SPONSOR: Riley

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Economic Development by a vote of 9 to 4.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1961.

This bill prohibits a rule proposed by a department, agency, commission, or board from taking effect unless the entity proposing the rule also repeals at least two existing rules.

This bill is the same as HB 269 (2023) and HB 1714 (2022).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that there are outdated rules that exist in many different agencies and departments of Missouri government, and these outdated rules need to be removed. Individuals and businesses are significantly burdened by all of the regulations that Missouri imposes, a number that stands at just over 113,000. Businesses have to spend a great deal of time and money in order to successfully navigate these regulations. This places the heaviest burden on smaller businesses, because such entities do not have the same resources or funds as a larger business.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Riley; the National Federation of Independent Business; and the Opportunity Solutions Project.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that such a bill would create a one-size-fits-all approach that would be imposed on agencies and departments, and would effectively remove their ability to operate effectively. As a result, this bill will create more of a burden on the government. Opponents further say that regulatory rules might be a burden to follow, but they are in place to protect Missouri citizens. If agencies and departments are required to get rid of existing rules, they will be hamstrung in their ability to create new, necessary rules when they confront issues in the future.

Testifying in person against the bill were Sierra Club Missouri Chapter; and Missouri Realtors. OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say agencies and departments are already required to review all existing rules to determine if they are still necessary, but there is no requirement that the department do anything about it.

Testifying in person on the bill was Sarah Schappe, Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.

This bill is the same as HB 269 (2023).



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/28/2024 
H - Removed from House Hearing Agenda - House-Rules-Regulatory Oversight - 4/2/24 - 9:15 am - HR 1
HB1967 - Modifies provisions relating to workers' compensation
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HB 1967 -- WORKERS' COMPENSATION

SPONSOR: Riley

This bill modifies the definition of "prevailing factor" which is used to determine if an injury, that arises out of and in the course of employment, is compensable under the Workers' Compensation Act. The bill provides that the prevailing factor is the primary factor, in relation to any other factor, causing the injury, the resulting medical condition, the disability, and the need for treatment.

For an employee to receive medical treatment, the accident or occupational disease shall be the prevailing factor in causing the injury, the resulting medical condition, and the need for treatment.

The bill also requires consideration of any savings or insurance of the injured employee from governmental or private sources, benefits derived from the employer's insurance, and any savings or insurance procured or sponsored by the employer, when determining compensation as specified in the bill.

Administrative law judges or the Labor and Industrial Relations Commission shall have authority to order employers to make payments only to the medical provider or providers to whom bills are due in cases where they determine the employer is responsible for disputed medical bills.

This bill is the same as HB 275 (2023) and HB 1716 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1969 - Establishes the "Civil Liability for Employers Hiring Ex-Offenders Act", which provides liability protections for employers hiring those convicted of certain offenses
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HB 1969 -- CIVIL LIABILITY FOR EMPLOYERS HIRING EX-OFFENDERS

SPONSOR: Riley

This bill establishes the "Civil Liability for Employers Hiring Ex- Offenders Act", which provides that a cause of action shall not be brought against an employer, general contractor, premises owner, or other third party for hiring an employee or independent contractor who has been convicted of an offense, excluding certain violent and sexual offenses specified in the bill.

In an action for negligent hiring against an employer, general contractor, premises owner, or other third party for acts of an employee or independent contractor that is based on a theory of liability not covered by this bill, the fact that the employee or independent contractor was convicted of a nonviolent, nonsexual offense before the employee or independent contractor's employment or contractual obligation with the employer, general contractor, premises owner, or other third party, shall be inadmissible as evidence.

This bill does not preclude a cause of action for failure of an employer to provide adequate supervision of an employee or independent contractor, except that the conviction of a nonviolent, nonsexual offense may only be admissible as evidence in such action based upon conditions described in the bill.

The bill sets forth certain grounds where protections do not apply to an employer, general contractor, premises owner, or third party in an action that is brought.

The provisions of this bill shall not be interpreted as implying a cause of action exists for negligent hiring of an individual convicted of an offense in situations not covered in the bill.

This bill is the same as HB 720 (2023) and similar to SB 352 (2023).
Last Action:
02/07/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB1972 - Establishes the" STEM Career Awareness Activity Program"
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HB 1972 -- STEM CAREER AWARENESS ACTIVITY PROGRAM

SPONSOR: Riley

This bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to establish the "STEM Career Awareness Activity Program" for grades 9-12. Beginning in the 2025-26 school year DESE may solicit proposals to provide the Program and by March 1, 2025, shall select a provider. The bill outlines requirements for providers who must present data demonstrating effectiveness in the following areas: teacher instruction on STEM-related subjects; increased student enrollment in four year STEM related fields; or increased participation in STEM related workforce upon graduation.

The bill outlines criteria for program providers, authorizes DESE to choose a third party nonprofit entity to implement the Program, solicit proposals, and select a provider.

This bill also creates the "STEM Career Awareness Activity Fund".

This bill is the same as HB 887 (2023).
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB1973 - Modifies provisions relating to the champion for children tax credit for contributions to certain child advocacy organizations
Sponsor: Rep. Alex Riley (R)
Summary: HB 1973 -- TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Riley

Currently, a tax credit may be claimed in an amount equal to 50% of a contribution made to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), child advocacy centers, or crisis care centers. Beginning January 1, 2024, this bill increases the tax credit to 70% of such contributions.

Currently, the maximum amount of tax credits that may be claimed for all such contributions made to such qualified agencies shall not exceed $1.5 million. Beginning July 1, 2024, this bill provides that the amount of tax credits that may be claimed in a fiscal year shall increase to $2.5 million.

This bill extends the sunset for these provisions to December 31, 2030.

This bill is similar to SB 662 and HB 1343 (2023).
Last Action:
02/27/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB1981 - Modifies guidelines for student participation in athletic contests organized by sex
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Burger (R)
Summary: HB 1981 -- PARTICIPATION IN ATHLETIC COMPETITIONS

SPONSOR: Burger

Currently, Section 163.048, RSMo relating to participation in athletic competitions expires August 28, 2027. This bill repeals the expiration date.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB1989 - Establishes transfer procedures to nonresident districts for students in public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HCS HB 1989 -- ADMISSION OF NONRESIDENT PUPILS (Pollitt)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education

This bill establishes transfer procedures to nonresident districts for students in public schools.

MAGNET SCHOOLS (Section 163.161)

This bill permits school districts that operate magnet schools included in a master desegregation settlement agreement to be exempt from transportation inefficiency requirements when transporting students to magnet schools.

DEFINITIONS

The bill adds Sections 167.1200 to 167.1230, establishing the "Public School Open Enrollment Act". For the purposes of the Act, the bill defines "nonresident district" and "resident district" among other definitions.

TRANSFER POLICY AND PARTICIPATION (Section 167.1205)

The bill establishes a public school open enrollment program with the design to improve quality instruction and increase parental involvement, provide access to programs and classes, and offer opportunity to align parental curriculum options to personal beliefs.

The bill specifies that any student beginning kindergarten or already enrolled in a public school may attend a public school in a nonresident district participating in the program. Districts must declare participation in the open enrollment program by December 1st for the following school year. Participating districts are not required to add teachers, staff, or classrooms to accommodate transfer applicants.

The bill includes a procedure for districts when a transferring student has special education needs. Schools may also establish standards for transfer applications and post the information on the school website and in the student handbook. School districts that are served by special school districts must reach an agreement with such special school district regarding finance, staffing, and other items prior to participating in the program.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) or an entity skilled in policy development shall develop a model open enrollment transfer policy as outlined in the bill. All public schools must adopt the model policy, regardless of participation in the Program; however, each school board can modify the model policy based on the district's needs.

Students who wish to attend nonresident schools that have an academic or competitive entrance process shall furnish proof that they meet the admission requirements.

Students that participate in open enrollment in high school may not participate in varsity sports during the first 365 days of enrollment in a nonresident district with exceptions outlined in the bill.

No transfers under this Act can begin until the school year 2025- 26.

Districts may restrict the number of outgoing transfer students to 3% of the previous school year's enrollment.

APPLYING FOR TRANSFER (Section 167.1210)

Any student who applies for a transfer may only accept one transfer per school year, although the student may return to his or her resident district and, if so, complete a full semester before applying for another transfer. Students may complete all remaining school years in their nonresident district and any sibling may enroll if the district that has the capacity as provided by the bill. For the purposes of determining federal and state aid the student shall be counted as a resident pupil of the nonresident district, except for federal calculations of military impact aid. Parents will be responsible for transportation to the nonresident school or to an existing bus stop location in the nonresident district. Students who qualify for free and reduced meals may have transportation expenses reimbursed quarterly as outlined in the bill.

PARENT PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICE FUND (Sections 167.1211 and 167.1212)

The bill creates the "Parent Public School Choice Fund" which is created with an $80 million appropriation to be used to supplement open enrollment transfers from any resident district for transportation cost for students that qualify for free and reduced meals and to reimburse for special needs education as outlined in Section 167.1211.

NUMBER OF TRANSFER STUDENTS (Section 167.1215)

The bill specifies that annually, before December 1st, each school district shall set and publish the number of transfer students the district is willing to receive for the following school year. This number does not have to be more than zero. Districts will also develop a policy for a wait list.

APPLICATION PROCESS (Section 167.1220)

The processes for a transfer application and the details for notifications of acceptance or rejection are specified within the bill. The Department shall create an online resource to facilitate and provide notice to all applicants regarding the acceptance or rejection of each application on April 1st.

Superintendents must present to the board any rejections for review.

The bill explains the reasons that an eligible application may be rejected, and notification must be provided in writing by June 1st. The bill defines "good cause" and allows for consideration of applications that are submitted after February 1st and before July 1st.

The Department shall be notified of all accepted students and will request an anonymous survey related to the reasons for participating in the Open Enrollment Program. The Department will publish an annual report based on the survey results.

ALLOWED EXEMPTIONS (Section 167.1225)

This bill specifies that prior to December 1st, a school district may annually declare an exemption for the upcoming school year, from the requirements set forth in this bill, provided that the school district is subject to a desegregation order or mandate of a federal court or agency remedying the effects of past racial segregation or subject to a settlement agreement remedying the effects of past racial segregation.

The bill requires that any student who transfers from a K-eight district enroll before the start of the student's sixth grade year, or the K-eight district must pay tuition as specified under Section 167.131. Additional exemptions are specified for students who qualify for transfers under other listed sections.

APPEAL PROCEDURE (Section 167.1227)

The bill determines when a student may be denied a transfer based on his or her discipline record and includes an appeal procedure.

ANNUAL REPORTING (Section 167.1229) The Department shall collect and report data annually from school districts on the number of applications and study the effects of the public school choice program transfers. The report shall be submitted annually by December 1st to the Joint Committee on Education, the House Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education, and the Senate Committee on Education.

ALTERNATIVE FUNDING (Section 167.1230)

The bill requires that enrollment of students under the program not occur before July 1, 2025. The bill outlines what steps shall be taken if the Parent Public School Choice Fund does not have sufficient funding necessary to provide for eligible reimbursements for transportation and special education expenses. Transportation costs shall be considered eligible expenses under 163.161, and special education students will be provided additional weight in the formula calculation for the nonresident district.



This bill is similar to HCS HB 253 (2023) and HB 1814 (2022).
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
HB1990 - Modifies provisions relating to marijuana use and workers' compensation
Sponsor: Rep. Sherri Gallick (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 1990 & 2135 -- WORKERS' COMPENSATION

SPONSOR: Gallick

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Insurance Policy by a vote of 13 to 2.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1990.

Currently, if an employee fails to obey any rule or policy adopted by the employer relating to a drug-free workplace or the use of alcohol, or unprescribed controlled drugs in the workplace and violating the rule or policy is the proximate cause of the injury or death the employee's benefit shall be reduced or forfeited, as specified in the bill. This bill adds marijuana to the list of any drug-free workplace rule or policy adopted by an employer.

The bill allows an employer to consider that an employee was impaired by or under the influence of marijuana at the time of a work accident or injury if the employer has a good-faith belief that an employee had articulable symptoms of impairment, as specified in the bill, while working.

If an employer elects to discipline an employee on the basis that the employee is under the influence or impaired by marijuana, the employer must give the employee a reasonable opportunity to contest the determination.

Under the bill, any specific reference to marijuana or marijuana metabolites shall not apply to medical marijuana or metabolites related to medical marijuana for a person who has a valid qualifying patient identification card legally certifying the person's status as a qualifying patient.

An employer is not required to reimburse or cause to be reimbursed an employee any costs associated with the medical use of marijuana.





The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this will reduce employee injuries. We need to make sure our workers are not working under the influence of marijuana like we do for alcohol. Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Gallick; Associated Industries of Missouri; Missouri Insurance Coalition; and Mo Chamber of Commerce.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/28/2024 
H - Removed from House Hearing Agenda - House-Rules-Regulatory Oversight - 4/2/24 - 11:15 am - HR 1
HB1991 - Requires schools to establish cardiac emergency response plans
Sponsor: Rep. Sherri Gallick (R)
Summary:

HB 1991 -- EMERGENCY CARDIAC RESPONSE PLANS

SPONSOR: Gallick

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on Crime Prevention and Public Safety by a vote of 19 to 3.

Beginning with the 2025-26 school year and all subsequent school years, this bill requires every public school to develop and implement a cardiac emergency response plan that addresses the appropriate use of school personnel to respond to incidents involving an individual experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or a similar life-threatening emergency while on a school campus. A public school with an athletic department or organized athletic program shall also develop and implement a plan specific to life- threatening emergencies that may occur at an extracurricular event or school-sponsored event on campus.

Members of each public school's administration shall coordinate with local emergency services providers to integrate the public school's cardiac emergency response plan into the local emergency services providers' protocols. A cardiac emergency response plan shall integrate evidence-based core elements, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association guidelines, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements.

The bill specifies certain guidelines that a cardiac emergency response plan shall integrate, including the establishment of a cardiac emergency response team and the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the school campus. Appropriate AED placement shall be dictated by the cardiac emergency response plan and in accordance with guidelines set by the American Heart Association, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements.

Appropriate school personnel shall be trained in first aid, CPR, and AED use following evidence-based guidelines set forth by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements. The school personnel required to be trained shall be determined by the cardiac emergency response plan and shall include, but not be limited to, athletics coaches, school nurses, and athletic trainers.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that, every year, approximately 350,000 people are saved by AED machines, which is actually a pretty low number. About 23,000 people experience this type of cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting, including athletic events. Cardiac emergency response plans double or triple survival rates. This bill would require every school district to have an emergency plan that includes having an AED machine in each building. The superintendent would be responsible for implementing this. The sponsor was not sure how many schools have this because they are not mandatory and they are not tracked. The schools would be responsible for the upkeep beyond the initial cost of about $1,000. One witness gave an example of how her use of an AED machine helped her save a second grader a few years ago. Another witness testified that she went into sudden cardiac arrest at an event where there was no AED machine and it took first responders a long time to get there and assess her situation. Another witness shared the story of the loss of her partner, who went into cardiac arrest while playing baseball in Forest Park and there was no access to an AED machine.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Gallick; Missouri Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics; Children's Mercy Hospital-Kansas City; Meagan Lozano; Kids Win Missouri; Winton Policy Group, St Louis Children's Hospital; Missouri Nurses Association ; Linda Neumann; American Heart Association ; Missouri NEA; Shari Taylor; Missouri State Medical Association; and Treena Sturgeon.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Perfected
HB1993 - Establishes provisions relating to civil liability for publishing or distributing material harmful to minors on the internet
Sponsor: Rep. Sherri Gallick (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 1993, 1855, 1426 & 2157 -- CIVIL LIABILITY FOR PUBLISHING HARMFUL MATERIALS

SPONSOR: Gallick

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on General Laws by a vote of 8 to 5 and 1 present.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 1993.

This bill requires any commercial entity that knowingly or intentionally publishes or distributes on the Internet material harmful to minors, as defined in the bill, to verify that any person attempting to access the material is at least 18 years old. The requirement to verify the age of users only applies to websites for which more than 33 1/3% of the total material meets the definition of material harmful to minors. Any commercial entity that violates these provisions will be subject to civil liability for damages resulting from a minor's access to the material. The bill does not impose an obligation or liability on a provider or user of an interactive computer service on the Internet.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill is designed to protect children from accessing online pornography. There is a legal and moral obligation to protect our children from the content of pornographic websites. Minors have access to illicit material on the internet that they do not have any where else. If a child attempted to purchase a pornographic magazine at a gas station, they would be turned away. However, a minor can access pornographic websites without any restrictions. Legislation needs to be enacted that requires age verification for access to pornographic websites to ensure minors are not accessing these sites. Unlimited access to pornography has caused huge problems with minor development and mental health. These sites can lead to addiction and other mental health issues. Further, pornographic sites teach minors unhealthy sexual education. Pornographic sites teach that consent is not important and that the male's sexual gratification is what females should strive for above all else. Many porn sites use victims of sex trafficking. For these reasons, access to porn sites should be restricted to ensure that minors do not have access to this harmful material. Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Gallick; Bartlett Cleland, NetChoice; Jon Schweppe, American Principles Project; Missouri Catholic Conference; and Vicky Hartzler.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that while this legislation purports to address the issue of explicit and harmful materials, its language is overly broad. This bill contains language that could lead to censorship and potential discrimination and could further hinder educational resources about sexual orientation and gender identity. The language could potentially be used to suppress LGBTQ+ material in schools. The term harmful to minors could be subjectively construed to apply to such materials. Intellectual freedom, inclusivity, and the right to information for all individuals should be the priority. It is important to ensure that our educational institutions, libraries, and online platforms remain places that foster understanding and access to diverse perspectives.

Testifying in person against the bill were Maggie Edmondson, Abortion Action Missouri (Formerly Pro Choice Missouri); American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri; and Katy Erker-Lynch, PROMO.

OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say that there is a need to balance the protection of children with the protection of our first amendment rights. It is important to ensure fair enforcement of age verification across the board so that we avoid litigation. This legislation could lead to suits against the State due to restricting the constitutional rights of the sites providing this material. The legislation does not discuss how to protect against foreign porn companies. The majority of porn accessed in the United States comes from foreign providers.

Testifying in person on the bill were Bev Ehlen and Arnie Dienoff.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/04/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB1999 - Allows school districts to include instruction on LGBTQ contributions to society
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Mann (D)
Summary: HB 1999 -- SCHOOL INSTRUCTION

SPONSOR: Mann

This bill allows school districts to teach students information on the roles and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in United States history, government, literature, art, music, values, and culture.

The bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop an inclusive curriculum that may be used by school districts beginning with the 2025-26 school year.

This bill is the same as HB 507 (2023) and HB 1845 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2002 - APPROPRIATION BILL
Sponsor: Rep. Cody Smith (R)
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2016 - APPROPRIATION BILL
Sponsor: Rep. Cody Smith (R)
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
G - Sent to the Governor
HB2037 - Prohibits employers from engaging in certain forms of discrimination based on gender
Sponsor: Rep. Emily Weber (D)
Summary: HB 2037 -- EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES RELATING TO GENDER

SPONSOR: Weber

This bill prohibits an employer from discriminating based on gender in providing compensation for the same work performed under similar working conditions. Wage disparities are not prohibited if based on bona fide factors other than gender.

This bill prohibits employers from taking any adverse action against an employee who utilizes the protections of this bill and prohibits an employer from reducing wages to comply with the provisions of this bill.

The bill allows recovery of actual damages and for an additional amount in compensatory damages, where the additional amount does not exceed twice the wages awarded, for any unlawful gender-based compensation practice. An employer who shows deliberate patterns of violations of the provisions of this bill may be ordered to pay punitive damages in addition to any other compensation or injunctive relief ordered by a court.

The bill further allows any employee who prevails in a civil action brought under the provisions of this bill to recover reasonable attorney's fees. Any action brought under the sections of this bill must be commenced within two years after the alleged violation occurs or the date of the reasonable discovery of such violation.



This bill is similar to HB 214 (2023) and HB 1869 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2049 - Extends the duration of unemployment benefits
Sponsor: Rep. Emily Weber (D)
Summary: HB 2049 -- EMPLOYMENT SECURITY

SPONSOR: Weber

This bill changes the total amount of unemployment compensation benefits an insured worker may receive during a benefit year.

Currently, that amount is limited to the lesser of 20 times his or her weekly benefit, or 33 1/3% of his or her wage credits. The bill changes the benefit maximum from 20 to 26 times the weekly benefit amount.

This bill is similar to HB 215 (2023) and HB 1729 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2050 - Modifies the "Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief Credit" or "circuit breaker" tax credit by increasing the maximum upper limit and property tax credit amounts
Sponsor: Rep. Kemp Strickler (D)
Summary: HB 2050 -- CIRCUIT BREAKER

SPONSOR: Strickler

Currently, a tax credit is offered to eligible senior citizens and disabled individuals for a portion of the real estate taxes or rent they have paid for the year. The credit is for a maximum of $750 for renters and $1,100 for owners who occupied their home. The actual credit is based on the amount of real estate taxes or rent paid and total household income.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the tax credit for renters shall be increased to $1,055. For homeowners, the tax credit shall be increased to $1,550.

This bill also increases the maximum upper limits of qualifying income for both renters and homeowners. Beginning January 1, 2025, the following maximum upper limits shall be established:

(1) For an unmarried renter, $38,200; for a married renter, $41,000; and

(2) For an unmarried homeowner, $42,200; for a married homeowner, $48,000.

Beginning January 1, 2026, these totals shall be increased annually for inflation.

This bill also gives qualifying taxpayers a larger reimbursement of the tax credit by increasing the incremental phase out from $300 to $495.

This bill is similar to HB 1670 (2024); and HCS HB 1134 and HB 135 (2023).
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Referred to House-Special Committee on Property Tax Reform
HB2051 - Requires in-state public educational institutions to grant undergraduate course credit for students who score 4 or higher on international baccalaureate examinations
Sponsor: Rep. Kemp Strickler (D)
Summary: HB 2051 -- UNDERGRADUATE COURSE CREDIT

SPONSOR: Strickler

This bill requires public community colleges, colleges, and universities to adopt a policy for undergraduate course credit for any student that receives a score of 4 or higher on an international baccalaureate exam.

This bill is the same as HB 1578 (2024) and HB 1173 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2055 - Exempts the sale of food from sales tax
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Keathley (R)
Summary: HB 2055 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR FOOD

SPONSOR: Keathley

Beginning January 1, 2025, local sales taxes on food shall be annually reduced in four equal increments over a period of four successive years. Beginning January 1, 2029, there shall be no local sales tax imposed on food.

This bill is similar to SB 1062 (2024).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2058 - Modifies provisions relating to certain special taxing districts
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Keathley (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2058 -- LOCAL TAXATION (Keathley)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Government Efficiency and Downsizing

The bill specifies that if a political subdivision submits a tax proposal for a new or increased tax authorized under a specific statute and it does not pass, the proposal cannot be submitted again for two years following the rejection.

A political subdivision may, however, resubmit a previously rejected tax proposal sooner than two years if the new proposal has one of the following "substantial changes":

(1) A reduction equal to or greater than 25% of the rate of tax imposed by the previously rejected proposal; or

(2) A dedicated fund other than the dedicated fund stated in the previously rejected proposal.

This bill allows a political subdivision to reintroduce a previously rejected tax proposal to voters before the next election cycle if the new proposal introduces a new tax authorized by law or increases the rate of existing tax authorized by law in a federal- or state-declared natural disaster area.

This bill requires that if the governing body of a municipality wishes to establish a sales tax by way of a proposed community improvement district, the ordinance must be approved by a two- thirds vote of the governing body.

Any ordinance or petition approved under these provisions that establishes a district that is funded by a sales tax is required to pass by at least a two-thirds majority vote.

This bill exempts non-profit entities pursuant to 26 U.S.C. Section 501(c) from any property tax or special assessment that might be levied by a taxing district.

This bill excludes from the definition of "video service" a video service provider that provides content that is accessed via streaming.

This bill also requires that any ballot measure proposing a tax alteration on real property must clearly state the impact of the proposed change in terms of the actual amount per $100,000 of a property's market value within the ballot language. This bill requires that if voters are asked to approve a permanent increase to the tax rate ceiling before a temporary levy increase expires, the ballot language must clearly indicate that if the permanent increase is approved, the temporary levy will become permanent.

This bill also defines "current tax rate ceiling" and "increased tax rate ceiling". When a majority of voters in a political subdivision approve a tax rate increase, the subdivision must use the current tax rate ceiling and the approved increase for the following tax year. If the assessed valuation of real property decreases in that year, the subdivision can adjust its levy rates to ensure it receives the same revenue it would have received without the property value reduction. The use of the increased tax rate ceiling must be revenue neutral, as mandated by the Missouri Constitution.

This bill further requires that any project proposals from a transportation development district be submitted to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, or to the local transportation authority, as applicable, for approval prior to the construction or funding of any project. The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, or the local transportation authority, as applicable, must approve the project by a two-thirds majority if the proposed project is to be funded by a sales tax.

This bill is similar to HB 536 (2023).
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
HB2061 - Creates provisions relating to local ballot proposals by political subdivisions to impose a new tax or increase the rate of an existing tax
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Keathley (R)
Summary: HB 2061 -- LOCAL BALLOT PROPOSALS

SPONSOR: Keathley

This bill specifies that if a political subdivision submits a tax proposal for a new or increased tax authorized under a specific statute and it does not pass, the proposal cannot be submitted again for four years following the rejection.

A political subdivision may, however, resubmit a previously rejected tax proposal sooner than four years if the new proposal has one of the following "substantial changes":

(1) A reduction equal to or greater than 25% of the rate of tax imposed by the previously rejected proposal; or

(2) A dedicated fund other than the dedicated fund stated in the previously rejected proposal.

This bill is similar to HB 1144 (2023).
Last Action:
02/20/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2065 - Modifies provisions relating to the collection of delinquent property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Owen (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2065 -- COLLECTION OF DELINQUENT TAXES (Owen)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Local Government

Currently, Section 140.980 to 140.1015, RSMo, is referred to as the "Land Bank Act". This bill changes the name to the "Chapter 140 Land Bank Act" and expands the list of cities authorized to establish a land bank agency to include any city with 1,500 or more inhabitants except in certain noncharter counties and certain charter counties (Sections 140.980 and 140.981).

Many sections in the Chapter 140 Land Bank Act are amended to include a reference to counties.

The duration of time a land bank agency has to sell property or put it to productive use is increased from two to five years. The duration a land bank agency has to sell, clear, or put property to public use is eight years (Section 140.986).

Currently, a contract for the sale of residential property owned by the land bank agency requires the buyer to agree to own the property for three years or be civilly liable to the land bank for an amount equal to twice the sale price. The bill repeals this provision and requires a buyer to demonstrate that the buyer does not have a property in the land bank’s jurisdiction with taxes delinquent for more than one year, is not in violation of any municipal building or housing code, and is not the original owner of the property or a relative of the original owners within the second degree of consanguinity (Section 140.987).

Foreign and domestic corporations or limited liability companies that do not have a registered agent under State law are not allowed to buy property from a land bank, nor are foreign corporate entities that do not have a certificate of authority to transact business in the State (Section 140.987).

A land bank agency can make it a condition of sale that a property owner or the property owner's successor make certain improvements to the property. If the improvements are not made, the land bank can sue for damages for the breach and seek a judicial foreclosure in which the property would go back to the land bank. As an alternative or in addition to a judicial foreclosure the land bank agency may gift the right to foreclose on the property to a nonprofit organization or exercise the right of reentry. Title will be conveyed by recording the judgment with the recorder of deeds (Section 140.987).

A land bank agency can receive funding through gifts from any source provided that the agency does not sell or otherwise transfer any property held by it to the entity from which it received the gift (Section 140.988).

A county that has established a land bank agency my collect a fee for the collection of delinquent and back taxes in an amount up to 5% of all sums collected, which fees must be paid to the land bank agency (Section 140.988).

A land bank agency is authorized to receive funds from bonds issued by the county or municipality creating the land bank agency. These bonds will not be deemed an indebtedness within the meaning of any Constitutional or statutory limitation upon incurring indebtedness. The bonds must be authorized by a resolution of the governing body of the county or municipality establishing the land bank agency, which may also issue refunding bonds. The bonds are negotiable instruments under Chapter 400. The bonds and all income or interest thereon are exempt from all State taxes. Temporary notes are also authorized (Section 140.994).

A land bank agency may rent or lease property held by the land bank agency for community, noncommercial agricultural uses (Section 140.995).

Members of the board are added to a provision which prohibits land bank employees from benefiting from or owning land bank property. For this provision, persons who are related to board members or employees within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity are considered board members or employees (Section 140.1000).

A land bank agency must be dissolved no sooner than 60 calendar days but no later than 180 calendar days after an ordinance or resolution for its dissolution is passed by the county or municipality that established the land bank agency. Once all outstanding bonds, notes, and other obligations are satisfied, no new property can be acquired by the land bank agency. No additional debts can be incurred unless necessary to sell property or put to public use. The land bank agency must be dissolved within 30 days after all outstanding bonds, notes, and other obligations are satisfied (Section 140.1012).

The definition of "county" for purposes of Sections 141.210 - 141.810 and Sections 141.980 to 141.1015 (collectively, the land tax collection law) is changed from charter counties and certain first class counties, currently only Buchanan County, to all counties, and the definition of "municipality" is changed from cities of 2,500 inhabitants in charter and first classification counties to all cities in all counties. An "interested party" is now defined (Section 141.220). Counties may now elect to operate under Sections 141.210 to 141.810 wholly by adopting a resolution or order, or partially by adopting a resolution or order for any parcel or parcels which have back taxes for at least two years from the date on which the taxes became delinquent. No county eligible to establish a land bank under Section 140.981 can be a partial opt-in county unless it first elects to establish a land bank agency as provided in Section 141.981 (Section 141.230).

For partial opt-in counties, the collector will decide which tax- delinquent parcels will proceed under the land tax collection laws and which will proceed under other laws (Section 141.290).

The collector has the option of appointing a delinquent land tax attorney to be compensated as necessary for performing the collector's duties. The appointed delinquent land tax attorney may appoint assistant attorneys to be compensated as necessary. The collector may pay an appointed delinquent land tax clerk what compensation is deemed necessary, rather than a set fee (Sections 141.320 and 141.330).

A petition for foreclosure of a tax lien must name each person with a legal interest in the land affected, as discoverable by the collector from publicly available records, and must contain certain information specified in the bill (Section 141.410).

The collector must send a copy of the petition by first-class mail to the occupant of the parcel or property which has delinquent taxes (Section 141.440).

In partial opt-in counties, the collector must make the following searches, the charge for which can be recovered from the proceeds of the sale:

(1) A title search, not later than 120 days prior to the sale;

(2) The following records, for interested parties and addresses reasonably calculated to apprise interested parties of the suit:

(a) Land title records in the county recorder of deeds office;

(b) Tax records in the office of the local treasurer;

(c) Tax records in the office of the local assessor;

(d) Court records in Missouri CaseNet; and (e) For a business entity, records filed with the Secretary of State. The charge for these items can be recovered from the proceeds of the sale

No later than 30 days prior to the sale, the collector must send notice of the sale to all interested parties at the address most reasonably apprised to provide notice of the sale. The notice must provide the date, time, and place of the sale, and must state that the property may be redeemed prior to the sale. The charge for this item can be recovered from the proceeds of the sale.

No later that 20 days prior to the sale, the sheriff must post notice of the sale of the size and in the manner set out in the bill. The sheriff also must attempt in-person notice. The charge for these items can be recovered from the proceeds of the sale (Section 141.520).

Additional changes to the land tax collection law include:

(1) Changing the laws regarding taxes and penalties for properties subject to certain actions as abandoned property in Jackson County. Currently, a provision allows a court in Jackson County to stay the tax foreclosure sale of property that is the subject of an action for temporary possession for rehabilitation if the party filing the action pays into the court all of the principal land taxes owed. The bill expands this provision to all counties;

(2) Currently, Section 141.540 sets forth the procedure a sheriff must follow when advertising for and selling real property ordered sold pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure by a court under the land tax collection law. The bill repeals almost all other provisions of the section dealing with duties of the county collector related to the sale;

(3) Currently, Section 141.550 deals with the conduct of sale, the sheriff's return of service, and the sheriff's deed in Kansas City. The bill adds Sections 141.980 to 141.1015 to the jurisdiction of the section, removes the limitation to Kansas City, gives the place and time of the sale for partial opt-in counties, and specifies what amounts the winning bid must include. Also, foreign and domestic corporations or limited liability companies that do not have a registered agent under State law are not allowed to buy property from a land bank, nor are foreign corporate entities that do not have a certificate of authority to transact business in the State. The official conducting the sale may require an affidavit from the buyer that he or she meets the requirements for purchasers; (4) Clarifying that Section 141.560 applies to municipalities that have established a land bank agency under other pertinent sections or are in counties that have established a land bank agency, and removing the requirement that a land trust must include certain other costs when a parcel is sold by the land trust;

(5) Modifying the language regarding the title to any real estate that is vested to a purchaser (Section 141.570);

(6) Establishing a six-month time limit during which a court should confirm or set aside a foreclosure sale, clarifying who should receive notice of a hearing, and providing what the judgment should state. Section 141.580 will not apply to sales of land to land bank agencies. In partial opt-in counties, funds remaining after the sale and after the distribution as required by law, will be given to the county school fund. Counties operating under the land tax collection law can elect to establish a fund for the purpose of defending against claims challenging the sufficiency of the notice provided. An interested party other than the purchaser must pay into the court the redemption amount prior to a hearing;

(7) Repealing the part of Section 141.610 that provides that one year after a foreclosure sale it will be conclusively presumed that everything was done correctly, and no suit to set aside a deed will be commenced or maintained unless it is filed within one year from the date of sale;

(8) Providing that Section 141.680 does not apply to partial opt- in counties; and

(9) Limiting the applicability of Section 141.700, establishing a land trust, to counties electing to operate under Sections 141.210 to 141.810 prior to January 1, 2025;

In partial opt-in counties, the bill provides for the establishment and make-up of a land trust, the governing board, and the board's duties and responsibilities (Section 141.821).

The bill designates Sections 141.980 - 141.1015 as the "Chapter 141 Municipal Land Bank Act", deletes its limited applicability to municipalities located wholly or partially in counties with a land trust as of January 1, 2012, makes it applicable to counties electing to operate wholly under Sections 141.420 to 141.810, repeals the provision limiting sales made to a single entity to five contiguous parcels per year, and prohibits municipalities in partial opt-in counties from establishing land bank agencies under Section 141.980. The bill adds that any other method as may be required by prevailing notions of due process is a permissible means of petition service in a quiet title action (Section 141.1009).

This bill provides that a lien placed upon a property for unpaid sewer charges, once publicly and properly recorded, has higher priority than all liens except taxes levied under Section 141.821 for State or county purposes (Section 249.255).

The bill repeals Section 140.1006, and Sections 141.820 to 141.970 dealing with collection of delinquent taxes in the City of St. Louis.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
HB2073 - Authorizes an income tax exemption for certain state employees whose state wages or salary are at or below six times the federal poverty guidelines
Sponsor: Rep. Don Mayhew (R)
Summary: HB 2073 -- INCOME TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Mayhew

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill creates a tax exemption for full-time and part-time employees of the State for wages and salaries that do not exceed 600% of the federal poverty guidelines for an individual. Such calculations shall not include income from sources other than state employment or from persons in the state employee's family or household.

Any portion of a state employee's wages or salary derived from state employment that exceeds the federal poverty guidelines will be subject to tax on the remaining portion of such wages or salary.

The following types of state employees will not be granted such a tax exemption:

(1) Any person elected or appointed to a state office;

(2) Any contractor, independent contractor, or worker submitted on a federal 1099 form;

(3) Any temporary employee; or

(4) Any person whose payment is contingent on the commission or performance of work on a specific, one-time basis.

This bill is the same as HB 1396 ( 2023) and similar to HB 1396 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2088 - Changes provisions governing charter schools
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HB 2088 -- CHARTER SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: O'Donnell

This bill expands where a charter school may be operated to include any school district located within a charter county; currently this includes St. Charles, Jefferson, and St. Louis counties, and any district that includes a municipality with a population greater than 30,000.

Procedures relating to changes in a school district's accreditation status that affect charter schools are repealed under this bill.

As specified in this bill, St. Louis City shall not adopt, enforce, impose, or administer an ordinance, local policy, or local resolution that prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful education purpose by a charter school. St. Louis City may not impose, enforce, or apply any deed restriction that expressly, or by its operation, prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful educational purpose by a charter school.

If St. Louis City offers property of the city for sale, lease, or rent, St. Louis shall not refuse to sell, lease, or rent to a charter school solely because the charter school intends to use the property for an educational purpose.

This bill is similar to HB 158 (2023) and HB 2087 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2089 - Modifies provisions relating to benevolent tax credits
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HB 2089 -- BENEVOLENT TAX CREDITS

SPONSOR: O'Donnell

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSISTANCE TAX CREDIT

Current law authorizes a tax credit for business firms that engage in providing affordable housing assistance activities or market rate housing in distressed communities, with the amount of such tax credits equal to 50% percent of the total amount contributed.

This bill increases such tax credit to 70% of the total amount contributed (Section 32.115 RSMo).

YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION TAX CREDIT

Current law authorizes a tax credit in the amount of 50% of contributions made to certain youth programs. This bill increases such tax credit to 70% of the amount of such contributions made (Section 135.460).

This bill is similar to HCS SS SB 143 (2023).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2090 - Modifies provisions relating to the "Neighborhood Assistance Act" tax credit
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HB 2090 -- TAX CREDITS

SPONSOR: O'Donnell

Currently, any business which provides affordable housing assistance to distressed communities may receive a tax credit, with no more than $10 million in such tax credits being awarded in any fiscal year (Section 32.111).

Currently, any business which makes a contribution to a neighborhood organization, a significant part of whose activities consist of affordable housing assistance, may receive a tax credit, with no more than $1 million in such tax credits being awarded in any fiscal year (Section 32.112).

In the event the total amount of tax credits granted under Section 32.111 for the fiscal year is less than $10 million, this bill provides that the unused amount may be granted to qualifying businesses under Section 32.112, such that the combined amount awarded under the two sections does not exceed $11 million annually (Section 32.115).

This bill is similar to HB 1210 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2092 - Modifies provisions governing scholarships available for teacher recruitment and retention purposes
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 2092 -- TEACHER RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

This bill modifies the existing "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" by changing the name to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program".

The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly. Additional provisions of the existing program are modified including increasing the maximum number of two-year scholarships from 200 in the 2025 academic year to 600 such scholarships by the 2030-31 school term.

Scholarships for up to 100% of eligible tuition and fees are to be awarded to "eligible students" as defined in the bill for up to two years. Students must agree to teach in "hard-to-staff schools" or "hard-to-staff subject areas" for two years for every year the scholarship is received.

The repayment rate of the scholarships for a failure to fulfill the agreement is set forth in the bill as 1% over the prevailing prime rate in effect on January 1st of the year the student is ineligible, with annual adjustments.

This bill is similar to HB 497 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2093 - Provides matching grant moneys to assist school districts with school renovation projects
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Amato (R)
Summary: HB 2093 -- SCHOOL RENOVATION PROJECTS

SPONSOR: Amato

This bill establishes the "Sullivan School Renovation Grant" and the "School Renovation Projects Matching Grant" program.

This program will provide school districts an opportunity to apply for a matching grant for "eligible projects"; such projects must be related to installation, repair, or renovation of roofing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or windows.

The bill specifies the application and notification process and authorizes the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to review applications and determine grant recipients. Grant award calculations are outlined in the bill and the matching amount districts must provide is based on the district's per-pupil expenditures as specified in the bill. The Department may assign priority status to districts that demonstrate rank and priority score as outlined with facility destruction, district growth, and equalized assessed valuation per pupil contributing factors.

The bill creates the "School Safety Construction Projects Matching Grant Fund" and requires that the program will sunset August 28, 2030.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2094 - Requires school districts to provide instruction in cursive writing
Sponsor: Rep. Renee Reuter (R)
Summary: HB 2094 -- INSTRUCTION IN CURSIVE WRITING

SPONSOR: Reuter

This bill requires school districts and charter schools to provide instruction in cursive writing by the end of the fifth grade, including a proficiency test of competency in reading and writing cursive.

This bill is the same as HB 1502 (2024) and HB 232 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2098 - Modifies provisions relating to employment security benefits
Sponsor: Rep. Terry Thompson (R)
Summary: HB 2098 -- EMPLOYMENT SECURITY (Thompson)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Public Policy

This bill modifies the definition of "wages" to include vacation pay, termination pay, severance pay and holiday pay for the week that it is payable. Further, to determine eligibility for unemployment benefits, if the total wages are paid in a lump sum, the wages are prorated on a weekly basis at the rate of pay received by the insured at the time of termination.

This bill is similar to HB 1115 and HB 726 (2023).
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
HB2101 - Modifies provisions relating to the "Champion for Children" tax credit for contributions to certain child advocacy organizations
Sponsor: Rep. Barbara Phifer (D)
Summary: HB 2101 -- CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Phifer

Currently, a tax credit may be claimed in an amount equal to 50% of a contribution made to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), child advocacy centers, or crisis care centers. Beginning January 1, 2024, this bill increases the tax credit to 70% of such contributions.

Currently, the maximum amount of tax credits that may be claimed for all such contributions made to such qualified agencies shall not exceed $1.5 million. Beginning July 1, 2024, this bill provides that the amount of tax credits that may be claimed in a fiscal year shall not be limited.

The program shall be reauthorized as of August 28, 2024, and shall expire on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This bill is similar to HB 1343 and SB 662 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2104 - Changes provisions governing educational scholarships
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R)
Summary: HB 2104 -- EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

SPONSOR: Christofanelli

This bill modifies the current amount of tax credits for contributions to educational assistance organizations(EAO) for Missouri Empowerment Scholarships from $50 million to $75 million and provides for an annual adjustment to align with any percentage increase in pupil transportation funding above 90%.

The bill also provides additional funding for students with limited English proficiency, free and reduced lunch, and for students with an approved individualized education program.

The bill removes requirements that home school parents pass a background check before receiving funds and for any year that the total contributions to EAOs exceeds $25 million an additional EAO may be certified above the current limit of 10.

This bill modifies the definition of "qualified student" from students residing in specific counties or cities with 30,000 inhabitants and 200% of the income for qualification for free and reduced lunch to any elementary or secondary school student in the state with up to 400% of such income standard.
Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2105 - Requires school districts to report information about the school board to the election authority
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R)
Summary: HB 2105 -- INFORMATION ABOUT SCHOOL BOARDS MEMBERS

SPONSOR: Christofanelli

This bill requires that before June 1st school districts submit to the election authority a report containing the name of the district, name, length and expiration of term for each board member and a hyper link to a web page or written documentation of the requirements and process for filing for candidacy to the board of education of the district.

The bill requires that the election authority in each district submit to the Secretary of State by July 1st, and the Secretary of State shall compile and post on the state website, an annual report listing the name, school district, election date, and expiration of term for each school board member by August 1st of each year.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2110 - Modifies provisions relating to property tax assessments of certain stationary property
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R)
Summary: HB 2110 -- PROPERTY TAX

SPONSOR: Christofanelli

Beginning January 1, 2025, the provisions of current law relating to depreciable tangible personal property will apply to all real property, placed in service at any time, that is stationary property used for transportation or storage of liquid and gaseous products, including water, sewage, and natural gas that is not propane or LP gas, but not including petroleum products.

The county assessor shall estimate the value of the stationary property by applying the depreciation table described in the bill to the original cost of the property. Taxpayers who own such stationary property shall provide the assessor with the original cost and the year placed in service.

This bill is similar to HB 349 & SS SB 533 (2023); HCS HB 2208 (2022).
Last Action:
02/20/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2111 - Modifies powers of the state auditor
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R)
Summary: HB 2111 -- POWERS OF THE STATE AUDITOR (Christofanelli)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Government Efficiency and Downsizing

This bill defines "improper governmental activity," as official misconduct, fraud, misappropriation, mismanagement, waste of resources, or a violation of State or Federal law, rule, or regulation.

The bill specifies that the Auditor or their authorized representative may audit all or part of any political subdivision or government entity if, after an investigation, the Auditor believes improper governmental activity has occurred, or when requested to by a prosecuting attorney, circuit attorney, or law enforcement agency as part of an investigation.

This bill provides that testimony and records obtained through subpoenas issued by the Auditor shall be subject to the same confidentiality and disclosure requirements for audit workpapers and related supportive material.

Currently, each fiscal year, the State Auditor must audit, adjust and settle all receipts and disbursements in the insurance dedicated fund and the insurance examiners' fund, and taxes certified and collected on foreign and domestic insurance premiums, surplus line premiums, and county taxes on property owned by insurance companies. This bill repeals the requirement to audit taxes certified and collected on foreign and domestic insurance premiums, surplus line premiums, and county taxes on property owned by insurance companies and requires that the results of audits of the Insurance Dedicated Fund and the Insurance Examiners' Fund shall be reported as part of the annual audit of the State's financial statements.

The bill adds records relating to reports of allegations of improper governmental activities to the list of records exempt from public disclosure.

This bill is similar to HB 1175 (2023).
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
HB2112 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers, incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and certain vitamins
Sponsor: Rep. Wendy Hausman (R)
Summary: HB 2112 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS

SPONSOR: Hausman

This bill authorizes a sales tax exemption for all sales of diapers, feminine hygiene products, and incontinence products, which are defined in the bill, as well as all sales of vitamins or minerals used to support prenatal and menstrual phases.

This bill is similar to SB 1127 (2024) and HB 351 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2113 - Establishes written parental consent requirements for individualized education programs (IEPs)
Sponsor: Rep. Philip Oehlerking (R)
Summary: HB 2113 -- SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS

SPONSOR: Oehlerking

This bill requires public schools that serve students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to implement parental consent procedures. Written parental consent shall be obtained and maintained for initial placement, annual placement, or other revisions to a student's IEP as outlined in the bill.

If the parents and local educational agency (LEA) only reach an agreement on certain IEP services or interim placement, the child's new IEP shall only be implemented in the areas of agreement with the current services remaining unchanged unless the local education agency follows procedures set forth in the bill which include a due process complaint and hearing.

If a child is identified as eligible for special education services, the parents have the right to visit any program proposed for their child. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall adopt a parental consent form, as described in the bill, that each school district shall provide to parents, and districts may not proceed with implementation of a student's IEP without the parental consent form completed except as provided in the bill.

This bill is similar to HB 1663 (2024).
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2123 - Establishes reporting requirements for school districts and the department of elementary and secondary education when a pupil commits suicide
Sponsor: Rep. Ian Mackey (D)
Summary: HB 2123 -- REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS

SPONSOR: Mackey

The bill requires that school districts report to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education the number of pupils that commit suicide within the district and that the Department publish such information annually.

This bill is the same as HB 1250 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2125 - Modifies provisions relating to age for school entry
Sponsor: Rep. Ian Mackey (D)
Summary: HB 2125 -- AGE FOR SCHOOL ENTRY

SPONSOR: Mackey

Currently, the minimum required attendance age for students is seven years of age. This bill lowers the age from seven to five years of age.

This bill is the same as HB 793 (2023) and is similar to HB 1942 (2022).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2129 - Creates provisions relating to attorney's fees for certain civil actions brought against political subdivisions
Sponsor: Rep. Ian Mackey (D)
Summary: HB 2129 -- CIVIL ACTIONS AGAINST POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS

SPONSOR: Mackey

This bill specifies that, in a civil action brought by the Attorney General against a political subdivision, including school districts, the court must award attorney's fees, court costs, and all other expenses incurred by the political subdivision or school district in defense of the action if such action is terminated in favor of the political subdivision or school district.

Additionally, any award of attorney's fees or other expenses incurred by the political subdivision or school district must be paid by funds appropriated to the Attorney General by the General Assembly on an annual basis for the expenses relating to the operation, personal costs, and equipment of the Attorney General's office, and cannot be paid from any other designated, statutory, or administrative fund.

This bill is similar to HB 798 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2139 - Establishes rules to govern contracts between contractors, subcontractors, and other parties to construction contracts
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Falkner (R)
Summary: HB 2139 -- CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS

SPONSOR: Falkner

This bill governs the enforceability of and requirements for construction contracts, as defined in the bill.

A construction contract shall be void and unenforceable if it provides that:

(1) A party may withhold payment to another party for either an amount in excess of the amount in dispute or for claims one party has against another party relating to or arising out of another contract or incident between those parties;

(2) A party cannot suspend performance or terminate the construction contract if another party fails to make prompt payments according to the construction contract terms;

(3) A party continues to work or supply, furnish, or provide materials, labor, or services if that party is not paid pursuant to the construction contract terms;

(4) A party performs, provides, or furnishes extra or additional construction work not included in the original scope of work without an agreement made and entered into before performing, providing, or furnishing the extra or additional work regarding the amount to be paid or the methodology for determining the amount to be paid;

(5) A party waives or releases any rights it has under the construction contract or by operation of law to recover any amount in dispute as a condition for receiving payment of an amount not in dispute;

(6) A party may take certain adverse actions as specified in the bill;

(7) The construction contract is subject to the laws of another state or that requires any litigation, arbitration, or other dispute resolution proceeding arising from the construction contract to be conducted in another state; and

(8) The payment by the owner to the contractor, or the payment by the contractor to a subcontractor or supplier, or the payment by a subcontractor to a sub-subcontractor or supplier at any tier, is a condition before payment to either the subcontractor, sub- subcontractor, or supplier at whatever tier who has performed in accordance with the construction contract terms. The bill also provides that in any construction contract between an owner and a contractor, the parties shall include a provision that requires the owner to pay the contractor within 40 days after receipt of an invoice or pay application following satisfactory completion of the portion of the work for which the contractor has sought payment. Any construction contract that does not contain such a provision shall be deemed to include the provision even if the contract states otherwise.

An owner shall not be required to pay amounts invoiced or subject to a contractor's pay application if subject to withholding due to the contractor's material noncompliance with the terms of the construction contract, provided that the amount withheld shall not exceed the reasonable value of the work in noncompliance. If an owner intends to withhold all or part of the amount invoiced by or subject to, the contractor's pay application, the owner shall give notice containing certain requirements as provided in the bill to the contractor in writing of its intention within 15 days after receipt of the invoice or pay application. The contractor shall within seven days after receipt of notice or of knowledge of withholding, provide a copy of the notice or information to each subcontractor affected. Failure by the owner or contractor to timely notify shall be deemed to be acceptance, subject only to the owner's or contractor's right to claim later that materially noncompliant work was subsequently discovered and that such work was not reasonably discoverable before the date for giving the notice.

In any construction contract between a contractor and a subcontractor, the parties shall include a provision that requires the contractor to pay the subcontractor within seven days after receipt of payment from the owner for the subcontractor's work. Any construction contract that does not contain such provision shall be deemed to include the provision even if the contract states otherwise. Within two business days after receipt of payment from the owner for one or more subcontractors' work, the contractor shall notify each subcontractor in writing, or electronically, of the amount of payment received. The contractor must within seven days of receipt of funds from the owner remit to each subcontractor its full share. Any funds received by the contractor from the owner for a subcontractor's work that the owner does not intend to pay to the subcontractor will promptly be returned to the owner. Partial payment by the owner to the contractor will not be a basis for the contractor to withhold more from the subcontractor than the owner withheld from the contractor for the subcontractor's work. This bill provides that a sub-subcontractor or supplier shall have the same rights and responsibilities in relation to its subcontractor as that subcontractor has to the contractor. Additionally, all rights and responsibilities shall flow down to all parties in the construction contract chain, no matter the tier.

The bill will not apply to the repair, remodeling, or addition to any owner-occupied residential property of four units or less and shall only apply to construction contracts or other agreements entered into on or after August 28, 2024.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2140 - Modifies provisions relating to elections
Sponsor: Rep. Peggy McGaugh (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2140 -- ELECTIONS (McGaugh)

Committee of Origin: Elections and Elected Officials

This bill modifies provisions related to elections.

The bill allows the officer or agency calling an election to notify the election authority responsible for conducting the election of an election via email.

Currently, the filing time for declarations of candidacy for offices in political subdivisions or special districts not otherwise specified in law or charter is from the 17th Tuesday prior to the election through the 14th Tuesday prior to the election.

This bill moves the filing time by one week, from the 16th Tuesday prior to the election to the 13th Tuesday prior to the election. The bill also provides that if the 13th Tuesday prior to the election is a state or federal holiday, the closing filing date shall be the next day that is not a state or federal holiday.

This bill specifies that the election authority for a political subdivision or special district must label taxation-related ballot measures submitted by the political subdivision or special district numerically or alphabetically, and that ballot measures cannot be labeled in any other descriptive manner.

Currently, covered voters eligible to register to vote, interstate former residents, and new residents may vote by absentee ballot for presidential and vice presidential electors. This bill allows such voters to vote at the office of the election authority on election day for such electors.

The bill specifies that lists of absentee voters with permanent disabilities shall be kept confidential and shall not be posted or displayed in an area open to the public nor shown to any unauthorized person.

Currently, each absentee ballot received by the election authority must be marked as received on the list and if any of the statements on any ballot envelope have not been completed, the absentee ballot is rejected. This bill adds that the election authority shall compare the signature on the ballot envelope with the signature of the voter on the voter's registration record and if the signature is inconsistent with the voter's signature on the voter's registration record, the envelope shall be rejected. Currently, provisional ballots are available at elections where federal or statewide candidates or statewide ballot measures are on the ballot. This bill makes provisional ballots available at any public election.

This bill adds threatening to harm or engaging in conduct reasonably calculated to harass or alarm an election official or member of one's family, attempting to pressure an election official to violate a provision of election law, and doxxing an election official or member of one's family as class three election offenses. If the prohibited activity results in death or bodily injury to an election official or member of the official's family, the offense shall be a class B felony.

Currently, electioneering activities are prohibited within a certain distance of a polling location on election day. This bill applies the same restrictions to locations where in-person absentee voting occurs during the absentee voting period. The bill also adds circulating initiative and referendum petitions to this list of prohibited activities within a certain distance of a polling location.

The bill repeals an existing sunset on a statutory provision granting the Secretary of State's office subpoena power for the purpose of investigating allegations of election offenses.

This bill creates the "Missouri Elections Sovereignty Act". The bill specifies that the State of Missouri reserves the right to determine the time, place, and manner of its own state elections, and declares that any federal laws regulating the same shall apply only to federal elections.

The bill also requires any ballot measure seeking approval to add, change, or modify a tax on real property to express the effect of the proposed change within the ballot language in terms of the change in real dollars owed per $100,000 of a property's market valuation.

The bill specifies that, if the voters in a political subdivision approve a temporary levy increase prior to the expiration of a previously approved temporary levy increase, the new tax rate ceiling will remain in effect only until the temporary levy increase expires under the terms originally approved by a vote of the people. At that time, the tax rate ceiling will be decreased by the amount of the temporary levy increase unless voters of the political subdivision are asked to approve an additional permanent increase and such increase is approved. Beginning with the general assessment performed in 2023, when voters in a school district serving a census-designated place with more than 27,000 but fewer than 30,000 inhabitants and located in a county with more than one million inhabitants passes an increase in the school district's tax rate, the school district shall use the current tax rate ceiling and the increase approved by the voters in establishing the rates of levy for the tax year immediately following the election. If the assessed valuation of real property in a school district sees a reduction in value in the tax year immediately following the election, the school district may raise its tax rates so that the revenue received from its local real property tax rates equals the amount the school district would have received from the increased rates of levy had there been no reduction in the assessed valuation of real property in the school district. In the event of an increased tax rate ceiling, such rate shall be revenue neutral as required in Article X, Section 22 of the Constitution of Missouri.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Local Government and Elections
HB2142 - Modifies provisions relating to an income tax deduction for broadband internet expansion grants
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Baker (R)
Summary: HB 2142 -- TAX DEDUCTION FOR BROADBAND GRANT FUNDS (Baker)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Tax Reform

Currently, a taxpayer may deduct from State income tax 100% of any Federal grant money received for the purpose of providing or expanding access to broadband Internet to areas of the State that lack access. This bill expands the deduction to included State or local grant money and limits the deduction only to money dispersed for this express purpose.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
HB2143 - Creates the "Foreign Adversary Divestment Act", requiring the state and local government entities to divest from investments in foreign adversaries
Sponsor: Rep. Brian Seitz (R)
Summary: HB 2143 -- DIVESTMENT FROM FOREIGN ADVERSARIES

SPONSOR: Seitz

This bill establishes the "Foreign Adversary Divestment Act".

All state-managed funds, as defined in the bill, are prohibited from holding investments in any foreign adversary, as defined in the bill, state-owned enterprise of a foreign adversary, company domiciled within a foreign adversary, or a company owned or controlled by any such entity.

State-managed funds are further prohibited from investing or depositing public funds in any bank domiciled or principally located within a foreign adversary.

Any state-managed fund in violation of this bill is required to immediately begin divestment of any public holdings, to be fully divested within two years of the effective date of the bill.

Within six months after the effective date of this bill, the State Treasurer shall identify companies subject to these restrictions and distribute a list of these restricted companies to each state- managed fund. Methods of gathering this information are specified in the bill.
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2145 - Removes an expiration date of provisions governing participation in athletics competitions
Sponsor: Rep. Brian Seitz (R)
Summary: HB 2145 -- RELATING TO ATHLETICS ORGANIZED BY SEX

SPONSOR: Seitz

Currently schools are prohibited from allowing any students to compete in an athletics competition designated for a specific biological sex unless that biological sex matches the student's official birth certificate. This provision is set to expire on August 28th, 2027.

This bill removes the expiration date for this language.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2147 - Changes provisions governing the statewide assessment system
Sponsor: Rep. Mike Henderson (R)
Summary: HB 2147 -- STUDENT ASSESSMENT

SPONSOR: Henderson

This bill modifies language relating to the statewide assessment system by requiring that the State Board of Education (SBE) make the system student-centered and use assessments across the school year that support teaching, learning, and program improvement, so that a summative profile is developed of the student's learning.

The bill requires the SBE to select an assessment that meets the federal requirements under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the assessment may only be used to ensure compliance. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is also required to apply for a waiver of the (ESSA) testing requirements.

The requirements for the assessment are described in the bill and include that it show student skill evolution, measure growth during and across years, and provide multiple opportunities for students to show proficiency.

The bill also requires the SBE to adopt a statewide accountability system for public schools including virtual schools that will annually measure academic achievement, progress in elementary schools, graduation rate for high schools and school quality or student success. The current school accountability report card will be transitioned to an accountability dashboard beginning in the 2024-25 school year.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year and in each subsequent year the school accountability report card must provide each student's grade-level equivalence as measured on the statewide assessment.

Data relating to the grade-level equivalence must be searchable on a building-by-building, school-by-school, district-by-district, and statewide level. Such data must display a percentage of students that are at grade level or above for each level, provided that no data will disclose personal identification of any student except to a student's parent.

The bill requires the SBE to identify and recognize by July 1, 2025, a minimum of two national school accreditation agencies and beginning in the 2027-28 school year allow for districts that have an accreditation from either of the national agencies to be considered fully accredited for state purposes.

The bill modifies provisions of the School Turnaround Program to reflect updates to the state accountability system and to provide comprehensive support and improvement schools or targeted support and improvement schools with assistance.

This bill is similar to HCS HB 49 (2023).
Last Action:
02/15/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Elementary and Secondary Education
HB2156 - Modifies provisions relating to certain public school retirement systems boards of trustees
Sponsor: Rep. Philip Oehlerking (R)
Summary: HB 2156 -- PUBLIC SCHOOL RETIREMENT SYSTEMS

SPONSOR: Oehlerking

Currently, the composition of the board of trustees is 11; this bill increases the number of trustees to 13.

The additional two trustees would be appointed for four year terms by the Missouri public charter school association. The trustees should have experience or qualifications relevant to public charter schools and the retirement system. Their appointment would be under similar rules and regulations applicable to other trustees including taking the oath of office as indicated in the bill.

Currently, it is required to have six votes for a decision by the trustees at any meeting of the board of trustees, this bill changes the number of required votes to seven. The bill leaves unchanged the current requirement for each trustee to have one vote in the board of trustees.
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2157 - Establishes standards to promote the safety of minors using the internet and social media
Sponsor: Rep. Josh Hurlbert (R)
Summary: HB 2157 -- CHILDREN'S INTERNET SAFETY ACT

SPONSOR: Hurlbert

This bill requires the local board of education for each school district to develop, prior to June 30, 2025, an Internet safety policy for student access to district-provided Internet. The bill specifies the requirements that the policy must address.

The bill additionally requires the state board of education to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations that require certain curricula for students in grades six through 12 on the social, emotional, and physical effects of social media. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall make available online the instructional material being used, and each district school board shall notify parents of its availability.

The bill also modifies provisions relating to written policies of discipline by requiring the policy to feature a notice that use of a wireless communications device includes the possibility of the imposition of disciplinary action by the school or criminal penalties if the device is used in a criminal act. While a student may possess a wireless communications device when he or she is on school property or at a school function, use of a wireless communications device is prohibited during instructional time, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.

This bill establishes the "Children's Internet Safety Act", specifying that beginning July 1, 2025, a social media company shall not permit a Missouri resident who is a minor to be an account holder or to open an account on the social media company's social media platform unless the Missouri resident has the express consent of a parent or guardian. The social media company is required to verify the age of an existing or new Missouri account holder and, if the existing or new account holder is a minor, confirm the minor has consent as required by the bill.

Moreover, the Attorney General, with stakeholder input, is required to promulgate rules to:

(1) Establish processes or means by which a social media company shall meet age verification requirements;

(2) Establish acceptable methods of identification, which are not to be limited to a valid identification card issues by a government entity; (3) Establish requirements for providing confirmation of the receipt of any information provided by a person seeking to verify his or her age;

(4) Establish processes to confirm that a parent or guardian has provided consent for the minor child to open or use an account as specified;

(5) Establish requirements for retaining, protecting, and securely disposing of any information obtained by a social media company or its agent as a result of complying with the provisions of the bill;

(6) Require that information obtained by a social media company or its agent, for the purposes of complying with the required provisions of this bill, is retained only for the purpose of compliance;

(7) If permitting an agent to process verification requirements, ensure that the agent have its principal place of business in the United States;

(8) Require other applicable state agencies to comply with any rules under the provisions of this bill; and

(9) Comply with state and federal law.

The bill requires social media companies to:

(1) Prohibit direct messaging between the Missouri minor's account and any user that is not linked to the minor's account through the express consent of the account holder;

(2) Prevent the sharing of the minor's account in search results for any user that is not linked to the account through the express consent of the account holder;

(3) Prevent the display of any advertising to the account holder;

(4) Refrain from collecting or using any personal information from the account other than what is necessary to comply with the provisions of this bill; or

(5) Refrain from the promotion of target or suggested groups, services, products, posts, accounts, or users to the account holder.

Beginning on July 1, 2025, social media companies are required to provide to a parent or guardian who has given consent for a Missouri minor account holder with a password or other means to access the account. Social media companies are also required, beginning on July 1, 2025, to prohibit a minor account holder from accessing his or her account during the hours of 10:30pm to 6:30am, unless access has been specifically modified as provided in the bill.

Any consumer complaints that allege a violation of the provisions of this bill shall be filed with the Attorney General, who has the exclusive authority to administer and enforce the requirements of this bill. The bill specifies that the Attorney General shall, subject to the ability to cure an alleged violation under the provisions of this bill, impose an administrative fine of up to $2500 for each violation, and the Attorney General shall bring an action in court to enforce the provisions of the bill.

The bill specifies the abilities of the court in a court action by the Attorney General to enforce a provision of this bill. At least 30 days before the day on which the Attorney General initiates an enforcement action against a person who is subject to the requirements of the provisions of this bill, the Attorney General is required to provide the person with a written notice identifying each allegation; and an explanation of the basis for each allegation. The bill additionally establishes provisions for instances when the Attorney General shall initiate a civil action.

The Attorney General shall be required to compile an annual report to the General Assembly relating to the administration and enforcement of the provisions of this bill.

Beginning July 1, 2025, a person is allowed to bring an action against a person that does not comply with a requirement of the provisions of this bill.

Beginning July 1, 2025, the Attorney General shall administer and enforce the provisions of this bill and shall audit the records of a social media company in order to determine compliance or to investigate a complaint. Also beginning on July 1, 2025, a social media company shall not use a practice, design, or feature on the company's platform that the company knows about, or through the exercise of reasonable care should know about, that causes a Missouri minor account holder to have an addiction to the social media platform. The bill specifies the penalties a social media company shall be subject to if found to have violated the provisions of this bill, as well as an example of an instance that does not subject the social media company to a civil penalty.

Beginning July 1, 2025, a person may bring an action as specified in the bill against a social media company to recover damages incurred after July 1, 2025, by a Missouri minor account holder for any addiction, or financial, physical, or emotional harm suffered as a consequence of using or having an account on the company's social media platform. The bill specifies the provisions of such a suit, and what awards to which the minor seeking relief is entitled.

A waiver or limitation of any of the following is void as unlawful, is against public policy, and a court or arbitrator shall not enforce or give effect to the waiver, notwithstanding any contract or choice-of-law provision in a contract:

(1) A protection or requirement provided under the provisions of this bill;

(2) The right to cooperate with the Attorney General or to file a complaint with the Attorney General;

(3) The right to a private right of action as provided in the bill; or

(4) The right to recover actual damages, statutory damages, civil penalties, costs, or fees, as allowed and specified in the bill.

Moreover, any commercial entity that knowingly or intentionally publishes or distributes material that is harmful to minors on the Internet from a website that contains a substantial portion of such material shall verify that any person attempting to access such material is 18 years of age or older through the use of:

(1) A commercially available database that is regularly used by businesses or governmental entities for the purpose of age and identity verification; or

(2) Another commercially reasonable method of age and identity verification.

Any commercial entity that violates the provisions of this bill shall be subject to civil liability for damages resulting from a minor's access to such material, and reasonable attorney's fees and costs.

Nothing in this bill shall be construed to impose an obligation or liability on a provider or user of an interactive computer service on the Internet.
Last Action:
03/12/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1993
HB2160 - Establishes provisions governing duties and responsibilities of public education entities
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Baker (R)
Summary: HB 2160 -- PUBLIC EDUCATION ENTITIES

SPONSOR: Baker

This bill adds compensation and benefits for public employees, including employees of public institutions of higher education and public school districts and charter schools, to the Missouri Accountability Portal Database (Section 37.850, RSMo).

The bill establishes the "Parents' Bill of Rights Act of 2023" and provides a list of rights that parents may require school districts that receive federal or state money to follow.

Rights listed in the bill include but are not limited to:

(1) The right to review curricula, books, and instructional materials;

(2) The right to visit school during school hours, receive school records, and be notified about situations that affect their minor child's safety; and

(3) The right to have sufficient accountability and transparency regarding school boards.

School district restrictions are also outlined in the bill and include:

(1) Limits on nondisclosure agreements to review curriculum or for IEP meetings and certain other meeting and hearings specified in the bill;

(2) Allowing student involvement in school assemblies, field trips, or other extracurricular activities without written authorization from the parent;

(3) Biometric data collection; and

(4) Public meeting requirements that allow public comment. Each school district and public school must notify parents of all reported incidents pertaining to student safety including, but not limited to, any felony or misdemeanor committed by teachers or other school employees.

Each school board shall adopt policies that will ensure accountability and transparency for parents in the district as outlined in the bill, and employees of the school are prohibited from coercing a minor child from withholding information from a parent. The bill provides details on civil actions that may be taken against a school district and provides that withholdings from state funding may occur for noncompliance (Section 161.841).

This bill requires that beginning in the 2025-26 school year that all school districts and charter schools post on the school's website the approved school curriculum that will be used for pupil instruction.

Any changes to the curriculum must be updated on the website within 30 days and notice must be provided in a form of written communication with parents. Any curriculum that is trademarked or copyrighted may not be widely disseminated to the public.

The bill requires that districts and charter schools provide a link to the library management system for the district or charter school for parents to access book title, author, and bibliography information, along with a system for notification of any book accessed by a parent's child.

The bill provides details on civil actions that may be taken against a school district and provides that withholdings from state funding may occur for noncompliance (Section 170.231).

The bill specifies that teachers and students cannot be compelled to adopt, affirm, or profess ideas in violation of Title IV and VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 including but not limited to: that individuals of any race, ethnicity, color, or national origin are inherently superior or inferior; and that individuals, by virtue of their race, ethnicity, color, or national origin, bear collective guilt and are inherently responsible for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race, ethnicity, color, or national origin.

Students, parents, or teachers may file a complaint with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or the state Attorney General for violations (Section 170.355).

This bill is similar to HCS HB 482 (2023).
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2161 - Specifies that the St. Louis City school board shall fill any vacancy that occurs in such school board outside of the normal election cycle
Sponsor: Rep. Peggy McGaugh (R)
Summary: HB 2161 -- SCHOOL BOARD VACANCIES

SPONSOR: McGaugh

Currently, school board vacancies in Kansas City public school district are filled by special election. This bill repeals that provision, filling such vacancies by appointment by members of the board.

Currently, school board vacancies in St. Louis City metropolitan school district are filled by appointment by the Mayor of St. Louis City. This bill repeals that provision, filling such vacancies by appointment by members of the board.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2168 - Provides a sales and use tax exemption for certain machinery and equipment used in providing broadband services
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HB 2168 -- SALES AND USE TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: McMullen

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill exempts from state and local sales and use tax all sales, purchases or use of machinery and equipment used to provide broadband communications services by a broadband communications service provider. To qualify for the exemption, a provider must provide to the seller a certificate in writing of the exemption. The Director of the Department of Revenue must allow a provider to enter into a direct pay agreement with the Department to pay any applicable sales and use taxes on the equipment.
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
H - Referred to House Committee on Utilities
HB2173 - Creates a grant program for employers to enhance cybersecurity
Sponsor: Rep. Dan Houx (R)
Summary: HB 2173 -- GRANTS TO EMPLOYERS FOR CYBERSECURITY

SPONSOR: Houx

This bill creates a one-time grant for enhancing cybersecurity for employers, distributed by the Department of Economic Development.

No grant distributed in this program shall exceed 90% of the total cost of a cybersecurity enhancement by an employer.

In distributing grants, the Department shall reserve 50% of grant funding for qualifying employers with no more than 50 employees until January 1, after which time any amount of such reserved amounts may be issued to any otherwise eligible employer.

The bill limits the amount that may be distributed in any fiscal year to $10 million and the limit to any individual employer to $15,000.

The Department shall create an online application form available on its website which is to be the sole means of applying for grants.

The bill limits the factors that the Department may consider in assessing an employer's funding plans.

An employer who receives a grant shall submit documentation within one year from distribution showing how the grant funds were spent.

In the case of employers with employees and locations outside of Missouri, grant funds shall be used only for locations and employees residing in Missouri.

This bill is similar to HB 668 (2023) and HB 2436 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2174 - Exempts the retail sale of food from state sales and use tax
Sponsor: Rep. Adam Schnelting (R)
Summary: HB 2174 -- SALES AND USE TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Schnelting

Beginning January 1, 2025, there shall be no state sales or use tax levied or imposed on any retail food.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2177 - Modifies provisions relating to age for school entry
Sponsor: Rep. Bruce Sassmann (R)
Summary: HB 2177 -- COMPULSORY SCHOOL AGE

SPONSOR: Sassmann

Currently, the minimum required attendance age for students is seven years of age. This bill lowers the age from seven to six years of age.

This bill is similar to HB 793 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2178 - Changes provisions governing charter schools
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 2178 -- CHARTER SCHOOL EXPANSION

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill expands where charter schools may be operated to include any school district located within a charter county, currently this includes St. Charles, Jefferson and St. Louis counties, as well as in any district that includes a municipality with a population greater than 30,000.

Procedures relating to changes in a school district's accreditation status that affect charter schools are repealed under this bill as are "workplace charter schools" (Section 160.400, RSMo).

The bill modifies language that restricts which charter schools may receive state aid (Section 160.415).

As specified in this bill, St. Louis City shall not adopt, enforce, impose, or administer an ordinance, local policy, or local resolution that prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful education purpose by a charter school.

St. Louis City may not impose, enforce, or apply any deed restriction that expressly, or by its operation, prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful educational purpose by a charter school.

If St. Louis City offers property of the city for sale, lease, or rent, St. Louis shall not refuse to sell, lease, or rent to a charter school solely because the charter school intends to use the property for an educational purpose (Section 160.422).

This bill is similar to HB 158 (2023) and HB 2087 (2022).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2180 - Prohibits firearms businesses within one thousand feet of a child care facility, school, or religious organization
Sponsor: Rep. Deb Lavender (D)
Summary: HB 2180 -- FIREARMS BUSINESSES

SPONSOR: Lavender

This bill prevents any county, board, or commission thereof; municipality or board, council, or commission thereof from granting a license to a federal firearms licensee to establish or operate a firearms business within 1,000 feet of any charter school, child care facility, parochial school, private school, public school, or religious organization in existence on or after August 28, 2024.

For purposes of the bill, 1,000 feet is measured in a straight line from the firearms business to one of the entities listed in the bill.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2183 - Modifies and establishes provisions relating to child care
Sponsor: Rep. Wendy Hausman (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 2183 & 2529 -- CHILD CARE

SPONSOR: Hausman

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Children and Families by a vote of 9-0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2183.

This bill enacts several provisions relating to child care.



BUSINESS DISTRICTS (Section 71.796)

The bill allows governing bodies, in establishing and maintaining business districts, to lease or contract with child care facilities in addition to current abilities to construct and operate such facilities.

SUCCESS TAX CREDIT (Section 135.2560)

This bill establishes the "Supporting Use of Child Care for Economic Stability and Security Tax Credit".

Beginning January 1, 2025, an eligible taxpayer shall be allowed a nonrefundable tax credit equal to the employment-related expenses for up to two qualifying children, not to exceed:

(1) Expenses of $1,800 for each child who was under two years of age at any time during the tax year for which the tax credit is being sought; and

(2) Expenses of $1,200 for each child who was two years of age or older during all of the tax year and under six years of age at any time during the tax year for which the tax credit is being sought.

A tax credit under this proposal shall not be claimed by more than one taxpayer for the same child. This tax credit shall be nontransferable and nonrefundable, and shall not be carried back or forward to any other tax year.

The program sunsets on December 31, 2030.

PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION (Section 137.099)

Upon voter approval of a Constitutional amendment, this bill authorizes a property tax exemption of all property, real and personal, used primarily by a child care facility for the care of a child outside of his or her home by a child care provider.

The bill grants an annual exemption equal to 50% of the applicable state and local property assessed on the real and personal property of the child care home to the extent such property is used for child care.



SMOKING IN CHILD CARE FACILITIES (Section 191.776)

The bill prohibits smoking or any other use of tobacco or marijuana products in any area of a child care facility that is licensed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. A person in violation of this provision relating to tobacco shall be guilty of an infraction, and a person in violation of this provision relating to marijuana shall be guilty of a class B misdemeanor.

SAFE SLEEP POLICY (Section 210.223)

This bill adds a new provision providing that, for licensed child care facilities that provide care to children under one year of age, any costs incurred in the completion of required training on safe sleep policies may be paid by the employees or volunteers of the child care facility; the facility itself; a public or private third party; or the State, subject to appropriation.

REGISTRATION FORMS FOR CERTAIN CARE WORKERS

Currently, the Department of Health and Senior Services requires child-care workers, elder-care workers, personal-care workers, and mental health workers to register, as well as complete a criminal background check. The bill adds public or private third parties, as well as the State, subject to appropriation, to the list of eligible entities that may pay the costs of the background check.

BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR CHILD CARE STAFF MEMBERS (Sections 210.906 & 210.1080)

This bill adds public or private third parties, as well as the State (subject to appropriation), to the list of eligible entities that may pay the cost of a criminal background check for a child care staff member prior to his or her employment or presence in a child care facility.



The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill. PROPONENTS: Those who support the bill say that this is a pro- business and pro-family measure that should not be construed to be a fix for everything, but works to address the workforce shortage in the state and could be used to help pay workers more, make necessary updates to facilities, and invest in the community.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Hausman; Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Missouri Catholic Conference; and Campaign Life Missouri.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that expanding child care has led to separate standards between child care centers, daycares, and school daycare centers. A more appropriate fix would be to focus on mothers, and tax credits should be used to help mothers stay home with their children.

Testifying against the bill were Lisa Pannett; and Arnie C.Dienoff.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2184 - Modifies provisions governing school performance measures
Sponsor: Rep. Mike Haffner (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2184 -- ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES FOR SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Haffner

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education by a vote of 13 to 2.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2184.

This bill adds student growth to the categories of information required to be included in the school accountability report cards of all school districts, public schools, and public charter schools under current law. The bill describes how student growth shall be calculated, with reference to a comparison of students' performance on statewide assessments in the current academic year to their performance in prior years.

By July 15 of each year, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall provide a confidential version of the school accountability report cards to each school building, school district, and charter school. By August 15 of each year, DESE shall publish the school accountability report cards on the DESE website and DESE shall include in its annual budget request sufficient resources in personnel and equipment to prepare the report cards.

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year and in all subsequent school years, the bill also establishes provisions relating to the preparation of annual performance ratings for public schools based on students' academic performance. The bill sets forth a methodology for calculating the annual performance ratings for elementary and secondary schools and school districts and charter schools based on students' year-to-year academic growth and achievement. For elementary schools, year-to-year student growth and overall student achievement shall each be weighted at 50% in the calculation, as specified in the bill. For secondary schools, DESE shall create a college and career readiness measure that is based on statistical models that identify schools' contributions to students' long-term outcomes separately from their prior achievement. DESE shall consider certain factors when measuring college and career readiness, such as Advanced Placement scores and International Baccalaureate program scores. For secondary schools, 60% of the annual performance rating score shall be based on a combination of the attainment of college and career readiness credentials and student growth, as described in the bill, and 40% of the score shall be based on a combination of student achievement on end-of-course exams and the five-year high school gradation rate.

Each school that has students who are enrolled in the school for the full academic year and who are tested using the statewide assessments shall receive an annual performance rating score and an annual report card. However, a school shall not earn an annual performance rating score based on students' academic performance if fewer than 10 students are tested in the statewide assessments.

DESE shall promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this bill, and shall additionally have the authority to promulgate rules including incentives or rewards for schools, school districts, and charter schools that receive an annual performance rating score of 90% or more or that increase their score by 10% over a three-year period.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill will provide an emphasis on growth and measures what matters most. Adding a value-added growth model is important as it truly measures not just achievement but anticipated growth for individual students. Schools should be held accountable if the students in the district are not achieving at the level anticipated and when students struggle the future is impacted. Providing information to parents is important and this bill will help parents become more aware of how their child is performing.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Haffner; Stacey Preis, Aligned; Dean Johnson, Quality Schools Coalition; Danielle Holcomb; Jillian Raining Bird; and Tricia McGhee, Revolucion Educativa.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that while it is important to see discussion on accountability, having that accountability being tied to an end of the year test misses the mark. There are ways to make report cards clearer and there is an issue with districts and parents not being able to see the test as there is no transparency. The current accreditation system factors in more than just a test score as schools are doing more than just academics and deserve credit for the areas that cannot be tested.

Testifying in person against the bill were Lisa Pannett, Armorvine; Keith D. Smith, Kansas City Public Schools; Otto Fajen, Missouri Nea; Steven R. Carroll, Coop School Districts Of Greater Kansas City; Mike Lodewegen, Missouri Council Of School Administrators. Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2195 - Modifies the required school year start date for school districts in which a charter school operates
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Coleman (R)
Summary: HB 2195 -- PUBLIC SCHOOL CALENDARS

SPONSOR: Coleman

This bill allows any school district in which a charter school is operating to set an opening school date earlier than 14 calendar days prior to the first Monday in September.

This bill is the same as SB 882 (2024).
Last Action:
01/03/2024 
H - Read First Time
HB2197 - Requires a state agency to repeal two existing rules before enacting a new one
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Hudson (R)
Summary: HB 2197 -- ADMINISTRATIVE RULES

SPONSOR: Hudson

This bill prohibits a rule proposed by a department, agency, commission, or board from taking effect unless the entity proposing the rule also repeals at least two existing rules.

This bill is the same as HB 1961 (2024) and HB 269 (2023).
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1961
HB2198 - Provides protections against ideological discrimination in postsecondary education
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Hudson (R)
Summary: HB 2198 -- PROTECTIONS AGAINST IDEOLOGICAL DISCRIMINATION

SPONSOR: Hudson

This bill defines "discriminatory ideology" as including any ideology that promotes the differential treatment of any individual or group of individuals based on characteristics of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, national origin, or ancestry.

The bill prohibits any public institution of post secondary education from requiring any applicant, employee, student, or contractor to endorse such discriminatory ideology. The bill also prevents institutions from requiring a "diversity, equity, and inclusion statement", as defined in the bill, from such individuals. Any individual that is determined to have been compelled to endorse a discriminatory ideology or submit a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement, or that is adversely affected by preferential considerations provided to any individual that endorses such ideology or submits such statement, may pursue an action for injunctive or declaratory relief against such institution, as provided in the bill.

This bill requires academic institutions to develop a policy for compliance by July 1, 2025. The policy shall include disciplinary measures for an employee who violates the policy. Beginning July 1, 2026, institutions shall submit an annual written report on compliance to the Joint Committee on Higher Education.

This bill is the same as HB 1737 (2024) and HCS HB 1196 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2200 - Allows an additional thirty days for individuals sixty-two years of age and older to file property tax assessment appeals
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron Crossley (D)
Summary: HB 2200 -- PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS

SPONSOR: Crossley

This bill gives persons 62 years of age and older an additional 30 calendar days after the date provided by law to file an appeal of the assessment of property to the county board of equalization.
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Referred to House-Special Committee on Property Tax Reform
HB2205 - Authorizes a tax credit for donations made to certain organizations
Sponsor: Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins (D)
Summary: HB 2205 -- TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Collins

Subject to appropriation, beginning January 1, 2025, this bill establishes a tax credit equal to 50% of a taxpayer's contribution to a qualified organization that provides support services and assistance to justice-involved individuals and people in recovery from substance use disorders.

Qualified organizations shall not have:

(1) An annual budget in excess of $5 million;

(2) Any employee who receives more than $125,000 in annual compensation; or

(3) Affiliation with any housing organization unless accredited by the National Alliance of Recovery Residences or Adult and Teen Challenge USA.

Qualified organizations are permitted to decline contributions.

Any tax credit that cannot be claimed for the tax year in which the contribution is made may be carried forward to the next four succeeding tax years until the full credit has been claimed.

No taxpayer shall be allowed to claim a credit unless the total amount of their contribution has a value of at least $250, except for any excess credit carried forward.

The cumulative amount of tax credits allowed to all taxpayers shall not exceed $2.5 million per tax year. In any given calendar year, no more than 20% of the total available tax credits shall be authorized for contributions to a single qualified organization.

The tax credit created in this bill shall be subject to the provisions of the Tax Credit Accountability Act, and shall sunset on December 31st, six years after the effective date.

This bill is similar to HB 1444 (2024); HB 1028 (2023); HB 2527 (2022); and SB 547 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2206 - Relating to political subdivisions
Sponsor: Rep. Richard West (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2206 -- POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS

SPONSOR: West

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Government Efficiency and Downsizing by a vote of 8 to 4.

This bill requires political subdivisions, by July 1, 2025, to adopt a meeting speaker policy to ensure that certain requirements set out in the bill are followed at each meeting of the governing body of the political subdivision.

The requirements include setting an amount of time at the beginning of every meeting for public comment; not banning or removing an individual from a meeting unless he or she is committing or has committed a crime at the place where the meeting is held; and providing a method of submitting written public comment for persons who cannot attend the meeting.

The governing body may include in its speaker policy a time limit on individual speakers of not less than three minutes per speaker, and a cumulative limit of one hour of public comment or 20 speakers, whichever is less based upon the number of minutes designated per speaker, and identifying information of each speaker.

If the governing body needs to hold a meeting on less than 24 hours' notice, or if the meeting will be conducted exclusively electronically, or at a time that is not reasonably convenient for the public, the nature of the good cause justifying departure from the normal requirements must be stated in the minutes. Meetings held in person and not subject to being closed under the Sunshine Law will be conducted so as to allow in-person public attendance.

This bill further relates to political subdivisions. Please see the Summary Sheet for a detailed list of the additional language added in the committee version of the House bill.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill addresses meetings of governing bodies of political subdivisions. The bill mandates that political subdivisions adopt speaker policies for conducting public hearings or open forums, with minimum standards specified, while allowing political subdivisions to otherwise determine their own policies. Additionally, the bill requires political subdivisions to hold open forums to facilitate public input. However, one witness residing in a particular political subdivision notes that it does not currently allow time for public comment, potentially resorting to police intervention for those expressing disagreement. This situation undermines confidence in the system, as dissenting voices risk being silenced by the political subdivision. Consequently, individuals may fear attending meetings due to the risk of being shut down, ridiculed, or embarrassed, discouraging their participation. Even when individuals submit statements as required by policy, political subdivisions may fail to address them by omitting them from the agenda. Furthermore, the requirement of a $50 deposit before responding to a Sunshine request by political subdivision adds an additional barrier. While the bill is commendable, it lacks mechanisms for citizen enforcement, rendering it toothless. Therefore, while proponents encourage its passage, they acknowledge its limitations in effectively safeguarding citizens' rights.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative West; Kerri Vanmeveren; and April Cederburg.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB2211 - Establishes provisions relating to the creation of a vapor product directory
Sponsor: Rep. Lane Roberts (R)
Summary: HB 2211 -- IMPORTING VAPING PRODUCTS

SPONSOR: Roberts

This bill requires that on or before January 1, 2025, and annually thereafter, every manufacturer of vapor products sold in this state shall certify that the manufacturer agrees to comply with the requirements specified in the bill. The manufacturer must also certify that they have received a marketing authorization for the vapor product from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the vapor product was marketed in the United States as of August 8, 2016, the manufacturer submitted a premarket tobacco product application for the vapor product to the FDA on or before September 9, 2020, and the application remains under review or a final decision on the application has not taken effect. A manufacturer shall submit a certification form that lists each vapor product sold in the state.

Each annual certification form shall be accompanied by a copy of the marketing authorization or other order for the vapor product issued by the FDA or evidence of submission of the premarket tobacco product application, and a payment of $200 for each vapor product the first time a manufacturer submits a certification form for the product and $200 annually thereafter for each vapor product. A manufacturer is required to notify the Director within 30 days of any material change to the certification form.

On or before June 1, 2025, the Director of the Department of Revenue shall maintain and make publicly available a directory that lists all vapor product manufacturers and vapor products for which certification forms have been submitted. A manufacturer must be provided notice and given 15 days to correct any deficiencies before the manufacturer or product can be removed from the directory. If a product is removed from the directory, each retailer, distributor, and wholesaler shall have 21 days, from the day the product is removed from the directory, to remove the product from its inventory.

Beginning June 1, 2025, or on the date the Director first makes the directory publicly available, only a vapor product that is included in the directory may be sold.

A wholesaler, distributor, or retailer of vapor products who violates this provision shall receive the following penalties:

(1) For a first violation, a civil penalty of $500 per day for each product until the offending product is removed from the market or is properly listed in the directory; (2) For a second violation within a 12 month period, suspension of the licensee's license for at least 14 days;

(3) For a third violation within a 12 month period, suspension of the licensee's license for at least 60 days;

(4) For a fourth and subsequent violation within a 12 month period, suspension of the licensee's license for at least 1 year; and

A manufacturer of vapor products whose products are not listed in the directory and are sold in this state is subject to a civil penalty of $500 per day for each product in violation until the offending product is removed from the market or properly listed in the directory. Any manufacturer of vapor products that falsely represents any of the information required by this bill shall be guilty of a class C misdemeanor for each false representation and a repeated violation shall constitute an unfair trade practice under Sections 375.930 RSMo to Section 375.948 RSMo.

The Director or Attorney General may examine the records of any distributor, wholesaler, or retailer to determine compliance. The Director or Attorney General may make inspections at any time during normal business hours, and may inspect the premises to ascertain whether non compliant vapor products are present. Unannounced follow-up inspections of all non compliant distributors, wholesalers, and retailers are required within 30 days of any violation. Results of such inspections shall be made available to the public upon request. The director shall disclose any compliance related information that is requested by the Attorney General.

Any vapor products that are in violation are considered contraband goods and may be seized without a warrant. The cost of such seizure and resulting destruction of offending vapor products will be paid by the person from whom the products are confiscated.

Any nonresident manufacturer of vapor products that is not registered to do business in the state shall appoint an agent to receive any service of process resulting from any proceeding against the nonresident manufacturer to be included in the directory. The manufacturer shall notify the department of any appointment or termination of an agent, as specified in the bill.

Any manufacturer who has not appointed an agent shall be deemed to have appointed the Secretary of State as its agent for service of process. The appointment of the Secretary of State for this service shall not satisfy inclusion or retention within the directory. On or before December 31, 2025, and annually thereafter, the Director shall provide a report to the General Assembly regarding the directory.
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
H - Removed from House Hearing Agenda - House-Crime Prevention and Public Safety - 3/7/24 - 9:30 am or Upon Adjournment - HR 7
HB2225 - Changes the filing dates for political subdivision and special district elections
Sponsor: Rep. Gary Bonacker (R)
Summary: HB 2225 -- CANDIDATE FILING DATES

SPONSOR: Bonacker

Currently, if the opening date for filing a declaration of candidacy for any office in a political subdivision or special district is not required by law or charter, the filing date is the 17th Tuesday prior to the election, and the closing filing date for such offices is the 14th Tuesday prior to the election.

This bill changes those dates, with the opening filing date occurring on the 16th Tuesday prior to the election, and the closing filing date occurring on the 11th Tuesday prior to the election.
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Elections and Elected Officials
HB2249 - Requires all school districts and charter schools to provide early childhood education programs
Sponsor: Rep. Crystal Quade (D)
Summary: HB 2249 -- EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SPONSOR: Quade

This bill modifies current eligibility for early childhood education programs, beginning in the 2024-25 school year to allow all students between the ages of three and five to count in the school's average daily attendance.

The bill specifies that in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years all districts and charter schools that currently offer kindergarten must provide or contract with an eligible early childhood program. Beginning in the 2027-28 school year districts and charters may no longer contract with a program and must offer it as part of the public education program of the district or charter school.

In the school years between 2024-25 and 2027-28 schools that are not currently offering an early childhood education program may request money for any eligible expenses to develop such a program. Eligible expenses include equipment, staff, and space requirement expansion. The bill creates the "Early Childhood Education Program Start-Up Fund" to provide clarification on the appropriation and disbursements for this Program.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2250 - Requires career and technical education programs to offer courses leading to insurance licensing and certification
Sponsor: Rep. Michael Johnson (D)
Summary: HB 2250 -- INSURANCE LICENSURE COURSE CREATION

SPONSOR: Johnson (23)

This bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop performance standards, course competencies, and a written model curriculum framework related to insurance licensing and certification for all career and technical education programs by the 2025-26 school year and for all career and technical education programs to adopt the model curriculum or similar curriculum by the 2026-27 school year.

This bill is similar to HB 987 (2023).
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2252 - Requires school districts to excuse students with mental or behavioral health concerns from attendance at school
Sponsor: Rep. Michael Johnson (D)
Summary: HB 2252 -- EXCUSED ABSENCE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

SPONSOR: Johnson (23)

This bill requires that beginning in the 2025-26 school year, school districts must excuse an absence, for students in sixth grade to 12th grade, from school attendance requirements, if the absence is for a mental health appointment. The bill specifies requirements for proof of each occurrence and notification to the school.

This bill is similar to HB 728 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2259 - Modifies provisions relating to motor vehicle assessment valuations
Sponsor: Rep. Renee Reuter (R)
Summary: HB 2259 -- MOTOR VEHICLE ASSESSMENT

SPONSOR: Reuter

Currently, for vehicles less than two years older than the model year, a county assessor may use a value other than the average trade-in value without performing a physical inspection.

This bill specifies that, the true value of motor vehicles is equal to, but no higher than, the trade-in value as published in the October issue of the National Automobile Dealers' Association Official Used Car Guide.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2264 - Requires counties to provide for semiannual payments of current and delinquent personal property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Jonathan Patterson (R)
Summary: HB 2264 -- PERSONAL PROPERTY TAXES

SPONSOR: Patterson

This bill allows a county, by either order or ordinance, to provide taxpayers with the option to pay their current and delinquent personal property taxes on a semiannual basis, at the option of the taxpayer.

A county may charge interest or fees if a taxpayer fails to make a semiannual payment.
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2269 - Exempts certain motor vehicles from sales tax
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Knight (R)
Summary: HB 2269 -- MOTOR VEHICLE SALES TAX

SPONSOR: Knight

This bill exempts the sale of a motor vehicle that is more than 10 years old, and sold for the purchase price of less than $25,000, from sales tax.

This bill is the same as HB 590 (2023) and HB 2293 (2022).
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Referred to House Special Committee on Public Policy
HB2273 - Exempts the sale of food from sales tax
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Dinkins (R)
Summary: HB 2273 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR FOOD

SPONSOR: Dinkins

Currently, all retail sales of food are taxed at 1%.

Beginning January 1, 2025, such rate of sales tax on retail food shall be reduced annually in four equal increments over a period of four years until all retail sales of food are tax exempt.

This bill is similar to SB 1062 (2024).
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2274 - Phases out the corporate income tax
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Smith (R)
Summary: HB 2274 -- CORPORATE INCOME TAX (Smith (155))

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Tax Reform

Currently, the taxable income of corporations is equal to 4% of Missouri taxable income.

This bill phases out the Missouri state corporate income tax over a period of years using the following timetable:

Beginning January 1, 2025, the taxable income of corporations will equal 3% of Missouri taxable income.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the taxable income of corporations will equal 2% of Missouri taxable income.

Beginning January 1, 2027, the taxable income of corporations will equal 1% of Missouri taxable income.

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2028, there shall be no tax imposed upon the Missouri taxable income of corporations.

Once the corporate tax is fully reduced and eliminated, no corporate income tax credits will be claimed. However, a corporate taxpayer may redeem a refundable tax credit properly claimed and issued before the corporate tax is eliminated.
Last Action:
04/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
HB2278 - Modifies provisions governing the "Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant"
Sponsor: Rep. Dane Diehl (R)
Summary: HB 2278 -- GRANTS FOR POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Diehl

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on Workforce and Infrastructure Development by a vote of 10 to 0.

Beginning January 1, 2025, this bill increases the maximum gross income for eligibility for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant from $80,000 to $100,000 for taxpayers who are married filing jointly and from $40,000 to $50,000 for all other taxpayers, adjusted annually based on inflation.

This bill is similar to SB 1056 (2024).

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this change is one of the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development's priorities. Demand for the Program has more than doubled since its inception, and in the case of Ozarks Technical College, about 200 people were interested but couldn't qualify because of the income level.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Diehl; Taylee Soukup, Missouri Department of Higher Education; Council on Public Higher Education; Missouri Community College Association; Missouri Chamber of Commerce & Industry; and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2283 - Creates the "Public Domain Preservation Act", which prohibits the copyrighting of work product produced in the course of a public employee's job duties
Sponsor: Rep. Tony Lovasco (R)
Summary: HB 2283 -- PUBLIC DOMAIN PRESERVATION ACT

SPONSOR: Lovasco

This bill establishes the "Public Domain Preservation Act", which provides that, if produced as part of a person's official duties, federal copyright or patent protection shall not be asserted for judicial opinions; administrative rulings; legislative enactments; public ordinances; or any other material produced by an officer, employee, director, board member, or agent of the state of Missouri, any state department, political subdivision, or special district of this state. Any existing work shall be made available at no cost under a perpetual, transferable, worldwide license, that stipulates no enforcement of such copyright or patent protection will be exercised, and the work shall be considered within the public domain.

This bill shall not apply to any research, discovery, or invention that was discovered, documented, or published by an employee of any public school or public institution of higher education.

Any material published by a state department, political subdivision, or special district of this state that is subject to this bill shall, wherever practicable, be accompanied by a notice stating: "Public Domain Content, No Rights Reserved". Any material published or distributed by a state department, political subdivision, or special district of this state shall, wherever practicable, contain the words "Paid for by" followed by the public entity and name of the director of the public entity that paid for the material.

This bill is the same as HCS HB 1283 (2023).
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2287 - Modifies provisions related to the virtual school program
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R)
Summary:

SS/HB 2287 -This act establishes provisions relating to elementary and secondary education.

 

MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS PROGRAM (Section 135.713)

The act makes technical modifications to provisions of law relating to the tax credits allocated under the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

 

MISSOURI COURSE ACCESS AND VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM (Section 161.670)

Under this act, the average daily attendance of a student who is enrolled full-time in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program shall be calculated by dividing the total number of hours attended in a term by enrolled pupils between the ages of five and 21 years old by the actual number of hours that the program was in session in that term. Such calculation shall be generated by the virtual provider and provided to the host district for submission to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Full-time virtual school students may complete their instructional activities during any hour of the day and during any day of the week. The hours attended for each enrolled pupil shall be documented by the pupil's weekly progress in the educational program according to a process determined by the virtual program and published annually in the virtual program's enrollment handbook or policy. The full-time equivalent average daily attendance of summer school students shall be added to the average daily attendance of the following school term.

 

Host districts that enroll one or more full-time virtual school students shall receive an amount of state aid specified in the act for such students on a monthly basis.

 

The act provides that students who reside in Missouri may enroll in the virtual program of their choice. Provisions of current law regarding a school district's approval of a student's request to enroll in a virtual program shall not apply to full-time virtual program enrollment.

 

The act requires host districts to adopt student enrollment policies for full-time virtual students and allows virtual schools to mutually agree with resident and host districts on the services that the resident district might offer, including possible financial reimbursements for those services. For students with disabilities, the enrollment policy shall ensure the development of an individualized education program and related services agreement, as necessary.

 

The act requires a student's parent or guardian, if the student is not considered homeless, to apply for enrollment directly with the full-time virtual program.

 

The act specifies that student progress reports to the school district are necessary only for part-time virtual school program enrollees.

 

A host district may contract with a provider to perform any required services involved with delivering a full-time virtual education.

 

A full-time virtual school shall provide regular student progress reports to parents or guardians at least four times per school year.

 

This provision is substantially similar to a provision in SS#2/SCS/SB 727 (2024) and is similar to SB 780 (2024), SB 1375 (2024), SB 545 (2023), and HB 827 (2023).

 

FAMILY PACED EDUCATION (FPE) SCHOOLS (Sections 167.012 and 167.013)

The act defines a "Family Paced Education school" or "FPE school" as a school that enrolls any student who participates in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program and that satisfies certain other criteria relating to instruction. The current definition of "home school" is modified by specifying that a home school shall not enroll any student who participates in such Program, and a home school is not an FPE school.

 

These provisions are substantially similar to provisions in SS#2/SCS/SB 727 (2024).

 

TEACHER CERTIFICATION (Section 168.021)

Current law requires candidates for a teaching license to satisfy certain criteria, including obtaining the recommendation of a state-approved, baccalaureate-level teacher preparation program.

 

Under this act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall develop an eighteen hour (1,080 minutes) online teacher preparation program related to subjects appropriate for teachers in different content areas determined by the Department. The Department may contract with an entity skilled in developing online teacher preparation programs or a charitable organization registered in Missouri to develop and maintain the online teacher preparation program. Such entity or charitable organization shall be certified to develop and maintain the program by the Department. An individual with a bachelor's degree may complete the online training program and receive a certificate of license to teach. Such certificate shall not be accepted by Missouri public schools, and non-public schools shall not be required to accept the certificate.

 

This provision is similar to a provision in SS#2/SCS/SB 727 (2024), SB 1394 (2024), and a provision in SS/HB 827 (2023).

 

WEAPONS OFFENSES IN SCHOOLS (Section 571.010)

The act adds a definition of "school" to provisions of law relating to weapons offenses. The definition specifies that for these provisions of law, "school" shall mean a charter school, a private school, or a public school, as such terms are defined in current law.

 

CLINTON COUNTY R-3 SCHOOL DISTRICT (SECTION 1)

The act exempts Clinton County R-3 School District from any state law that would require certain school districts to conduct an election of the voters of the school district in order to adopt a four-day school week.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
G - Sent to the Governor
HB2291 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for firearms and ammunition
Sponsor: Rep. Bishop Davidson (R)
Summary: HB 2291 -- SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION

SPONSOR: Davidson

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on General Laws by a vote of 11 to 5.

This bill specifies that firearms and ammunition sold in this state are exempt from state and local sales tax.

This bill is similar to SB 131 (2023).

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill is intended to preserve our second amendment rights. Taxation on firearms and ammunition is an infringement on our right to bear arms. Therefore, it is unconstitutional to tax firearms and ammunition.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Davidson and Arnie Dienoff.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that sales tax on firearms and ammunition is very important for funding necessities like public infrastructure and city services. Opponents further stated that this is not an infringement on a constitutional right, but is merely a tax on a product. Opponents stated that they would be opposed to any sales tax reduction.

Testifying in person against the bill was Missouri Municipal League.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
02/06/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2293 - Requires the state board of education to provide for a transition to a special administrative board for certain unaccredited school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Marlene Terry (D)
Summary: HB 2293 -- UNACCREDITED SCHOOL DISTRICT TRANSITION

SPONSOR: Terry

This bill clarifies language for school districts that are classified as unaccredited. Currently, for districts that are unaccredited and under the operation of a special administrative board, when the district achieves a provisionally accredited level for two consecutive years the State Board of Education (SBE) may provide for a transition. This bill requires that the SBE shall provide for a transition.

This bill is the same as HB 65 (2023).
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2302 - Modifies setback distances for certain areas in regards to solid waste disposal
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Pollitt (R)
Summary: HB 2302 -- SOLID WASTE PERMITS

SPONSOR: Pollitt

This bill authorizes any county to adopt an ordinance, rule, regulation, or standard relating to solid waste management in the county as specified in the bill. Any setback applicable to a solid waste disposal area may not be more stringent than:

(1) Three miles from defined incorporated limits of a city, town, or village within the county; an accredited school or certain property owned and operated by school districts or educational institutions; a church or place of worship; a platted subdivision; or public areas designated for recreational activity;

(2) Three-quarters of a mile from any occupied dwelling used for residential purposes for at least 6 months a year; and

(3) Two hundred feet from the property line of the solid waste disposal area.
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2308 - Enacts provisions governing emerging issues in gender identity and sexual orientation
Sponsor: Rep. Adam Schnelting (R)
Summary: HB 2308 -- GENDER IDENTITY AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION

SPONSOR: Schnelting

This bill amends the Missouri Human Rights Act by adding new definitions and provisions related to "sex", "female", and "male", and by creating a new section on bathroom and changing facility use in public schools. The bill defines "sex", "female", and "male" based on the presence or absence of a reproductive system that produces, transports, and uses eggs or sperm for fertilization, regardless of any developmental or genetic anomaly or historical accident. The bill prohibits individuals of the female sex from using a bathroom or changing facility designated for the male sex, and vice versa, in public schools. The bill also requires school districts and charter schools to designate each bathroom and changing facility as for the exclusive use of individuals of only one sex, and to make reasonable attempts to provide gender-neutral or unisex accommodations upon request. The bill allows the Attorney General, a pupil's parent, or a parent on behalf of a pupil to bring a civil action against a school district or charter school that violates the bill, and to seek court costs, expenses, attorney's fees, compensatory damages, injunctive relief, or any other appropriate relief.
Last Action:
01/23/2024 
Scheduled for Committee Hearing
01/24/2024 4:30 PM - House-Emerging Issues, HR 6
House-Emerging Issues
HB2319 - Modifies provisions relating to tax credits
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Owen (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2319 -- TAX CREDITS

SPONSOR: Owen

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Government Efficiency and Downsizing by a vote of 9 to 0 and 1 present.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2319.

This bill modifies the status of certain existing tax credits. The modifications include:

(1) Removing certain tax credits that are currently administered by the Department of Revenue (DOR), and placing those tax credits in a different agency. Such tax credits include:

(a) Surviving Spouses of Public Safety Officers Tax Credit, moved from DOR to the Department of Public Safety;

(b) Adoption Tax Credit, moved from DOR to the Department of Social Services (DSS);

(c) Champion for Children Tax Credit, moved from DOR to DSS;

(d) ADA Access, Expenditures by Small Businesses Tax Credit, moved from DOR to the Department of Economic Development (DED);

(e) Residential Renovations for Disability Tax Credit, moved from DOR to DED;

(f) Donated Food Tax Credit, moved from DOR to DSS;

(g) High Ethanol Blend Seller Tax Credit, moved from DOR to the Department of Agriculture (MDA);

(h) Biodiesel Blend Seller Tax Credit, moved from DOR to MDA; and

(i) Biodiesel Blend Producer Tax Credit, moved from DOR to MDA.

(2) Applying a sunset provision to those tax credits that currently lack such provision. Such tax credits include:

(a) Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit;

(b) Affordable Housing Tax Credit; (c) Missouri Development Finance Board Tax Credit;

(d) Missouri Development Finance Board (revenue bonds or notes) Tax Credit;

(e) Business Use Incentives for Large-Scale Development Tax Credit;

(f) Adoption Tax Credit;

(g) Investments in Missouri Small Businesses Tax Credit;

(h) Youth Opportunities and Violence Prevention Tax Credit;

(i) Rehabilitation and Construction of Residences in Distressed Communities and Census Blocks Tax Credit;

(j) ADA Access, Expenditures by Small Businesses Tax Credit;

(k) Contributions to Shelters for Victims of Domestic Violence or Rape Crisis Centers Tax Credit;

(l) Contributions to Maternity Homes Tax Credit;

(m) Contributions to Pregnancy Resource Centers Tax Credit;

(n) Community-Based Faculty Preceptor Tax Credit;

(o) Grape and Wine Producers Tax Credit;

(p) Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program Tax Credit;

(q) Residential Treatment Agency Tax Credit;

(r) Developmental Disability Care Provider Tax Credit;

(s) Missouri Working Family Tax Credit;

(t) S Corp Banks, Associations, and Credit Institutions Tax Credit;

(u) Bank Franchise Tax Credit;

(v) Shared Care Giver Tax Credit;

(w) Family Development Account Tax Credit; (x) Family Farm Breeding Tax Credit; and the

(y) Brownfield Redevelopment Program Tax Credit.

(3) Placing a maximum cap on those tax credits that currently lack such a provision. Such tax credits include:

(a) Advanced Industrial Manufacturing Tax Credit;

(b) Surviving Spouses of Public Safety Officers Tax Credit;

(c) New or Expanded Business Facility Tax Credit;

(d) ADA Access, Expenditures by Small Businesses Tax Credit;

(e) Grape and Wine Producers Tax Credit;

(f) Unmet Health, Hunger, and Hygiene Needs of Children in School Tax Credit;

(g) Residential Treatment Agency Tax Credit;

(h) Developmental Disability Care Provider Tax Credit;

(i) Rolling Stock Tax Credit;

(j) Self-Employed Health Insurance Tax Credit;

(k) Missouri Working Family Tax Credit;

(l) S Corp Banks, Associations, and Credit Institutions Tax Credit;

(m) Bank Franchise Tax Credit;

(n) Shared Care Giver Tax Credit; and the

(o) Brownfield Redevelopment Program Tax Credit.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill removes needless tax credits. We have nine tax credits that have no checks and balances; the same agency that is administering the tax credit is also reviewing it. This bill address that issue. There are 24 tax credits that have no caps; this bill caps them at 20%. There are 34 tax credits with eternal life; these tax credits now sunset at six years.

Testifying in person for the bill was Representative Owen.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/25/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2323 - Modifies provisions relating to age for school entry
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Farnan (R)
Summary: HB 2323 -- COMPULSORY SCHOOL AGE

SPONSOR: Farnan

Currently, the minimum required attendance age for students is seven years of age. This bill lowers the age from seven to six years of age.

This bill is similar to HB 2177 (2024) and HB 793 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2327 - Prohibits public school districts and charter schools from membership in or payment of dues to certain statewide activities associations
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Knight (R)
Summary: HB 2327 -- ATHLETIC PLAYOFFS

SPONSOR: Knight

This bill prevents public schools in Missouri from being a member of or providing dues to any statewide activities association that allows post-season or tournament-style athletic competition between public and private schools.
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Referred to House Special Committee on Public Policy
HB2333 - Changes the laws regarding tax collection by prohibiting the foreclosure of a principal residence for delinquent property taxes and authorizing other methods of collection
Sponsor: Rep. Tony Lovasco (R)
Summary: HB 2333 -- FORECLOSURE ON A PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE

SPONSOR: Lovasco

This bill prohibits foreclosure on a principle residence as specified in the bill for a lien of unpaid taxes or special assessments, but authorizes other methods of recovering the taxes or special assessments, including filing a lien on the principal residence, garnishing the principal residence owner's wages, or seizing the owner's state income tax refund.

This bill is similar to HB 645 (2023).
Last Action:
01/09/2024 
H - Introduced and Read First Time
HB2334 - Prohibits schools from using collection agencies to collect unpaid school meal fees
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 2334 -- MEAL DEBTS OF STUDENTS

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

This bill defines "meal debt" and restricts any school district, public school, or private, religious, or parochial school that participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program from hiring a collection agency to collect meal debt.
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2335 - Establishes the Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 2335 -- TEACHER RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

The bill changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program". The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly. The bill provides that scholarship funds may be used to cover up to 100% of the cost of tuition, university-charged fees, and other costs directly associated with teacher preparation, as approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education(DESE). The number of years a student may receive a scholarship is reduced from four to two years. The number of students who may receive a scholarship is increased from 100 to 200 in the 2025-26 academic year, with 20 more students being added in each subsequent year until 2030-31 and all subsequent academic years, when 300 students may receive scholarships. Scholarship recipients after June 30, 2025, will sign a statement that they have made a good faith effort to secure all available Federal sources of grant funding. The bill repeals a provision that a student must have attended a Missouri high school in order to be eligible for a scholarship. To be eligible for a scholarship, recipients must sign an agreement to student teach at, apply for, interview for, and accept a position, if offered, in a Missouri public school that is a hard- to-staff school or to teach at least one hard-to-staff subject area in a Missouri public school, or both, for two years for every one year the recipient receives a scholarship. The bill defines a "hard-to-staff school" as an attendance center where the percentage of certificated positions that were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year exceeds 5% as reported to DESE. A "hard-to- staff subject area" is defined as a content area for which positions were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year. The scholarships provided in the bill will be available to students who have successfully completed 48 credit hours at an institution of higher education. The bill modifies the interest rate paid by scholarship recipients who do not follow through on their agreement to teach in a hard-to- staff subject or school and must therefore repay their scholarship award as a loan. An individual who has qualified as an eligible student under the bill will continue to qualify as an eligible student as long as he or she remains employed by the school district in which he or she agreed to teach, regardless of whether his or her employing school no longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff school, the class he or she teaches no longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff subject area, or his or her position within the school district changes. This bill is similar to HB 2092 and SB 1013 (2024) and HCS HB 497 (2023).
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2343 - Requires school districts to excuse students with mental or behavioral health concerns from attendance at school
Sponsor: Rep. Betsy Fogle (D)
Summary: HB 2343 -- COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

SPONSOR: Fogle

This bill allows any child with a written authorization from a qualified health professional to be excused from attendance for mental health or behavioral health concerns. The bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in coordination with the Department of Mental Health to develop a model policy by the 2024-25 school year that school districts may adopt, and all districts will have a policy on excused absences by the 2024-25 school year.

This bill is the same as HB 2767 (2022) and HB 1217 (2023).
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2344 - Changes provisions governing school superintendent salaries
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Keathley (R)
Summary: HB 2344 -- SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

SPONSOR: Keathley

This bill defines "total compensation" and requires that contracts for superintendents of specified districts that are entered into during the 2025-26 school year and thereafter shall not include a total compensation in excess of 5 1/2 times the total compensation of a beginning teacher's salary for such district.
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2355 - Requires all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms to be designated for and used by male or female students only
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Baker (R)
Summary: HB 2355 -- PHYSICAL PRIVACY OF STUDENTS

SPONSOR: Baker

This bill requires that all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms accessible for use by multiple students shall be designated for and used by students of the same biological sex. Accommodations may be made for any student who asserts that his or her gender differs from his or her biological sex, if the parents of the student provide written consent. Such accommodations may include controlled use of faculty shower rooms, locker rooms, or restrooms, or access to single-stall and unisex restrooms.

This bill is similar to HB 2357 and SB 974 (2024).
Last Action:
01/31/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1520
HB2356 - Modifies provisions relating to payments of real and personal property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Peggy McGaugh (R)
Summary: HB 2356 -- PAYMENTS OF PROPERTY TAXES

SPONSOR: McGaugh

Currently, a township county may not allow taxpayers the option to pay any part of their real and personal property taxes on an annual, semiannual, or quarterly basis. This bill allows township counties the option to pass such an order or ordinance.
Last Action:
03/12/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2357 - Requires all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms to be designated for and used by male or female students only
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Lonsdale (R)
Summary: HB 2357 -- PHYSICAL PRIVACY OF STUDENTS

SPONSOR: Lonsdale

This bill requires that all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms accessible for use by multiple students shall be designated for and used by students of the same biological sex. Accommodations may be made for any student who asserts that his or her gender differs from his or her biological sex, if the parents of the student provide written consent. Such accommodations may include controlled use of faculty shower rooms, locker rooms, or restrooms, or access to single-stall and unisex restrooms.

This bill is the same to HB 2355 and similar to SB 974 (2024).
Last Action:
01/31/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1520
HB2358 - Modifies provisions relating to motor vehicle assessment valuations
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Lonsdale (R)
Summary: HB 2358 -- MOTOR VEHICLE ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Lonsdale

Currently, county assessors must use the October issue of the National Automobile Dealers' Association Official Used Car Guide to determine the true value of a motor vehicle. The assessor cannot use a value that is greater than the average trade-in value without performing a physical inspection, unless the car is two years old or newer.

This bill requires that the county assessor determine the true value in money for motor vehicles by using the trade-in value published in the October issue of a nationally recognized automotive trade publication selected by the State Tax Commission. The assessor shall not use a value that is greater than the average trade-in value for such motor vehicle without performing a physical inspection of the vehicle, but for vehicles two years or newer from a vehicle's model, the assessor may use a value other than the average without performing a physical inspection.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the assessor shall apply a 15 year depreciation table to the trade-in value of motor vehicles. But in no case shall the assessed value of a motor vehicle depreciate below $300.

To implement the provisions of this bill without large variations from the prior method of assessment, the assessor will assume that the last valuation tables used prior to October 1, 2024, are fair valuations, and that these valuations shall be depreciated using the table described above until the end of the vehicle's useful life.

The State Tax Commission or the State of Missouri shall be the registered user of the nationally recognized automotive trade publication with rights to allow all assessors access to the publication which shall be made available to all vendors by December 15 of each year.

This bill is the same as HB 1690 (2024).
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2363 - Requires schools to allow students to leave school to vote
Sponsor: Rep. Anthony Ealy (D)
Summary: HB 2363 -- VOTING AS AN EXCUSED ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL

SPONSOR: Ealy

This bill provides that any student entitled to vote on the date of an election shall be allowed to leave school for a period of three hours in order to do so. Schools may designate a time period during which students may leave to vote.

A violation of this section is a class four election offense.

Each school district shall adopt and implement a written policy related to voting as an excused absence beginning with the 2024-25 school year. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall develop a model policy that school districts may adopt.

This bill is the same as HB 1212 (2023).
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2365 - Prohibits state departments from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 2365 -- EXPENDITURES BY STATE DEPARTMENTS

SPONSOR: Richey

This bill prohibits state departments from using funds for intradepartmental programs, staffing, or initiatives related to "diversity, equity, and inclusion" or similar concepts.

This bill prohibits initiatives promoting preferential treatment based on various factors, including race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and others. The bill also prohibits concepts such as collective guilt ideologies, oppression as the sole cause of disparities, and intersectional or divisive identity activism.

This bill allows state departments to follow Federal and State employment laws and anti discrimination laws, as well as comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Additionally, this bill prohibits state departments from mandating, requiring, or incentivizing private sector employers to implement the restricted initiatives as a condition for receiving a State contract.
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 2619
HB2366 - Establishes the "Missouri Parent Empowerment Act" relating to a tax credit for certain educational expenses
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HB 2366 -- TAX CREDIT FOR CERTAIN EDUCATIONAL EXPENSES

SPONSOR: McMullen

This bill establishes the "Missouri Parent Empowerment Act" and provides a tax credit to parents and guardians of any "qualified student" enrolling in a "qualified school" as defined in the bill.

The amount of the tax credit specified in the bill is for eligible expenses which are outlined and include the cost of tuition and fees at qualified schools. Such tax credit shall not exceed the lesser of the eligible qualified expenses or the State adequacy target for each tax year.

The bill outlines specific provisions for claiming the tax credit along with eligibility restrictions. Taxpayers participating in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Program are ineligible. Tax credits are refundable but not transferable.

This Act sunsets 6 years after the effective date.

This bill is similar to HB 1911 (2024).
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2370 - Requires school districts to provide "period products" at no cost in charter schools and public middle and high schools
Sponsor: Rep. Patty Lewis (D)
Summary: HB 2370 -- PERIOD PRODUCTS IN CHARTER AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Lewis (25)

Beginning on July 1, 2025, this bill requires every school district and charter school in which 40% or more of the students reside in households with a household income that does not exceed 185% of the most recent poverty guidelines to provide period products in the restrooms for all middle school, junior high, and high school buildings in which there are students in grades six through 12 at no charge to the students. "Period Products" are defined as tampons and sanitary napkins for use in connection with the menstrual cycle.

This bill is similar to HB 1843 (2022) and HB 288 (2023).
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2374 - Requires schools to adopt school policies governing materials that are obscene or harmful to minors
Sponsor: Rep. Mazzie Christensen (R)
Summary: HB 2374 -- MATERIALS IN SCHOOLS THAT ARE OBSCENE OR HARMFUL TO MINORS

SPONSOR: Christensen

This bill prohibits obscene or harmful materials in public schools and libraries. The bill provides definitions and criteria for obscene or harmful materials. The bill defines terms such as "explicit material", "harmful to minors", "obscene", and "patently offensive", and provides criteria for determining whether material is obscene or harmful to minors based on community standards and the value of the material for minors.

The bill requires each school board and governing board to adopt a policy that allows a parent to report obscene or harmful materials to the public school administration, and requires the administration to remove the materials for at least 30 days for review by the board. The board shall then decide whether to permanently remove or return the materials to the school library or teacher. If a public school fails to adopt such policy or fails to abide by the policy once adopted, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education may withhold an amount of state funds to be determined by the department. Public schools must furnish a report of all material permanently removed to the department.

The bill requires public schools and libraries that provide public access computers to either equip the computers with software that will limit minors' access to material that is pornographic for minors, or develop and implement a policy that restricts such access.
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2378 - Provides that the State Board of Education shall be responsible for handling appeals of decisions made by statewide activities associations
Sponsor: Rep. Bennie Cook (R)
Summary: HB 2378 -- DECISIONS OF STATEWIDE ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATIONS

SPONSOR: Cook

This bill prohibits a statewide activities association that facilitates interscholastic activities for secondary school students who attend a public school from serving as the appellate body that handles appeals of decisions made by such activities association. The bill designates the State Board of Education(SBE) as the authority to handle such appeals. Within 48 hours of receiving an appeal, the SBE shall meet to consider the appeal, and within 24 hours of such meeting, the SBE shall decide on the appeal.

This bill is the same as SB 1297 (2024).
Last Action:
03/27/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2381 - Establishes the "Protecting Missouri's Small Businesses Act", which changes the law regarding businesses closed because of a shutdown order
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Brown (R)
Summary: HB 2381 -- PROTECTING MISSOURI'S ECONOMY DURING A SHUTDOWN ORDER

SPONSOR: Brown (16)

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Special Committee on Small Business by a vote of 7 to 1.

This bill creates the "Protecting Missouri's Small Businesses Act".

The bill requires the State and its political subdivisions to give careful consideration to and appropriate concern for the lasting effects of actions taken during a shutdown order that adversely affect the economic viability and well-being of Missourians and businesses.

The bill provides that beginning January 1, 2025, if any political subdivision with jurisdiction over a business implements a shutdown order and the business closes due only to the shutdown order for at least 21 consecutive days or at least 45 cumulative days, the following requirements apply:

(1) Waiving any fee for a business license during the period of the shutdown order or six months, whichever is longer; and

(2) Reducing the real and personal property tax liability of the business based on the number of days the business was shut down in a given year, as specified in the bill.

If a taxpayer rents or leases all or a portion of the taxpayer's affected real property to one or more renters or lessors, the taxpayer must distribute a pro rata amount of the reduced liability to renters or lessors who are current on all lease or rental payments. This bill is not to be construed to affect professional licensure and does not require the state to provide restitution or to replace lost revenues to a political subdivision.

This bill is similar to HB 2753 (2022)and the same as HCS HB 1263 (2023).

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that small business owners paid a heavy price when they were ordered to close during the height of the COVID epidemic. The bill allows businesses to recoup a minimal amount of their losses. It gives political subdivisions some impetus to consider the consequences of shutdown orders.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Brown; and the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that the bill violates due process; we should study what was done and then not do it again.

Testifying in person against the bill was Cary Wells, and Freedom Principle Mo.Org.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
01/29/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2392 - Creates the "Missouri Universal School Meals Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Jay Mosley (D)
Summary: HB 2392 -- MISSOURI UNIVERSAL SCHOOL MEALS ACT

SPONSOR: Mosley

This bill establishes the "Missouri Universal School Meals Act".

Schools shall provide a U.S. Department of Agriculture reimbursable meal to a student who requests one, at no cost to the student, unless the student's parent or guardian provides notice to the school that the parent or guardian will provide the student's meal. A school shall determine which students are eligible for free and reduced price meals under the Federal student meals programs and shall provide information and assistance to parents and guardians for purposes of filling out meal assistance applications. Schools shall seek to maximize Federal meal assistance, but shall not publicly identify or stigmatize students who are eligible for such assistance.

This bill creates the "Universal School Meals Fund", which shall be used to reimburse schools for the costs of student meals that are not otherwise reimbursed under the Federal meals programs. The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules to implement the program, including the process by which schools may apply for reimbursement of student meals.

This bill is the similar to SB 321 and HB 977 (2023).
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2398 - Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to conduct safety assessments of all public schools in the state
Sponsor: Rep. Jay Mosley (D)
Summary: HB 2398 -- SAFETY ASSESSMENTS OF ALL PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Mosley

This bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to conduct annual safety assessments of all public schools in the State.

The Department of Public Safety shall assist DESE in implementing the provisions of the bill, and DESE may also seek assistance from the Missouri Center for Education Safety. The safety assessments shall include a consideration of each school's vulnerabilities to school shootings and intruders, with specific reference to the implementation of various safety procedures, policies, and tools specified in the bill.

Based upon the findings of the safety assessments, DESE shall provide each school a report that summarizes each school's safety vulnerabilities, along with recommendations for mitigating such vulnerabilities.

This bill is similar to SB 1153 (2024).
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2401 - Eliminates the retail sale of food from state and local sales and use tax and authorizes certain tax increases to offset lost revenues, subject to voter approval
Sponsor: Rep. Crystal Quade (D)
Summary: HB 2401 -- TAXATION

SPONSOR: Quade

This bill includes several provisions relating to taxation.

Beginning January 1, 2026, aircraft at least 25 years old and used for noncommercial purposes shall be assessed at 33.3% of its true value in money.

Beginning January 1, 2025, taxpayers shall use the personal income tax table described in the bill to identify the amount of tax owed.

Beginning with the 2026 calendar year, the income tax brackets in such table shall be adjusted annually by the percent increase in inflation, according to the Consumer Price Index. In addition, this bill removes all future income tax rate reductions based on future triggering events, as described in the bill.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the corporate income tax shall increase from 4% to 4.5%.

Beginning January 1, 2026, the purchase of retail food shall be exempt from sales and use tax. Also beginning January 1, 2026, any local sales or use tax currently imposed on retail food shall be annually reduced in equal increments of 1.5% over a period of years until it reaches zero, at which point there shall be no further local sales or use tax imposed on retail food.

Beginning January 1, 2026, a sales tax exemption shall no longer be granted on the purchase of either:

(1) All materials, replacement parts, and equipment purchased for use directly upon, and for the modification, replacement, repair, and maintenance of aircraft, aircraft power plants, and aircraft accessories; or

(2) Any new or used aircraft sold or delivered in this State to a person who is not a resident of this State or a corporation that is not incorporated in this State, and such aircraft is not to be based in this State and shall not remain in this state more than 10 business days.

Additionally, this bill sets an expiration of December 31, 2025, for all current in-lieu watercraft taxes on a boat or vessel documented by the United States Coast Guard.

The provisions of this bill shall be submitted to the voters of this state for approval or rejection in November 2024.
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2403 - Modifies provisions relating to personal property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Sander (R)
Summary: HB 2403 -- PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Sander

Currently, personal property is annually assessed at 33.3% of its true value in money. Beginning January 1, 2025, personal property shall be assessed at 31% of its true value in money.

Currently, assessors use the trade-in value from the October issue of the National Automobile Dealers' Association Official Used Car Guide (NADA) to determine the true value of motor vehicles for the purposes of property tax assessments. This bill requires assessors to use the manufacturer's suggested retail price from the year of manufacture of the motor vehicle or farm machinery, and then apply the 10-year depreciation table in the bill to determine the true value in money of motor vehicles and farm machinery.

If the manufacturer's suggested retail price data is not available from an approved source or if the assessor deems that such data is not appropriate for a particular vehicle, the assessor may obtain a manufacturer's suggested retail price from a source that he or she deems reliable, and then apply the 10-year depreciation table in the bill.

This bill is similar to SS SCS SB 8 (2023).
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2415 - Requires in-state public educational institutions to grant undergraduate course credit for students who score 4 or higher on international baccalaureate examinations
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Brown (R)
Summary: HB 2415 -- INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE EXAMINATIONS

SPONSOR: Brown (16)

This bill requires public community colleges, colleges, and universities to adopt a policy for undergraduate course credit for any student who receives a score of 4 or higher on an international baccalaureate exam.

This bill is the same as HB 1578 (2024) and similar to HB 1173 (2023).
Last Action:
02/07/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2420 - Modifies the required school year start date for school districts in which a charter school operates
Sponsor: Rep. Ingrid Burnett (D)
Summary: HB 2420 -- PUBLIC SCHOOL CALENDARS

SPONSOR: Burnett

This bill allows any school district in which a charter school is operating to set an opening school date earlier than 14 calendar days prior to the first Monday in September.

This bill is the same as SB 882 and HB 2195 (2024).
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Introduced and Read First Time
HB2422 - Requires school districts to provide "period products" at no cost in middle schools and high schools and charter schools and repeals provisions prohibiting abortion services providers from providing instruction on human sexuality or sexually transmitted diseases
Sponsor: Rep. Ingrid Burnett (D)
Summary: HB 2422 -- SERVICES PROVIDED TO STUDENTS

SPONSOR: Burnett

Beginning on July 1, 2025, this bill requires every public school and charter school to provide period products in the restrooms for all middle school, junior high, and high school buildings in which there are students in grades six through 12 at no charge to the students. "Period Products" are defined as tampons and sanitary napkins for use in connection with the menstrual cycle.

This bill repeals language restricting school districts or charter schools from providing abortion services, or permitting the distribution of course materials or instruction relating to human sexuality or sexually transmitted diseases if the distributer provides abortion services.

This bill is similar to HB 950 (2023)and HB 2591 (2022).
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Introduced and Read First Time
HB2423 - Modifies provisions governing school transportation
Sponsor: Rep. Kurtis Gregory (R)
Summary: HB 2423 -- SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

SPONSOR: Gregory

This bill expands the current background check requirements for school districts to specifically include charter schools. The bill includes drivers of other vehicles owned by school districts and charter schools in the requirement for a background check and clarifies that for drivers employed or contracted by a pupil transportation company under contract with a school district or charter school the pupil transportation company shall conduct the criminal background check.

The bill changes the definition for "school bus" as used in Sections 302.010 to 302.540, RSMo from a motor vehicle designed for carrying more than 10 passengers to more than 15 passengers.
Last Action:
02/28/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2429 - Changes provisions governing compulsory school attendance
Sponsor: Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern (D)
Summary: HB 2429 -- COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE

SPONSOR: Nurrenbern

This bill modifies the penalty for a parent or guardian whose child does not comply with compulsory attendance requirements under Section 167.031, RSMo from a class C misdemeanor to an infraction.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2430 - Modifies provisions relating to personal property tax valuations
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary: HB 2430 -- PERSONAL PROPERTY VALUATIONS (McGirl)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Ways and Means

Currently, determining the value of new construction or improvements to real property includes the additional assessed value of all improvements or additions to real property which were begun after, and were not part of, the prior year's assessment.

Currently, determining the aggregate increase in value of personal property for the current year over that of the previous year is considered to be the equivalent of the new construction and improvements factor for personal property.

Beginning January 1, 2026, any increase in motor vehicle value from a previous year's price guide shall not be counted as new construction.

Beginning January 1, 2025, the assessor shall annually assess all personal property at 31% of its true value in money as of January 1st of each calendar year.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
HB2431 - Modifies provisions relating to the board of trustees for the Missouri Local Government Employees' Retirement System (LAGERS)
Sponsor: Rep. Barry Hovis (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2431 -- PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS (Hovis)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Pensions

Currently, the governing bodies of the employers of the system elect three trustees to the Board of the Missouri Local Government Employees’ Retirement System (LAGERS). Beginning on January 1, 2025, this bill specifies that the employer trustee with a term ending December 31, 2024, shall thereafter be replaced by a person elected by the retirants of the system.

This bill specifies that not more than one trustee elected by the members shall be public safety personnel.

Currently, the employer trustees shall be elected or appointed officials of the employers and shall not be members of the System and no more than one shall be from any one employer. This bill specifies that for terms beginning on or after January 1, 2025, employer trustees shall be either elected or appointed officials of the governing bodies of the employers or executive level employees certified by the governing bodies of the employers, but no more than one trustee shall be from any one employer, and no more than one trustee shall be a policeman, and no more than one trustee shall be a fireman, and no more than one trustee shall be public safety personnel.

Additionally, this bill repeals the requirements on the annual meetings and elections of delegates. Furthermore, this bill states that the elections of the trustees shall be arranged for and managed and conducted by the board. Finally, this bill specifies that only four trustees shall constitute a quorum of the board, instead of four trustees consisting of at least two member trustees and two employer trustees (Section 70.605, RSMo).

The bill repeals the provision prohibiting membership for any person who will not become vested prior to retirement eligibility.

This statute is superseded by Federal law (Section 70.630).

The bill modifies the currently used Consumer Price Index measure to authorize the board to chose which measure will be used (Section 70.655).

The bill changes the window for transfer of member contributions for non-vested members to the income expense fund from three years to 10 years to make it consistent with current administrative practice (Section 70.690). The bill allows certain deliberations on investments or other financial records to be conducted in a closed meeting if such decisions would jeopardize the ability to implement a decision or achieve investment objectives (Section 70.745 and 105.688).

The bill repeals a requirement for investment counselor's to be registered as an investment advisor with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (Section 70.746).

The bill removes a restriction on investments on real-estate investments to be not more than 1/10th of the total investment (Section 70.747). The bill provides clarification language to allow the pooling of assets only for investment purposes for legacy plans and current LAGERS staff plans (Section 70.748).

The bill modifies the current definition of "earnable compensation" for the St. Louis Police Retirement System. The bill requires that such compensation shall not include funds received by a member through a judgment or settlement of a legal action if such funds are intended to retroactively compensate for a salary differential between the member's actual rank and the rank such member claims he or she should have received (Section 86.200).

The bill includes language from HB 2288 (2024).
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass as substituted
HB2432 - Modifies provisions relating to local homestead property tax credits
Sponsor: Rep. Wendy Hausman (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 2432, 2482 & 2543 -- LOCAL HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX CREDITS (Hausman)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Property Tax Reform

Currently, a county may grant a real property tax credit to qualifying seniors. A senior qualifies by being:

(1) Eligible for Social Security retirement benefits;

(2) The owner of record or having a legal or equitable interest in a homestead; and

(3) Liable for the payment of real property taxes on the homestead.

This bill modifies the criteria for a qualifying senior by requiring that the eligible taxpayer be a Missouri resident who:

(1) Is 62 years of age or older;

(2) Is the owner of record or having a legal or equitable interest in a homestead as evidenced by a publicly recorded or a verified written instrument, including but not limited to a trust document in which at least one primary beneficiary is 62 years of age or older;

(3) Is liable for the payment of real property taxes on such homestead; and

(4) Does not owe any delinquent taxes, interest, or penalties to the county.

An eligible taxpayer will receive a tax credit in an amount that equals the difference between his or her real property tax liability for a given tax year from all taxing entities, minus the real property tax liability in the initial credit year.

The "initial credit year" is defined as either:

(1) For all taxpayers who meet all of the requirements of an eligible taxpayer listed above, the year in which such credit is authorized; or

(2) For all other taxpayers, the year in which the taxpayer meets all of the requirements of an eligible taxpayer listed above.

If the eligible taxpayer's real property tax liability is lower than the liability owed in the year subsequent to becoming eligible, the tax year will be considered the eligible taxpayer's initial credit year for all subsequent tax years.

If the governing body of a county adopts an ordinance authorizing the tax credit, nothing can prevent the county from amending or superseding that ordinance by a subsequently adopted ballot referendum put before the voters that addresses the same tax credit.

The governing body of a county may adopt reasonable procedures in carrying out the purposes of this bill, provided that the county does not adopt any procedure that limits the definition or scope of the "eligible credit amount" or "eligible taxpayer" as defined in the bill.

New construction or improvements to an eligible taxpayer's homestead shall increase the tax liability for the taxpayer's initial credit year to reflect such new construction or improvements.

The tax liability for the taxpayer's initial credit year will increase if an eligible taxpayer's homestead is annexed into a jurisdiction where the taxpayer did not owe real property tax in the initial credit year.

Nothing will prevent an eligible taxpayer from appealing a real property assessment, nor shall anything in this bill relieve a taxpayer from his or her obligation to pay the tax liability of the State Blind Pension Fund.
Last Action:
04/25/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
HB2433 - Modifies provisions relating to the assessed valuation of real property
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Coleman (R)
Summary: HB 2433 -- REAL PROPERTY VALUATION ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Coleman

Beginning January 1, 2025, the assessed value of real property shall be the same value that was determined at the most recent previous assessment of the property.

If such property is bought, transferred, sold, assigned, or otherwise conveyed on or after January 1, 2025, the assessed value of the real property shall be equal to the most recent purchase price. Such assessment value shall endure through all subsequent assessment cycles until the next sale of such property.

If a new assessment or reassessment is conducted on real property on or after January 1, 2025, the assessed valuation of such property may be increased from the most recent previous assessment or the assessed value from the most recent sale, but only if the increased value added to the property results from a new construction or improvements made to the property. Such increase in value due to new construction or improvements shall be limited in the following manner:

(1) To the actual cost of the materials purchased for improvements;

(2) Documentation of actual costs shall be sent to the assessor after the completion of the new construction or improvements; and

(3) Such documentation shall only be delivered to and used by the assessor for the sole purpose of establishing the true value of the property.

If the sale of such property results in a transaction that is below market value, the assessor shall provide evidence to the Board of Equalization showing that such sale price should not be used to determine the assessed value of the property.

The owner of such property shall notify the assessor of new construction or improvements so that a reassessment can be made.

This bill is similar to HB 1906 (2024); HCS HJR 33 & 45 and HB 1078(2023).
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2435 - Modifies provisions relating to the local homestead property tax credit
Sponsor: Rep. David Evans (R)
Summary: HB 2435 -- HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Evans

Currently, a county may grant a real property tax credit to qualifying seniors. Such seniors may qualify by showing that they are:

(1) Eligible for Social Security retirement benefits;

(2) The owner of record or have a legal or equitable interest in a homestead; and

(3) Are liable for the payment of real property taxes on such homestead.

This bill modifies the criteria for a qualifying senior by requiring that the senior be at least 62-years-old and not delinquent on his or her real property taxes.

Currently, the amount of the real property tax credit is determined by using a qualifying senior's real property tax liability on the senior's homestead for a given year, and subtracting the real property tax liability on such homestead in the year that the qualifying senior became eligible for the tax credit.

This bill modifies the formula for determining the amount of the real property tax credit.

The amount of the real property tax credit will be determined by using a qualifying senior's real property tax liability on the senior's homestead for a given tax year from all taxing entities that levy a property tax, and subtracting the real property tax liability on such homestead in the "base" year. The base year will be the later of the following:

(1) The tax year immediately following the tax year that a county adopts the tax credit by way of an ordinance;

(2) The tax year immediately following the tax year that a majority of voters in a county approve the tax credit; or

(3) The tax year immediately following the tax year in which the qualifying senior became eligible.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2442 - Authorizes a property tax for special educational services
Sponsor: Rep. Peter Merideth (D)
Summary: HB 2442 -- PROPERTY TAX FOR SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

SPONSOR: Merideth

This bill authorizes a metropolitan school district to impose, upon voter approval, a property tax not to exceed $0.03 per $100 assessed valuation solely for the purpose of funding special educational services in the district. All revenue collected from this tax will go into the newly-created "Special Educational Services Property Tax Trust Fund".

This bill is similar to SB 966 (2024).
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2443 - Authorizes a sales tax for special educational services
Sponsor: Rep. Peter Merideth (D)
Summary: HB 2443 -- SALES TAX TO FUND SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

SPONSOR: Merideth

This bill authorizes a metropolitan school district to impose, upon voter approval, a sales tax not to exceed one-quarter of one percent solely for the purpose of funding special educational services in the district. All revenue collected from this tax will go into the newly-created "Special Educational Services Property Tax Trust Fund".

This bill is similar to SB 965 (2024).
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2444 - Establishes new procedures for annexation of school districts to special school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Peter Merideth (D)
Summary: HB 2444 -- SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNEXATION PROCEDURES

SPONSOR: Merideth

This bill specifies a process for the annexation of school districts.

If a school district wants to be attached to an adjacent special school district, the school board must first establish its own special school district.

If requested by a petition and signed by the specified number of voters from the school district proposing to be attached to an adjacent special school district, the school board shall submit the question to the voters of the district. If a majority of the votes cast in the special school district proposing annexation favor annexation, the secretary of the board shall certify the fact.

For any newly created special school district with more than 100,000 inhabitants, the membership of the governing council shall be expanded to include each school district annexed to the special school district and redistricting guidelines are specified in the bill. The newly formed special school district must adopt a resolution forming a redistricting committee every decade after the decennial census has been reported, as specified in the bill. The proposed redistricting plan must be approved by a majority of the committee prior to its adoption. Upon adoption a copy of the plan certified by the secretary of the committee must be sent to the State Board of Education(SBE) for its approval or disapproval. Criteria for approval is specified in the bill. If a redistricting plan is not adopted within one year of the publication of the census the SBE shall provide the redistricting plan.

Within 30 days of the adoption of a redistricting plan, the SBE shall call for a special election for school board members of the new special school district. The bill specifies that a member of a redistricting committee shall not serve on the school board for a period of six years following his or her service on the redistricting committee.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2445 - Modifies provisions relating to property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2445 -- PROPERTY TAXES

SPONSOR: McMullen

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform by a vote of 20 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2445.

This bill provides that the level of assessments of all real property in Subclass (1) and Subclass (3) shall be uniform and equal.

If the common level assessment, as defined in the bill, in either Subclass (1) or (3) is lower than the individual level assessment, as defined in the bill, of any property in the same Subclass, the individual level assessment of such property shall be reduced to the common level assessment. Such a reduction shall be made upon an appeal by the property owner to the local Board of Equalization, State Tax Commission, or circuit court.

To determine the individual level assessment of real property, the true value in money of such property shall be presumed to be the lesser of either:

(1) The assessor's appraised value; or

(2) The appraised value set by the local Board of Equalization.

Currently, if the assessor is required to perform a physical inspection of real property, but does not provide sufficient evidence to establish that a physical inspection was in fact performed, then the property owner shall prevail on an appeal as a matter of law. This bill further provides that if an assessor does not establish sufficient evidence of a physical inspection, any increased assessed valuation shall be voided, and the previous assessed valuation shall be applied to the property in its place.

Currently, a first class charter county or a city not within a county may require, by ordinance or charter, the reimbursement of certain costs and fees expended by a taxpayer resulting from a successful appeal that ends up reducing the appraised value of property by a certain percentage. This bill makes such reimbursements mandatory.

Additionally, this bill increases the maximum amount of fees to be reimbursed from $1,000 to $2,000 for residential property appeals, and from $4,000 to $5,000 for utility, industrial railroads, or other Subclass (3) property appeals.

Currently, taxpayers are required to file a written protest of property taxes with the collector when the taxpayer makes full payment of such taxes. This bill repeals such a requirement.

This bill also provides that the interest due to a taxpayer whose protested taxes were distributed to a taxing authority shall be calculated from the date that the protested taxes were distributed through the date of the refund.

This bill also provides that if a circuit court or the State Tax Commission determines that a taxpayer is entitled to a refund of property taxes the taxpayer shall receive such refund from the collector within 30 days of the final determination of the refund amount by the circuit court or State Tax Commission. If such refund is not issued within 30 days, the taxpayer shall be entitled to interest on the refund as calculated under current law.

This bill is similar to SB 1001 (2024).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this bill will make it easier to appeal assessed home values by allowing a taxpayer to protest the assessment before the mortgage company pays the real estate taxes. Supporters also say that this bill will incentivize county assessors to perform assessments more thoroughly, as opposed to the current "drive by" assessments; lead to faster refunds to the taxpayer, if or when the Board of Equalization determines that such a refund is warranted; and reduce the cost of the process, because there would be less of a need by the taxpayer to hire an attorney.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative McMullen and Tad Berry, Property Assessment Review.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB2447 - Establishes the "Classical Education Grant Program" for the purpose of assisting school districts with providing programs in classical education
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Richey (R)
Summary: HB 2447 -- CLASSICAL EDUCATION GRANT PROGRAM

SPONSOR: Richey

Subject to appropriation, this bill establishes the "Classical Education Grant Program" and corresponding fund in the state treasury for the purpose of assisting school districts with providing programs in classical education.

The bill defines a "classical education program" as a program that educates students in the liberal arts and sciences. The liberal arts consist of certain language and mathematical skills, while the sciences consist of bodies of knowledge including the human sciences, the natural sciences, and the theological sciences, as such terms are defined in the bill.

A school district that wishes to receive a grant shall submit an application to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education outlining the proposed classical educational program, establishing key success metrics, identifying resources available in the community, and specifying additional resources necessary for successful implementation of the program.

This bill is similar to SB 1290 (2024).
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2448 - Prohibits state departments from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Hudson (R)
Summary: HB 2448 --EXPENDITURES BY STATE DEPARTMENTS

SPONSOR: Hudson

This bill specifies that no funds from any State department are to be used for intradepartmental programs, staffing, or initiatives related to "diversity, equity, and inclusion" or similar initiatives that promote preferential treatment based on certain characteristics, concepts such as oppression as the sole cause of disparities, collective guilt ideologies, intersectional or divisive identity activism, and the limiting of freedom of conscience, thought, or speech.

This bill also specifies that State departments are not prohibited from following Federal and State employment and antidiscrimination laws or complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

This bill prohibits State departments from mandating, requiring, or incentivizing private sector employers to implement "diversity, equity, and inclusion" programs or initiatives as a condition for receiving a State contract.
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 2619
HB2456 - Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to develop a curriculum on Black history and Black literature to be used by school districts
Sponsor: Rep. LaKeySha Bosley (D)
Summary: HB 2456 -- HISTORY AND LITERATURE EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Bosley

This bill requires that for the 2025-26 school year each school district shall require that after completion of grade nine students complete one unit of Black History and one unit of Black Literature before receiving a diploma. The State Board of Education shall convene a work group and develop academic performance standards for the required courses and provide a model curriculum to districts.
Last Action:
01/18/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2463 - Increases the cigarette tax from $0.17 per pack of 20 cigarettes to $0.27 per pack to be used for public education and health care purposes, upon voter approval
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Butz (D)
Summary: HB 2463 -- CIGARETTE TAXES

SPONSOR: Butz

Currently, a tax shall be levied upon the sale of cigarettes at an amount equal to eight and one half mills per cigarette, until such time as the General Assembly appropriates an amount equal to 25% of the net Federal Reimbursement Allowance to the Health Initiatives Fund, then the tax shall be six and one half mills per cigarette beginning July 1st of the fiscal year immediately after such appropriation.

This bill adds an exception to this tax. Beginning January 1, 2025, an additional tax shall be levied upon the sale of cigarettes at an amount equal to five mills per cigarette. The revenue generated by this additional tax shall be dispersed as stated in the bill.

The bill contains a referendum clause and will not become effective unless approved by a majority of the qualified voters.

This bill is similar to HB 2869 (2022).
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2471 - Modifies provisions governing mental health efforts in public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Cyndi Buchheit-Courtway (R)
Summary: HB 2471 -- MENTAL HEALTH EFFORTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Buchheit-Courtway

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year suicide prevention training and school district policies on youth suicide awareness must include training and guidance on using the Columbia Protocol for suicide risk assessment and training on the mental health virtual tool created under this bill.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year mental health awareness training currently provided in grades nine to twelve must be expanded to include: additional age appropriate instruction relating to suicide awareness; tools for identifying potential suicide signs, strategies and protocols for helping students at risk; and other provisions specified in the bill.

The bill requires that the current mental health training and awareness instruction be expanded to grades five to eight beginning in the 2024-25 school year; this provision will be known as "Brennan's Law" and such instruction must be included in existing health or physical education curriculum.

The bill requires the Department of Mental Health's Children's Office to develop and implement a virtual tool to enhance access to mental health resources. Criteria for the virtual tool include an online resource directory, method to allow individual screening and assessment relating to mental health, and additional information and support deemed necessary by the Department.

This bill is similar to HB 1371 (2023).
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2472 - Modifies provisions governing calculations for state aid to public schools
Sponsor: Rep. Anthony Ealy (D)
Summary: HB 2472 --STATE AID TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Ealy

This bill modifies the calculation for State aid to public schools by changing the multiplying factors in the definition of "weighted average daily attendance". The bill increases the multiplier from .25 to .30 for the free and reduced lunch pupil count, and from .60 to .65 for pupils with a limited English proficiency.

This bill is the same as HB 1211 (2023).
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2473 - Establishes the "Missouri Job Creators Tax Reduction Act" relating to a work opportunity tax credit
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Hardwick (R)
Summary: HB 2473 -- WORK OPPORTUNITY TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Hardwick

This bill establishes the "Missouri Job Creators Tax Reduction Act."

Beginning January 1, 2025, a qualified taxpayer may claim a tax credit for any wages paid to an individual who is:

(1) In a "targeted group," as that term is defined in the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC); and

(2) Who is employed by the State.

The tax credit shall be the lesser of:

(1) The amount of 100% of the federal WOTC claimed for the tax year, by the qualified taxpayer; or

(2) The amount of the qualified taxpayer's State income tax for the year.

A nonprofit organization with no State income tax liability may retain withholding tax for such employees in the amount of the tax credit that such an organization would have been authorized to claim.

The tax credits shall not be refundable or carried forward, and shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned.

The tax credit shall sunset on December 31, 2030.

This bill is similar to SB 1207 (2024).
Last Action:
02/28/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2494 - Modifies the calculations of state aid for school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Crystal Quade (D)
Summary: HB 2494 -- CALCULATIONS OF STATE AID FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS

SPONSOR: Quade

This bill creates a new definition for "weighted average daily attendance" as the term is used for the calculation of state aid to public schools. Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, the new definition uses the average daily enrollment of a school district with specific multipliers for free and reduced price lunch pupils, special education pupils, and limited english proficiency pupils.
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2499 - Modifies provisions governing eligibility for the A+ scholarship program
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Farnan (R)
Summary: HB 2499 -- A+ SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

SPONSOR: Farnan

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this bill prevents eligible students from being disqualified from receiving a grant under the A+ program solely because of a guilty plea or conviction for the possession of a controlled substance under Section 579.015, RSMo, or possession of drug paraphernalia under Section 579.074.

This bill is the same as HB 1778 (2024).
Last Action:
03/27/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2511 - Creates the "Student-Teacher Collaboration Advisory Board"
Sponsor: Rep. Ashley Bland Manlove (D)
Summary: HB 2511 -- STUDENT-TEACHER COLLABORATION ADVISORY BOARD

SPONSOR: Bland Manlove

This bill establishes the "Student-Teacher Collaboration Advisory Board" made up of one deputy commissioner from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and a student and teacher from each of the Congressional districts in the State as appointed by the Commissioner of Education. The students must be in grade eight or higher and the teachers must have taught in a classroom for at least two years to be appointed to the Board.

The Board shall meet annually to discuss best practices in the classroom and programs and submit a report summarizing meeting discussions to the Governor and the General Assembly.

This bill is the same as HB 951 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2512 - Requires posters with information on driver education courses to be posted in each high school
Sponsor: Rep. Ashley Bland Manlove (D)
Summary: HB 2512 -- DRIVER EDUCATION COURSES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Bland Manlove

This bill requires school districts to have visible posters in high schools with information about the availability, location, and meeting time of driver education courses.

This bill is similar to HB 890 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2513 - Changes requirements for civics education in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Ashley Bland Manlove (D)
Summary: HB 2513 -- CIVIC EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Bland Manlove

This bill moves the current courses of instruction on the Constitution, the State of Missouri, and American History from seventh grade to begin in sixth grade for the 2025-26 school year. The bill also moves from ninth grade to sixth grade the requirement that students pass an examination on the provisions and principles of American Civics before graduation.

This bill is the same as HB 1043 (2023).
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2535 - Changes the penalty for violating the school compulsory attendance law
Sponsor: Rep. Dirk Deaton (R)
Summary: HB 2535 -- SCHOOL COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE

SPONSOR: Deaton

This bill changes the penalty for a violation of the compulsory attendance law under 167.031 from a class C misdemeanor to a civil penalty not to exceed $500.
Last Action:
01/25/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2536 - Modifies the election date, terms of office, and term limits for members of school boards
Sponsor: Rep. Richard West (R)
Summary: HB 2536 -- SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS

SPONSOR: West

Currently, elections for school board members are held on either the general municipal election day or such day as is specified in the county charter. Furthermore, such offices are for terms ranging from three years to six years, depending on the district.

This bill requires such elections to be held at the November general election and makes school board terms two years with no member serving more than eight years total. This bill also requires school board elections to be partisan.

The bill specifies that board members of the special school district can serve a four year term rather than a the current three year term.

This bill is similar to SB 234 (2023).
Last Action:
01/25/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2537 - Changes provisions governing the "Missouri Career Development and Teacher Excellence Plan"
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D)
Summary: HB 2537 -- CAREER LADDER

SPONSOR: Steinhoff

This bill reduces the requirements for teachers to qualify for a salary supplement commonly referred to as "Career Ladder". The bill establishes qualifications in three stages with the only requirements being a professional certificate and years of service. The years of service for stage I is two, stage II is five years, and for stage III, 10 years.
Last Action:
01/25/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2552 - Establishes provisions relating to allergy prevention and responses in child care facilities
Sponsor: Rep. Jim Schulte (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2552 -- ALLERGIES IN CHILD CARE FACILITIES

SPONSOR: Schulte

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on Healthcare Reform by a vote of 12 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2552.

This bill adds child care facilities to the list of authorized entities for which a physician may prescribe an epinephrine auto- injector.

The bill establishes "Elijah's Law" and requires licensed child care providers to adopt a policy on allergy prevention and response, with priority given to addressing deadly food-borne allergies. The policy must contain elements specified in the bill and be adopted before July 1, 2026.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must develop a model policy or policies on allergy prevention and response before July 1, 2025.

This bill is the same as HB 2036 (2024) and is similar to HB 1270 (2023).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that this is a common-sense piece of legislation to help sensitive children avoid things to which they are allergic, and that parents should not be in constant fear of their child's exposure to an allergen at school and day care centers.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Schulte; Asthma And Allergy Foundation of America; City of KC City Council; and Arnie C. Dienoff.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2562 - Modifies provisions governing the compensation of student athletes
Sponsor: Rep. Kurtis Gregory (R)
Summary: HB 2562 -- COMPENSATION OF STUDENT ATHLETES

SPONSOR: Gregory

This bill specifies that a high school athlete, as defined in the bill, may earn compensation from the use of such athlete's likeness or athletic reputation subject to the following: a high school student shall have the right to discuss compensation before signing a letter of intent only when discussing enrollment with an educational institution in this state; and shall have the right to earn such compensation only after signing said letter of intent.

Any discussion regarding compensation from the use of such high school athlete's likeness or athletic reputation is not a violation of any rules intended to protect a high school athlete's eligibility to participate in high school athletics in this state.

Any high school athlete attempting to earn compensation from such athlete's likeness or athletic reputation may use any identifiers of the athlete's high school, as listed in the bill, in such earning efforts.

The bill repeals language relating to high school athlete compensation for use of likeness or athletic reputation when competing against public school students.
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2565 - Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to develop a curriculum on the danger of marijuana usage to be used by school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Brian Seitz (R)
Summary: HB 2565 -- MARIJUANA USAGE EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Seitz

This bill requires the State Board of Education to convene a work group to develop academic performance standards relating to marijuana usage education. Beginning in 2025-26 the State Board shall adopt standards relating to a minimum one-hour curriculum for students over 12 years old in regard to the dangers of marijuana use.
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2569 - Prohibits state departments from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Baker (R)
Summary: HB 2569 -- EXPENDITURES BY STATE DEPARTMENTS

SPONSOR: Baker

This bill prohibits State departments from using funds for programs related to "diversity, equity, and inclusion"(DEI) or similar initiatives if they promote preferential treatment based on various factors including race, gender, or ethnicity; attribute disparities solely to oppression; advocate collective guilt ideologies; engage in divisive identity activism; or restrict freedom of conscience, thought, or speech.

This bill does not prohibit State departments from adherence to Federal and State employment laws and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

This bill also specifies that State departments cannot compel or incentivize private sector employers to adopt DEI programs as a condition for state contracts.

This bill is the same as HB 2365 (2024).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 2619
HB2574 - Creates a community solar pilot program
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HB 2574 -- COMMUNITY SOLAR PILOT PROGRAM

SPONSOR: McMullen

This bill establishes a community solar pilot program requiring each retail electric supplier to implement a three-year community solar pilot program during calendar years 2025-2027. Retail electric suppliers must allow subscriber administrators and owners or operators of community solar facilities to recruit customers as subscribers and process subscribers' bill credits as specified in the bill. Each retail electric supplier must continue operating its pilot program until the total solar electricity demand equals 5% of the retail electric supplier's electricity sales for the previous year.

A community solar facility may be built, owned, or operated by a third party entity under contract with an owner or operator of a community solar facility or a subscriber administrator. A subscriber administrator may contract to administer bill credits to the subscriber's electricity bill generated by the subscriber's share of the community solar facility. A subscriber administrator that provides bill credit to a subscriber are not be considered an electrical corporation or public utility. The owner or operator of a community solar facility may serve as a subscriber administrator.

No later than nine months after the effective date of the bill, the Public Service Commission must establish the value of the bill credit for each retail electric supplier to offset each subscriber's retail electric bill for each kilowatt hour subscribed from a community solar facility as specified in the bill.

A retail electric supplier must allow for the transferability and portability of subscriptions. On a monthly basis, a subscriber administrator is required to update the subscriber administrator's list of subscribers. The bill specifies the duties of and compensation for a retail electric supplier.

Each community solar facility must be subscribed with at least 10% low-income customers and 20% residential customers. A retail electric supplier must purchase unsubscribed energy from a community solar facility as specified in the bill.

Interconnection standards for community solar facilities under 100 kilowatts are the same as those for net-metered customers. For systems larger than 100 kilowatts, the Commission must develop technical and net metering interconnection rules for customer- generators intending to operate community solar facilities or renewable onsite generators in parallel with the electric utility grid. This bill is the same as SB 1347(2024).
Last Action:
04/03/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2579 - Requires state agencies to include a cost-benefit analysis with every proposed rule
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Lonsdale (R)
Summary: HB 2579 -- COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF ADMINISTRATIVE RULES

SPONSOR: Lonsdale

This bill defines "Benefits", "Cost", "Direct benefit", "Indirect benefit", "Indirect cost", "Monetized", "Stakeholder", "Stakeholder-specific benefit", and "Stakeholder-specific cost". The bill requires all agencies to demonstrate that the benefits of proposed regulations outweigh the costs.

This bill requires all agencies to conduct a cost-benefit analysis for final rules, detailing any differences from the analysis of proposed rules and any decisions made based on public comments.

The bill requires all documentation related to the cost-benefit analysis to be made public on specified platforms.

This bill requires standardized analysis and metrics to be applied to all regulations, with exceptions approved by the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.

The bill allows stakeholders to challenge final rules based on deficiencies in the agency's cost-benefit analysis, leading to a review and possible remand by the court. If the court agrees and identifies certain shortcomings such as failure to consider relevant costs, lack of public scrutiny, underestimation of costs, overestimation of benefits, or failure to justify changes from the proposed rule's analysis, it can stay the rule and request further agency analysis. Additionally, the cost-benefit analysis should align with the periodic regulatory review cycle specified in Section 536.175, RSMo.

This bill requires the cost-benefit analysis to align with the periodic regulatory review cycle.

The bill specifies the following restrictions on the use of discount rates: (1) No social or implementing discount rates;

(2) Justification is necessary for the application of discount rates;

(3) Compound interest rate calculations are not to be mandated; and

(4) Non-monetary life factors should not be monetized or calculated as compounding at the marginal rate of return to capital. This bill specifies that rules made under Section 536.025 will be excluded from the requirements of this section.
Last Action:
01/31/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2584 - Specifies that tax revenues dedicated to school districts cannot be reduced or redirected to accommodate special taxing districts
Sponsor: Rep. Ashley Bland Manlove (D)
Summary: HB 2584 -- TAX REVENUES DEDICATED TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS

SPONSOR: Bland Manlove

This bill prohibits any program, special taxing district, or political subdivision from reducing or redirecting any property or sales tax revenue that has previously been dedicated to a school district.

This bill also prohibits political subdivisions from including any tax revenue previously dedicated to a school district when calculating economic activity taxes or payments in lieu of taxes.

This bill is similar to HB 1072 (2023) and HB 2283 (2022).
Last Action:
01/31/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2592 - Modifies provisions for solar energy systems
Sponsor: Rep. Aaron McMullen (R)
Summary: HB 2592 -- SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

SPONSOR: McMullen

This bill increases the allowable capacity of an electrical generating system that qualifies for net metering under the Net Metering and Easy Connect Act from 100 kilowatts to 1,000 kilowatts and requires the electrical generating system to meet the requirements of a uniformed solar permit and inspection form.

Currently, a retail electrical supplier must make net-metering available until the total capacity of net metering systems equals 5% of the supplier's total peak load during the previous year. The bill increases the net metering capacity to 15% of a retail electrical supplier total peak load.

Currently the customer generator is to be credited an amount equal to the avoided fuel cost of the excess electricity generated by the customer during the billing period, with the credit applied to the following billing period. The bill changes the credit to the retail electric cost of the excess electricity generated by the customer during the billing period, with the credit applied anytime during the next 12-month period.

Currently, systems of 10 kilowatts or less are exempt from certain requirements and standards. This bill increases the size of systems that are exempt to 100 kilowatts.

By January 1, 2025, the Public Service Commission must create a unified solar permit and inspection form and automated permitting and inspection software for solar energy devices. Permitting and inspection authorities must use the software and collect fees from applicants for solar energy device permits.

The bill also requires homeowners' associations to deny or request resubmission of applications for solar panels or collectors within 30 days of receipt of the request or the application is considered approved. Homeowners' associations can not require applications for solar panels or collectors to be approved by a committee that addresses architectural or aesthetic qualities.
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2598 - Expands the definition of special victim to include school employees and volunteers
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Dinkins (R)
Summary: HB 2598 -- SPECIAL VICTIMS

SPONSOR: Dinkins

This bill adds any school employee or school volunteer, including administrators, teachers, aides, paraprofessionals, assistants, secretaries, custodians, cooks, nurses, bus drivers employed by a school district, and bus drivers employed by a pupil transportation company under contract with a school district, while in the performance of the employee's or volunteer's job duties to the definition of "special victim".

This bill is similar to HB 1441 (2024) and HB 72 (2023).
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2604 - Establishes the "Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act"
Sponsor: Rep. Rodger Reedy (R)
Summary: HB 2604 -- UNIFORM REAL PROPERTY ELECTRONIC RECORDING ACT

SPONSOR: Reedy

This bill establishes the "Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act", which allows for the recording of an electronic format document rather than a paper document. It also allows an electronic signature to qualify as a sufficient signature. Such electronic signature will also satisfy the requirement for notarized documents if the signature also complies with the requirements of the remote online notarial acts under Chapter 486, RSMo. A county recorder of deeds may convert paper documents into electronic form for the purposes of indexing, storing, archiving, and making such forms accessible to the public and may also accept fees and documents electronically.

This bill creates the "Electronic Recording Commission" consisting of nine members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, to adopt standards and implement the provisions of this bill.

The provisions of this bill supersede the federal Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, but do not supersede Section 101(c) of the Act or authorize electronic delivery of any of the notices described in Section 103(b) of the Act. This bill has a delayed effective date of January 2, 2025.

This bill is similar to HB 2895 (2022).
Last Action:
03/11/2024 
H - Committee hearing cancelled - House-Special Committee on Innovation and Technology - 3/12/24 - 9:00 am - HR 5
HB2610 - Modifies provisions relating to certain school retirement systems
Sponsor: Rep. Alan Gray (D)
Summary: HB 2610 -- ST LOUIS PUBLIC SCHOOL RETIREMENT

SPONSOR: Gray

This bill allows retirees from the St. Louis Public School Retirement System to receive a one-time supplemental payment equal to the lesser of the person's gross amount of the regular pension benefit or $2,000. The supplemental payment shall be payable no later than September 30, 2024.

This bill is similar to HB 898 (2023) and HB 1831 (2022).
Last Action:
02/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2612 - Establishes an educational technology impact advisory council to review the use of technology in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Tricia Byrnes (R)
Summary: HCS HB 2612 -- TECHNOLOGY IN SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Byrnes

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Innovation and Technology by a vote of 8 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2612.

This bill creates an educational technology impact advisory council to review the best practices for the use of technology in instruction. The council will consist of no more than 25 members appointed by the Commission of Education including stakeholders from education and medical professionals. Specific items and information to be covered as they relate to technology and education are specified in the bill.

The council must meet four times per year, with the first meeting to be held by December 1, 2024, and must have at least three additional meetings before the committee submits a summary of the council's actions and recommendations before July 1, 2025.

The summary, along with policy proposals and recommendations shall be presented in a public hearing to the State Board of Education and the House and Senate Committees on Education.

The council must meet every two years and update the provided summary to continue to provide best practice and policy suggestions for the impact and inclusion of technology in education.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that technology in schools has changed the manner in which students learn. Although it has many benefits, some school districts may rely on technology too much. By middle school, some students lack executive function and many believe technology has a roll in this. This bill would bring together experts to look into best practices for using technology in schools.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Byrnes; Missouri Disability Empowerment Foundation; Missouri NEA; John Grady; Armorvine; and Arnie C. Dienoff.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee. Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2619 - Prohibits state departments from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
Sponsor: Rep. Cody Smith (R)
Summary: HCS HBs 2619, 2365, 2448 & 2569 -- EXPENDITURES BY STATE DEPARTMENTS

SPONSOR: Smith (163)

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Standing Committee on General Laws by a vote of 12 to 4.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HB 2619.

This bill prohibits funds from any State department being used for intradepartmental programs, staffing, or initiatives related to "diversity, equity, and inclusion" or similar initiatives that promote preferential treatment based on certain characteristics, concepts such as oppression as the sole cause of disparities, collective guilt ideologies, intersectional or divisive identity activism, and the limiting of freedom of conscience, thought, or speech.

This bill also specifies that State departments are not prohibited from following Federal and State employment and antidiscrimination laws or complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

This bill prohibits State departments from mandating, requiring, or incentivizing private sector employers to implement "diversity, equity, and inclusion" programs or initiatives as a condition for receiving a State contract.

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that deployment of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives promotes the idea that to address past discrimination, we must employ present discrimination. However, using State resources and insinuating that it is ever appropriate to use race discriminatory practices to make up for past wrongs flies directly in the face of the Constitution. State employees should not be forced into engaging with DEI and taxpayer dollars should not be used for this discriminatory practice. A very loud, but small, segment of society is doing what they can to drive a narrative that attacks the very root of western ideals. When you use terms, such as diversity, without telling the general population what you are using those terms for, you do the opposite of inclusion, you further divide. Disparity between two or more groups creates oppression which pushes people into tribal camps resulting in breeding racist connotations. Proponents further state that DEI programs are admirable but do not work. These programs often do the opposite of what they claim to do. Rather than increase minority representation, there is less minority representation and those that undergo diversity training don't actually change their views or address diversity issues. Hiring programs should focus on the merit of the applicant, rather than the applicant's race or gender. To promote one preferred group over another creates resentment toward that preferred group, thus creating an us versus them mentality.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Smith; Cicero Action, Opportunity Solutions Project;and Raheem J. Williams, Do No Harm.

OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that diversity within the work place allows for a more diverse approach to complex problems. People from different backgrounds can approach issues in different ways. Different approaches often ensure teams arrive at a solution more quickly than a team that has only one way of looking at a problem. DEI programs provide this necessary diversity within the work place. Opponents also say that women and minority groups often don't have the same access to opportunities that white males do. DEI is a way for underserved communities to get opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have access to. Minorities are already under represented in many professions. Removing DEI programs would only further decrease the number of minorities in many professional fields. Everyone is born with some kind of prejudice. DEI is important to teach professionals about biases and may help certain professionals learn about a bias they may have that they were not aware of.

Testifying in person against the bill were Abortion Action Missouri (Formerly Pro Choice Missouri); Missouri Family Health Council; Missouri Budget Project; Missouri Speech-Language and Hearing Association (MSHA); Tricia McGhee, Revolucion Educativa; Advocates of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region & Southwest Missouri; National Association of Social Work-Missouri Chapter; Dava-Leigh Brush, Missouri Equity Education Partnership Action; Heather Fleming; American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Public Health Excellence; May Hall; Michael Walk; Health Forward Foundation; Rebecca Nowlin, Aging Best and Missouri Association of Area Agencies on Aging; American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri; and the Missouri State Conference NAACP.



Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
02/27/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HB2620 - Changes the definition of "qualified student" for purposes of Missouri empowerment scholarship accounts
Sponsor: Rep. Cody Smith (R)
Summary: HB 2620 -- MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP

SPONSOR: Smith (163)

This bill modifies the definition of "qualified student" to expand which students may qualify for a Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Account. The definition changes from elementary or secondary school students in specific counties and cities to all elementary or secondary school students residing in the State that meet the specified criteria.

This bill is the same as HB 1615 (2024).
Last Action:
02/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2622 - Adds public schools and charter schools to the list of entities required to submit information to the Missouri accountability
Sponsor: Rep. Josh Hurlbert (R)
Summary: HB 2622 -- MISSOURI ACCOUNTABILITY PORTAL

SPONSOR: Hurlbert

This bill requires school districts and charter schools to provide an account of their expenses to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for inclusion in the Missouri Accountability Portal within 60 day of incurring the expense.
Last Action:
02/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2625 - Exempts the first two thousand four hundred dollars of income from taxation
Sponsor: Rep. Michael O'Donnell (R)
Summary: HB 2625 -- PERSONAL INCOME TAX

SPONSOR: O'Donnell

Beginning January 1, 2025, there shall be no tax on income of less than or equal to $2,400.
Last Action:
02/06/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2630 - Modifies provisions governing school antibullying policies
Sponsor: Rep. John Black (R)
Summary: HB 2630 -- SCHOOL ANTI-BULLYING POLICIES

SPONSOR: Black

This bill requires that school districts expand the current definition of harassment to include bullying that meets the level of harassment as a reportable offense to law enforcement (Section 160.261, RSMo).

The bill adds the use of offensive racial epithets and excludes self-defense from the definition of bullying. School district policies on bullying are also modified and include written documentation of each report, procedures for investigations, and intervention on behalf of the bully.

If a school district or charter school fails to report bullying incidents, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will withhold 10% of monthly funding until the school is in compliance. Districts or charter schools that do not provide intervention or follow procedures on bullying will have money withheld in the amount of the State adequacy target multiplied by the number of failures. Multiple occurrences of bullying in a single semester by a student will also result in a financial penalty.

The bill provides for protection from civil liability for school districts, charter schools, and the employees of the district or charter school if procedures are properly followed(Section 160.775).

The bill adds bullying to the list of offenses that are reportable to law enforcement and adds the Commissioner of Education for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the governing board of a charter school to the current list for which reporting must occur. School officials that neglect or refuse to perform the reporting requirements must be referred to the State Board of Education for disciplinary proceedings to include suspension of such individual's certificate (Section 167.117).
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - Superseded by HB 1715
HB2644 - Modifies the calculations of state aid for school districts
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D)
Summary: HB 2644 -- FOUNDATION FORMULA

SPONSOR: Steinhoff

This bill modifies the current funding formula for state aid to public schools.

Beginning July 1, 2025, changes to the calculation include the following:

1) Removal of the %5 cap from the current operating expenditure;

2) Changing the weighted average daily attendance to be comprised of 1/2 pupil count based on weighted attendance and 1/2 pupil count based on "weighted membership";

3) Increasing the weight for free and reduced pupil count from .25 to .30 with an increase to .5 beginning in the 2028-29 school year;

4) Increasing the weight for special education pupils from .75 to 1;

5) Creating a weight for homeless pupils at .25; and

6) Adding a definition for "weighted membership" that provides a weighting for pupils that are enrolled in a district to be used as 1/2 of the funding calculation (Section 163.011, RSMo).

Currently if formula appropriations are insufficient to fund the state aid entitlement, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education may adjust the state adequacy target to match the appropriation. This bill authorizes the Department to adjust the state adequacy target if appropriation amounts exceed the amount necessary (Section 163.031).
Last Action:
02/07/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2652 - Prohibits public schools from imposing certain requirements on students
Sponsor: Rep. Bill Hardwick (R)
Summary: HB 2652 -- EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Hardwick

This bill prevents public school districts or charter schools from requiring a student, as a condition of attendance, to:

(1) Receive a dose of messenger ribonucleic acid;

(2) Receive treatments or procedures intended to edit or alter human deoxyribonucleic acid or the human genome; or

(3) Have placed under the student's skin any mechanical or electronic device.
Last Action:
02/08/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2657 - Modifies provisions relating to income tax deductions for private pensions
Sponsor: Rep. Mike McGirl (R)
Summary:

HB 2657 -- PRIVATE PENSION TAXATION (McGirl)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Standing Committee on Ways and Means

This bill increases an individual's income tax adjustments related to private pensions in the following manner:

(1) Single, Head of Household -- increases from $25,000 to $50,000;

(2) Married Filing Combined -- increases from $32,000 to $64,000; and

(3) Married Filing Separate -- increases from $16,000 to $32,600

This bill increases the maximum amount to be subtracted from a taxpayer's adjusted gross income for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, to the first $12,000 of any retirement allowance received from any privately funded sources. The previous maximum was $6,000.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Read First Time
HB2667 - Modifies provisions governing transportation for public school pupils
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Keathley (R)
Summary: HB 2667 -- PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

SPONSOR: Keathley

This bill requires school districts to provide transportation for pupils living less than one mile from school at the expense of the district. Districts that require an increase in the tax levy for such transportation must submit such question on a ballot to the district. The bill changes the vote for such ballot measure from a 2/3rd majority to a simple majority.
Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2674 - Requires the Joint Committee on Education to establish a working group to report on solutions for protecting the learning environment in classrooms
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Burger (R)
Summary: HB 2674 -- CLASSROOM LEARNING ENVIRONMENT WORKING GROUP

SPONSOR: Burger

This bill requires the Joint Committee on Education to convene a work group on protecting the learning environment in classrooms. The work group will develop and recommend meaningful solutions for public schools to ensure that each student and public school employee or volunteer experiences a safe and productive learning environment.

The work group will be comprised of stakeholders including at least six teachers; individuals with expertise in behavior assessment, mental health, child psychology, education preparation programs; a school superintendent; and individuals designated by members of the United States Congress and Senate, among others outlined in the bill.

The work group must meet four times before January 1, 2025, and hold at least one public hearing to receive public testimony from parents. The work group must submit a report to the General Assembly, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the State Board of Education with recommendations and policy proposals before January 1, 2025.
Last Action:
02/22/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Elementary and Secondary Education
HB2678 - Prohibits students from engaging in "furry" behavior while at school
Sponsor: Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch (R)
Summary: HB 2678 -- STUDENT BEHAVIOR

SPONSOR: Toalson Reisch

This bill requires that students who purport to be imaginary animals or engage in anthropomorphic behavior consistent with the common designation of "furry" while at school be removed from school and school activities.
Last Action:
02/14/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2692 - Modifies provisions governing career and technical education programs
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Wilson (R)
Summary: HB 2692 -- CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SPONSOR: Wilson

This bill requires that beginning in the 2024-25 school year the State Board of Education and the Career and Technical Education Advisory Council evaluate the Federal taxonomic coding scheme of instructional programs known as the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) to determine the types of instructional programs that may meet the minimum requirements leading to recognition as part of a CTE program that offers a CTE certificate. Upon evaluation the bill requires the Board and Council to determine if an existing teaching certification can be applied to the CIP code or approve a certification for a program with inappropriate teacher certification until the appropriate certification for such CIP code can be approved.
Last Action:
02/14/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2696 - Changes provisions governing special educational services
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D)
Summary: HB 2696 -- EVALUATIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

SPONSOR: Steinhoff

This bill defines "a young child with a developmental disability" for the purposes of providing special educational services under the requirements of federal law. Such a child is:

(1) At least three years old but not older than nine years of age;

(2) Experiencing developmental delays, as measured by appropriate evaluative instruments and procedures, in one or more of the areas specified within the bill; and

(3) Requires special educational and related services.

The bill provides that children whose age makes them eligible for kindergarten or first grade may continue their eligibility as a young child with a developmental delay if the child had been categorized as such before attaining eligibility for kindergarten or grade one. This bill additionally provides that the category of "young child with a developmental delay" will not be used to determine continuing eligibility for a student who is seven years of age before August 1 of a given school year.
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2717 - Requires certain incidents in public schools to be reported to the department of elementary and secondary education and made available on the department's comprehensive data system
Sponsor: Rep. Yolanda Young (D)
Summary: HB 2717 -- INCIDENT REPORTING FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Young

This bill requires that incidents of school violence and bullying be submitted to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education within 30 days. The Department must compile and report incidents on the data portal with personal identification data remaining inaccessible.

This bill is similar to HB 1349 (2023).
Last Action:
02/19/2024 
H - Introduced and Read First Time
HB2724 - Prohibits certain organizations that contract with the departments of social services and elementary and secondary education from taking more than a certain percentage in fees when distributing department funds
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 2724 -- DEPARTMENTS OF SOCIAL SERVICES AND ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION PURCHASING

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

This bill sets limitations on the amount of funds that can be collected in fees by an entity that contracts with the Department of Social Services or the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for the purposes of disbursing funds to other organizations or community programs that provide human services.

For any funds that are disbursed by an entity that contracts with either department, the entity can take no more than 5% if the amount is less than $1 million or, and no more than 3% if the amount is $1 million or more.
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2729 - Creates provisions to allow local taxing entities to establish property tax work-off programs for certain senior citizens to reduce property tax bills
Sponsor: Rep. Donna Baringer (D)
Summary: HB 2729 -- LOCAL PROPERTY TAX WORK-OFF PROGRAM

SPONSOR: Baringer

This bill specifies that upon adoption of an ordinance, a taxing entity may create a Property Tax Work-Off Program. Such a program would allow a qualified taxpayer to perform temporary volunteer work for a public entity, that receives or uses revenue generated through real property taxes, in lieu of paying certain real property taxes.

If such an ordinance is adopted, it must include the following information:

(1) Procedures and deadlines for application and participation in the Program and required documentation to prove eligibility;

(2) The maximum number of taxpayers allowed to participate in the Program;

(3) Procedures for verification and record keeping of the work performed, hours of service, and the total amount by which the real property tax owed has been reduced;

(4) Procedures for the crediting toward the qualified taxpayer's real property taxes; and

(5) Any other provisions that the taxing entity deems reasonable and necessary.

A qualified taxpayer will be compensated at the hourly Missouri minimum wage. Such compensation shall be used in lieu of payment of any real property taxes that the qualifying taxpayer owes on this or her homestead. The total amount of compensation shall exceed $1,000 or the total amount of real property tax owed, whichever is less. The governing body of a taxing entity may increase this amount at its discretion, provided such an increase is submitted to the voters. The total number of hours of work that a qualified taxpayer may perform will be calculated by dividing the amount of property taxes owed by the State minimum wage.

A qualified taxpayer is an individual who:

(1) Is 65 years or older on or before the last day of the calendar year for which the real property taxes are owed;

(2) Has been a resident of the taxing entity for at least one year and is still a current resident as of the date of the application; (3) Is living on a low, fixed income from sources such as Social Security, State disability benefits, pensions, or retirement savings;

(4) Is the owner of record of a homestead or has a legal or equitable interest in a homestead; and

(5) Is liable for the payment of real property taxes of a homestead.

Information regarding a work-off program will be made available to the taxpayers of the taxing entity.

Qualifying taxpayers retain the right to protest the amount of their real property taxes. All compensation earned by a qualified taxpayer will not be considered income for the purposes of personal income taxation.
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2742 - Requires newly purchased or contracted school buses of a school district to be zero-emission vehicles, beginning January 1, 2035
Sponsor: Rep. Anthony Ealy (D)
Summary: HB 2742 -- ZERO-EMISSION SCHOOL BUSES

SPONSOR: Ealy

This bill enacts laws relating to school buses. In its main provisions the bill:

(1) Provides that a contract between a school district and a party contracting to provide transportation services to the school district is jointly renewable at the end of the contract term for a term not to exceed 15 years, and must include all of the terms of the previous contract and any provisions increasing rates based on increased costs;

(2) Provides that a continuing contract for the lease or rental of school buses may be made for a term not to exceed 15 years, except that if the school district can exercise an option either to purchase the buses or cancel the lease at the end of each annual period during the contract, the contract may be made for a term not to exceed 20 years;

(3) Authorizes a contract to be negotiated annually within the contract period when economic factors indicate negotiation is necessary to maintain an equitable pricing structure. Renegotiation is subject to the approval of both contracting parties. Any rental, lease, or lease-purchase of a school bus must comply with Chapter 177, RSMo;

(4) Defines "school bus" for the purpose of the zero-emission provision and excludes specific meanings;

(5) Provides that beginning January 1, 2035, 100% of all newly purchased or contracted school buses must be zero-emission vehicles, where feasible;

(6) Provides that when a school district determines that the purchase or lease of a zero-emission school bus is not feasible due to both terrain and route constraints, it may request a one-time extension for a term not to exceed five years, in order to meet the zero-emission by 2035 requirement, provided the following conditions are met:

(a) The school district reasonably demonstrates that a daily planned bus route for transporting pupils to and from school cannot be serviced through available zero-emission technology in 2035; and

(b) The Department of Natural Resources, consulting with the Missouri air conservation commission, receives and evaluates a school district's request, and grants a one-time extension based on the local school district reasonably demonstrating the condition described above;

(7) Provides that beginning January 1, 2040, if a school district with an average daily attendance of 350 or less determines that the purchase or lease of a zero-emission school bus in not feasible due to both terrain and route constraints, the school district may request annual extensions with the last extension expiring on January 1, 2045 provided the following conditions are met:

(a) The school district reasonably demonstrates that a daily planned bus route for transporting pupils to and from school cannot be serviced through available zero-emission technology in the period in which the annual waiver is sought; and

(b) The Department of Natural Resources, consulting with the Missouri air conservation commission, receives and evaluates a school district's request, and grants the annual extension based on the local school district reasonably demonstrating the condition described above.
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2774 - Allows schools to incorporate criminal justice instruction into curricula
Sponsor: Rep. Alan Gray (D)
Summary: HB 2774 -- CRIMINAL JUSTICE INSTRUCTION

SPONSOR: Gray

This bill allows a school district to offer instruction on the criminal justice system in grades seven through 12. Emphasis will be on how the system works and career opportunities in law enforcement. Input may be sought from local law enforcement organizations.

This bill is the same as HB 1821 (2022) and HB 1390 (2023).
Last Action:
02/22/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2775 - Establishes a "Council for Community Education" within the department of elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Rep. Alan Gray (D)
Summary: HB 2775 -- COUNCIL FOR COMMUNITY EDUCATION

SPONSOR: Gray

This bill establishes the "Council for Community Education". The Council will study and make recommendations regarding establishing community education programs in which public school buildings are used as community centers operated by the School Board in cooperation with other community groups to provide community services. The Council will have 11 members appointed by the Governor.

The Council will meet no more than four times each year and will be tasked with:

(1) Conducting feasibility studies on the establishment of community education programs;

(2) Advising the Commissioner of Education and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on issues relating to the establishment of community education programs;

(3) Making recommendations for a state plan for community education as specified in the bill; and

(4) Making recommendations for the funding of local community education programs.

This bill is the same as HB 1820 (2022) and HB 1388 (2023).
Last Action:
02/22/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2792 - Modifies provisions governing proprietary schools
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Wilson (R)
Summary: HB 2792 -- PROPRIETARY SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Wilson

This bill requires a proprietary school that closes without taking care of the students, to forfeit the security deposit required to be on record with the Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development. The Department will use the funds to help the students affected by the closure.

If funds remain after students receive restitution from the security deposit proceeds, the remaining money will be used to secure and administer student records in the Department’s care.

The bill also creates a specific exemption category for U.S. Department of Labor approved registered apprenticeships from the certification requirements with the Department.

The Department currently exempts training partners that only enroll registered apprentices, and only requires certification or exemption of providers who seek to enroll non-apprentices in the same program in order to ensure those students have oversight protections in place. This clarifes in statute the exemption category for those wishing to offer postsecondary training as part of a registered apprenticeship program.
Last Action:
02/26/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2793 - Modifies the formula to apportion mining royalties
Sponsor: Rep. Chris Dinkins (R)
Summary: HB 2793 -- MINING ROYALTIES

SPONSOR: Dinkins

Currently, 50% of the money received by the State from National Forest reserves for mineral products must be spent for roads in the counties in which the National Forest is located. Of that, 85% must be split in proportional shares based on the amount of minerals extracted in each county and 15% split equally where there is no mining. This bill would require the 15% to be split equally according to the proportion of National Forest in the county.
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
H - Referred to House committee on Conservation and Natural Resources
HB2794 - Modifies provisions governing postsecondary plans of elementary and secondary school students
Sponsor: Rep. Gretchen Bangert (D)
Summary: HB 2794 -- CAREER LITERACY

SPONSOR: Bangert

This bill requires that students in the eighth grade complete a career assessment, meet with a guidance counselor, and develop a personal plan of study or individual career and academic plan (ICAP). Beginning in the 2025-26 school year students in ninth through 12th grade must annually review and complete the ICAP with the assistance of a teacher or counselor. Students in grades kindergarten through 12th will receive instruction in career literacy which will be incorporated into existing curricula and academic and performance standards.

For grades Kindergarten through grade two such instruction must be a minimum of 30 minutes per week, for grades three through five, one hour per week, and in grades six through 12 two hours of instruction is required.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must establish an online portfolio process for student tracking and a collaborative process to help students align with graduation requirements, personal interests, labor market needs, and career goals. The bill specifies career and educational opportunities in which the Department will educate students.

The bill repeals the "Career Readiness Course Task Force" dissolved in 2019.
Last Action:
04/24/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass as substituted
HB2803 - Creates new provisions for contracting and purchasing by the department of social services and the department of elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Rep. Ed Lewis (R)
Summary: HB 2803 -- PURCHASING BY CERTAIN STATE DEPARTMENTS

SPONSOR: Lewis (6)

The bill allows the departments of Social Services and Elementary and Secondary Education to purchase services directly from private and public vendors in the State using appropriated funds, covering various services for individuals affected by mental disorders, disabilities, or substance abuse.

This bill specifies that the Commissioner of Administration, in consultation with the director of the department, will establish purchasing procedures consistent with the usual state purchasing procedures. The Commissioner shall cooperate with each department to purchase services in a timely manner that meets the needs of those served by the department.

The Commissioner may enact rules for reviewing and managing contracts, including the ability to waive bidding procedures if deemed appropriate. Entities disbursing funds for community programs are limited in the fees they can collect based on the amount of funds disbursed from the department.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HB2812 - Establishes provisions relating to the minimum school term
Sponsor: Rep. Paula Brown (D)
Summary: HB 2812 -- MINIMUM SCHOOL TERM

SPONSOR: Brown (87)

This bill modifies the definition of "school term" by providing that school districts located in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants shall have a school term that consists of at least 169 school days, unless the district has adopted a four-day school week, in which case a school term shall consist of at least 142 school days (Sections 160.011, 163.021, 171.031, and 171.033, RSMo).

The bill repeals a provision specifying that school districts must provide a minimum of 522 hours of actual pupil attendance for kindergarten pupils in order to receive State aid (Section 163.021).

The bill specifies that school districts located wholly or partially in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants may adopt a four-day school week only upon a majority vote of the qualified voters of the school district (Section 171.028).

School districts with a school term of 175 school days or more may establish an opening date earlier than 14 days prior to the first Monday in September by following the procedure specified in the bill (Section 171.031).

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must remit to any school district or charter school with a five-day school week an amount equal to 2% of such district's or charter school's June state aid entitlement for the preceding year. The funds will be used exclusively to increase teacher salaries. Any district or charter school that uses such funds for any other purpose will have an equivalent amount of money withheld from its State aid allocation (Section 1).

The bill has an effective date of July 1, 2025.

This bill is similar to SB 784 (2024).
Last Action:
02/27/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2846 - Modifies provisions relating to retirement benefits for certain teacher retirement systems
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Clemens (D)
Summary: HB 2846 -- RETIREMENT BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN TEACHER RETIREMENT SYSTEMS

SPONSOR: Clemens

This bill adds definitions for "funded ratio", "total actuarially required contribution" and "total actuarially required contribution rate" for the Public School Retirement System of Saint Louis. The bill moves the current contribution rate payable by employers from 9% to 14% in 2025 and beginning in 2026 the rate will be determined by the System actuary as specified in the bill. The bill requires that such modifications to the rate not increase by more than 1% or decrease by more than 1/2% on a year to year basis.
Last Action:
04/04/2024 
Scheduled for Committee Hearing
04/09/2024 10:00 AM - House-Pensions, HR 5
House-Pensions
HB2847 - Modifies provisions relating to charter schools
Sponsor: Rep. Doug Clemens (D)
Summary: HB 2847 -- CHARTER SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Clemens

Currently, a charter school is defined as an independent public school operated in a specified district. Entities are eligible to sponsor charter schools are also specified.

This bill instead defines a charter school as a semi-autonomous public school that may be operated in any school district, sponsored only by the school board of the district or by a special administrative board for the district. The bill will not, however, affect charter contracts that are in effect on the effective date of this bill until the expiration of such contract.

Currently, a charter school must select the method for election of officers based on the class of corporation selected. As specified in this bill, the method for election of officers of the charter school will be mutually agreed to by the charter and sponsoring school board.

The bill also repeals provisions relating to the expenses associated with sponsorship of charter schools, and specifies that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will monitor each school board's sponsorship and ensure that the school board meets certain requirements.

Currently, the Department is permitted to withhold a sponsor's funding if the sponsor is found to be in material noncompliance with its sponsorship duties. This bill repeals this provision.

If the State Board of Education removes the authority to sponsor a currently operating charter school, the State Board, rather than the Missouri Charter Public School Commission, will become the sponsor of the school for the remainder of the term of the charter contract. The State and the sponsoring district will not be liable for any outstanding liability or obligations of the charter school (Section 160.400, RSMo).

The bill repeals provisions setting forth the application and approval process for charter school sponsors, and instead specifies that the Department must exercise sponsorship oversight and monitoring to ensure that local school districts only sponsor charter schools that meet criteria specified in the bill, and do so by way of a procedure that complies with the process specified bill (Section 160.403).

Any person, group or organization seeking to establish a charter school must submit the proposed charter to the local school board or special administrative board, rather than to a charter sponsor. The bill repeals the provision requiring a charter to include a legally binding performance contract that outlines the obligations and responsibilities of the school and sponsor, and also repeals all contract requirements. Instead, a charter must include a contract that outlines the responsibilities of the school to provide students with a free, accessible, non-sectarian, quality education that is delivered subject to the same basic safeguards and standards as other district schools, including certain standards specified in the bill.

A charter school may be approved, as specified in this bill, only if the sponsor determines the charter is both necessary to meet the needs of students in the district and will meet those needs in a manner that improves the local public school system. Charter schools may be authorized or expanded only after a district has assessed the impact of the proposed charter school on local public school resources, programs and services, and other elements specified bill. The impact analysis will be independent, developed with community input, and be publicly available.

If a proposed charter is denied by a sponsor, the charter may be submitted to the State Board to consider appeals of approvals or denials on the grounds that the sponsor's process for approving a charter was not properly followed or that the approval or denial was arbitrary or illegal. The bill repeals current provisions specifing charter school requirements, and charter school sponsor requirements.

The charter of a charter school may be amended by mutual agreement of the governing body of the charter school and the sponsor, rather than at the request of the governing body and upon approval of the sponsor. The bill also repeals provisions relating to when the sponsor and governing board will review the school's performance, management and operations, and requires the sponsor and governing board to do so as specified in the charter contract.

The bill repeals provisions requiring the Department to calculate an annual performance report for each charter school, and requiring the Joint Committee on Education to create a committee to investigate facility access and affordability of charter schools (Section 160.405).

The bill repeals all provisions relating to high-quality charter schools (Section 160.408).

A charter school must enroll, as specified in this bill, all pupils residing in the district in which it operates as provided in the contract, provided that charter schools operating under contracts in effect on the effective date of this section may enroll pupils as specified in the charter and contract in effect on the effective date of this bill.

This bill repeals provisions establishing requirements for the admissions process in current law, as well as provisions requiring charter school students who have been enrolled for a full academic year to be counted in the performance of the charter school on statewide assessments.

This bill further repeals the provision requiring a charter school to make available a copy of any contract between a charter school and an educational management company (Section 160.410).

Provisions relating to State aid for workplace charter schools are repealed in this bill, in addition to certain provisions specifying the amount of State aid charter schools can receive from the Department. Any dispute between the school district and a charter school as to the amount owed to the charter school will be resolved as specified in the contract, rather than by the Department.

This bill prohibits a charter school from being operated by a management company or any entity other than the charter school board and the chief administrative officer, and repeals provisions specifying the requirements for proposal requests (Section 160.415).

Provisions allowing the Department to obtain information regarding the financial condition of a charter school, and outlining the determination for whether a charter school will be identified as experiencing financial stress are repealed under this bill.

A sponsor will be required to promptly notify the governing board of a charter school if the school is experiencing financial stress. Currently, a sponsor is required to notify the board by November first. Upon receiving such notification, the charter school and sponsor must mutually agree to a revised budget and education plan meeting certain requirements specified in the bill.

Provisions allowing a sponsor to make suggestions to improve a plan are repealed, along with provisions allowing the Department to withhold any payment aid due to a charter school until compliance with current law (Section 160.417).

Currently a charter school is allowed to employ non-certificated instructional personnel provided certain conditions are met. This bill repeals such provision and requires a charter school to employ certificated personnel under the same requirements applicable to instructional personnel of the district (Section 160.420). As specified in this bill, the Missouri Charter Public School Commission will be prohibited from approving or renewing any charter for sponsorship on or after the effective date of this bill.

The Commission will be abolished 30 days after the date of the last expiration of existing charter contracts effective on the effective date of this bill for charter schools sponsored by the Commission on the effective date of this bill (Section 160.425).
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2852 - Requires school districts to provide instruction in cursive writing
Sponsor: Rep. Peggy McGaugh (R)
Summary: HB 2852 -- CURSIVE WRITING (McGaugh)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Education Reform

This bill requires school districts and charter schools to provide instruction in cursive writing by the end of the fifth grade, including a proficiency test of competency in reading and writing cursive.

This bill is the same as HB 1502 (2024) and HB 232 (2023).
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
H - Placed on Informal Calendar
HB2858 - Provides a state supplement for public schools to hire a school nurse and a mental health professional
Sponsor: Rep. Yolanda Young (D)
Summary: HB 2858 -- HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Young

This bill establishes financial supplements for public schools to employ school nurses and mental health professionals. School districts must apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and specify the schools to hire these positions. Preference is given to schools demonstrating the greatest need based on criteria specified by the Department.

The bill creates the "School Nurse Financial Supplement Fund" and the "School Mental Health Professional Financial Supplement Fund", and requires DESE to create rules ensuring that positions funded with supplement money only perform duties associated with the job title, and preference be given to schools that demonstrate the greatest need.

This bill is similar to HB 1348(2023) and HB 2019 (2022).
Last Action:
04/19/2024 
Scheduled for Committee Hearing
04/23/2024 9:00 AM - House-Special Committee on Public Policy, HR 3
House-Special Committee on Public Policy
HB2860 - Changes provisions governing local school district procedures for setting school starting dates
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Johnson (D)
Summary: HB 2860 -- SCHOOL START DATE

SPONSOR: Johnson (12)

Currently, a school district can not have a start date any earlier than 14 calendar days prior to the first Monday in September.

This bill repeals the existing restrictions on a school district start dates and allows a district to set the start of school for any date after July 1st for each school year.
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2876 - Modifies provisions for public employees
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Baker (R)
Summary: HB 2876 -- REPRESENTATION OF PUBLIC EMPLOYEES

SPONSOR: Baker

This bill revises existing law and adds provisions concerning the representation of public employees.

The bill revises current definitions by repealing the definitions of "public safety labor organization", and adding new definitions of "certification", "collective bargaining", "confidential employee", "labor organization activities", "managerial employee", "public safety body", "representational labor organization activities", "strike", and "supervisory employee". The current definition of "bargaining unit" is changed to "appropriate unit"; the definition of "public body" which currently excludes the Department of Corrections, is amended to remove the exclusion; "public employee" is amended to exclude elected officials, persons appointed to boards or commission, and confidential, managerial, and supervisory employees.

The bill contains a statement of purpose and a severability clause.

The bill establishes when an appropriate unit may meet, confer, and discuss proposals, and how such meetings shall be conducted. Portions of this section do not apply to discussions or negotiations between public safety bodies and exclusive bargaining representatives.

The bill contains publication requirements for adopted contracts or agreements with an exclusive bargaining representative and declares that such contracts and agreements are public records and must not be closed under Chapter 610.

Questions of representation will be resolved by the Board of Mediation, which shall use the services of the State Hearing Officer in contested cases.

The current prohibition on public employees' right to strike is extensively revised to detail:

(1) What constitutes an action that instigates or encourages a strike or work stoppage;

(2) A prohibition on paying an employee for time spent on strike;

(3) Who is entitled to bring a civil action; and

(4) That failure to comply with any injunction will constitute contempt of court. A series of new sections covers the filing of a petition to establish that a certain percentage of employees wish to be represented by an exclusive bargaining representative; validation procedures for the petition; how elections will be held, including the contents of the ballot; when a runoff election may be held; and when the board can reject a petition.

Public bodies are prohibited from specified activities, among which are deducting dues from a public employee's pay or increasing pay with the intent that the increase will be used to pay labor organization dues, and requiring or coercing employees to meet. This section also contains provisos that:

(1) Allow public bodies to permit public employees to engage in representational labor organization activities during working hours;

(2) Include that a contract or agreement is in place that allows such activities; the labor organization fully reimburses the public body for the compensation; and that require at least a quarterly report of time and money spent on the activities.

The bill also covers the use of leave without pay or use of personal leave in some situations. This section does not apply to public safety bodies and their employees. The section also describes who is entitled to bring a civil action.

The bill adds a reference to Section 33.103, RSMo, that currently covers the participation of state employees who are members of a collective bargaining organization in retirement, life insurance, medical insurance, and similar plans, to require compliance with the above new provision.

Provisions specifically related to transit employees when the U. S. Department of Labor has notified the public body that its agreement does not meet specified federal standards allow the Board to waive the application of chapter 105 in regard to those employees.

The bulk of the bill repeals sections in chapter 105 (105.533, 105.535, 105.537, 105.540, 105.545, 105.550, 105.555, and 105.570 to 105.598) and chapter 208, "the Quality Home Care Act" (208.850 to 871).
Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2877 - Authorizes the county assessor to provide taxpayers with a form to verify structures on parcels of real property within a volunteer fire protection association's service area
Sponsor: Rep. Travis Smith (R)
Summary: HB 2877 -- VOLUNTEER FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATIONS

SPONSOR: Smith (155)

This bill requires the State Tax Commission to design an assessment blank to be furnished to each county assessor that allows the assessor to provide a volunteer fire protection association with a way to indicate each residence and business having an occupiable structure of each parcel of real property within the fire protection association's service area.

The assessor, in conjunction with the volunteer fire protection associations within the assessor's jurisdiction, must compile a list of each parcel of real property on which is located a residence or business having an occupiable structure.

The assessor will use the information gathered to provide a form to each taxpayer residing or owning a building having an occupiable structure on the taxpayer's real property that the taxpayer may use to verify the existence of a residence or a business having an occupiable structure. The assessor will include the volunteer fire protection association form with the personal property assessment list the assessor sends to each taxpayer annually. The taxpayer may return the form verifying the existence of an occupiable structure and also include the payment of the annual volunteer fire protection association dues.

The county collector or other designated official may, after deducting and retaining 5% of the annual dues for administrative costs, remit the collected dues to the volunteer fire protection associations.

Before December 15th of each year, a volunteer fire protection association that uses a county collector for collection of the association's dues must file an annual report with the county clerk in each county in which the association provides service, and deliver a copy to the county collector. The information required to be included in the annual report is set out in the bill.
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2889 - Requires public school districts and charter schools to prevent student use of electronic personal communications devices during regularly scheduled instructional activities
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D)
Summary: HB 2889 -- STUDENT ELECTRONIC PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE USAGE

SPONSOR: Steinhoff

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year school districts and charter schools must have a policy governing the use of an electronic personal communications device in school. Policies must promote educational interests and safe working environments. Students may not use electronic personal communications devices during instructional activities and policies must provide disciplinary procedures and exceptions. Districts and charter schools must publish the policy on the school website and the bill specifies liability protections for acting in accordance with the policy.
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2893 - Modifies provisions governing Missouri empowerment scholarship accounts
Sponsor: Rep. Betsy Fogle (D)
Summary: HB 2893 -- MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS

SPONSOR: Fogle

The bill modifies the current definition for "qualified school" for the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Program to include in the definition that a qualified school cannot discriminate based on religion, sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

The bill also prohibits otherwise qualified schools that have discriminatory creeds, practices, admission policies, or curriculum from participating in the Program.
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2906 - Modifies provisions relating to time and salary limitations on working after retirement for members of the Public School Retirement System and the Public Education Employee Retirement System
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Steinhoff (D)
Summary: HB 2906 -- RETIREMENT FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL

SPONSOR: Steinhoff

Currently, a retired member, except for those retired due to disability, of the Public School Retirement System (PSRS) may work after retirement in a certified position with a covered employer without discontinuance of the member's retirement benefits if the member does not exceed 550 hours of work each school year and 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position.

This bill provides that the member, including those retired due to disability, may earn up to 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position or 50% of the limit set by the employer's school board for the position.

Additionally, current law provides that if a member of PSRS or the Public Education Employee Retirement System (PEERS) is in excess of the limitations, the member will not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed.

This bill provides that either the member will not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed or the retirement system can recover the amount earned in excess of the limitations, whichever is less.

This bill is the same as SB 1286 (2024).
Last Action:
03/26/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2908 - Authorizes counties to enact an earnings tax to replace county real property and personal property taxes
Sponsor: Rep. Peter Merideth (D)
Summary: HB 2908 -- LOCAL EARNINGS TAXES

SPONSOR: Merideth

This bill allows the governing body of a county, by order of ordinance, to replace all taxes on real and personal property with an earnings tax. No order or ordinance will become effective until a majority of the qualified voters of the county authorize the governing body of the county to make the replacement (Section 50.1351, RSMo).

The bill specifies a list of entities, organizations, businesses, and types of income that will be exempt under the new county earnings tax (Section 50.1356).

This bill also allows a county to require employers to collect and remit any earnings tax owed to the county and may prescribe penalties for failure to perform such a duty. Employers will be entitled to deduct and retain 1.5% of the total amount collected to compensate the employer for collecting the earnings tax. To facilitate the collection of the county earnings tax, a county may, by order or ordinance, create wage brackets for taxpayers entitled to exemptions. A county can not require a taxpayer to supply copies of his or her State or Federal tax returns (Section 50.1361).
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2918 - Creates a provision relating to the calculation of school districts' local effort figures
Sponsor: Rep. Melanie Stinnett (R)
Summary: HB 2918 -- SCHOOL DISTRICTS' LOCAL EFFORT FIGURES

SPONSOR: Stinnett

This bill requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to recalculate the local effort figure of any school district that, in fiscal year 2005, recorded revenues from intangible taxes, the merchants' and manufacturers' surcharge, and payments in lieu of taxes other than tax increment financing in the district's teacher and incidental funds that caused an elevation of the district's local effort figure.

The Department must calculate the amount of State aid a district would have received had the district placed these revenues in the capital projects fund or the debt service fund for payments subsequent to August 28, 2024.

This bill is similar to SB 1479 (2024).
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2919 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation
Sponsor: Rep. Bishop Davidson (R)
Summary: HB 2919 -- TAXATION

SPONSOR: Davidson

Currently, personal income tax is imposed on Missouri taxpayers by applying a tax table based on income brackets.

Beginning January 1, 2025, a 4% tax will be imposed on all taxable income of every Missouri resident. The Department of Revenue will adjust the appropriate tax rates to effectuate the provisions of this bill.

Upon adoption of a Constitutional amendment authorizing the creation of a surplus revenue fund, in addition to all other existing rate reductions currently in statute, beginning with the 2025 calendar year, the new tax rate of 4% may be reduced by one- quarter of a percent. Such a reduction will occur only if the amount of net general revenue collected in the previous fiscal year meets the trigger threshold of $20 million in surplus revenue and the Tax Reform Fund has reached and maintained an amount of $250 million (Section 143.011, RSMo).

Beginning January 1, 2025, there will be no tax on taxable income of less than or equal to $1,000 (Section 143.021).

Beginning January 1, 2025, there will be no Federal income tax deduction for any individual or corporate taxpayer (Section 143.171).

If the surplus conditions the Tax Reform Fund established in the Missouri Constitution are met and a personal income tax decrease is triggered as specified in this bill, there will be a one-quarter of one percent increase in all states sales and use tax, effective January 1st of the calendar year immediately following the close of the fiscal year in which the surplus was realized. Such an increase can occur only once per calendar year. The increased sale and use tax rates will be capped once the total amount reaches a rate of 6.225% (Section 144.1050).

This bill contains a contingent effective date for Section 536.010.

This bill is similar to HB 1252 (2023).
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
HB2922 - Requires instruction on human sexuality and development in schools
Sponsor: Rep. Hardy Billington (R)
Summary: HB 2922 -- INSTRUCTION ON HUMAN SEXUALITY AND DEVELOPMENT IN SCHOOLS

SPONSOR: Billington

This bill modifies the course materials and instruction relating to human sexuality to include, beginning in the 2024-25 school year, a human growth and development discussion. Districts and charter schools must require such instruction beginning in grade three. The bill outlines requirements including requiring a high definition video of fetal development and the "Meet Baby Olivia" video showing the process of fertilization and every stage of human development.

The Attorney General has standing as parens patriae to enforce the provisions of the bill and a cause of action for damages and relief is created.

This bill is the same as HB 1576 (2024).
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2925 - Modifies provisions governing annual budgets of political subdivisions
Sponsor: Rep. Dan Stacy (R)
Summary: HB 2925 -- ANNUAL BUDGETS OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS

SPONSOR: Stacy

This bill requires that all supporting schedules, exhibits, and explanatory material for a proposed budget, along with the complete drafts of such orders, motions, resolutions, or ordinances as may be required to authorize the proposed expenditures, be submitted to each member of the governing body no later than seven days in advance of any vote on the budget. No member of the governing body can be required to request the budget documents under Chapter 610, RSMo.
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2929 - Establishes a one-time nonrefundable tax credit
Sponsor: Rep. Cody Smith (R)
Summary: HB 2929 -- INCOME TAX CREDIT

SPONSOR: Smith (163)

This bill allows qualified taxpayers to claim a one-time, nonrefundable tax credit in an amount equal to the lesser of either:

(1) Each qualified taxpayer's Missouri income tax due for the 2023 tax year; or

(2) For individuals, $162, or $324 for married couples.

The Department of Revenue will automatically adjust each qualified taxpayer's tax return for the 2023 tax year and issue refunds.

Such tax credits shall not be carried forward to any subsequent tax year, nor shall any credits be assigned, transferred, sold, or otherwise conveyed.

This bill is similar to HB 7 (2022 Extraordinary Session).
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2930 - Authorizes the establishment of charter schools in public community college districts with the public community college as the sponsor
Sponsor: Rep. Cody Smith (R)
Summary: HB 2930 -- COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO SPONSOR CHARTER SCHOOL

SPONSOR: Smith (163)

This bill expands the current locations where a charter school may be established to include in a school district located within a public community college district.

Such charter school must be sponsored by the public community college and only students within the public community college district may attend the charter school. Community colleges that sponsor a charter school are eligible for additional appropriations to defray costs of sponsoring the charter.

The bill repeals language restricting payments to charter schools to existing established charters.
Last Action:
03/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HB2937 - Modifies provisions governing elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Rep. Bishop Davidson (R)
Summary: HB 2937 -- STUDENT OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP

SPONSOR: Davidson

This bill establishes the "Student Opportunity Savings Accounts Program". The purpose of the Program is to provide direct payments to "eligible pupils" for "qualified expenses" at an "approved education entity" as those terms are defined in the bill.

The bill establishes two separate funds for the purposes of distribution of the Constitutional requirement that 25% of general revenue be allocated for education. The created funds are entitled the "Student Opportunity Savings Accounts Program Fund" and the "School District Per-Pupil Payments Fund". The bill requires that 8% of the allocation be distributed directly to the Classroom Trust Fund established in Section 163.043 to supplement teacher salaries.

The remaining allocation will be distributed based on the pupil data provided by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to the State Treasurer who will use the pupil data to calculate a per-pupil payment based on the total number of gifted, special education, eligible pupils, and full-time and part-time resident pupils. .

Eligible pupils participating in the Program will receive a semiannual per pupil payment to the pupils individual student opportunity savings account for qualified education expenses. Money remaining in the pupil's account will remain and upon graduation may be used for costs related to higher education, trade school, or an in-State first home purchase.

Disbursement of per pupil payments by the treasurer's office will occur on a monthly basis to school districts and charter schools for any students that attend their resident school district or charter school and are not enrolled in the program. Such per pupil payment amounts will be based on enrollment and weighted for special education and gifted pupils.

Pupils enrolled in the Program must take an annual State approved pupil assessment to satisfy Federal requirements. Requirements for educational entities to be determined a qualified school are specified in the bill (Section 163.431 RSMo.).

This bill modifies Section 167.037 by removing requirements related to "home school" and creates Section 167.012 with the term "home school" defined. This Section prohibits home school students from participation in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Program under Sections 166.700 to 166.720 and the Student Opportunity Savings Account Program created under Section 163.431. The requirements for homes school children remain the same as current statutory requirements and include proof of 1000 hours of regular instruction (Section 167.012).

The bill defines a "family-paced education school" and specifies that students enrolled in a family-paced education school may participate in both the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Program and the Student Opportunity Savings Account Program. The requirements for family-paced education school children are the same as for home school students with proof of 1000 hours of regular instruction and a daily log requirement (Section 167.013).

This bill modifies current statutes relating to home schools and family-paced education schools for compulsory attendance under Section 167.031, child-care facilities under Section 210.211, and custody issues under Section 452.375.
Last Action:
03/25/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HB2938 - Creates "Earned Autonomy Schools Waivers" for school districts and enacts other education reform measures
Sponsor: Rep. Bishop Davidson (R)
Summary: HB 2938 -- EDUCATION REFORM

SPONSOR: Davidson

This bill establishes the "Missouri Earned Autonomy Schools Waivers Advisory Council". The membership of the council is specified in the bill and includes: three members of the House of Representatives, two to be appointed by the Speaker and one appointed by the Minority Floor Leader; three members of the Senate, with two appointed by the President Pro Tem and one by the Minority Floor Leader; with the rest of the members to be appointed by the Governor.

The Advisory Council must develop a school performance review to calculate eligibility for school districts to receive waivers of State rules and regulations. Components of the school performance review include the following:

(a) Academic performance;

(b) Academic growth;

(c) Academic teacher score;

(d) Community teacher survey;

(e) Community parent survey; and

(f) School district resident satisfaction.

The significance for each component is outlined with the total assessment worth 100 points. Districts that earn at least 90 points for three successive years are deemed "A" level and are eligible for earned autonomy schools waivers. Districts earning less than 90 but at least 80 for three consecutive years are "B" level schools and specific expanded measures for such schools are specified in the bill.

Districts that are lower than 80 but at least 70 for three consecutive years are determined as "C" level schools and are not eligible for earned autonomy. Any district lower then 70 for one year will be designated as a "D" level district and provided interventions as specified in the bill. Districts lower than 70 for three consecutive years are "F" school districts and designated as unaccredited.

Districts that meet the criteria to be designated as an "A" level will have the district's superintendent provide a plan to the districts school board for the waiver of identified State rules and regulations in order to promote flexibility and enhance delivery of instruction (Section 160.519, RSMo).

This bill allows school districts to issue a district teaching permit to any individual who does not currently hold a State Board of Education (SBE) issued teaching certificate. The district teaching permit allows the holder to teach only in the issuing school district unless another school district also issues permits and recognizes permits issued in this manner as part of their policy.

The bill requires districts to develop a policy listing the qualifications an individual must meet to be eligible for the teaching permit, which include, at a minimum, an associates degree and background check. The number of teachers issued a teaching permit must not exceed 25% of the total number of teachers employed in the district. If an individual is issued a teaching permit and teaches for four years, the SBE may issue a teaching certificate as specified in the bill.

Any individual who obtains a teaching permit as described within the bill will be deemed a teacher for purposes of determining minimum salary, tenure, and retirement (Section 168.029).
Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HJR71 - Adds substitute teachers to the list of allowed employment for members of the general assembly
Sponsor: Rep. Sherri Gallick (R)
Summary: HJR 71 -- SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SPONSOR: Gallick

Currently, members of the General Assembly are prohibited from holding any other form of employment with the United States, the State of Missouri, or any municipality thereof.

Upon voter approval, this resolution would permit members of the General Assembly to hold employment as substitute teachers.

This bill is the same as HJR 46 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR74 - Proposes a constitutional amendment dividing state revenues from gaming activities between public institutions of elementary, secondary, and higher education and the administration of the Missouri veterans commission
Sponsor: Rep. Dave Griffith (R)
Summary: HJR 74 -- CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

SPONSOR: Griffith

Upon voter approval, this proposed Constitutional amendment changes the allocation of state revenues derived from the conduct of all gaming activities from solely for the public institutions of elementary, secondary, and higher education to now 90% appropriated for the public institutions of elementary, secondary, and higher education and 10% to the administration of the Missouri Veterans Commission. This allocation of appropriation shall take effect July 1, 2026.

This bill is similar to HJR 12 (2023), and HJR 87 (2022).
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HJR75 - Proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Missouri relating to property tax exemptions
Sponsor: Rep. Dave Griffith (R)
Summary: HCS HJR 75 -- PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS

SPONSOR: Griffith

COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass with HCS" by the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform by a vote of 20 to 0.

The following is a summary of the House Committee Substitute for HJR 75.

Currently, all real property used as a homestead of any citizen of this state who is a former prisoner of war and who has a total service-connected disability, is exempt from taxation.

Upon voter approval, this proposed Constitutional amendment would exempt all real property used as a homestead from taxation for any military veteran who is a resident of this state and has a 100% service-connected disability as determined by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, and any military veteran who is a citizen of this state and a former prisoner of war.

If the 100% disabled veteran is deceased, the surviving spouse may continue using the exemption on the homestead property, provided that the surviving spouse uses, occupies, and maintains the homestead on which the disabled veteran was granted the original exemption. If the exempt homestead is subsequently sold or if the surviving spouse discontinues use of the property as the primary homestead, the exemption will expire.

This bill is similar to HJR 11 (2023) and HJR 72 (2022).

The following is a summary of the public testimony from the committee hearing. The testimony was based on the introduced version of the bill.

PROPONENTS: Supporters say that the total number of men and women whose total disability is due to military service is small, which means that the overall loss of revenue would be minimal. When a veteran is 100% disabled, he or she is limited in their potential to earn a salary because of difficulties in attaining gainful employment. As a result, many of these veterans are on fixed incomes. Supporters further say that these veterans are most deserving of this kind of economic relief.

Testifying in person for the bill were Representative Griffith and Troy Williams, MAVO - Mo Association of Veteran Organizations.

OPPONENTS: There was no opposition voiced to the committee. Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony and witnesses testifying online can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
HJR78 - Proposes a constitutional amendment relating to real property tax assessments
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Coleman (R)
Summary: HCS#2 HJR 78 -- PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS (Coleman)

COMMITTEE OF ORIGIN: Special Committee on Property Tax Reform

Upon voter approval, beginning January 1, 2025, this proposed Constitutional amendment provides that the true value of all residential real property that has been maintained by the homeowner as his or her primary residence shall be deemed to be the same value determined at the most recent previous assessment of the property.

In a new assessment or reassessment of the primary residence the assessed valuation of such property may be increased, provided that the increase does not exceed the change in the Consumer Price Index or 2%, whichever is less. Such limited increase may be exceeded to reflect the value added to the property as a result of new construction or improvements.
Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
HJR82 - Proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Missouri relating to a property tax exemption for certain seniors
Sponsor: Rep. Brian Seitz (R)
Summary: HJR 82 -- PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR SENIORS

SPONSOR: Seitz

Upon voter approval, this proposed Constitutional amendment provides that any individual 65 years or older that has a Missouri taxable income of less than $45,000 will not be subject to or liable for any property tax.

This bill is the same as HJR 15 (2023) and HJR 1 (2022 Extraordinary Session).
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HJR84 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit any new tax or increase in tax from going into effect unless approved by the voters in a general election
Sponsor: Rep. Brian Seitz (R)
Summary: HJR 84 -- VOTER APPROVED TAX INCREASE

SPONSOR: Seitz

This resolution proposes a Constitutional amendment that no new tax imposed by state statute shall go into effect, or continue in effect if otherwise set to expire, without prior approval at a statewide general election.

Notwithstanding any other provision of the Constitution, this resolution further proposes that no state funds shall be expended without first being appropriated by the General Assembly.

This bill is similar to HJR 16 (2023).
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR85 - Reduces property tax assessments on senior citizens and disabled persons by fifty percent
Sponsor: Rep. Marlene Terry (D)
Summary: HJR 85 -- REGARDING PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Terry

Upon voter approval, beginning January 1, 2025, this proposed Constitutional amendment provides that residential property shall be assessed at 50% of the value at which such property would otherwise be assessed if the property owner is:

(1) Age 65 years or older; or

(2) An individual who is permanently disabled under federal law or the laws of this state; and

(3) Has a Missouri taxable income for the most recently completed income tax year before the date of property tax assessment of $50,000 or less, or $75,000 or less if such taxpayer is married and filing jointly.

This bill is similar to HJR 5 (2023) and HJR 90 (2022).
Last Action:
01/11/2024 
H - Referred to House-Special Committee on Property Tax Reform
HJR88 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the general assembly to exempt tangible personal property from personal property taxation by general law
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Matthiesen (R)
Summary: HJR 88 -- PERSONAL PROPERTY EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Matthiesen

Upon voter approval, this proposed Constitutional amendment would allow the General Assembly to exempt tangible personal property from the payment of tangible personal property taxes. The General Assembly may also provide for certain tax credits or rebates in lieu of or in addition to such an exemption.

This bill is the same as HJR 60 (2023).
Last Action:
02/28/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
HJR96 - Adds employees of school districts to the list of allowed employment for members of the general assembly
Sponsor: Rep. Jamie Gragg (R)
Summary: HJR 96 -- GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEMBER EMPLOYMENT

SPONSOR: Gragg

Currently, members of the General Assembly are prohibited from holding employment with the United States, the State of Missouri, or any municipality thereof.

Upon voter approval, this resolution would permit members of the General Assembly to hold employment with a school district.
Last Action:
01/04/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR108 - Adds employees of school districts to the list of allowed employment for members of the general assembly
Sponsor: Rep. Mark Sharp (D)
Summary: HJR 108 -- GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEMBER EMPLOYMENT

SPONSOR: Sharp (37)

Currently, while in office General Assembly members may not hold another office or be employed by the Federal government, state government, or municipal government. Upon voter approval, this Constitutional amendment adds teachers and substitute teachers to the list of exemptions for employment for members of the General Assembly.

This bill is the similar to HJR 10 (2023).
Last Action:
01/05/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR111 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation
Sponsor: Rep. Ben Baker (R)
Summary: HJR 111 -- INCOME TAX AND SALES TAX

SPONSOR: Baker

Upon voter approval, this Constitutional amendment prohibits a state income tax rate of more than 5.5%.

Currently, the Missouri Constitution prohibits an increase of services or transactions upon which a sales tax may be imposed that was not already subject to a sales tax as of January 1, 2015. This Constitutional amendment creates an exception for subscriptions, licenses for digital products, and online purchases of tangible personal property.

Beginning January 1, 2025, any new such sales tax shall result in a reduction in the top rate of the state income tax rate that results in a reduction in income tax revenue that is substantially equivalent to the revenue generated by such new sales tax.

This bill is similar to SJR 50 (2024).
Last Action:
02/13/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HJR116 - Proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Missouri relating to property tax
Sponsor: Rep. Jeff Coleman (R)
Summary: HJR 116 -- TAXATION

SPONSOR: Coleman

Currently, Missouri's Constitution requires rollbacks in property tax levies in certain situations. However, the Kansas City Public Schools are exempt from this provision in the Constitution.

Upon voter approval, this proposed Constitutional amendment would remove the exemption after the effective date of an operating levy equal to the rate at which such school district would receive the same amount of property tax revenue from its operating levy that such school district received in the 2022 tax year.

Additionally, this resolution requires that an operating levy ballot measure for the Kansas City Public Schools must be placed on a ballot to be considered by the voters of the district before December 31, 2025.

This resolution provides ballot language for the proposed amendment.

This bill is similar to HJR 77 (2020).
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
H - Removed from House Hearing Agenda - House-Special Committee on Property Tax Reform - 1/31/24 - 12:00 pm - HR 1
HJR118 - Proposes a constitutional amendment relating to a property tax exemption for certain disabled veterans
Sponsor: Rep. Ashley Aune (D)
Summary: HJR 118 -- PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION

SPONSOR: Aune

Upon voter approval, this Constitutional amendment exempts real property used as a homestead by veterans of the Armed Forced of the United States who have total service-connected disabilities from taxation of said homestead.

This bill is similar to HJR 57 (2023) and HJR 86 (2022) .
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR120 - Proposes a constitutional amendment relating to residential real property tax assessments
Sponsor: Rep. Justin Hicks (R)
Summary: HJR 120 -- PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Hicks

Upon voter approval, beginning January 1, 2025, the assessed value of all residential real property may be increased, but only to the extent that such an increase:

(1) Incorporates the change in the consumer price index since the most recent previous assessment, or up to a 2% annual increase in the assessed valuation of the property, whichever is less; or

(2) Reflects the value added to the property as a result of new construction or improvements made to the property.

This resolution shall not affect the ability of any county assessor to decrease the assessed value of any residential real property.

This bill is similar to HJR 33 (2023).
Last Action:
02/21/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass
HJR183 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to govern real property repairs and improvements
Sponsor: Rep. Peter Merideth (D)
Summary: HJR 183 -- REAL PROPERTY REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS

SPONSOR: Merideth

This proposed Constitutional amendment prohibits any State law, local order or ordinance, or rule or regulation from:

(1) Requiring an individual or entity to repair or improve real property owned by the individual or entity with specific materials if a more cost-effective material option exists, it would not noticeably affect the appearance of the property, and the repair puts the property in better condition than it would be in without the repair; or

(2) Preventing an individual or entity from making an improvement or repair to real property owned by the individual or entity, except as provided below.

The proposed Constitutional amendment prohibits any State law, local order or ordinance, or rule or regulation from preventing an individual or entity from making an improvement or repair unless a political subdivision with jurisdiction over the property makes a reasonable determination that the specific improvement or repair will negatively affect the value or enjoyment of an adjacent parcel of property.
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR184 - Proposes a constitutional amendment relating to residential real property tax assessments
Sponsor: Rep. Kemp Strickler (D)
Summary: HJR 184 -- PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS

SPONSOR: Strickler

Upon voter approval, this Constitutional amendment would, beginning January 1, 2025, prohibit any new assessment or reassessment of residential real property from being increased by more than 4% annually from the most recent previous assessment, unless:

(1) Ownership of the residence passed from one individual or entity to another individual or entity through legal means, including a sale or probate proceedings on or after the previous assessment; or

(2) The increase reflects the value added to the residential real property as a result of new construction or improvements made to the property if the total square footage of such residence was increased by 25% or greater on or after the previous assessment.

The provisions of this resolution will not affect the ability of any county assessor to decrease the assessed value of any residential real property.

This bill is similar to HJR 120 (2024).
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR185 - Proposes a constitutional amendment relating to access by parents to educational materials
Sponsor: Rep. Phil Christofanelli (R)
Summary: HJR 185 -- EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS

SPONSOR: Christofanelli

This joint resolution would require a Constitutional measure be put on the ballot guaranteeing parents of Missouri children information on what is taught in public schools. Enumerated rights include access to curricula and lesson plans and a list and description of all the materials available to students in the school library.
Last Action:
03/01/2024 
H - Read Second Time
HJR187 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to impose an appropriation spending limitation and to establish the "Tax Reform Fund" to be used to fund budgetary shortfalls, subject to an appropriation limitation, and allows for certain taxation changes based on revenue triggers, by general law
Sponsor: Rep. Bishop Davidson (R)
Summary: HJR 187 -- TAX REFORM FUND

SPONSOR: Davidson

Upon voter approval, this resolution amends Article X of the Missouri Constitution by limiting the authority of the General Assembly to appropriate funds in the following manner:

(1) If the Missouri population increases by more than 2.5% from one calendar year to the next, the General Assembly shall have a spending limit equal to the percentage of the state population increase, which will be applied as the percent of the total moneys available for appropriation; or

(2) If the Missouri population increases by less than 2.5% from one calendar year to the next, the General Assembly shall have a spending limit equal to 2.5% of the total moneys available for appropriation.

This resolution also creates the "Tax Reform Fund". For all fiscal years beginning July 1, 2025, if the amount of net general revenue collected exceeds the anticipated General Fund revenue expenditures by $20 million or more, any surplus collected above $20 million will be deposited into the Tax Reform Fund. The Fund shall be capped at $500 million.

If the Fund reaches and maintains a balance of $250 million and a surplus of $20 million is realized in a subsequent year, the General Assembly will trigger a 1/4 of 1% decrease in personal income tax, with not less than one reduction per year. There will be no cap on the number of triggered reductions and the triggers will remain in place until the personal income tax is reduced to zero. When a triggered decrease occurs, it shall take effect on January 1st of the following year.

Once personal income tax is eliminated, the General Assembly will utilize the Fund to gradually reduce and eliminate personal property taxes.

After both personal income taxes and personal property taxes have been reduced to zero, they will both remain at zero. After the elimination of both personal income taxes and personal property taxes, the Fund will continue to collect revenue and will only be used to supplement budget shortfalls following fiscal years during which the General Assembly enacted a tax reduction. The budget shortfalls that receive supplemental funding will follow the order of priority normally used by the General Assembly when making authorized appropriations.
Last Action:
04/08/2024 
H - Removed from House Hearing Agenda - House-Special Committee on Tax Reform - 4/9/24 - 12:00 pm - HR 7
HJR188 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to impose an appropriation spending limitation and to establish the "Tax Reform Fund" to be used to fund budgetary shortfalls, subject to an appropriation limitation, and allows for certain taxation changes based on revenue triggers, by general law
Sponsor: Rep. Bishop Davidson (R)
Summary: HJR 188 -- USE OF STATE REVENUESSPONSOR: Davidson

Upon voter approval, this resolution amends Article III of the Missouri Constitution by limiting the authority of the General Assembly to appropriate funds in the following manner:

(1) If the Missouri population increases by more than 2.5% from one calendar year to the next, the General Assembly will have a spending limit equal to the percentage of the State population increase, which will be applied as the percent of the total moneys available for appropriation; or

(2) If the Missouri population increases by less than 2.5% from one calendar year to the next, the General Assembly will have a spending limit equal to 2.5% of the total moneys available for appropriation.

This resolution creates the "Tax Reform Fund". For all fiscal years beginning July 1, 2025, if the amount of net general revenue collected exceeds the anticipated general fund revenue expenditures by $20 million or more, any surplus collected above $20 million will be deposited into the Tax Reform Fund. The Fund will be capped at $500 million.

If the Fund reaches and maintains a balance of $250 million and a surplus of $20 million is realized in a subsequent year, the General Assembly will trigger a one fourth of 1% decrease in personal income tax, with not less than one reduction per year. There will be no cap on the number of triggered reductions and these triggers will remain in place until the personal income tax is reduced to zero. When a triggered decrease occurs, it will take effect on January 1st of the following year.

Once personal income tax is eliminated, the General Assembly will utilize the Fund to gradually reduce and eliminate personal property taxes.

After both personal income taxes and personal property taxes have been reduced to zero, they will remain at zero. After the elimination of both personal income taxes and personal property taxes, the Fund will continue to collect revenue and only be used to supplement budget shortfalls following fiscal years during which the General Assembly enacts a tax reduction. The budget shortfalls that receive supplemental funding follow the order of priority normally used by the General Assembly when making authorized appropriations.
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB725 - Modifies provisions relating to personal property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 725 - Current law requires that personal property be assessed at 33.3% of its true value in money. This act requires political subdivisions to annually reduce such percentage such that the amount by which the revenue generated by taxes levied on such personal property is reduced is substantially equal to one hundred percent of the growth in revenue generated by real property assessment growth, as defined in the act. Annual reductions shall be made until December 31, 2073. Thereafter, the percentage of true value in money at which personal property is assessed shall be equal to the percentage in effect on December 31, 2073.

Subject to appropriations, a political subdivision that receives less than the allowable amount of total real and personal property tax revenues shall be eligible for reimbursement from the state in an amount equal to the amount by which such revenues are below the allowable amount.

This act is substantially similar to SS/SCS/SB 8 (2023) and SB 493 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), as amended, HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/16/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB727 - Creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SS#2/SCS/SB 727 - This act creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education.

MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS PROGRAM (Sections 135.713, 135.714, 135.715, and 166.700)

This act modifies provisions relating to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

The act changes the maximum amount of tax credits that may be allocated in any year from $50 million to $75 million. Such maximum amount shall be increased annually by any percentage increase or decrease in the amount appropriated to school districts under the foundation formula. The act repeals a provision that the program shall be effective in any fiscal year immediately following any year in which the amount appropriated for pupil transportation equals or exceeds 40% of the projected amount necessary to fully fund transportation aid funding for fiscal year 2021. (Section 135.713)

The act modifies the scholarship distribution order to qualified students. The first students to receive scholarship funds shall be students who received scholarships in the previous year, followed by students who are siblings of students who are already receiving a scholarship. The act further outlines a distribution order that prioritizes funding to students who receive special education services, students who are eligible for free or reduced price lunch and who reside in an unaccredited or provisionally accredited school district, students who are eligible for free or reduced price lunch, and students who are the children of active duty military personnel who have relocated to Missouri.

The act modifies the total grant amount for students with an individualized education plan (IEP) or limited English proficiency or who receive free or reduced-price lunch. Students with limited English proficiency shall receive no more than 160% of the state adequacy target; students who receive free or reduced-price lunch shall receive no more than 125% of the state adequacy target; and students with an IEP shall receive no more than 175% of the state adequacy target. All other students shall receive a grant amount that does not exceed the state adequacy target.

The act provides that educational assistance organizations shall provide certain data that is currently provided only to the State Treasurer to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program Board, as well.

The act requires the State Treasurer to post certain information relating to scholarship recipients, qualified schools, and educational assistance organizations on the Treasurer's website annually. (Section 135.714)

The act repeals a provision that the annual increase to the cumulative amount of tax credits shall cease when the amount of tax credits reaches $50 million.

If the total contributions to educational assistance organizations exceed $25 million in any school year, the State Treasurer may certify one additional educational assistance organization to administer scholarship accounts. A maximum of seven, rather than six, educational assistance organizations may have their principal place of business in any one of the counties listed in the act.

The act provides that all laws and regulations that apply to employees of an educational assistance organization shall also apply to the actions of any employees of a private financial management firm while they are conducting work relating to the direct decision-making of the operation of such educational assistance organization.

The act modifies membership of the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Board by removing the Commissioner of Administration and adding an additional member to be appointed by the members of the board who is an employee of an educational assistance organization and whose responsibilities are directly related to such organization's involvement in the program. The board shall assist the State Treasurer with data collection, collaboration with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and making recommendations to the State Treasurer regarding the promulgation of rules concerning the program. (Section 135.715)

The act modifies the definition of "qualified school" by providing that FPE schools, rather than home schools, shall be qualified to participate in the program.

The act modifies the definition of "qualified student" by including any student who is a resident of this state, rather than only those students who live in a charter county or a city with at least 30,000 inhabitants, and who is not unlawfully present in the United States or a person who gained illegal entry into the United States. Such definition is further modified by including any student who is a member of a household whose total annual income is 300% or less than the income standard used to qualify for free and reduced-price lunch, rather than only those students whose household income is 200% or less than such standard. The definition is also modified by adding siblings of qualified students who received a scholarship in the previous year and will receive a scholarship in the current year. (Section 166.700)

These provisions are similar to SCS/SB 360 (2023), HB 1738 (2024), HB 2104 (2024), and provisions in SB 1391 (2024), SCS/SB 1392 (2024), and HCS/HB 350 (2023).

MINIMUM SCHOOL TERM (Sections 160.011, 160.041, 163.021, 171.028, 171.031, 171.033, 1, and B)

This act establishes provisions relating to the minimum school term.

The act modifies the definition of "school term" by providing that school districts located in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants shall have a school term that consists of at least 169 school days, unless the district has adopted a four-day school week, in which case a school term shall consist of at least 142 school days. (Sections 160.011, 163.021, 171.031, and 171.033)

The act repeals a provision specifying that school districts shall provide a minimum of 522 hours of actual pupil attendance for kindergarten pupils in order to receive state aid. (Section 163.021)

These provisions shall go into effect on July 1, 2026. (Section B)

Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, the act provides that school districts located wholly or partially in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants may adopt a four-day school week only upon a majority vote of the qualified voters of the school district, as provided in the act. (Section 171.028)

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall remit to any school district with a five-day school week an amount equal to 1% for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, or 2% for fiscal year 2028 and all subsequent fiscal years, of such district's preceding year's annual state aid entitlement as calculated in June. For school districts in which one or more charter schools operate, and for all charter schools located in such district, the calculation shall be made prior to any adjustment to the district's or charter school's state aid calculation pursuant to current requirements regarding state aid payments to charter schools.

Any funds received pursuant to this provision shall be used by school districts and charter schools exclusively to increase teacher salaries. Any school district or charter school that fails to utilize such funds solely to increase teacher salaries shall have an amount equal to the amount of the funds received withheld from the district's or charter school's state aid payments under current law. (Section 1)

These provisions are similar to SB 784 (2024), HB 1417 (2024), and HB 1828 (2024).

CHARTER SCHOOLS (Sections 160.400 and 160.415)

The act adds all school districts located in Boone County to the list of school districts in which a charter school may be operated by any entity currently authorized to operate a charter school under state law. Provisions of current law that provide for additional state aid to charter schools shall not apply to any charter school operated in Boone County.

All laws and regulations that apply to employees of a charter school shall also apply to the actions of any employees of a charter school management company while such employees are conducting any work relating to the direct decision-making of the operation of the charter school.

LITERACY OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS (Section 161.239)

This act establishes the "Elementary Literacy Fund" for the purpose of providing grants to school districts and charter schools for home reading programs for children in kindergarten to 5th grade. The General Assembly shall annually appropriate an amount not to exceed $5 million to the Fund, and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall develop a process by which a district or charter school may apply for a grant. Any district or charter school that receives such a grant shall match any funds that are granted.

The act sets forth certain criteria for a home reading program to be considered eligible for a grant from the Fund. Such program's objective shall be to mail books to students' homes that the students select themselves at a reading level with which they are comfortable. The program shall allow for parental engagement, as specified in the act, and shall allow students to select between six and nine new books to keep. The program provider shall provide summary data on the program to the General Assembly and to DESE, and shall further maintain verification that the provider has secured the required matching funds from the district or charter school. The combined total cost of the program, including matching funds from the district or charter school, shall not exceed $60 per student per semester.

This provision is identical to SB 857 (2024).

MISSOURI COURSE ACCESS AND VIRTUAL SCHOOL PROGRAM (Section 161.670)

Under this act, the average daily attendance of a student who is enrolled full-time in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program shall be calculated by dividing the total number of hours attended in a term by enrolled pupils between the ages of five and 21 years old by the actual number of hours that the program was in session in that term. Such calculation shall be generated by the virtual provider and provided to the host district for submission to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Full-time virtual school students may complete their instructional activities during any hour of the day and during any day of the week. The hours attended for each enrolled pupil shall be documented by the pupil's weekly progress in the educational program according to a process determined by the virtual program and published annually in the virtual program's enrollment handbook or policy. The full-time equivalent average daily attendance of summer school students shall be added to the average daily attendance of the following school term.

Host districts that enroll one or more full-time virtual school students shall receive an amount of state aid specified in the act for such students on a monthly basis.

The act provides that students who reside in Missouri may enroll in the virtual program of their choice. Provisions of current law regarding a school district's approval of a student's request to enroll in a virtual program shall not apply to full-time virtual program enrollment.

The act requires host districts to adopt student enrollment policies for full-time virtual students and allows virtual schools to mutually agree with resident and host districts on the services that the resident district might offer, including possible financial reimbursements for those services. For students with disabilities, the enrollment policy shall ensure the development of an individualized education program and related services agreement, as necessary.

The act requires a student's parent or guardian, if the student is not considered homeless, to apply for enrollment directly with the full-time virtual program.

The act specifies that student progress reports to the school district are necessary only for part-time virtual school program enrollees.

A host district may contract with a provider to perform any required services involved with delivering a full-time virtual education.

A full-time virtual school shall provide regular student progress reports to parents or guardians at least four times per school year.

This provision is identical to HB 2287 (2024) and is similar to SB 1375 (2024), SB 780 (2024), HB 827 (2023), SB 921 (2024), and SB 545 (2023).

FAMILY PACED EDUCATION (FPE) SCHOOLS (Sections 161.670, 162.996, 166.700, 167.012, 167.013, 167.031, 167.061, 167.600, 167.619, 210.167, 210.211, 211.031, and 452.375)

The act defines a "Family Paced Education school" or "FPE school" as a school that enrolls any student who participates in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program and that satisfies certain other criteria relating to instruction. The current definition of "home school" is modified by specifying that a home school shall not enroll any student who participates in such Program, and a home school is not an FPE school. The act applies to FPE schools several provisions of law that currently apply to home schools, including provisions relating to child custody and the licensing of child care providers.

SCHOOL BOARD VACANCIES (Sections 162.471, 162.492, and 162.611)

Under current law, any vacancy on an urban school board shall be filled by special election. Under this act, the remaining members of the board shall fill any such vacancy by appointment until the next school board election.

These provisions are identical to provisions in SB 885 (2024) and HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023) and are substantially similar to provisions in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023), in HCS/SB 155 (2023), in HCS/HB 497 (2023), and in HB 716 (2023).

Current law also provides that any vacancy that occurs on the City of St. Louis school board outside of the normal election cycle shall be filled by appointment by the mayor for the remainder of the term. Under this act, the City of St. Louis school board shall fill any such vacancy by appointment for the remainder of the term.

This provision is identical to a provision in SB 885 (2024) and to SB 363 (2023) and HB 914 (2023) and to provisions in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023), in CCS/HS/HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 96 (2023), in HCS/SB 155 (2023), in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023), in HCS/HB 497, and in HB 716 (2023).

WEIGHTED AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE (Section 163.011)

This act modifies the definition of "weighted average daily attendance" as used in the education funding formula by adding to such definition a weighting factor relating to school district enrollment.

"Membership" is defined in current law as the average number of students enrolled in a school district who attended school at least one day during ten days at the end of January and September.

The act defines "weighted membership" as the current law definition of "membership" multiplied by certain weighting factors relating to the number of students who fall into certain population groups, such as the number of students who receive special educational services above a certain threshold number that is determined in a manner provided for in current law.

Weighted membership shall be included in the calculation of a school district's weighted average daily attendance beginning in the 2026 fiscal year. In 2026, a district's weighted average daily attendance shall be calculated as the sum of 90% of such district's weighted average daily attendance as calculated in current law, plus 10% of such district's weighted membership. The percent of weighted membership included in such calculation shall increase by 10% each year until 2030, when a district's weighted average daily attendance shall be calculated as the sum of 50% of such district's weighted average daily attendance as calculated in current law, plus 50% of such district's weighted membership.

The same modification is made in the calculation of weighted average daily attendance for special school districts.

This provision is similar to SB 1378 (2024).

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAMS OPERATED BY SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND CHARTER SCHOOLS (Section 163.018)

Currently, children between three and five years old who are eligible for free and reduced price lunch and attend an early childhood education program operated by a school district or a charter school may be included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance, provided that the total number of such pupils does not exceed 4% of the total number of pupils between 5 and 18 years old who are eligible for free and reduced price lunch and who are included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance. This act increases such percentage to 8%.

SMALL SCHOOLS GRANT (Section 163.044)

The act increases the Small Schools Grant appropriation from $15 million to $30 million. Of such moneys, $20 million, rather than $10 million, shall be distributed to the eligible districts, as described in the act, in proportion to their average daily attendance, and $10 million, rather than $5 million, shall be directed to the eligible districts that have an operating levy for school purposes in the current year in an amount specified in the act.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS' LOCAL EFFORT FIGURES (Section 163.096)

Beginning August 28, 2024, this act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to recalculate the local effort figure of any school district that, in fiscal year 2005, recorded revenues from intangible taxes, the merchants' and manufacturers' surcharge, and payments in lieu of taxes other than tax increment financing in the district's teacher and incidental funds that caused an elevation of the district's local effort figure. The Department must calculate the amount of state aid such a district would have received had the district placed these revenues in the capital projects fund or the debt service fund for payments subsequent to August 28, 2024.

This provision is identical to SB 1479 (2024) and is similar

to SB 272 (2017) and HB 633 (2017).

MINIMUM TEACHER'S SALARY (Section 163.172)

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this act increases the minimum teacher's salary from $25,000 to $40,000. For teachers with a master's degree and at least ten years of experience, this act increases the minimum salary from $33,000 to $46,000 for the 2025-26 school year and further increases such salary by $1,000 each year until the 2027-2028 school year, when the minimum shall be $48,000.

In the 2028-29 school year and in all subsequent school years, the minimum teacher's salaries shall additionally be adjusted annually by the percentage increase in inflation, as such term is defined in the act. The State Board of Education shall publish the minimum salaries annually in February beginning in calendar year 2026. Modifications to the minimum salaries shall take effect on July 1 of each calendar year.

The act creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" and "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" for the purpose of increasing minimum teacher's salaries. The General Assembly may appropriate moneys to the Fund, provided that the total amount appropriated shall not exceed the amount necessary to assist each school district in increasing minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. School districts may apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for a grant from the Fund, provided that a grant shall not exceed the amount necessary for a district to increase minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act.

This provision is similar to provisions in HCS/HB 1447 (2024), SB 955 (2024), SB 1163 (2024), and HCS/HB 497 (2023).

COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE (Sections 167.031 and 599.209)

The act provides that a child may be excused from attendance at school if the child is unable to attend school due to mental or behavioral health concerns, provided that the school receives documentation from a mental health professional.

This provision is identical to SB 761 (2024) and SB 122 (2023).

The act also provides that a public school district, public school, or charter school shall not discipline a child for failure to comply with the district's or school's attendance policy, and the parent or legal guardian shall not be deemed to be in violation of the compulsory attendance law, based on such child's honoring a subpoena to testify in a criminal proceeding, attending a criminal proceeding, or for participating in the preparation of a criminal proceeding.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OFFICERS (Section 167.071)

The act repeals a provision authorizing a seven-director school district to appoint a school attendance officer who has the powers of a deputy sheriff and may investigate claims of violations of the compulsory attendance law and arrest truant juveniles without a warrant.

This provision is identical to provisions in SB 819 (2024) and HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023).

RECOVERY HIGH SCHOOLS (Section 167.850)

This act changes the deadline for a school district to submit a proposal to operate a recovery high school from December 1st of the school year preceding the beginning of operation of the recovery high school to July 1st.

This provision is identical to SB 1393 (2024).

TEACHER CERTIFICATION (Section 168.021)

Current law requires candidates for a teaching license to satisfy certain criteria, including obtaining the recommendation of a state-approved, baccalaureate-level teacher preparation program.

Under this act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall develop an eighteen hour, online teacher preparation program related to subjects appropriate for teachers in different content areas determined by the Department. The Department may contract with an entity skilled in developing online teacher preparation programs or a charitable organization registered in Missouri to develop and maintain the online teacher preparation program. Such entity or charitable organization shall be certified to develop and maintain the program by the Department. An individual with a bachelor's degree may complete the online training program and receive a certificate of license to teach. However, such certificate shall not be accepted by Missouri public schools, but shall be accepted by private schools and private school accrediting agencies.

The act also provides that the State Board of Education shall issue an additional professional subject-area teaching certification for specific content knowledge or for a specialty area to a teaching certificate holder who applies for an additional professional subject-area certification, successfully achieves an acceptable score on the state-approved teacher evaluation system, receives a recommendation from the employing school district, and completes a background check.

This provision is similar to SB 1394 (2024), a provision in HCS/HB 1447 (2024), and a provision in SS/HB 827 (2023).

HARD-TO-STAFF SCHOOLS AND SUBJECT AREAS (Section 168.110)

The act provides that a school board may include differentiated placement of teachers on the salary schedule to increase compensation in order to recruit and retain teachers in hard-to-staff subject areas or schools, as the terms "hard-to-staff schools" and "hard-to-staff subject areas" are defined in the act. No modifications to the identification of hard-to-staff subject areas or schools shall result in the demotion of a teacher in the salary schedule. Each school district that includes differentiated placement of teachers on the district salary schedule shall annually provide to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education a report containing information outlined in the act.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 1447 (2024) and similar to provisions in SB 955 (2024) and SB 1163 (2024), HB 190 (2023), and HCS/HB 497 (2023).

TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS (Section 168.400)

The act repeals provisions of current law that require preservice teacher education programs to include a program of entry-level testing of all prospective teacher education students to be administered by the Commissioner of Education.

This provision is identical to provisions in SB 955 (2024), SB 1163 (2024), HCS/HB 1447 (2024), and HCS/HB 497 (2023).

CAREER LADDER (Section 168.500)

Currently, public school teachers become eligible for the Career Ladder program after two years of public school teaching in Missouri. This act provides that the two year-requirement shall not apply to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or such member's spouse who has teaching experience in another state and who has transferred to this state.

The act repeals a provision of current law that teachers' Career Ladder responsibilities and career efforts shall be required to occur outside of compensated hours. The act also specifies that teachers may receive Career Ladder admission and stage achievement for certain activities that are not included in the duties that require a teaching certificate under current law.

The act adds serving as a mentor for teachers to the list of activities for which teachers may receive Career Ladder admission and stage achievement.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 1447 (2024) and is similar to provisions in SB 955 (2024), SB 1014 (2024), and SB 1163 (2024).

PSRS/PEERS - WORKING AFTER RETIREMENT LIMITS (Sections 169.560 and 169.660)

Currently, a retired member, except for those retired due to disability, of the Public School Retirement System ("PSRS") may work after retirement in a certified position with a covered employer without discontinuance of his or her retirement benefits if the member does not exceed 550 hours of work each school year and 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position. This act provides that the member, including those retired due to disability, may earn up to 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position or 50% of the limit set by the employer's school board for the position which has been submitted and approved by the Board of Trustees of PSRS.

Additionally, current law provides that if a member of PSRS or the Public Education Employee Retirement System ("PEERS") is in excess of the limitations, the member shall not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed. This act provides that either member shall not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed or the retirement system shall recover the amount earned in excess of the limitations, whichever is less.

These provisions are similar to SB 1286 (2024).

SUICIDE PREVENTION IN GRADES 7-12 (Section 170.048)

This act modifies provisions of current law that require suicide prevention information to be printed on the identification cards of public school students in grades 7-12. Beginning July 1, 2025, the act adds to such information the non-emergency phone number of the local police department. The identification cards may also include the phone number of the Crisis Text Line and the phone number of a local suicide prevention hotline, if such hotline is available.

This provision is identical to a provision in SB 762 (2024).

TEACHER RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION STATE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (Section 173.232)

The act changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program." The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly.

The act provides that scholarship funds may be used to cover up to 100% of the tuition costs related to teacher preparation at a four-year college or university located in Missouri, except that no amount granted for tuition shall exceed the amount of tuition charged a Missouri resident at the University of Missouri-Columbia for attendance.

The number of years a student may receive a scholarship is reduced from four to two years. The number of students who may receive a scholarship is increased from 100 to 200 in the 2025-26 academic year, or a maximum awarded amount of $1.2 million dollars. The act further increases the maximum number of scholarships or the maximum awarded amount for each year through the 2030-31 academic year, when the maximum shall be 600 scholarships or a maximum awarded amount of $3.4 million, as provided in the act.

Scholarship recipients after June 30, 2025, shall sign a statement that they have made a good faith effort to secure all available federal sources of grant funding.

The act a repeals a provision that a student must have attended a Missouri high school in order to be eligible for a scholarship.

To be eligible for a scholarship, recipients shall sign an agreement to teach in a Missouri public school that is a hard-to-staff school or to teach at least one hard-to-staff subject area in a Missouri public school, or both, for two years for every one year the recipient receives a scholarship. The act defines a "hard-to-staff school" as an attendance center where the percentage of certificated positions that were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year exceeds 10% as reported to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. A "hard-to-staff subject area" is defined as a content area for which positions were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year.

The scholarships provided in the act shall be available to students who have successfully completed 48 credit hours at a community college, who have been awarded an associate degree, or who have completed 60 credit hours at a four-year college, as provided in the act.

The act modifies the interest rate paid by scholarship recipients who do not follow through on their agreement to teach in a hard-to-staff subject or school and must therefore repay their scholarship award as a loan.

An individual who has qualified as an eligible student under the act shall continue to qualify as an eligible student as long as he or she remains employed by the school district in which he or she agreed to teach, regardless of whether his or her employing school no longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff school, the class he or she teaches longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff subject area, or his or her position within the school district changes.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 1447 (2024) and is similar to provisions in SB 955 (2024) and SB 1163 (2024) and to SB 1013 (2024), and is substantially similar to a provision in HCS/HB 497 (2023) and to HCS/HB 809 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/24/2024 
G - Sent to the Governor
SB728 - Creates provisions relating to public elementary and secondary school students
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 728 - This act establishes the Parents' Bill of Rights Act of 2024 and creates provisions relating to discussion of certain topics by school personnel and the physical privacy of children.

PARENTS' BILL OF RIGHTS ACT OF 2024 (Section 161.841)

This act creates the "Parents' Bill of Rights Act of 2024", which shall be construed to empower parents to enforce rights, as delineated in the act, to access records maintained by schools in which their children are enrolled in a timely manner or as specified in the act. The act defines a "school" as a public school, school district, charter school, or virtual school authorized under the provisions of the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program.

Parents and members of the public shall have the right to be given the opportunity to view online and submit comments on all textbooks and instructional materials under review by a school. Publishers and other content providers shall given the opportunity to submit comments in response to an evaluation of textbooks or other instructional materials, as specified in the act. All comments submitted in relation to a reviewed textbook or instructional material shall be posted online.

No school shall require nondisclosure agreements for a parent's review of curricula, and each school shall allow parents, within two business days upon request, to review or make a copy of curriculum documents or to receive such documents in an electronic format, provided that no request would cause an infringement of copyright protections under the federal Copyright Act of 1976. Where the curricular materials being made available to parents for review are subject to copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property protection, the review process shall include technical and procedural safeguards to ensure that the materials are not able to be widely disseminated to the general public in violation of the intellectual property rights of the publisher or any contractual agreements between the publisher and the school, and that content validity is not undermined. If more than twenty pages are being copied using the school's equipment, the school may, at the school's discretion, charge the parent a fee described in the act.

No school shall collect any biometric data of a minor child without obtaining parental consent, except for biometric data necessary to create and issue appropriate school identification cards. Any company that produces school identification cards is prohibited from selling students' biometric data, and is additionally required to ensure that any copies of students' biometric data are destroyed upon the successful production of school identification cards. A school that collects a child's biometric data shall ensure that all copies of such data are destroyed within one year of the child's withdrawal of participation in all school activities.

Each school board meeting or charter school governing board meeting approving curricula shell be held in public in accordance with the Missouri Sunshine Law and shall allow for public comments.

Finally, each school shall notify parents of certain safety incidents and criminal charges filed against teachers, employees, and any guests or visitors to a school, as outlined in the act.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023) and similar to provisions in HCS/HB 482 (2023), in HCS/SS#2/SB 761 (2022), in SS/SCS/SB 741 (2022), in HB 2195 (2022), in HB 1858 (2022), and in HB 1474 (2022).

DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN TOPICS BY SCHOOL PERSONNEL

(Sections 170.385 and 170.386)

This act prohibits public school officials from encouraging a student under the age of 18 years old to adopt a gender identity or sexual orientation. The act additionally prohibits public school officials from withholding information regarding a student's gender identity from the student's parent.

The act defines a student's "documented identity" as such student's gender identity or sex as registered by the student's parent during enrollment. If a student's parent does not register such student's gender identity or sex during enrollment, the student's documented identity shall be their biological sex as correctly stated on their birth certificate or other government record, as specified in the act.

A school official shall inform a student's parent within twenty-four hours if the student expresses confusion about their documented identity or requests to use personal pronouns that differ from their documented identity. A school official shall obtain written parental consent before allowing a student to use a name other than the name provided by the parent when registering the student for school and before encouraging a student to wear certain items of clothing. Finally, a school official shall not encourage a student to pursue gender reassignment therapy or surgical procedures.

Any teacher, including any school counselor, who violates the provisions of the act shall face charges of incompetence, immorality, and neglect of duty under the laws governing the discipline of holders of certificate of license to teach. The State Board of Education shall promptly investigate any claim from a parent of a public school student that a teacher of such student has violated the act. If the claim is found to be valid, the State Board shall discipline such teacher as set forth in the act. The Board of Nursing shall promptly investigate any claim from a parent of a public school student that school nurse has knowingly violated the act. If the Board finds that such claim is valid, the Board shall file a complaint against such school nurse's license with the Administrative Hearing Commission on grounds of unethical or unprofessional conduct involving a minor. Any other school staff member who knowingly violates the provisions of the act shall have his or her employment terminated for gross misconduct, and shall additionally be ineligible to work in any public school for a period of four years.

A parent may bring a civil action against a school district, public elementary or secondary school, or public charter school that violates the provisions of the act, and the attorney general may bring a civil action against any school district, public elementary or secondary school, or public charter school that violates the provisions of the act.

These provisions are similar to SCS/SB 134 (2023).

PHYSICAL PRIVACY OF CHILDREN (Section 171.425)

This act requires that all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms accessible for use by minors under 18 years of age shall be designated for and used by male or female minors only. The act provides for the best available accommodations for any minor who asserts that his or her gender differs from his or her biological sex, provided that such minor's parent shall consent to such accommodations in writing. Such accommodations may include, but are not limited to, controlled use of faculty shower rooms, locker rooms, or restrooms, or access to single-stall and unisex restrooms.

A school district that violates any provision of the act shall be ineligible to receive state aid and shall be classified as unaccredited until the district proves to the satisfaction of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that it is no longer in violation of the act.

This provision is identical to SB 1274 (2024) and is similar to SB 974 (2024), HB 2355 (2024), HB 2357 (2024), a provision in SB 165 (2023), SB 690 (2018), SCS/SB 98 (2017), and SB 720 (2016).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB729 - Authorizes a tax credit for certain educational expenses
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 729 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a taxpayer to claim a tax credit in an amount equal to one hundred percent of qualified expenses incurred during the tax year for educating a qualified student, as such terms are defined in the act, provided that no tax credit shall exceed the state adequacy target. Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned, but are refundable.

To be eligible for a tax credit, a taxpayer shall not have enrolled a qualified student in the taxpayer's resident school district during the tax year for which the taxpayer is claiming a tax credit.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall be claimed by the taxpayer at the time such taxpayer files a return. The taxpayer shall submit to the Department of Revenue certification obtained after November 15th from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that the taxpayer did not enroll a qualified student in the taxpayer's resident school district during the tax year for which the taxpayer is claiming a tax credit.

The amount of revenue distributed to a school district from the School District Trust Fund shall be reduced by an amount equal to the aggregate amount of tax credits claimed pursuant to this act by taxpayers residing in the school district.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/17/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB731 - Creates news provisions relating to the protection of data
Sponsor: Sen. Caleb Rowden (R)
Summary: SB 731 - This act creates new consumer rights with respect to the protection of certain data.

CONSUMER RIGHTS (Section 407.2105)

The act gives consumers the following rights relative to his or her personal data:

· Confirm whether a controller is processing the consumer's personal data;

· Access the consumer's personal data;

· Delete the consumer's personal data that the consumer provided to the controller;

· Obtain a copy of the consumer's personal data, that the consumer previously provided to the controller, in a format that, as described in the act, is feasible, practicable, usable, and transmittable by the consumer;

· Opt out of the processing of the consumer's personal data for purposes of targeted advertising or the sale of personal data.

A consumer may exercise a right protected by this act by submitting a request to a controller, by means prescribed by the controller, specifying the right the consumer intends to exercise.

Except as otherwise provided in the act, within 45 days of the receipt of a request from a consumer, a controller of personal data shall take action or inform the consumer of action taken with respect to the request. Controllers may not charge a fee in response to a request unless the request is:

· The consumer's second or subsequent request during the same 12-month period;

· The request is excessive, repetitive, technically infeasible, or manifestly unfounded;

· The controller reasonably believes the primary purpose in submitting the request was something other than exercising a right; or

· The request, individually or as part of an organized effort, harasses, disrupts, or imposes undue burden on the resources of the controller's business.

RESPONSIBILITIES RELATIVE TO PROCESSING DATA REQUESTS (Section 407.2110)

The act requires controllers to perform the following acts:

· Provide consumers with a reasonably accessible and clear privacy notice that includes certain information relating to the processing of personal data;

· Disclose the manner and circumstances under which consumers may opt out of the sale of personal data or opt out of the processing for targeted advertising;

· Establish, implement, and maintain reasonable administrative, technical, and physical data security practices designed to protect the confidentiality and integrity of personal data and reduce reasonably foreseeable risks of harm to consumers relating to the processing of personal data;

· Considering the controller's business size, scope, and type, use data security practices that are appropriate for the volume and nature of the personal data at issue.

Except as otherwise provided in this act, a controller may not process sensitive data collected from a consumer without first presenting the consumer with clear notice and an opportunity to opt out of the processing. In the case of the processing of personal data concerning a known child, processing the data in accordance with the federal Children's Online Privacy Protection Act.

Except as otherwise permitted in the act, a controller may not discriminate against a consumer for exercising a right by:

· Denying a good or service to the consumer;

· Charging the consumer a different price or rate for a good or service; or

· Providing the consumer a different level of quality of a good or service.

ENFORCEMENT BY ATTORNEY GENERAL (Section 407.2115)

The act gives enforcement authority for the act exclusively to the Attorney General (AG). The AG is required to establish and administer a system to receive consumer complaints regarding a controller's or processor's alleged violation of this act. The AG is authorized to initiate an action in circuit court against a controller or processor as provided in the act. In such an action, the AG may recover actual damages to the consumer and, for each violation, an amount not to exceed $7,500, which shall be deposited into the Consumer Privacy Account established by this act.

The AG must prepare a report evaluating the liability and enforcement provisions of this act to be submitted to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tem of the Senate not later than July 1 in each odd-numbered year.

PREEMPTION OF LOCAL ORDINANCES (Section 407.2120)

The act prohibits any political subdivision from enacting any local ordinance that conflicts with this act.

EXEMPTIONS (Section 407.2125)

The act contains various exemptions.

This act is substantially similar to provisions in SCS/SB 7 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/08/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB733 - Modifies provisions relating to personal property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SB 733 - Current law requires that personal property be assessed at 33.3% of its true value in money. This act requires political subdivisions to annually reduce such percentage such that the amount by which the revenue generated by taxes levied on such personal property is reduced is substantially equal to one hundred percent of the growth in revenue generated by real property assessment growth, as defined in the act. Annual reductions shall be made until December 31, 2073. Thereafter, the percentage of true value in money at which personal property is assessed shall be equal to the percentage in effect on December 31, 2073.

Subject to appropriations, a political subdivision that receives less than the allowable amount of total real and personal property tax revenues shall be eligible for reimbursement from the state in an amount equal to the amount by which such revenues are below the allowable amount.

This act is substantially similar to SS/SCS/SB 8 (2023) and SB 493 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), as amended, HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/16/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB736 - Modifies provisions relating to the State Treasurer
Sponsor: Sen. Sandy Crawford (R)
Summary: SB 736 - This act modifies provisions relating to the duties of the State Treasurer.

The act permits the State Treasurer to keep in the custody of the state treasury an amount of specie, as defined in the act, greater than or equal to 1% of all state funds, provided that all such specie that is not needed for current expenses shall be placed on time deposit, bearing interest, in one or more banking institutions in this state, as required by the Missouri Constitution. Additionally, the State Treasurer is permitted to contract with a private minting entity for the purpose of minting official or commemorative specie.

This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/SB 735 (2024) the perfected SS/SCS/SB 100 (2023).

Under current law, the state treasurer is permitted to invest in linked deposits in an amount up to $800 million at any one time. This act increases that threshold to $1.2 billion.

Furthermore, the act modifies the total deposit for linked deposits that may be used for different borrowers as follows:

· Up to 5% of the aggregate for eligible multitenant development enterprises;

· Up to 5% of the aggregate for eligible property developers and eligible residential property owners;

· Up to 20% of the aggregate for eligible job enhancement businesses; and

· Up to 5% of the aggregate for eligible water systems.

All other linked deposits not allocated to the above may be used as permitted by law.

This provision is substantially similar to SCS/SBB 657 (2023), and provisions in HCS/SCS/SB 187 (2023), HCS/HB 586, SCS/HCS/HB 725 (2023), the perfected HCS/HB 809, and HCS/HB 1109 (2023).

The act prohibits the State Treasurer from accepting payments using any central bank digital currency. Furthermore, public entities are prohibited from participating in any test of central bank digital currency by any Federal Reserve branch. A central bank digital currency is defined as a digital currency, a digital medium of exchange, or a digital monetary unit of account issued by the United States Federal Reserve System, a federal agency, a foreign government, a foreign central bank, or a foreign reserve system, that is made directly available to a consumer by such entities. The term includes a digital currency, a digital medium of exchange, or a digital monetary unit of account issued by the United States Federal Reserve System, a federal agency, a foreign government, a foreign central bank, or a foreign reserve system, that is processed or validated directly by such entities.

This provision is substantially similar to a provision in SB 866 (2024).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB740 - Modifies provisions relating to utilities
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SS/SCS/SB 740 - This act modifies and creates new provisions relating to utilities.

VIDEO SERVICES (Section 67.2677)

This act modifies the definition of "video service" to include the provision of video programming by a video service provider provided through wireline facilities located in a public right-of-way without regard to the delivery technology. "Video service" does not include any video programming accessed via a service that enables users to access content over the internet, including streaming content.

This provision is identical to SB 803 (2024), SB 947 (2024), the perfected SS#2/SB 872 (2024), SB 999 (2024), SB 1316 (2024), SB 152 (2023), and substantially similar to HB 2057 (2024), a provision in the perfected HCS/HB 2058 (2024), a provision in HCS/HB 2206 (2024), HB 2281 (2024), a provision in HCS/SS/SB 222 (2023), HCS/SB 275 (2023), SB 299 (2023), HCS/HB 536 (2023), HCS/HBs 651, 479 & 647 (2023), and SCS/SB 1232 (2022).

UNIFORM SMALL WIRELESS FACILITY DEPLOYMENT ACT (Section 67.5122)

The act repeals a sunset provision relating to the Uniform Small Wireless Facility Deployment Act.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 1813 (2024), the perfected HB 1995 (2024), HB 2501 (2024), HB 2549 (2024).

REIMBURSEMENT OF COSTS FOR UTILITY FACILITY RELOCATION (Sections 71.340, 226.220, and 226.224)

Under the act, a municipality shall not perform any road maintenance or construction unless it reimburses a nonrate regulated utility provider, as defined in the act, for any facility relocation costs incurred due to such project. The municipality shall be authorized to pay such facility relocation costs as part of the cost of the road project.

The Department of Transportation shall reimburse nonrate regulated utility providers for any costs associated with facility relocation under the act.

The State Road Fund shall be used for reimbursing nonrate regulated utility providers for any costs associated with facility relocation due to road maintenance or construction.

This provision is substantially similar to HCS/HB 2056 (2024), and similar to SCS/SB 1018 (2024).

COMPENSATION OF TRUSTEES OF COMMON SEWER DISTRICTS (Sections 204.300 and 204.610)

Trustees appointed by the governing body of certain counties may be paid reasonable compensation by the common sewer district for their services outside their duties as trustees. Monetary compensation of such trustees is described in the act. This act repeals certain provisions that any such compensation must be approved by resolution of the board of trustees, or by a resolution, order, or ordinance of the governing body of the county. The act further repeals the provision that all expenses incurred by the trustees in the performance of their duties must be reimbursed by the district. This act also repeals certain provisions regarding counties with a ten-member board of trustees. The trustees of a district with an eleven-member board and located in two counties shall receive no compensation for their services but may be reimbursed for expenses. Reimbursement of trustees of a ten-member board are described in the act.

Each trustee appointed or elected in the circuit court decree or amended decree of incorporation for a reorganized common sewer district may receive certain monetary compensation for their services as trustees as described in the act. The act repeals the provisions stating that such trustees shall receive no compensation for their services but may be compensated for reasonable expenses normally incurred in the performance of their duties.

These provisions are identical to provisions in SB 896 (2024), HB 2476 (2024), HCS/SB 155 (2023), and similar to HCS/HB 1746 (2024).

FEDERALLY MANDATED NATURAL GAS SAFETY STANDARDS (Section 386.572)

The act repeals certain provisions relating to maximum penalties for violations of federally mandated natural gas safety standards and provides that the maximum penalties shall not exceed an amount as determined by the Secretary of Transportation of the United States.

This provision is identical to SB 1470 (2024), SB 450 (2023), SB 953 (2022), and substantially similar to HB 2660 (2024).

RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS PROGRAM (Section 386.895)

Under the act, no later than July 1, 2025, the Public Service Commission shall adopt rules permitting gas corporations to voluntarily institute a renewable natural gas program.

A qualified investment shall be deemed prudent for any gas corporation when the aggregate of such qualified investment does not exceed certain parameters described in the act. The qualified investment shall apply to a gas corporation's combined gas utility operations and gas service areas located in the state. All costs incurred for qualified investments shall also be reasonable to be deemed prudent by the Commission.

A filing by a gas corporation pursuant to the renewable natural gas program under the act shall include a timeline for the investment and completion of the proposed renewable natural gas infrastructure. For any filing made by a gas corporation for a project with an aggregate cost of less than $5,000,000, the Commission shall issue a decision within 90 days of submission. For any such filing, the Commission may extend the review period for 30 additional days for good cause. The Commission shall not extend the review period more than twice for a total of 60 additional days.

On or before January 1, 2026, instead of January 1, 2023, the Division of Energy of the Department of Natural Resources shall provide a report on the renewable natural gas program under the act.

The act and any rule enacted under the renewable natural gas provisions shall expire nine years from the date the Commission promulgates rules to implement the renewable natural gas program.

This provision is similar to SCS/SB 829 (2024), the perfected HCS/HB 1746 (2024), HB 2193 (2024).

TEST YEAR FOR RATE PROCEEDINGS FOR CERTAIN UTILITIES (Section 393.150)

Under the act, the test year for new rate proceedings shall, if requested by certain utilities under the act, be a future year consisting of the first 12 full calendar months after the operation of law date for schedules stating new base rates filed by certain utilities under the act. The new base rates shall not go into effect before the 1st date of the future test year.

Certain public utilities that elect to utilize a future test year within 30 days of the end of the future test year shall update their base rates as described in the act. The Public Service Commission shall have 60 days to review the accuracy of the updated information provided by the utilities, unless a party to the rate case initiates a further rate proceeding.

Certain utilities that request a test year under the act shall not recover the costs of any plant investments made during the test year period under certain mechanisms.

For utilities that elected to use a future test year, a reconciliation of the rate base at the end of the future test year shall be provided to the Commission within 30 days of the end of the future test year. If the actual amounts for these expenses are less than the amounts used to calculate the revenue requirements in the prior general rate proceeding, the difference shall be returned to customers. The revenue requirement calculations are described in the act. The difference in revenue requirement shall be placed into a regulatory liability to be returned to customers in the next general rate proceeding with such regulatory liability to accrue carrying costs at the utility's weighted average cost of capital.

The Commission may take into account any change in business risk to the utility resulting from implementation of the adjustment mechanism in setting the utility's allowed return in any rate proceeding, in addition to any other changes in business risk experience by the utility.

For a utility that elected to use a future test year, a reconciliation of payroll expense, certain employee benefits and rate case expense at the end of the future test year shall be provided to the Commission within 30 days of the end of the future test year. If the actual amounts are less than the amounts used to calculate the revenue requirement in the prior general rate proceeding under the act, the portion of the annual revenue requirement comprising of such expense difference shall be returned to customers. The difference in revenue requirement shall be placed into a regulatory liability to be returned to customers in the next general rate case with such regulatory liability to accrue carrying costs at the utility's weighted average cost of capital.

The provision is similar to SCS/SB 1280 (2024), to a provision in HB 2167 (2024).

A LARGE WATER PUBLIC UTILITY ACQUIRING A SMALL WATER UTILITY (Sections 393.320 and 393.1506)

This act provides that for any acquisition of a small water utility by a large public water utility with an appraised value of $5,000,000 or less, the Public Service Commission shall issue a decision of such acquisition within six months from the submission of the application for such acquisition by the large public water utility. Prior to the expiration of the six-months period, the Commission staff or the office of the Public Counsel may request, upon a showing of good cause, from the Commission an extension for approval of the application for an additional 30 days.

This act further modifies the definition of "large water public utility".

This provision is identical to provisions in SB 896 (2024), SCS/SB 741 (2024), substantially similar to HCS/SB 1746 (2024), and similar to SCS/SB 567 (2023), and to provisions in HB 1152 (2023) and in HCS/SB 275 (2023).

The Public Service Commission may use procedures related to the acquisition of a small water utility by a large water public utility, provided that the Commission independently concludes that a certificate of convenience and necessity should be granted, unless the Commission finds that application of the current law results in rates that are unjust and unreasonable.

A large water public utility's choice to comply with the provisions of the current law does not automatically ensure that the transaction is in the public interest. The Commission shall independently determine whether the acquisition is in the public interest, regardless of whether the matter has been put to a vote of the small water utility's ratepayers.

These provisions are identical to SB 1321 (2024).

CLOSURE OF ELECTRIC POWER PLANTS (Section 393.401)

Under the act, prior to the closure of an existing electric generating power plant if the closure occurs on or after January 1, 2025, an electrical corporation, registered and doing business in Missouri, shall first certify to the Public Service Commission that it has secured and placed on the electric grid an equal or greater amount of replacement reliable electric generation as accredited power resources based on the regional transmission operator's resource accreditation for the reliable electric generation technology. To determine if an equal or greater amount of reliable electric generation is being placed on the electric grid, the electrical corporation shall compare the relevant regional transmission operator's average of the summer and winter accredited capacity for the generation technology of the closing electric plant to the relevant regional transmission operator's average of the summer and winter accredited capacity of the replacement reliable electric generation. Such average of the summer and winter accredited capacity shall equal or exceed average accredited capacity for the existing electric generating plant. Dispatchable power resources shall comprise at least 80% of the average of the summer and winter capacity of the replacement reliable electric generation.

Adequate electric transmission lines shall be in place and the replacement reliable electric generation shall be fully operational concurrently with the closure of the existing electric generating plant, except where some or all of the replacement reliable electric generation utilized interconnection facilities used by the existing electric generating power plant as described in the act. If replacement reliable electric generation utilized interconnection facilities utilized by the existing electric power plant, the replacement facilities shall be fully operational without 180 days of the closure of the existing electric plant. If an existing electric power plant is closed as a result of an unexpected or unplanned cause or event, an electrical corporation shall follow certain procedures described in the act.

The average of the summer and winter accredited capacity of the replacement reliable electric generation under the act shall be equal to or greater than the average summer and winter accredited capacity of the dispatchable existing electric generating power plant under the act using the regional transmission operator's resource accreditation as of the time construction begins on the replacement reliable electric generation. The Public Service Commission shall certify that the requirements under the act shall be met by the replacement reliable electric generation.

Reliable electric generation may be constructed in a neighboring state if the generation is connected to the electric grid of the regional transmission operator of which the electrical corporation is a member.

On or before the date that the new reliable electric generation is placed in service, the electrical corporation shall provide certification to the public service commission, the general assembly, and the governor that it has met the requirements of the act.

These provisions are identical to SCS/SB 757 (2024), and similar to HB 1753 (2024), SB 709 (2023) and SB 717 (2023).

RENEWABLE ENERGY STANDARD (Section 393.1030)

Energy meeting the criteria of the renewable energy portfolio requirements under the act that is generated from renewable energy resources and contracted for by an accelerated renewable buyer, as defined in the act, shall be subject to certain requirements described in the act. The accelerated renewable buyer shall be exempt from any renewable energy standard compliance costs as may be established by the utility and approved by the Public Service Commission as described in the act.

Each electric utility shall certify and verify to the Commission that the accelerated renewable buyer has satisfied the exemption requirements under the act for each year, or an accelerated renewable buyer may choose to certify satisfaction of this exemption by reporting to the Commission individually. Nothing in this provision shall be construed as imposing or authorizing the imposition of any reporting, regulatory or financial burden on an accelerated renewable buyer.

These provisions apply to electric utilities with more than 250,000 but less than 1 million retail customers in the state as of the end of the calendar year 2023.

These provisions are identical to HCS/HB 1746 (2024), provisions in SB 838 (2024), similar to SCS/SB 374 (2023), provisions in SB 896 (2024).

DEFERRALS BY ELECTRICAL CORPORATIONS (Section 393.1400)

The act modifies certain provisions relating to deferrals by electrical corporations.

The act removes "new natural gas units" from the definition of "qualifying electric plant".

Electrical corporations shall defer to a regulatory asset 85% of all depreciation expense and return associated with all qualifying electric plant recorded to plant-in-service on the utility's books through August 27, 2024. The act repeals certain deadlines relating to such deferrals.

Beginning August 28, 2024, an electrical corporation shall defer to a regulatory asset 85% of all depreciation expense and return as described in the act, except for a qualifying electric plant that consists of investment in new generating units for which the deferral shall be 90%.

The act excludes the cost of investments in new generating units and energy storage systems from the requirement that at least 25% of the cost of investments reflected in each year's capital investment plan shall be comprised of grid modernization projects.

The act extends the sunset date of certain provisions relating to deferrals by electrical corporations from December 31, 2028, to December 31, 2035. The deadline to file an application seeking permission from the Public Service Commission relating to deferrals shall be extended from December 31, 2026, to December 31, 2033.

Provisions relating to electrical corporations seeking deferrals shall expire on December 31, 2040, instead of on December 31, 2033.

These provisions are identical to SCS/SB 1422 (2024) and a provision in the perfected HCS/HB 1746 (2024).

DISCOUNTED GAS RATES FOR GAS CORPORATION CUSTOMERS (Section 393.1645)

This act creates provisions for gas corporation customers to be considered for a discounted gas rate.

Under the act, a new or an existing gas corporation account meeting the criteria under the act shall qualify for the following discounts:

(1) When the customer is a new customer and the new load is reasonably projected to be at least 270,000 CCF annually, the discount shall equal 25% and shall apply for four years; or

(2) When the customer is an existing customer and the new load is reasonably projected to be at least 135,000 CCF annually, the discount shall equal 25% and shall apply for four years.

To obtain one of the discounts under the act, the customer's load shall be incremental, net of any offsetting load reductions due to the termination of other accounts of the customer or an affiliate of the customer within twelve months prior to the commencement of service to the new load. The customer shall receive an economic development incentive from a governmental entity, as described in the act, in conjunction with the incremental load. The customer shall meet the criteria set forth in the gas corporation's economic development rider tariff sheet, as approved by the Public Service Commission, that are not inconsistent with the act.

Unless otherwise provided by the gas corporation's tariff, the applicable discount shall be a percentage applied to all variable base-rate components of the bill. The discount shall be applied to such incremental load from the date when the meter has been permanently set until the date that such incremental load no longer meets the criteria required to qualify for the discount as determined under the act, or a maximum of four years. The gas corporation may include in its tariff additional or alternative terms and conditions to a customer's utilization of the discount, subject to approval of such terms and conditions by the Commission.

The customer, on forms supplied by the gas corporation, shall apply for the applicable discount at least 90 days prior to the date the customer requests that the incremental usage receive one of the discounts provided for by this subsection and shall enter into a written agreement with the gas corporation reflecting the discount percentages and other pertinent details prior to which no discount will be available. If the incremental usage is not separately metered, the gas corporation's determination of the incremental usage shall control. The gas corporation shall verify the customer's consumption annually to determine continued qualification for the applicable discount. The cents-per-CCF realization resulting from application of any discounted rates as calculated shall be higher than the gas corporation's variable cost to serve such incremental usage and the applicable discounted rate shall also make a positive contribution to fixed costs associated with service to such incremental usage. If in a subsequent general rate proceeding the Commission determines that application of a discounted rate is not adequate to cover the gas corporation's variable cost to serve the accounts in question and provide a positive contribution to fixed costs, then the Commission shall reduce the discount for those accounts prospectively to the extent necessary to do so.

In each general rate proceeding concluded after August 28, 2024, the difference in revenues with the discounts under the act and the revenues without such discounts shall not be imputed into the gas corporation's revenue requirement. Instead, such revenue requirement shall be set as described in the act. To qualify for discounted rates, customers shall meet the applicable criteria within 24 months of initially receiving discounts based on metering data for calendar months 13-24 and annually thereafter. If such data indicates that the customer did not meet the applicable criteria for any subsequent 12-month period, the customer shall no longer qualify for a discounted rate. Customer usage existing at the time the customer makes application for a discounted rate under the act shall not constitute incremental usage. The discounted rates under the act apply only for variable base-rate components, with charges or credits arising from any rate adjustment mechanism authorized by law to be applied to customers qualifying for discounted rates under the act in the same manner as such rate adjustments would apply in absence of these provisions.

These provisions are substantially similar to SB 896 (2024), HCS/HB 1746 (2024), HB 2045 (2024), similar to SB 638 (2023) and HB 1143 (2023).

REVIEW OF FINANCING ORDERS FOR ENERGY TRANSITION COSTS (Section 393.1700)

Under the act, the Public Service Commission may directly contract counsel, financial advisors or other consultants as necessary for the purpose of reviewing financing orders for energy transition costs. This provision shall not be subject to state purchasing provisions. However, the Commission shall establish a policy for the bid process. Such policy shall be publicly available and any information related to contracts under the established policy shall be included in publicly available rate case documents.

These provisions are identical to HB 1728 (2024), a provision in HCS/HB 1746 (2024), a provision in SB 899 (2024), HCS/HB 1071 (2023) and similar to SB 520 (2023).

CONDEMNATION OF LAND BY CERTAIN UTILITIES (Section 523.010)

Under the act, the authority of any electrical corporation to condemn property shall not extend to the construction or erection of any structure or facility that uses wind and solar energy to generate or manufacture electricity. Notwithstanding this provision, the authority of any electrical corporation to condemn property shall extend to acquisition of rights needed to construct, operate, and maintain certain electrical infrastructure, described in the act, needed to collect and deliver energy generated or manufactured by solar and wind facilities to the distribution or transmission grid.

This provision is identical to SB 1262 (2024), SB 805 (2024), a provision in HB 1449 (2024), HB 1750 (2024), and similar SB 833 (2024), SB 577 (2023), and HB 1052 (2023).

HYDRANT INSPECTION PROGRAM (Section 640.144)

Currently, all community water systems are required to create a hydrant inspection program which includes annual testing of every hydrant of such community water systems. This act repeals the annual testing requirement of such hydrants and provides for a scheduled testing of such hydrants.

This provision is identical to SB 982 (2024), HB 1734 (2024), HCS/HB 1746 (2024), a provision in SB 896 (2024), SB 629 (2023) and HB 891 (2023).

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB742 - Authorizes tax credits for child care
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SS/SB 742 - This act establishes provisions relating to tax credits for child care.

CHILD CARE CONTRIBUTION TAX CREDIT

This act establishes the "Child Care Contribution Tax Credit Act".

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a tax credit in an amount equal to 75% of the taxpayer's contribution to a child care provider or intermediary, as such terms are defined in the act. A child care provider or intermediary shall file a contribution verification with the Department of Economic Development within sixty days of receiving a contribution, and shall issue a copy of such verification to the taxpayer. A failure to issue a contribution verification to a taxpayer shall entitle the taxpayer to a refund of the contribution. Contributions made to intermediaries shall be distributed in full to one or more child care providers within two years of the intermediary receiving such contribution.

Contributions made under the act shall be used directly by a child care provider to promote child care for children 12 years of age and younger, shall not be made to a child care provider in which the taxpayer has a direct financial interest, and shall not be made in exchange for care of a child or children unless the contribution is made by an employer purchasing child care for the children of the employer's employees. A child care provider or intermediary that uses a contribution for an ineligible purpose shall repay to the Department the value of the tax credit used for such ineligible purpose.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable or transferable, but may be carried forward for up to six tax years. Notwithstanding this provision, taxpayers that are exempt for federal tax purposes shall be eligible for a refund of any tax credits received under this act, as described in the act.

The maximum amount of tax credits that shall be authorized in a calendar year shall not exceed $20 million. If the maximum amount of tax credits is authorized in a calendar year, the maximum amount of tax credits that may be authorized in subsequent years shall be increased by 15%, provided that all such increases in the allowable amount of tax credits shall be reserved for contributions made to child care providers located in a child care desert, as such term is defined in the act.

This provision shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Section 135.1310)

EMPLOYER PROVIDED CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE TAX CREDIT

This act establishes the "Employer-Provided Child Care Assistance Tax Credit Act".

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a tax credit in an amount equal to 30% of qualified child care expenditures, as defined in the act, paid or incurred by an employer with two or more employees providing child care for its employees. The amount of the tax credit authorized under this act shall not exceed $200,000 per taxpayer per tax year. A facility shall not be considered a child care facility for the purposes of the act unless enrollment in the facility is open to the dependents of the taxpayer during the tax year, provided that the dependents fall within the age range ordinarily cared for by, and only require a level of care ordinarily provided by, such facility.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable or transferable, but may be carried forward for up to six tax years. Notwithstanding this provision, taxpayers that are exempt for federal tax purposes shall be eligible for a refund of any tax credits received under this act, as described in the act.

The maximum amount of tax credits that shall be authorized in a calendar year shall not exceed $20 million. If the maximum amount of tax credits is authorized in a calendar year, the maximum amount of tax credits that may be authorized in subsequent years shall be increased by 15%, provided that all such increases in the allowable amount of tax credits shall be reserved for qualified child care expenditures for child care facilities located in a child care desert, as such term is defined in the act.

Tax credits authorized by this act shall be subject to recapture, as described in the act.

This provision shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Section 135.1325)

CHILD CARE PROVIDERS TAX CREDIT

This act establishes the "Child Care Providers Tax Credit Act".

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes child care providers with three or more employees to claim a tax credit in an amount equal to the child care provider's eligible employer withholding tax, as defined in the act, and may also claim a tax credit in an amount up to 30% of the child care provider's capital expenditures, as defined in the act, provided that such capital expenditures are not less than $1,000. The amount of the tax credit authorized under this act shall not exceed $200,000 per child care provider per tax year.

A child care provider shall submit to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education an application for the tax credit on a form to be provided by the Department. The child care provider shall provide proof of any capital expenditures for which the provider is claiming a tax credit.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable or transferable, but may be carried forward for up to six tax years. Notwithstanding this provision, taxpayers that are exempt for federal tax purposes shall be eligible for a refund of any tax credits received under this act, as described in the act.

The maximum amount of tax credits that shall be authorized in a calendar year shall not exceed $20 million. If the maximum amount of tax credits is authorized in a calendar year, the maximum amount of tax credits that may be authorized in subsequent years shall be increased by 15%, provided that all such increases in the allowable amount of tax credits shall be reserved for child care providers located in a child care desert, as such term is defined in the act.

This provision shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Section 135.1350)

This act is substantially similar to provisions in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/SB 184 (2023), SB 509 (2023), SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), HCS/HB 350 (2023), SCS/HCS/HB 668 (2023), and HCS/HB 870 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/27/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB743 - Modifies provisions relating to state funding for certain early childhood education programs
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 743 - Currently, children between three and five years old who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch and attend an early childhood education program operated by a school district or a charter school may be included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance. The total number of such pupils shall not exceed 4% of the total number of pupils between 5 and 18 years old who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch and who are included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance.

Under this act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall remit to school districts and charter schools an amount equal to the product of the state adequacy target, the dollar-value modifier, and the average daily attendance of pupils who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch and who attend, in the year prior to their kindergarten enrollment eligibility, an early childhood education program that is operated by a school district or a charter school. Three-year-old pupils and other pupils who are more than one year prior to kindergarten enrollment eligibility, who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch, and who attend such early childhood education programs shall be included in a district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance under existing law.

Any increase in a school district's average daily attendance that occurs as a result of the provisions of the act shall not disqualify such school district for certain state aid payments under current law.

This act is similar to SB 495 (2023), HB 833 (2023), and HB 933 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/08/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Education and Workforce Development
SB750 - Modifies provisions relating to the collection of delinquent property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Lincoln Hough (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 750 - This act modifies provisions relating to the collection of delinquent taxes.

PROPERTY TAXES

This act authorizes a county or municipality to adopt a resolution to collect delinquent taxes pursuant to the Land Tax Collection Law, currently only applicable to charter counties and Clay and Buchanan Counties. (Section 140.010, 141.220 and 141.230)

This act allows a county collector to preclude a prospective bidder from participating in the sale of lands with delinquent taxes if such prospective bidder is delinquent on his or her property tax payments. (Section 140.190)

This act provides that the state and other taxing authorities and lienholders shall be foreclosed from any unclaimed right, title, interest, claim, or equity of redemption in or to the land and of any lien upon the land upon the expiration of the right to redeem. (Section 140.420)

Current law provides for salaries to be paid to land tax attorneys and delinquent land clerks appointed by the county collector. This act provides that such compensation shall be determined by the collector. (Section 141.320 and 141.330)

Current law requires certain information to be listed in a petition for the foreclosure of a tax lien. This act adds certain identifying information of the petitioners and any person with a legal interest in the parcel of land affected by the suit. The collector shall prepare and send by first-class mail a copy of the petition within thirty days after the filing of the petition to the occupant of the parcel. (Section 141.410, 141.440, and 141.500)

This act requires a collector to obtain a title search for all conveyances, liens, and charges against the real estate involved in a delinquent tax sale, and requires a sheriff to meet certain notice requirements prior to the sale. (Section 141.520)

This act modifies provisions relating to the procedure of selling delinquent property, including the date of sales for partial opt-in counties, requiring a nonreimbursable $200 bidder fee, and a requirement that prospective bidders submit an affidavit attesting that such bidder meets all statutory requirements. No person shall be eligible to bid unless the person has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the applicable official that the person is not the owner of any real property with two or more violations of the municipality's building or housing codes. (Section 141.550)

This act requires a court to hold a hearing to confirm or set aside a foreclosure sale within six months after the sheriff sells any parcel of real estate. The court's judgment shall include a finding that adequate notice was provided. This act allows the proceeds of a land sale in partial opt-in counties to be distributed to the school fund for the county, and also allows a county to allocate a portion of its share of proceeds to a fund for the purposes of defending against claims of insufficiency of notice. (Section 141.580)

This act requires opt-in and partial opt-in counties to establish a land trust for the management, sale, and other disposition of tax delinquent lands. (Section 141.700 and 141.821)

This act repeals provisions of law relating to land tax collections in St. Louis City. (Sections 141.820 to 141.970)

LAND BANKS

This act changes the title of the "Land Bank Act" to the "Chapter 140 Land Bank Act" and authorizes St. Louis County and any municipality with more than 1,500 inhabitants and not located in St. Louis County to establish a land bank. (Section 140.980 to 140.981)

The act requires any county establishing a land bank agency to appoint members to a board of directors, as described in the act. (Section 140.982)

This act provides that all taxes, special taxes, fines, and fees on real estate shall be deemed satisfied by transfer to a land bank agency. (Section 140.984)

This act repeals provisions relating to the distribution of proceeds of property disposed of by a land bank agency. (Section 140.985)

This act prohibits a foreign or domestic corporation or limited liability company that has failed to appoint or maintain a registered agent from buying property from a land bank agency. A land bank agency may condition the sale of a property by requiring the purchaser to make certain improvements to the parcel. (Section 140.987)

A county that has established a land bank agency may collect a fee for the collection of delinquent and back taxes in an amount up to five percent of all collections, which shall be paid to the land bank agency. (Section 140.988)

This act authorizes the governing body of the county or municipality establishing a land bank agency to issue bonds, as described in the act. (Section 140.994)

This act applies conflict of interest provisions to members of a land bank agency board in addition to employees of the land bank agency. (Section 140.1000)

This act authorizes any municipality located wholly or partially within an opt-in county to establish a land bank pursuant to current provisions of law that apply only to the city of St. Joseph. (Section 141.980 to 141.1009)

This act is substantially similar to HCS/HB 587 (2023) and HB 1088 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/05/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB756 - Modifies a property tax credit for certain seniors
Sponsor: Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer (R)
Summary: HCS/SS/SCS/SB 756 - Current law authorizes a property tax credit for certain seniors who are eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. This act modifies the definition of "eligible credit amount" and adds a definition of "initial credit year". This act also modifies the definition of "eligible taxpayer" by providing that a taxpayer shall be 62 years of age or older, rather than eligible for Social Security retirement benefits, and that the taxpayer shall not owe delinquent taxes, interest, or penalties to the county.

This act also provides that an ordinance authorizing a property tax credit that is adopted by a county shall not preclude such ordinance from being subsequently amended or superseded by a petition adopted pursuant to the act.

This act also provides that the real property tax liability for the eligible taxpayer's initial credit year shall be increased to reflect the real property tax liability attributable to any new construction and improvements made to the taxpayer's homestead in addition to any property tax liability owed to a taxing jurisdiction that has annexed the taxpayer's homestead subsequent to the taxpayer's initial credit year.

Finally, this act requires that a county granting a tax credit shall notify each political subdivision within such county of the total credit amount applicable to such political subdivision by no later than November 30th of each year.

This act contains an emergency clause.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/17/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
SB761 - Authorizes excusal from attendance at an elementary or secondary school if the child is unable to attend due to mental or behavioral health concerns
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 761 - This act provides that a child may be excused from attendance at school if the child is unable to attend school due to mental or behavioral health concerns, provided that the school receives documentation from a mental health professional. This act is identical to SB 122 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/09/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Education and Workforce Development
SB762 - Modifies provisions relating to suicide prevention in educational institutions
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 762 - This act modifies provisions of current law that require suicide prevention information to be printed on the identification cards of public school students in grades 7-12 and of students enrolled in public institutions of higher education. The act adds to such information the phone number of campus security for college students and, for students in grades 7-12, the non-emergency phone number of the local police department. For both college students and students in grades 7-12, the identification cards may also include the phone number of the Crisis Text Line and the phone number of a local suicide prevention hotline, if such hotline is available. The provisions of the act shall take effect on July 1, 2025.

OLIVIA SHANNON
Last Action:
01/09/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Education and Workforce Development
SB766 - Establishes a provision relating to allegations of sexual misconduct against private school employees
Sponsor: Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 766 - This act provides that a private school that fails to disclose allegations of sexual misconduct against a former employee when furnishing a job reference for such former employee shall be liable for damages to students who are later found to be victims of sexual misconduct by such person by a court of competent jurisdiction. The private school shall also be liable for damages to the future employer of such person for any legal liability, legal fees, costs, and expenses caused by the private school's failure to disclose allegations of sexual misconduct.

A private school that discloses information as provided in this act shall not be liable for damages incurred by a former employee as a result of such disclosure.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB770 - Establishes provisions regarding elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 770 - This act establishes provisions relating to elementary and secondary education. This act is similar to SB 42 (2023).

DIVISIVE CONCEPTS (Section 160.2550)

Under this act, school districts are prohibited from teaching about The 1619 Project or any successor theory or concept, critical race theory or any successor theory or concept, and any divisive concepts, as such term is defined in the act. Districts are also prohibited from certain actions listed in the act relating to curriculum and instruction.

In adopting the essential knowledge and skills for the social studies for each grade level from kindergarten through 12th grade, each school district shall adopt knowledge and skills that develop each student's civic knowledge as set forth in the act.

School districts shall not accept private funding for the purposes of teaching any curriculum substantially similar to critical race theory or The 1619 Project.

The Attorney General may investigate school districts for compliance with the act. Any school district that violates the provisions of the act shall have 50% of the district's state aid withheld until the district presents evidence to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that the district is no longer in violation of this section.

This provision is substantially similar to a provision in SB 42 (2023) and to SB 694 (2022) and is similar to SB 172 (2023), SB 638 (2022), SB 676 (2022), SB 734 (2022), and SB 1184 (2022).

SUNLIGHT IN LEARNING (Section 161.856)

This act establishes the "Sunlight in Learning Act", which requires certain training, instructional, and curricular materials posted on a school website.

This act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to ensure schools and charter schools publicly display instructional and training materials for teachers and learning materials and activities used for students on the school website.

The website shall include the title, author, organization and any website associated with the material or activity. The website shall also include the identity of the teacher or other person who created the learning material. Any activity that involves service-learning, internships or outside organizations, shall be included on the website, as outlined in the act.

All procedures for the documentation, review or approval of materials used for staff or faculty training or student learning shall be included on the website. A listing of available resources in the library shall be included on the website.

The information required on the website shall be displayed online prior to the first instance of training or instruction, or, at the latest, fourteen days after the training or instruction. The information shall be organized by school, grade, teacher, and subject, and be displayed on the website for at least two years.

Schools may use a collaborative online document or spreadsheet software to update the listing on the website. The listing shall be created and displayed in searchable or sortable electronic formats.

A school with fewer that twenty enrolled students and whose materials and activities are selected independently by instructors is not required to post a list of learning materials and activities on a website.

The Attorney General, Commissioner of Education, State Auditor, prosecuting attorney, or resident of a school district, may initiate a suit against the school district, public school, or public charter school or other governmental entity responsible for educational oversight if a violation of this act occurs.

Courts shall not entertain complaints unless complainants have first worked to remedy the situation by contacting school officials, who have fifteen days to resolve the situation, or by contacting the school board, who have forty-five days to resolve the situation.

No school officials shall purchase or contract copyrighted learning materials, including renewal of subscription-based materials where students are provided login credentials or access via electronic personal devices, unless provisions are made to allow parents and guardians of students to review the materials within thirty days of the submission of a written request to the school.

This provision is substantially similar to a provision in SB 42 (2023) and to SB 1225 (2022) and is similar to SB 645 (2022), SB 810 (2022), and HB 1995 (2022).

PARENTS' BILL OF RIGHTS (Section 161.1140)

This act creates the "Parents' Bill of Rights Act of 2023." Under this act, no school district shall deny to the parent or guardian of a minor child certain rights. Such rights includes the ability to fully review the curricula, books, and other educational materials used by the school attended by their child; the ability to access information on teachers, guest lecturers, and outside presenters who engage with students at the school; the ability to access information on third party individuals and organizations that receive contracts; the right to visit their child at school during school hours; the right to access all records generated by the school that concern their child; the ability to access information pertaining to the collection and transmission of data regarding their child; the right to be heard at school board meetings; the right to be notified of situations affecting the safety of their child at school; and the right to object to certain materials that the parent finds inappropriate to be taught to their child.

Any person denied one of these rights may bring a civil action for injunctive relief. Further, the attorney general may also bring a civil action for injunctive relief. If a school district is found to have violated this act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education may withhold up to fifty percent of the state aid for such district.

This provision is substantially similar to provisions in SB 42 (2023), SB 89 (2023), and in SB 776 (2022) and is similar to a provision in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 42, 42 & 89 (2023).

PARTICIPATION IN ATHLETIC COMPETITION (Section 167.177)

Upon adoption by a school district and approval of the residents of the school district, no public school shall knowingly allow a student of the male sex who is enrolled in such public school to participate in a school-sponsored athletic team that is exclusively for students of the female sex. Beginning July 1, 2025, the Joint Committee on Education shall study exclusively male or female athletic events and the impact of a policy that prohibits participation in those events by individuals of the opposite sex. By January 1, 2026, the Committee shall report its findings to the General Assembly.

The Attorney General may investigate any school district alleged to be in violation of this provision. Any school district found to be in violation of this provision shall have fifty percent of any state moneys withheld until the school district provides evidence to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that it is in compliance with this provision.

This provision is identical to a provision in SB 42 (2023) and is substantially similar to HB 2461 (2022) and a provision in HCS/HB 2140 (2022) and is similar to HB 2735 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Removed from Senate Hearing Agenda - Senate-Education and Workforce Development - 1/17/24 - 1:00 pm - Senate Lounge
SB773 - Creates provisions relating to automated external defibrillators in schools
Sponsor: Sen. Elaine Gannon (R)
Summary: SB 773 - For the 2025-26 school year and all subsequent school years, this act requires every public school to install an automated external defibrillator (AED) in each school building and designate appropriate school personnel to be trained annually in the use of such AED. Such personnel shall have received training in the use of AEDs before the beginning of the 2025-26 school year.

The act outlines certain requirements for AEDs in schools, including approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and restrictions relating to the modification of AEDs. The act also establishes certain requirements relating to the maintenance, repair, and inspection of all components of each AED.

The availability and placement of each AED shall be overseen by school personnel in accordance with certain guidelines set forth in the act. An AED shall be placed in a location that allows it to be easily seen and retrieved by school personnel outside of normal school hours. AEDs shall be placed in areas where there is likely to be high traffic or congregation, such as auditoriums, cafeterias, or gymnasiums. The specific placement of an AED shall be determined after consultation with the local emergency medical services system or emergency medical response agency.

Each school district shall appoint a program coordinator who shall be responsible for administering the AED program for his or her school. The coordinator shall oversee training of school personnel in performing CPR and operating AEDs. The coordinator shall also oversee maintenance of AED equipment and maintain certain organizational reports relating to the training and use of AEDs.

Training in the use of an AED and the performance of CPR shall be based on the most current guidelines of the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. Coordination with emergency medical services and ongoing quality improvement shall also be components of such training. Such training shall count toward the professional development requirements for teachers under current state law.

Before April 30th of each school year, each public school shall report to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on the implementation and availability of AEDs in each building of the school. The Department shall compile this data and submit a report to the General Assembly before the end of each school year.

This act is similar to HB 426 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/15/2024 
S - Removed from Senate Hearing Agenda - Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children - 4/16/24 - 8:00 am - Senate Lounge
SB774 - Modifies the candidate filing period for certain local elections
Sponsor: Sen. Elaine Gannon (R)
Summary: SB 774 - Under current law, the period for filing a declaration of candidacy in certain political subdivisions and special districts is from 8:00 a.m. on the 17th Tuesday prior to the election until 5:00 p.m. on the 14th Tuesday prior to the election. This act changes that period to 8:00 a.m. on the 16th Tuesday prior to the election until 5:00 p.m. on the 13th Tuesday prior to the election, unless the 13th Tuesday prior to an election falls on a holiday, then the closing of filing shall be at 5:00 p.m. on the next day that is not a holiday.

This act is effective January 1, 2025.

This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/SB 346 (2023) and CCS/HS/HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 96 (2023) and substantially similar to HCS/HB 1214 (2023), provisions in the perfected HCS/HBs 267 & 347 (2023), and HCS/HB 783 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
02/12/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB777 - Modifies provisions relating to sales taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 777 - Current law taxes retail sales of food, as defined in current law, at a rate of one percent. This act provides that retail sales of food shall be exempt from state sales taxes, and authorizes political subdivisions to exempt food from local sales taxes. (Section 144.014)

This provision is substantially similar to SCS/SB 161 (2023), HB 260 (2023), HB 452 (2023), HB 591 (2023), HB 896 (2023), HCS#2/HB 1992 (2022), HB 1817 (2022), and HB 2530 (2022), and to a provision in SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), HB 377 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), HB 1136 (2023), HB 1779 (2022), and HB 2249 (2022).

This act also provides that 28.125% of the revenue derived from the 4% state sales tax rate shall be deposited in the School District Trust Fund. (Section 144.020)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/09/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB780 - Modifies provisions relating to student enrollment in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SB 780 - Under this act, the average daily attendance of a student who is enrolled full-time in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program shall be calculated as if such attendance equaled the host district's or charter school's average attendance percentage for the previous year. Host districts that enroll one or more full-time virtual school students shall receive an amount of state aid specified in the act for such students on a monthly basis.

The act provides that students who reside in Missouri may enroll in the virtual program of their choice. Provisions of current law regarding a school district's approval of a student's request to enroll in a virtual program shall not apply to full-time virtual program enrollment.

The act requires host districts to adopt student enrollment policies for full-time virtual students and allows virtual schools to mutually agree with resident and host districts on the services that the resident district might offer, including possible financial reimbursements for those services. For students with disabilities, the enrollment policy shall ensure the development of an individualized education program and related services agreement, as necessary. The act also specifies that student progress reports are necessary only for part-time virtual school program enrollees. The act requires a student's parent or guardian, if the student is not considered homeless, to apply for enrollment directly with the full-time virtual program.

Finally, the act provides that a host district may contract with a provider to perform any required services involved with delivering a full-time virtual education.

This act is identical to HB 827 (2023) and similar to SB 545 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON
Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB784 - Establishes provisions relating to the minimum school term
Sponsor: Sen. Doug Beck (D)
Summary: SB 784 - This act modifies the definition of "school term" by providing that school districts located in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants shall have a school term that consists of at least 169 school days, unless the district has adopted a four-day school week, in which case a school term shall consist of at least 142 school days. (Sections 160.011, 163.021, 171.031, and 171.033)

The act repeals a provision specifying that school districts shall provide a minimum of 522 hours of actual pupil attendance for kindergarten pupils in order to receive state aid. (Section 163.021)

The act provides that school districts located wholly or partially in charter counties or cities with more than 30,000 inhabitants may adopt a four-day school week only upon a majority vote of the qualified voters of the school district. (Section 171.028)

School districts with a school term of 175 school days or more may establish an opening date earlier than 14 days prior to the first Monday in September by following the procedure set forth in the act. (Section 171.031)

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall remit to any school district or charter school with a five-day school week an amount equal to 2% of such district's or charter school's June state aid entitlement for the preceding year. Such funds shall be used exclusively to increase teacher salaries. Any district or charter school that uses such funds for any other purpose shall have an equivalent amount of money withheld from its state aid allocation under current law. (Section 1)

The provisions of this act shall go into effect on July 1, 2025.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/28/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB785 - Modifies the Missouri Works program
Sponsor: Sen. Doug Beck (D)
Summary: SB 785 - This act modifies the Missouri Works program by modifying several definitions. The definition of "average wage" is modified by dividing aggregate new payroll by the aggregate actual hours worked for new jobs multiplied by 2,080. A definition is added for "gross wages" and "taxable wages". The definition of "new payroll" is modified to include amounts paid by a qualified company for health insurance premiums if such qualified company pays 100% of the health insurance premiums of its full-time employees. The definition of "notice of intent" is modified to require such notice to be accompanied by an affidavit attesting to the estimated number of new jobs, position types, and new payroll. Multiple definitions are modified to change "payroll" and "wages" to "gross payroll" and "gross wages". (Section 620.2005)

In the event that the average wage for all new jobs created fails to meet the average wage requirement, this act allows a qualified company to retain withholding tax for the minimum number of required jobs. The Department may choose which new jobs to include in the minimum number to be averaged that will meet or exceed the average wage requirement.

Current law bases the amount of tax credits to be authorized for a qualified company on a percentage of new payroll. This act changes the base for such tax credits to a percentage of new taxable wages.

Current law requires the Department of Economic Development to consider certain factors when determining the amount of tax credits to award to a qualified company. This act requires the Department to also consider whether the qualified company participates in a pre-apprenticeship program approved by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development and the location of the headquarters of any contractor used by the qualified company, with preference given to contractors that are selected through an open bidding process that are headquartered in Missouri and for whom at least 85% of the workforce used for any work performed by the contractor for a qualified company reside within fifty miles of the site of such work. (Section 620.2010)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB787 - Prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
Sponsor: Sen. Greg Razer (D)
Summary: SB 787 - This act prohibits discrimination based upon a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Such discrimination includes unlawful housing practices, denial of loans or other financial assistance, denial of membership into an organization relating to the selling or renting of dwellings, unlawful employment practices, and denial of the right to use public accommodations. Discrimination is defined to include any unfair treatment based on a person's presumed or assumed race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age as it relates to employment, disability, or familial status as it relates to housing, regardless of whether the presumption or assumption as to such characteristic is correct.

This act is identical to SB 60 (2023), SB 711 (2022) and SB 81 (2021) and substantially similar to HB 384 (2023), HB 574 (2023), HB 1760 (2022), HB 2580 (2022), HB 275 (2021), HB 984 (2021), HB 1527 (2020), SB 954 (2020), HB 1763 (2020), SB 172 (2019), HB 208 (2019), SB 753 (2018), HCS/HBs 1360 & 2100 (2018), HB 1782 (2018), SB 338 (2017), HB 485 (2017), SB 653 (2016), SB 237 (2015), SB 962 (2014), SB 96 (2013) and SB 798 (2012) and similar to HB 1737 (2022), HB 407 (2015), SB 757 (2014), SS/HCS/HB 320 (2013), SB 239 (2011), SB 626 (2010), SB 109 (2009), SB 824 (2008), SB 266 (2007), SB 452 (2001), and SB 622 (2000).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
04/17/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB792 - Establishes the Revitalizing Missouri Downtowns and Main Streets Act
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 792 - This act establishes the "Revitalizing Missouri Downtowns and Main Streets Act".

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a taxpayer to claim a tax credit equal to 25% of qualified conversion expenditures, as defined in the act, or 30% of qualified conversion expenditures with respect to upper floor housing, as described in the act, incurred for converting nonresidential real property from office use to residential, retail, or other commercial use. Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable, but may be carried back three years or carried forward ten years. Tax credits may also be transferred, sold, or assigned, as described in the act.

The total amount of tax credits authorized pursuant to this act shall not exceed $50 million in any fiscal year. 25% of the maximum amount of tax credits available to be authorized shall be authorized solely for projects located in a qualified Missouri main street district, as defined in the act. If the total amount of such reserved tax credits have been authorized, projects located in a qualified Missouri main street district may receive tax credits from the remaining unreserved amount of tax credits. If the maximum amount of allowable tax credits is authorized in any given fiscal year, such maximum allowable amount shall be increased by the percentage increase in inflation. Tax credits authorized for qualified converted buildings of more than 750,000 square feet shall not count toward such maximum amount of annual tax credits, provided that no more than $50 million in tax credits shall be authorized for such buildings in a given fiscal year.

A taxpayer shall apply to the Department of Economic Development to receive tax credits pursuant to this act. Such application shall include proof of ownership or site control, floor plans of the existing structure, architectural plans, and, where applicable, plans of the proposed conversion of the structure, as well as proposed additions, estimated cost of conversion, the anticipated total costs of the project, the actual basis of the property, as shown by proof of actual acquisition costs, the anticipated total labor costs, the estimated project start date, and the estimated project completion date, proof that the property is an eligible property, a copy of all land use and building approvals reasonably necessary for the commencement of the project, and any other information which the Department may reasonably require to review the project for approval.

All taxpayers with applications receiving approval shall submit within 60 days following the award of credits evidence of the capacity of the applicant to finance the costs and expenses for the conversion of the eligible property. All taxpayers with applications receiving approval, excluding projects of more than 750,000 square feet, shall commence conversion within 9 months of the date of issuance of the letter from the Department granting the approval for tax credits.

To claim a tax credit authorized by this act, a taxpayer with approval shall apply for final approval and issuance of tax credits from the Department, which shall determine the final amount of qualified conversion expenditures and whether the completed rehabilitation meets the requirements of the act. The final application shall demonstrate that the taxpayer has substantially converted a qualified converted building; satisfactory evidence of any qualified conversion expenditures for the structure, as determined by the Department; and any other information reasonably requested by the Department.

The Department shall determine, on an annual basis, the overall economic impact to the state from the rehabilitation of eligible property pursuant to this act. No taxpayer shall be issued tax credits for qualified conversion expenditures on a qualified converted building within 27 years of a previous issuance of tax credits pursuant to this act on such qualified converted building.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/12/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB793 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for feminine hygiene products
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 793 - This act provides a sales tax exemption for all purchases of feminine hygiene products, defined as tampons, pads, liners, and cups.

This act is identical to SB 433 (2023) and SB 897 (2022), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SBs 73 & 162 (2023) and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), is substantially similar to HB 351 (2023) and HCS/HBs 1679 (2022), 2859, & 2272 (2022), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), and HB 1136 (2023), and is similar to SB 800 (2020), HCS/HBs 1306 & 2065 (2020), SB 443 (2019), and HB 747 (2019), and to a provision contained in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 570 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/09/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB794 - Authorizes a tax credit for providing services to homeless persons
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 794 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act allows eligible taxpayers to receive a tax credit for providing certain services to homeless persons. An eligible taxpayer is defined as a qualified provider of employment services to homeless persons, a qualified provider of employment to homeless persons, or a qualified provider of housing to homeless persons. The amount of the tax credit shall not exceed $10,000 per tax year, and the total amount of tax credits authorized under the act per fiscal year shall not exceed $1 million.

The Department of Economic Development shall publish guidelines for determining who is a qualified provider of employment services, employment, or housing to homeless persons, as described in the act.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is identical to SB 434 (2023) and SB 1196 (2022), and is substantially similar to HB 1587 (2020) and to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 570 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB795 - Authorizes a tax credit for providing housing to victims of domestic violence
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 795 - Current law allows a taxpayer to claim a tax credit for contributions made to shelters for victims of domestic violence or to rape crisis centers. For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act modifies such tax credit to also allow a taxpayer to claim a $1,000 tax credit if the taxpayer has converted abandoned property into an operational shelter for victims of domestic violence, and a $500 tax credit if the taxpayer has rented residential real estate to a victim of domestic violence.

This act is identical to SB 437 (2023) and HB 2523 (2020), and is substantially similar to a provision in SB 382 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/28/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB799 - Modifies provisions relating to motor vehicle assessments
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SS/SCS/SB 799 - Current law requires assessors to use the trade-in value published in the October issue of the National Automobile Dealers' Association Official Used Car Guide to determine the true value of motor vehicles for the purposes of property tax assessments. For the 2024 tax year, this act requires the State Tax Commission to require an assessor to use such publication or the Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or another similar publication, and allows the assessor to use the current or any of the three immediately previous years' October issue of such publication.

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act requires assessors to use the manufacturer's suggested retail price as depreciated using a twelve year depreciation table provided in the act to determine the value of motor vehicles. When the manufacturer's suggested retail price data is not available from an approved source or the assessor deems it not appropriate for a vehicle, the assessor may obtain a manufacturer's suggested retail price from a source that he or she deems reliable and shall apply the depreciation schedule provided by the act.

This act is substantially similar to SS/SCS/SB 8 (2023) and SB 493 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), as amended, HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/21/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB802 - Modifies provisions relating to business investment incentives
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SS/SB 802 - This act establishes the "Missouri Rural Access to Capital Act", which provides a tax credit for certain investments made in businesses located in rural areas in this state.

This act allows investors to make capital investments in a rural fund, as defined in the act. Such investors shall be allowed a tax credit for a period of six years beginning with the year the investor made a capital investment. The tax credit shall be equal to a percentage of the capital investment. The percentage shall be zero for the first two years, and fifteen percent for the subsequent four years. Tax credits issued under the act shall not be refundable, but may be carried forward to any of the five subsequent tax years, as described in the act. No more than $16 million dollars in tax credits shall be authorized in a given calendar year.

A rural fund wishing to accept investments as capital investments shall apply to the Department of Economic Development. The application shall include the amount of capital investment requested, a copy of the applicant's license as a rural business or small business investment company, evidence that the applicant has made at least $100 million in investments in nonpublic companies located in counties throughout the United States with a population less than fifty thousand, evidence that the applicant has made at least $30 million in investments in nonpublic companies located in Missouri, and a business plan that includes a revenue impact statement projecting state and local tax revenue to be generated by the applicant's proposed qualified investments, as described in the act. The rural fund shall also submit a nonrefundable application fee of $5,000.

The Department shall grant or deny an application within sixty days of receipt. The Department shall deny an application if such application is incomplete or insufficient, if the revenue impact assessment does not demonstrate that the business plan will result in a positive economic impact on the state over a ten year period, or if the Department has already approved the maximum amount of capital investment authority.

Rural funds shall use capital investments made by investors to make qualified investments, as defined in the act, in eligible businesses. An eligible business is a business that, at the time of the qualified investment, has fewer than two hundred fifty employees, has its principal business operations in the state, is not an alien, foreign entity, or foreign government, and is engaged in certain industries, as described in the act.

The Department may recapture tax credits if the rural fund does not invest sixty percent of its capital investment authority in qualified investments within two years of the date of the capital investment, and one hundred percent of its capital investment authority within three years, if the rural fund fails to maintain qualified investments equal to ninety percent of its capital investment authority in years three through six, as described in the act, if prior to exiting the program or thirty days after the sixth year, the rural fund makes a distribution or payment that results in the fund having less than one hundred percent of its capital investment authority invested in qualified investments, or if the rural fund violates provisions of the act.

Rural funds shall submit annual reports to the Department, including the name and location of each eligible business receiving a qualified investment, the total number of new jobs, maintained jobs, new payroll, maintained payroll, new revenue, and maintained revenue by each eligible business receiving a qualified investment, a revenue impact assessment projecting state and local tax revenue generated and projected to be generated, and any other information required by the Department, as described in the act.

At any time after the sixth anniversary of the capital investment, a rural fund may apply to the Department to exit the program. The Department shall respond to such application within fifteen days. At the time a rural fund exits the program, it shall be required to make a distribution to the state, not to exceed ten percent of the amount of tax credits received, if the amount of state and local tax benefits generated by the rural fund's qualified investments are less than the amount of tax credits distributed to the rural fund.

These provisions shall sunset on August 28, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Sections 620.3500 to 620.3530)

This act is identical to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 92 (2023), as amended, and SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), as amended, and is substantially similar to HCS/HB 959 (2023), 675 (2022), HB 1885 (2022), SCS/SB 465 (2021), HB 1361 (2021), SB 724 (2020), SCS/SB 477 (2019), HB 1230 (2019), and HB 1236 (2019), and to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 92 (2023), SB 644 (2022), SB 1091 (2022), SCS/SB 750 (2022), and SS/SCS/HB 948 (2021).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
SB804 - Establishes accountability measures for all public elementary and secondary schools
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 804 - This act establishes accountability measures for all public elementary and secondary schools.

The act adds "student growth" to the categories of information required to be included in the school accountability report cards of all school districts, public schools, and public charter schools under current law. The act describes how student growth shall be calculated, with reference to a comparison of students' performance on statewide assessments in the current academic year to their performance in prior years.

By July 15 of each year, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall provide a confidential version of the school accountability report cards to each school building, school district, and charter school. By August 15 of each year, DESE shall publish the school accountability report cards on the DESE website, and each school building and school district shall publish its report card on its website. By August 15 of each year, DESE shall include in its annual budget request sufficient resources in personnel and equipment to prepare the report cards.

The act also establishes provisions relating to the preparation of annual performance ratings for public schools based on students' academic performance. The act sets forth a methodology for calculating the annual performance ratings for elementary and secondary schools and school districts based on students' year-to-year academic growth and achievement. For elementary schools, year-to-year student growth and overall student achievement shall each be weighted at 50% in the calculation, as specified in the act. For secondary schools, DESE shall create a college and career readiness measure that is based on statistical models that identify schools' contributions to students' long-term outcomes separately from their prior achievement. DESE shall consider certain factors when measuring college and career readiness, such as Advanced Placement scores and International Baccalaureate program scores. For secondary schools, 60% of the annual performance rating score shall be based on a combination of the attainment of college and career readiness credentials and student growth, as described in the act, and 40% of the score shall be based on a combination of student achievement on end-of-course exams and the five-year high school gradation rate.

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year and in all subsequent school years, the annual performance rating for secondary schools shall be calculated using a methodology that includes a combination of the attainment of college and career readiness credentials determined by DESE as described in the act, along with student growth, together weighted at 60% in the calculation. Students' performance on end-of-course exams and the five-year high school graduation rate shall be jointly weighted at 40% in such calculation.

Each school that has students who are enrolled in the school for the full academic year and who are tested using the statewide assessments shall receive an annual performance rating score and an annual report card. However, a school shall not earn an annual performance rating score based on students' academic performance if fewer than 10 students are tested in the statewide assessments.

DESE shall promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this act, and shall additionally have the authority to promulgate rules including incentives or rewards for schools and school districts that receive an annual performance rating score of 90% or more or that increase their score by 10% over a three-year period.

OLIVIA SHANNON
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB812 - Establishes provisions relating to special education programs
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 812 - This act requires public schools that serve students with an individualized education program (IEP) to obtain written parental consent for placements, removals, additions, changes, or reductions of services in the IEPs of such students. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall adopt a parental consent form for use by local educational agencies. The act outlines the information to be included on the form, including a statement that the parent has the right to consent or refuse to consent to the actions described in the act.

This act is similar to HCS/HB 1163 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/28/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
SB814 - Creates the Education Freedom Act and modifies provisions relating to the assessment of public elementary and secondary schools
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 814 - This act establishes the "Education Freedom Act". The act modifies provisions relating to the statewide assessment system, school accountability report cards, and the powers and duties of the State Board of Education. This act is similar to SS/SCS/SB 85 (2023).

STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (Section 160.518)

The act repeals provisions of current law that authorize the State Board of Education to develop a statewide assessment system and a standardized assessment instrument based on academic performance standards. Instead, the State Board shall develop a statewide summative assessment system that satisfies the requirements of federal law, and the State Board shall use the results of the assessments only for the purpose of compliance with federal law and the determination of performance districts in the calculation of state aid. The State Board shall not use assessment results to classify school districts and charter schools.

The act repeals a provision of current law that the statewide assessment system shall permit the academic performance of students in each school to be tracked only against prior academic performance in the same school.

Under the act, school districts and charter schools shall create, purchase, or adopt an interim assessment system that measures students' knowledge at the beginning of each school year and measures academic growth throughout the same school year. Such assessment system shall meet certain criteria outlined in the act.

The act repeals provisions of law relating to the State Board of Education's authority to suggest criteria for a school to demonstrate that its students learn the knowledge, skills, and competencies measured by the statewide assessment system at exemplary levels. The act further repeals provisions relating to "Outstanding School Waivers" that exempt certain schools from meeting requirements relating to the authority of the State Board to classify school districts.

SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT CARDS (Section 160.522)

The act repeals provisions of law authorizing the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to produce a school accountability report card for each public school district, public school building, and charter school in the state. Under the act, districts and charter schools shall report certain accountability data annually to the media, to all district and charter school patrons, and to the Department.

The act repeals provisions of law relating to the identification of priority schools that fail to meet acceptable standards of student achievement set by the State Board of Education. The act also repeals provisions relating to the identification of attendance centers that are categorized as requiring school improvement strategies.

The act repeals the requirement for school districts and charter schools to provide their school accountability report cards to legislators by December first annually, as well as the requirement for the State Board of Education to approve the inclusion of charter school data in a school district's school accountability report card.

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION (Section 161.092)

The act repeals provisions of current law authorizing the State Board of Education to classify public schools in the state and establish requirements for the schools of each class. The act provides that the State Board of Education shall identify a minimum of two national school accreditation agencies from which any district may seek to obtain accreditation. Any district accredited by at least one of these agencies shall be considered to be fully accredited for all legal purposes. The State Board may adopt a system of accreditation that school districts may utilize for accreditation purposes, but the State Board shall not use any such system to classify any district that chooses to utilize a national school accreditation agency as provided in the act.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB815 - Creates new provisions restricting corporate and public entities from making financial decisions that are not based on pecuniary factors
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 815 - This act creates new provisions restricting corporate and public entities from making financial decisions that are not based on pecuniary factors.

INVESTMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS (Sections 30.266 and 30.950)

This act requires written investment policies of the state and each political subdivision to include provisions requiring the investment of public funds to be based solely on pecuniary factors, as defined in the act.

PUBLIC CONTRACTS (Section 34.715)

The act requires all public entities, when engaged in procuring or letting contracts for any purpose, to ensure that bidders, offerors, contractors, or subcontractors are not given preferential treatment or discriminated against based on social, political, or ideological interests. The public entity procuring or letting the contract shall not ask for documentation or any corroborating sources of information relating to any social, political, or ideological interests. Any solicitation for bids shall include a notice to all potential contractors of this provision.

INVESTMENT OF RETIREMENT FUNDS (Section 105.688)

The act requires investment fiduciaries for retirement systems to make investments based solely on pecuniary factors, as defined in the act.

ESG BONDS (Section 108.1100)

All public entities empowered to issue bonds are prohibited from:

· Issuing Environmental, Social, Governance bonds, as that term is defined in the act;

· Using moneys derived from the issuance of bonds to pay for the services of a third-party verifier related to the designation or labeling of bonds as ESG bonds, including, but not limited to, certifying or verifying that bonds may be designated or labeled as ESG bonds, rendering a second-party opinion or producing a verifier's report as to the compliance of proposed ESG bonds with applicable ESG standards and metrics, complying with post-issuance reporting obligations, or other services that are only provided due to the designation or labeling of bonds as ESG bonds; or

· Enter into a contract with any rating agency whose ESG scores for such issuer will have a direct, negative impact on the issuer's bond ratings.

This provisions does not apply to any bonds issued before August 28, 2024, or to any agreement entered into or any contract executed before August 28, 2024.

DISCRIMINATION IN FINANCIAL SERVICES (Section 314.300)

No person or entity shall be denied any services from a financial institution or otherwise discriminated against by such financial institution based upon any of the following:

·

The person or entity's political opinions, speech, or affiliations;

· The person or entity's religious beliefs, religious exercise, or religious affiliations; or

· Any rating, scoring, analysis, tabulation, or action that takes into consideration a social credit score based on certain factors listed in the act.

Not later than August 28, 2025, and every 12 months thereafter, the certified agent of each financial institution shall submit an attestation to the Division of Finance, under penalty of perjury, on a form prescribed by the Division of Finance, whether the financial institution has been in compliance with this provision during the previous 12-month period.

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/09/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Insurance and Banking
SB818 - Modifies provisions relating to the rulemaking authority of the Department of Health and Senior Services
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SS/SB 818 - Under this act, the Department of Health and Senior Services shall not promulgate or make an order, rule, or regulation to delegate the Department's authority to make orders, rules, or regulations to any official, agency, or department and shall not promulgate or make an order, rule, or regulation to grant the authority to promulgate or make orders, rules, or regulations to a state or local official.

This act is substantially similar to SB 168 (2023) and similar to SB 1214 (2022).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
03/06/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB819 - Creates, modifies, and repeals provisions relating to participation of certain students in nontraditional educational settings
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 819 - This act repeals and establishes provisions relating to the participation of certain students in nontraditional educational settings.

DECLARATIONS OF INTENT TO HOME SCHOOL (Section 167.042)

The act repeals a provision authorizing parents to submit a written declaration of intent to home school their child to the recorder of deeds of the county where the child legally resides or to the superintendent of the public school district where the child legally resides.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OFFICERS (Section 167.071)

The act repeals a provision authorizing a seven-director school district to appoint a school attendance officer who has the powers of a deputy sheriff and may investigate claims of violations of the compulsory attendance law and arrest truant juveniles without a warrant.

PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOL ACTIVITIES (Section 167.790)

The act provides that a school district shall not be a member of, or remit any funds to, a statewide activities association that prohibits a student receiving instruction at a home school or a full-time virtual school from participating in any event or activity offered by the school district in which the student resides or that requires such students to take any class at a public school in order to participate in such event or activity. The act further provides that a school district shall not prohibit a student receiving instruction at a home school or a full-time virtual school from participating in any event or activity offered by the school district in which such student resides or require such student to take any class in order to participate in such event or activity.

A school district may establish an attendance policy for any rehearsals, practice sessions, or training sessions that are directly related to and required for participation in an event or activity. A school district may also require students to participate in components of instruction that are required for participation in fine arts activities, career and technical student organizations, or integrated cocurricular activities.

A statewide activities association shall not prohibit any member school district from participating in any event with a school that is not a member of the association.

Any school disciplinary policies and attendance policies shall be applied in the same manner to all students who participate in an event or activity. A school district shall not establish a separate disciplinary or attendance policy for students who receive instruction at a home school or a full-time virtual school.

If a student whose academic performance or disciplinary status would preclude such student from eligibility to participate in extracurricular events or activities in the resident school district disenrolls from such school district in order to receive instruction at a home school or a full-time virtual school, such student shall not be eligible to participate in public school events or activities in the district of such student's disenrollment for twelve calendar months from the date of disenrollment.

The parent of a home school student shall oversee any academic standards relating to such student's participation in a public school event or activity.

Any records created pertaining to a home school student or a full-time virtual school student shall be made confidential.

The act outlines certain criteria that home school and virtual school students shall satisfy in order to be eligible to participate in public school activities in their district of residence. Such students shall provide proof of residency in the district in which they wish to participate in public school activities. They shall also adhere to the same behavior, responsibility, performance, and code conduct standards as do students who are enrolled in the district.

This act is similar to provisions in HB 1905 (2024), HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023), HB 241 (2023), SB 835 (2022), HCS/HB 2369 (2022), HCS/HB 494 (2021), SCS/SB 875 (2020), SCS/HC/HB 1540 (2020), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 528 (2020), HCS/HB 2273 (2020), and SB 130 (2019).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/28/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass as substituted
SB822 - Modifies the Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief Credit
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 822 - Current law authorizes an income tax credit for certain senior citizens and disabled veterans in amount equal to a portion of such taxpayer's property tax liabilities, with the amount of the credit dependent on the taxpayer's income and property tax liability. This act modifies the definition of "income" to increase the amount deducted from Missouri adjusted gross income from $2,000 to $2,800, or, for claimants who owned and occupied the residence for the entire year, such amount is increased from $4,000 to $5,800. (Section 135.010)

The maximum allowable credit under current law is limited to $750 in rent constituting property taxes actually paid or $1,100 in actual property tax paid. This act increases such amounts to $1,055 and $1,550, respectively, and annually adjusts such maximum amounts for inflation. (Section 135.025)

Additionally, current law limits the tax credit to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $27,500 or less, or $30,000 in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year. This act increases such maximum income to $38,200 for claimants with a filing status of single, $42,200 for claimants with a filing status of single and who owned and occupied a homestead for the entire year, $41,000 for claimants with a filing status of married filing combined, and $48,000 for claimants with a filing status of married filing combined and who owned and occupied a homestead for the entire year, and annually adjusts such amounts for inflation. (Section 135.030)

This act is substantially similar to HB 666 (2023) and HCS/HB 1134 (2023), and to provisions in SS/SCS/SB 15 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and HB 1351 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB823 - Reduces the corporate income tax
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 823 - Current law imposes a tax on the Missouri taxable income of corporations at a rate of 4%. Beginning with the 2025 calendar year, this act reduces such rate of tax to 3.75%. Beginning with the 2026 calendar year, this act allows for three additional potential 0.5% reductions, for an eventual rate of 2.25%. Such additional reductions shall only occur if the amount of corporate income tax revenue collections for the immediately preceding fiscal year exceeds the highest amount of corporate income tax revenue collections from any fiscal year prior to the immediately preceding fiscal year by at least $50 million.

This act is identical to SS/SCS/SBs 93 & 135 (2023) and is similar to HB 1131 (2023), SB 701 (2022) , SB 393 (2021), and HB 2239 (2020), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023), HCS/HBs 816 & 660 (2023), and SB 18 (2022 First Extraordinary Session).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/11/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB824 - Modifies provisions relating to gaming
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 824 - This act establishes provisions relating to gaming.

MISSOURI RETURNING HEROES EDUCATION ACT

Current law requires public institutions of higher education to offer reduced tuition rates to certain combat veterans. This act provides that such institutions shall be eligible to receive up to one million dollars annually from the Gaming Commission Fund to offset the actual costs of such tuition reductions. (Section 173.900)

HONORING MISSOURI VETERANS AND SUPPORTING MISSOURI EDUCATION ACT

This act establishes the Honoring Missouri Veterans and Supporting Missouri Education Act.

This act allows the State Lottery Commission to implement a system of video lottery game terminals and to issue licenses to video lottery game manufacturers, distributors, operators, handlers, and retailers. The Commission shall not allow a single vendor or licensee to be responsible for implementing the program, nor shall it allow a single vendor or licensee to control or operate more than twenty-five percent of video lottery game terminals in the state after December 31, 2028. (313.429.1 and .2)

Video lottery game terminals may be placed in fraternal organizations, veterans' organizations, and truck stops, as such terms are defined in the act, and in business entities licensed to sell liquor by the drink. (Section 313.427)

Video lottery game terminals shall be connected to a centralized computer system developed or procured by the Commission. No video lottery game terminal shall be placed in operation without first being connected to such centralized computer system.

The Commission may impose a non-refundable application fee, as described in the act. The initial license shall be for a period of one year. Thereafter, the license renewal period shall be four years with the applicable license renewal fee paid for each year such license is renewed, as described in the act. In addition to such license fees, video lottery game operators shall pay the Commission an annual administrative fee of $300 for each video lottery game terminal placed in service. No license shall be issued to any person who has been convicted of a felony or crime involving illegal gambling. Sales agents shall be registered with the Commission by a video lottery game operator and may not solicit or enter into any contract with a retailer prior to such retailer being licensed to conduct video lottery games. (Section 313.429.3 and .4)

Video lottery game operators shall pay winning tickets using a video lottery game ticket redemption terminal, which shall be located within the video lottery game retailer's establishment in direct proximity of where such video lottery games are offered. Video lottery game operators shall pay to the Commission thirty-two percent of any unclaimed cash prizes associated with winning tickets that have not been redeemed within 180 days of issue.

Video lottery game operators and video lottery game retailers shall enter into a written agreement for the placement of video lottery game terminals. The agreement shall specify an equal division of adjusted gross receipts, or, upon approval of the Commission, a negotiated division of adjusted gross receipts between the video lottery game operator and the video lottery game retailer after adjustments for taxes and administrative fees are made. Video lottery game operators and video lottery game retailers are prohibited from offering anything of value other than the percentage of adjusted gross receipts for the placement of video lottery terminals, except that video lottery game operators may pay for construction of a video lottery terminal area inside the premises of a video lottery game retailer. (Section 313.429.7)

The price of video lottery game terminal credits shall be determined by the Commission, and the maximum wager played per video lottery game shall not exceed $5.00. No cash award for the maximum wager played on any individual lottery game shall exceed $1,100 or the maximum amount allowable by federal law before tax withholding is required.

Operators shall not operate more than eight terminals at any one fraternal organization, veterans organization, or truck-stop, and not more than five video lottery game terminals at any one lottery game retailer that is not a fraternal organization, veterans organization, or truck-stop. (Section 313.429.8)

A person under the age of twenty-one shall not play video lottery games, and such video lottery game terminals shall be under the supervision of a person that is at least twenty-one years of age. Video lottery game terminals shall be placed in a fully enclosed room that is continually monitored by video surveillance and where access to persons under the age of twenty-one is prohibited. Recorded video surveillance footage shall be reviewed by video lottery game operators as required by the Commission and shall be made available to the Commission upon request. An operator or retailer that fails to report any known violation of law may be subject to an administrative fine not to exceed $5,000. Any operator or retailer found to have knowingly committed a violation of provisions governing the conduct of video lottery games may be subject to a fine of $5,000, the suspension of such operator's retailer's license for up to thirty days, or, in the case of repeated violations, the revocation of such operator's or retailer's license for up to one year. (Section 313.429.9)

Video lottery game operators shall pay to the Commission thirty-six percent of the video lottery game adjusted gross receipts. The net proceeds of the sale of video lottery game tickets shall be appropriated equally to public elementary and secondary education and public institutions of higher education with an emphasis on funding elementary and secondary education student transportation costs and higher education workforce development programs. The Commission shall compensate the administrative costs of the city or county in which a video lottery retailer maintains an establishment in an amount equal to four percent of the video lottery game adjusted gross receipts.

The remainder of video lottery game adjusted gross receipts, after the cost of the centralized computer system and administrative costs are paid and apportioned, shall be retained by video lottery game operators and shall be split evenly between video lottery game operators and video lottery game retailers as provided under an agreement. (Section 313.429.10)

All revenues collected by the Commission from license renewal fees and any reimbursements associated with the enforcement of the act shall be appropriated for administrative expenses associated with supervising and enforcing the provisions of the act. (Section 313.429.11)

The Commission shall contract with a state law enforcement entity to assist in conducting background investigations of applicants for licenses and for the enforcement of the provisions of the act. (Section 313.429.12)

A video lottery game licensee suspected of a violation of the act shall be afforded an administrative hearing by the Director of the State Lottery on the record, and an appeal of any action taken to impose a fine on such licensee shall be to the Commission. Any such administrative suspension or revocation upheld by the Commission may be appealed by the video lottery game licensee in a state court of competent jurisdiction. (Section 313.429.13)

Participation in the state lottery under this act shall not be construed to be a lottery or gift enterprise in violation of Article III, Section 39 of the Constitution of Missouri, and shall not constitute a valid reason for the denial or revocation of a permit to sell liquor. (Section 313.433)

This act allows a municipality or a county to adopt an ordinance within one hundred eighty days of the effective date of this act prohibiting video lottery game terminals within the municipality or the unincorporated area of the county. (Section 313.435)

These provisions are identical to HB 699 (2023) and to provisions in SB 1 (2023), are substantially similar to SB 192 (2023), SB 557 (2023), SB 574 (2023), SB 642 (2022), SB 686 (2022), SB 19 (2021), SB 319 (2021), HB 1014 (2021), SB 566 (2020), SB 43 (2019), and SB 452 (2017), and to provisions in SB 906 (2022), SS/HCS/HBs 2502 & 2556 (2022), HB 2080 (2022), SCS/SB 98 (2021), HB 915 (2021), SS#3/SCS/SB 44 (2019), and SS/SCS/SB 767 (2018), and are similar to HB 990 (2017).

COMPULSIVE GAMBLING

The Commission shall promulgate rules for a sports wagering self-exclusion program, as described in the act. Any person who has been self-excluded and is found to have entered an excursion gambling boat or placed a sports wager shall forfeit his or her winnings. (Section 313.813)

Current law allows the Commission to establish programs to provide treatment, prevention and education services for compulsive gambling. This act requires such programs and includes recovery services. This act also requires the Commission to conduct an annual socioeconomic study on the impact of gaming, as described in the act. (Section 313.842)

This act requires the General Assembly to appropriate at least $5 million annually from the Gaming Commission Fund to the Compulsive Gamblers Fund. (Section 313.1021)

SPORTS WAGERING

This act authorizes wagering on sporting events, including esports, and modifies the definition of "gambling game" to include sports wagering. (Sections 313.800 and 313.1003)

Sports wagering shall only be authorized to be conducted on an excursion gambling boat or over the internet to persons physically located in this state. Licensed applicants shall apply to the Missouri Gaming Commission for authorization to conduct sports wagering and shall pay an application fee not to exceed $100,000. If granted a certificate of authority, a certificate holder shall be authorized to conduct sports wagering in a licensed facility or through an interactive sports wagering platform, as defined in the act. (Section 313.1006)

The act establishes designated sports districts, as defined in the act, in areas surrounding stadiums in which professional sports teams play their home games. Professional sports teams may designate a designated sports district mobile licensee, as defined in the act, to conduct sports wagering via an interactive sports wagering platform within the designated sports district. Sports wagering commercial activity, defined as any operation, promotion, signage, advertising, or other business activity relating to sports wagering, shall be prohibited within designated sports districts, as defined in the act, without approval of the professional sports team. (Section 313.1003.3)

An excursion gambling boat may conduct sports wagering through an individually branded interactive sports wagering platform, as defined in the act, and may operate such platform or contract with a platform operator to administer sports wagering on behalf of the excursion gambling boat. An excursion gambling boat may conduct sports wagering through an additional two individually branded interactive sports wagering platforms and may operate such platform or contract with a platform operator to administer sports wagering on behalf of the excursion gambling boat, provided the excursion gambling boat pays to the Commission an annual administrative fee of $250,000 for the first additional interactive sports wagering platform and an annual administrative fee of $500,000 for the second additional interactive sports wagering platform. Each designated sports district mobile licensee may offer sports wagering through one interactive sports wagering platform. (Section 313.1008)

An interactive sports wagering platform may apply to the Commission to conduct sports wagering on behalf of a certificate holder. Such interactive sports wagering platform shall submit an application fee not to exceed $150,000. Every year after licensure, an interactive sports wagering platform shall submit an annual license renewal fee not to exceed $125,000. (Section 313.1010)

A sports governing body may notify the Commission that official league data for determining tier two sports wagers is available. The Commission shall notify sports wagering operators of such availability within seven days, and within sixty days of receiving such notification, sports wagering operators shall use only official league data to determine the outcome of tier two sports wagers, with exceptions as provided in the act.

Certificate holders shall ensure that the certificate holder's surveillance system covers all areas in which sports wagering is conducted, allow the Commission to be present through gaming agents during the hours sports wagering is conducted, ensure that individuals under the age of 21 are not making sports wagers, provide certain information to sports wagering patrons, and post a sign indicating the minimum and maximum amounts that may be wagered. (Section 313.1004)

The Commission shall also promulgate rules to ensure that advertisements for sports wagering do not target minors or other persons who are ineligible to place wagers, problem gamblers, or other vulnerable persons. (Section 313.1012)

The Commission shall conduct background checks on individuals seeking licenses under the act. Such background checks shall include a search for criminal history and any charges or convictions involving corruption or manipulation of sporting events.

The act prohibits the direct or indirect legal or beneficial owner of five percent or more of a sports governing body or its member teams from placing or accepting a wager on an event in which a member team participates. A violation of this provision is a Class C misdemeanor. (Section 313.1014.3(2))

A sports governing body may submit a request to the Commission to restrict, limit, or exclude a certain type, form, or category of sports wagering on sporting events sponsored by such sports governing body. The Commission shall request comments on such requests from sports wagering operators. Upon demonstration of good cause, the Commission shall grant such request, as described in the act.

The Commission and certificate holders shall cooperate with investigations conducted by law enforcement agencies. (Section 313.1014)

A certificate holder shall maintain records of all bets and wagers placed through an interactive sports wagering platform, and all bets and wagers placed in person that exceed $10,000, including personally identifiable information of the bettor, the amount and type of bet, the time the bet was placed, the location of the bet, the outcome of the bet, and records of abnormal betting activity for at least three years after the sporting event occurs. (Section 313.1016)

A tax is imposed at a rate of 10% on the adjusted gross receipts received from sports wagering conducted by a certificate holder. Such tax shall be remitted by the last business day of each month. Revenues received from the tax shall be deposited in the Gaming Proceeds for Education Fund.

A certificate holder shall also pay to the Commission an annual license renewal fee not to exceed $50,000. In addition to such administrative fee, a certificate holder shall pay to the Commission a fee of $10,000 every five years for a reinvestigation of the certificate holder. Such fees shall be deposited in the Gaming Commission Fund. (Section 313.1021)

All sports wagers placed under this act shall be deemed to be initiated, received, and otherwise made on the property of an excursion gambling boat in this state. The intermediate routing of electronic data shall not determine the location or locations in which such wager is initiated, received, or otherwise made. (Section 313.1022)

These provisions are identical to provisions in SB 1 (2023), are substantially similar to SS/SB 30 (2023), HCS/HBs 556 & 581 (2023), HB 953 (2023), SB 643 (2022), SB 764 (2022), SB 1046 (2022), SB 1061 (2022), HB 1666 (2022), HB 2752 (2022), SB 18 (2021), SB 217 (2021), SB 256 (2021), SB 567 (2020), SB 754 (2020), HB 2318 (2020), HB 2691 (2020), HB 119 (2019), SB 1009 (2018), HB 2406 (2018), and to provisions in SB 557 (2023), SS/HCS/HBs 2502 & 2556 (2022), SB 906 (2022), HB 2080 (2022), HB 2144 (2022), SCS/SB 98 (2021), SB 643 (2020), HCS/HB 2088 (2020), HCS/HB 2284 (2020), SS#3/SCS/SB 44 (2019), and SB 187 (2019), and is similar to HB 2320 (2018) and to a provision contained in SB 195 (2019).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Appropriations
SB825 - Modifies provisions relating to the promotion of business development
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 825 - This act establishes provisions relating to the promotion of business development.

RIGHT-TO-START ACT

By no later than June 30, 2026, and annually thereafter, this act requires the Commissioner of Administration to file a report with the General Assembly that includes information on contracts awarded to businesses that have been in operation for less than three years, as described in the act.

This act also requires the Commissioner of Administration, in conjunction with the Office of Entrepreneurship, which is established by the act, to file a report with the General Assembly making recommendations on improving access and resources for new Missouri businesses that have been in operation for less than three years, including businesses owned by a racial minority group, and women-owned and veteran-owned businesses. (Section 34.195)

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023), SB 593 (2023), and SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), and is substantially similar to a provision in HB 237 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 807 (2022), SS/HCS/HB 2587 (2022), and HCS/HB 1590 (2022).

OFFICE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

This act creates the Office of Entrepreneurship within the Department of Economic Development. The Office shall employ an individual to promote policies and initiatives to support the growth of entrepreneurship of Missouri-based businesses with less than ten employees, including minority, women, and veteran entrepreneurship, in this state. (Section 620.3800)

This provision is substantially similar to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 807 (2022), SS/HCS/HB 2587 (2022), and HCS/HB 1590 (2022).

REGULATORY SANDBOX ACT

This act establishes the "Regulatory Sandbox Act", which creates the Regulatory Relief Office within the Department of Economic Development. The Regulatory Relief Office shall administer the provisions of the act with the purpose of identifying state laws or regulations that could potentially be waived or suspended for participating businesses during a two-year period in which the participating business demonstrates an innovative product offering to consumers.

The Regulatory Relief Office shall maintain a web page on the Department's website that invites residents and businesses to make suggestions regarding laws and regulations that could be modified or eliminated to reduce the regulatory burden of residents and businesses in the state. (Section 620.3905)

The Regulatory Relief Office shall be responsible for evaluating and approving or denying applications to participate in the Sandbox Program. An applicant shall submit an application along with a $300 application fee to the Regulatory Relief Office, which shall include contact information and a description of the innovative offering to be demonstrated, including statements regarding how the innovative offering is subject to licensing, legal prohibition, or other authorization requirements outside of the Sandbox Program; each law or regulation that the applicant seeks to have waived or suspended while participating in the Sandbox Program; how the innovative offering would benefit consumers; and what risks might exist for consumers who use or purchase the innovative offering, as described in the act.

No later than fifteen business days after the day on which a completed application is received by the Regulatory Relief Office, the Office shall review the application and refer the application to each applicable agency, as defined in the act, that regulates the applicant's business. No later than sixty days after the day on which an applicable agency receives a completed application for review, the applicable agency shall provide a written report to the Sandbox Program director with the applicable agency's findings, including any identifiable, likely, and significant harm to the health, safety, or financial well-being of consumers that the relevant law or regulation protects against, and a recommendation to the Regulatory Relief Office that the applicant either be admitted or denied entrance into the Sandbox Program. An applicable agency may deny an application for reasons described in the act. The Regulatory Relief Office shall not approve any application denied by an applicable agency. (Section 620.3915)

Upon the receipt of a report from all applicable agencies, the Regulatory Relief Office shall provide the application and associated reports to the General Regulatory Sandbox Program Advisory Committee, which is created by the act. The Advisory Committee shall be composed of eleven members, as described in the act. The Advisory Committee shall advise and make recommendations to the Regulatory Relief Office on whether to approve applications to the Sandbox Program, and may meet at its own discretion to override a decision of the Regulatory Relief Office on the admission or denial of an applicant to the Sandbox Program, provided such override is decided with a two-thirds majority vote of the members of the Advisory Committee, and further provided that such vote shall be taken within fifteen business days of the Regulatory Relief Office's decision. Meetings of the Advisory Committee shall be considered public meetings for the purposes of the Sunshine Law. (Section 620.3910)

Upon approval of an application, a sandbox participant shall have twenty-four months after the day on which its application was approved to demonstrate the innovative offering described in the sandbox participant's application. During such period, the sandbox participant shall be exempt from the laws and regulations outlined in an agreement entered into with the Regulatory Relief Office. Innovative offerings shall only be available to consumers who are residents of this state, and no law or regulation shall be waived or suspended if such waiver or suspension would prevent a consumer from seeking restitution in the event that the consumer is harmed. A sandbox participant shall not be subject to prosecution or administrative penalty for a violation of any law or regulation that is waived or suspended during the duration of the participant's demonstration period. (Section 620.3920)

Prior to demonstrating an innovative offering, a sandbox participant shall disclose certain information to consumers, as described in the act. (Section 620.3925)

At least forty-five days prior to the end of a participant's demonstration period, the participant shall notify the Regulatory Relief Office that it either intends to exit the Sandbox Program or that it seeks an extension. The Regulatory Relief Office may grant an extension not to exceed twelve months, and a participant may seek multiple extensions. If a demonstration includes an innovative offering that requires ongoing services or duties beyond the two-year demonstration period, the participant may continue to demonstrate the offering, but shall be subject to all laws and regulations that were waived or suspended as part of the Sandbox Program, provided that any participant that receives an extension to the demonstration period shall not be subject to the waived or suspended laws and regulations until after the end of the extended demonstration period.

A sandbox participant shall retain certain records for a period of two years after exiting the Sandbox Program.

The Regulatory Relief Office shall establish quarterly reporting requirements for each participant, and each participant shall notify the Regulatory Relief Office and each applicable agency of any incidents that result in harm to the health, safety, or financial well-being of a consumer.

No later than forty-five days after a sandbox participant exits the Sandbox Program, such participant shall submit a written report describing an overview of the demonstration. No later than thirty days after receiving such report, an applicable agency shall provide a written report to the Regulatory Relief Office that describes any statutory or regulatory reform the applicable agency recommends. (Section 620.3930)

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023) and are substantially similar to SB 1068 (2022) and to provisions in SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), SS/HCS/HB 2587 (2022), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 931 (2022), HCS/SS/SB 807 (2022), and HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 968 (2022).

SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY FAIRNESS BOARD

Provisions in current law establishing the Small Business Regulatory Fairness Board are repealed. (Sections 536.303 to 536.315 and sections 536.323 to 536.328)

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023) and SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - Superseded by SB 894
SB827 - Creates new provisions relating to social objective scoring standards
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 827 - This act creates new provisions restricting the use of social objective scoring standards and the investment of state funds and retirement funds based on social objective scoring standards.

INVESTMENT OF STATE FUNDS (Section 30.260)

Current law requires the State Treasurer to prepare, maintain, and adhere to a written investment policy. This act requires such policy to include provisions prohibiting the investment of state funds in any particular investment held by any entity that prioritizes a social objective or other nonfinancial objective into its discretionary business or investment decisions.

PUBLIC CONTRACTS (Section 34.715)

The act requires public bodies to ensure that bidders, offerors, contractors, or subcontractors, when engaged in procuring or letting contracts for any purpose, are not given preferential treatment or discriminated against based on an environmental, social and governance score or based on the prioritization or lack of prioritization of any socially responsible criteria by the bidder, offeror, contractor, or subcontractor.

This provision is similar to SB 50 (2023), SB 177 (2023), SB 316 (2023), and SB 1171 (2022).

RETIREMENT SYSTEMS

(Sections 105.688 and 105.692)

The act modifies the responsibilities of investment fiduciaries. Specifically, investment fiduciaries are required to:

· Not consider environmental, social, or governance characteristics in a manner that would override his or her fiduciary duties;

· Not be subject to any legislative, regulatory, or other mandates to invest with environmentally, socially, or other noneconomically motivated influence unless they are consistent with the fiduciary's responsibility or as provided in the system's governing statutes with respect to the investment of system assets or other duties imposed by law relating to the investment, management, deposit, or custody of system assets; and

· Not be subject to any legislative, regulatory, or other mandates for divestment from any indirect holdings in actively or passively managed investment funds or in private assets.

All shares of common stock held directly by a retirement system shall be voted solely in the economic interest of plan participants. Voting shares for the purposes of furthering noneconomic environmental, social, political, ideological, or other goals is prohibited. The act creates provisions on proxy voting for such purposes.

These provisions are identical to HB 769 (2023) and provisions in HCS/HB 863 (2023).

INVESTMENT-ADVISERS AND BROKER-DEALERS (Sections 409.115 and 409.117)

If a broker-dealer or agent, as such terms are defined in the act, incorporates a social objective or other nonfinancial objective into a discretionary investment decision to buy or sell a security or commodity for a customer, a recommendation or solicitation to a customer for the purchase or sale of a security or commodity, or the selection, recommendation or advice to a customer regarding the selection of a third-party manager or subadviser to manage the investments in the customer's account, then such broker-dealer or agent shall disclose to such customer the existence of such incorporation.

Furthermore, if an investment adviser or investment adviser representative, as such terms are defined in the act, incorporates a social objective or other nonfinancial objective into a discretionary investment decision to buy or sell a security or commodity for a client, advice or a recommendation to a client for the purchase or sale of a security or commodity, or the selection, or advice or a recommendation to a client regarding the selection, of a third-party manager or subadviser to manage the investments in the client's account, such investment adviser or investment adviser representative shall disclose to such client the existence of such incorporation.

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/HB 863 (2023) and similar to HCS/HB 824 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Insurance and Banking
SB828 - Allows an income tax deduction for certain law enforcement officers
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 828 - This act establishes the "Back the Blue Act".

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act allows members of the State Highway Patrol, peace officers, and federal law enforcement officers, as such terms are defined in the act, to deduct a percentage of such taxpayer's income derived from such employment from the taxpayer's Missouri adjusted gross income. The percentage to be deducted shall be 25% for the 2025 tax year, 50% for the 2026 tax year, 75% for the 2027 tax year, and 100% for the 2028 and all subsequent tax years.

This act is identical to SB 1181 (2022) and HB 2578 (2022), and is substantially similar to SB 31 (2023) and HB 541 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety
SB832 - Modifies provisions relating to elections
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SB 832 - This act modifies various provisions relating to elections.

CONTRACTS WITH FOREIGN ENTITIES (Section 28.900)

The Secretary of State (SOS), including any deputy or employee thereof, is prohibited from entering into any contract with a foreign entity on behalf of the office of the Secretary of State or the state of Missouri that would aid in administering any provision relating to elections or ballot measures.

APPOINTMENT OF ELECTION JUDGES BY POLITICAL PARTIES (Section 115.081)

Under current law, each election authority is responsible for appointing election judges from lists prepared by the committees of the major political party committees. This act modifies that process by requiring the committees of the major political parties to appoint election judges not later than 90 days prior to each election. If the committees do not appoint judges within such time, then the election authorities would appoint election judges who meet the criteria specified in current law.

PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF VOTER PARTICIPATION WITHIN 48 HOURS (Section 115.157)

The act requires electronic media or a printout showing voter participation information in any specific election to be made available for a fee not to exceed that allowed under the Sunshine Law by election authorities not later than the Tuesday following the election.

REGULATIONS ON INTERSTATE COLLABORATION (Section 115.158)

The act prohibits the Secretary of State (SOS) from entering into any agreement with any organization that would involve the sharing of voter registration data in the possession of the SOS, including, but not limited to, the Electronic Registration Information Center, Inc. (ERIC). Any agreement previously entered into may continue for the duration of the agreement but shall not be renewed. If the SOS has the option or the ability to exit such an agreement prior to its expiration, the SOS shall exercise such option or take the action necessary to terminate such agreement.

The act additionally specifically allows the SOS to coordinate or collaborate with another state for the purpose of verifying voter registration data in the possession of the SOS, provided that it is done by the office of the SOS.

PROHIBITION ON ACQUISITION OF DATA FROM CREDIT AGENCIES (Section 115.158)

The act prohibits the SOS from acquiring any information from any credit agency that contains the address or other identifying information of any registered voter.

HAND-COUNTING OF ALL PAPER BALLOTS AND USE OF VOTING MACHINES (Various Sections)

Current law permits and regulates the usage of automatic tabulating equipment, electronic voting machines, and voting machines in elections. This act repeals those provisions and, except as provided below, requires all ballots to be cast in paper form and hand-counted, as stipulated in law.

The act allows for the use of voting machines designed for accessibility by individuals with disabilities. Such machines shall comply with federal Help America Vote Act. Additionally, such machines shall print out a paper ballot showing distinguishing marks next to the voter's choices. The paper ballot printed out shall be identical to the paper ballot used in all other instances at the election.

The SOS shall maintain a database containing the names of all individuals who are eligible to use a voting machine designed for accessibility. The database shall be updated as changes are made and every 30 days election authorities shall be given an updated list of registered voters in the jurisdiction of the election authority who are eligible to use such machines.

BALLOT PRODUCTION (Section 115.237)

The act requires all ballots to contain a watermark of the seal of the state of Missouri in the top right-hand corner. The ballots must also be produced in the United States of America. Ballots are prohibited from containing any barcode, quick response code, or other electronically-enabled code that is not in a human readable medium. The SOS may not have any financial relationship with the entity producing the ballots, whether in his or her capacity as Secretary of State or in an individual capacity.

MAILING ABSENTEE BALLOTS FROM JURISDICTION OF ELECTION AUTHORITY (Section 115.287)

The act requires all absentee ballots that are mailed to voters by first class, registered, or certified mail to be postmarked from the same county in which the office of the election authority is located.

COUNTING OF BALLOTS AND REPORTING RESULTS (Sections 115.449 and 115.451)

Under current law, ballots may not be counted until the polls are closed unless specifically authorized by the election authority. This act requires ballots to be counted every hour, provided that at least 25 ballots have been cast during the hour. No results shall be reported from any specific polling place until all votes have been counted at such polling place. Once all of the votes have been read and recorded at a particular polling place, the results shall be released to the LEA, the SOS, and the public.

RETENTION OF BALLOTS AND BALLOT MATERIALS (Section 115.493)

Under current law, each election authority is required to keep all voted ballots, processed ballot materials in electronic form and write-in forms, and all applications, statements, certificates, affidavits and computer programs relating to each election for 22 months after the date of each election. This act requires election authorities to keep such information for 5 years after the date of each election. The act additionally requires processed ballot materials in electronic form that do not contain individual unique voter identity information or other information traceable to the individual voter obtainable from voting machines and election management systems including the cast vote record specified by NIST 1500-103 to be kept by LEAs for 5 years after each election and made available to Missouri citizens upon request.

ELECTION CONTESTS (Sections 115.527 and 115.553)

Under current law, any candidate for nomination for or election to any office may challenge the correctness of the returns for the office, charging that irregularities occurred in the election by filing an election contest in court. This act allows any registered voter to file such an election contest, provided the registered voter was eligible to vote in the election in question.

This act is effective January 1, 2025.

This act is substantially similar to SB 98 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Local Government and Elections
SB840 - Modifies provisions relating to reimbursement allowance taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 840 - This act removes the expiration date for the Ground Ambulance, Nursing Facility, Medicaid Managed Care Organization, Hospital, Pharmacy, and Intermediate Care Facility for the Intellectually Disabled federal reimbursement allowances.

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Appropriations
SB842 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 842 - This act authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers, as defined in the act.

This act is identical to HB 290 (2023), SB 1124 (2022), and HB 2384 (2022), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SBs 73 & 162 (2023), SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), and SS#2/SCS/SB 649 (2022), and is substantially similar to HB 351 (2023), HB 744 (2023), and HCS/HBs 1679, 2859, & 2272 (2022), and to a provision in SCS/SB 184 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), and HB 1136 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB848 - Prohibits state agencies from collecting fees or penalties until all administrative remedies have been exhausted
Sponsor: Sen. Lincoln Hough (R)
Summary: SB 848 - This act prohibits a state agency from instituting any action to collect any administrative penalty or fee, as well as any overpayment or underpayment of any amount due to the state agency, until all administrative remedies have been exhausted.

This act is identical to SB 389 (2023).

JIM ERTLE

Last Action:
03/05/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB849 - Establishes tax credits for certain engineering degrees
Sponsor: Sen. Justin Brown (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 849 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes three tax credits to qualified employers and qualified workers. Qualified employers are defined as a business entity registered to do business in this state and whose principal business activity involves the engineering sector. Qualified workers are defined as a person newly-employed on a full-time basis with a qualified employer on or after January 1, 2025, and who has been awarded an engineering degree or certificate from a qualified program from a qualified institution, as such terms are defined in the act.

A qualified employer shall be allowed a tax credit for tuition reimbursed to a qualified worker who has received his or her degree or certificate within one year prior to or following the commencement of employment with the qualified employer. The tax credit shall be equal to 50% of the amount of tuition reimbursed and may be claimed for the first four years of the qualified worker's employment or contract. Such tax credits shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned, and shall not be refundable or carried forward to any other tax year.

A qualified employer shall also be allowed a tax credit for compensation paid to a qualified worker for the first five years of such worker's employment. The tax credit shall be equal to 10% of compensation paid to a qualified worker. Such tax credits shall not exceed $15,000 for a qualified worker in a tax year, and shall not exceed a total of $75,000 for any given qualified worker. Such tax credits shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned, and shall not be refundable or carried forward to any other tax year.

A taxpayer who becomes a qualified worker shall be allowed a tax credit in an amount equal to $5,000. The tax credit may be claimed for five consecutive tax years beginning with the tax year in which the taxpayer becomes a qualified worker. No taxpayer shall claim a total of more than $25,000 in tax credits. Such tax credits shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned, and shall not be refundable, but may be carried forward to subsequent tax years, provided that a tax credit shall not be carried forward beyond the fourth tax year succeeding the tax year in which the taxpayer initially claimed the tax credit.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/27/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB852 - Authorizes sports wagering
Sponsor: Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer (R)
Summary: SB 852 - This act modifies provisions relating to sports wagering.

COMPULSIVE GAMBLING

This act requires the Missouri Gaming Commission to promulgate rules for a sports wagering self-exclusion program, as described in the act. Any person who has been self-excluded and is found to have entered an excursion gambling boat or placed a sports wager shall forfeit his or her winnings. (Section 313.813)

Current law allows the Commission to establish programs to provide treatment, prevention and education services for compulsive gambling. This act requires such programs and includes recovery services. This act also requires the Commission to conduct a socioeconomic study every five years on the impact of gaming. (Section 313.842)

This act requires the General Assembly to appropriate at least $1 million annually from the Gaming Commission Fund to the Compulsive Gamblers Fund. (Section 313.1021)

SPORTS WAGERING

This act authorizes wagering on sporting events, including esports, and modifies the definition of "gambling game" to include sports wagering.

Sports wagering shall only be authorized to be conducted on an excursion gambling boat or over the internet to persons physically located in this state. Licensed applicants shall apply to the Missouri Gaming Commission for authorization to conduct sports wagering and shall pay an application fee not to exceed $100,000. If granted a certificate of authority, a certificate holder shall be authorized to conduct sports wagering in a licensed facility or through an interactive sports wagering platform, as defined in the act. (Section 313.1006)

The act establishes designated sports districts, as defined in the act, in areas surrounding stadiums in which professional sports teams play their home games. Professional sports teams may designate a designated sports district mobile licensee, as defined in the act, to conduct sports wagering via an interactive sports wagering platform within the designated sports district. (Section 313.1000)

An excursion gambling boat may conduct sports wagering through up to three individually branded interactive sports wagering platforms, as defined in the act, and may operate such platforms or contract with a platform operator to administer sports wagering on behalf of the excursion gambling boat. Each designated sports district mobile licensee may offer sports wagering through one interactive sports wagering platform. (Section 313.1008)

An interactive sports wagering platform may apply to the Commission to conduct sports wagering on behalf of a certificate holder. Such interactive sports wagering platform shall submit an application fee not to exceed $150,000. Every year after licensure, an interactive sports wagering platform shall submit an annual license renewal fee not to exceed $125,000. (Section 313.1010)

Sports wagering commercial activity, defined as any operation, promotion, signage, advertising, or other business activity relating to sports wagering, shall be prohibited within designated sports districts, as defined in the act. (Section 313.1003.3)

A sports governing body may notify the Commission that official league data for determining tier two sports wagers is available. The Commission shall notify sports wagering operators of such availability within seven days, and within sixty days of receiving such notification, sports wagering operators shall use only official league data to determine the outcome of tier two sports wagers, with exceptions as provided in the act.

Certificate holders shall ensure that the certificate holder's surveillance system covers all areas in which sports wagering is conducted, allow the Commission to be present through gaming agents during the hours sports wagering is conducted, ensure that individuals under the age of 21 are not making sports wagers, provide certain information to sports wagering patrons, and post a sign indicating the minimum and maximum amounts that may be wagered. (Section 313.1004)

The Commission shall also promulgate rules to ensure that advertisements for sports wagering do not target minors or other persons who are ineligible to place wagers, problem gamblers, or other vulnerable persons. (Section 313.1012)

The Commission shall conduct background checks on individuals seeking licenses under the act. Such background checks shall include a search for criminal history and any charges or convictions involving corruption or manipulation of sporting events.

The act prohibits the direct or indirect legal or beneficial owner of five percent or more of a sports governing body or its member teams from placing or accepting a wager on an event in which a member team participates. A violation of this provision is a Class C misdemeanor. (Section 313.1014.3(2))

A sports governing body may submit a request to the Commission to restrict, limit, or exclude a certain type, form, or category of sports wagering on sporting events sponsored by such sports governing body. The Commission shall request comments on such requests from sports wagering operators. Upon demonstration of good cause, the Commission shall grant such request, as described in the act.

The Commission and certificate holders shall cooperate with investigations conducted by law enforcement agencies. (Section 313.1014)

A certificate holder shall maintain records of all bets and wagers placed through an interactive sports wagering platform, and all bets and wagers placed in person that exceed $10,000, including personally identifiable information of the bettor, the amount and type of bet, the time the bet was placed, the location of the bet, the outcome of the bet, and records of abnormal betting activity for at least three years after the sporting event occurs. (Section 313.1016)

A tax is imposed at a rate of 12% on the adjusted gross receipts received from sports wagering conducted by a certificate holder. Such tax shall be remitted by the last business day of each month. Revenues received from the tax shall be deposited in the Gaming Proceeds for Education Fund.

A certificate holder shall also pay to the Commission an annual license renewal fee not to exceed $50,000. In addition to such administrative fee, a certificate holder shall pay to the Commission a fee of $10,000 every five years for a reinvestigation of the certificate holder. Such fees shall be deposited in the Gaming Commission Fund. (Section 313.1021)

All sports wagers placed under this act shall be deemed to be initiated, received, and otherwise made on the property of an excursion gambling boat in this state. The intermediate routing of electronic data shall not determine the location or locations in which such wager is initiated, received, or otherwise made. (Section 313.1022)

This act is identical to SS/SB 30 (2023), is substantially similar to HCS/HBs 556 & 581 (2023), HB 953 (2023), SB 643 (2022), SB 764 (2022), SB 1046 (2022), SB 1061 (2022), SB 18 (2021), SB 217 (2021), SB 256 (2021), SB 567 (2020), SB 754 (2020), HB 2318 (2020), HB 2691 (2020), HB 119 (2019), SB 1009 (2018), HB 2406 (2018), and to provisions contained in SB 1 (2023), SB 557 (2023), SS/HCS/HBs 2502 & 2556 (2022), SB 906 (2022), SCS/SB 98 (2021), SB 643 (2020), HCS/HB 2088 (2020), HCS/HB 2284 (2020), SS#3/SCS/SB 44 (2019), and SB 187 (2019), and is similar to HB 2320 (2018) and to a provision contained in SB 195 (2019).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Appropriations
SB854 - Modifies the operations and procedures of the Missouri Ethics Commission
Sponsor: Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer (R)
Summary: SB 854 - Current law prohibits the executive director of the Missouri Ethics Commission from serving for more than six years. This act repeals that prohibition.

This act has an emergency clause.

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
03/12/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB857 - Creates the Elementary Literacy Fund to provide grants to local educational agencies for home reading programs
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 857 - This act establishes the "Elementary Literacy Fund" for the purpose of providing grants to school districts and charter schools for home reading programs for children in kindergarten to 5th grade. The General Assembly shall annually appropriate an amount not to exceed $5 million to the Fund, and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall develop a process by which a district or charter school may apply for a grant. Any district or charter school that receives such a grant shall match any funds that are granted.

The act sets forth certain criteria for a home reading program to be considered eligible for a grant from the Fund. Such program's objective shall be to mail books to students' homes that the students select themselves at a reading level with which they are comfortable. The program shall allow for parental engagement, as specified in the act, and shall allow students to select between six and nine new books to keep. The program provider shall provide summary data on the program to the General Assembly and to DESE, and shall further maintain verification that the provider has secured the required matching funds from the district or charter school. The combined total cost of the program, including matching funds from the district or charter school, shall not exceed $60 per student per semester.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Fiscal Oversight
SB858 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for certain hygiene products
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 858 - This act authorizes a sales tax exemption for all sales of diapers, incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products, as defined in the act.

This act is identical to provisions in SB 433 (2023), SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), HB 290 (2023), SS#2/SCS/SB 649 (2022), SB 897 (2022), SB 1124 (2022), and HB 2384 (2022), is substantially similar to provisions in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/SB 184 (2023), HB 351 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), HB 1136 (2023), HB 351 (2023), HB 744 (2023), HCS/HBs 1679 (2022), 2859, & 2272 (2022), and is similar to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 570 (2020), SB 800 (2020), HCS/HBs 1306 & 2065 (2020), SB 443 (2019), and HB 747 (2019).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB867 - Authorizes a tax credit for certain educational expenses
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 867 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a taxpayer to claim a tax credit in an amount equal to one hundred percent of qualified expenses incurred during the tax year for educating a qualified student in a private school or home school, as such terms are defined in the act, provided that no tax credit shall exceed the state adequacy target. Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned, but are refundable.

To be eligible for a tax credit, a taxpayer shall have enrolled a qualified student in a private school or home school during the tax year, and shall not have enrolled a qualified student in the taxpayer's resident school district during the tax year for which the taxpayer is claiming a tax credit.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall be claimed by the taxpayer at the time such taxpayer files a return.

This act shall sunset on August 28, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/22/2024 
S - Removed from Senate Hearing Agenda - Senate-Education and Workforce Development - 1/23/24 - 11:00 am - SCR 2
SB868 - Establishes the Vulnerable Child Compassion and Protection Act prohibiting discussion of certain topics by school personnel
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 868 - This act establishes the "Vulnerable Child Compassion and Protection Act", which prohibits any school official at a public or charter school from encouraging a student under the age of eighteen years old to adopt a gender identity or sexual relationship, as such terms are defined in the act. This prohibition shall not apply to certain course components of a school's curriculum.

The act also establishes provisions prohibiting school officials from withholding information regarding a student's gender identity from his or her parents. A school official shall inform a student's parents within forty-eight hours if the student expresses confusion about his or her gender identity. A school official shall obtain parental consent before addressing a student using a name other than the name provided during enrollment. Finally, a school official shall obtain parental consent before using a pronoun that differs from a student's biological sex as stated on his or her birth certificate or other government record, as provided in the act.

No public or charter school shall require a school official to address someone using a pronoun that does not match the person's biological sex if doing so would be contrary to the school official's religious or moral convictions.

A school district or charter school shall determine a reasonable and fair penalty for any school official who knowingly violates any provision of this act.

This act is similar to SCS/SB 134 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Education and Workforce Development
SB871 - Modifies provisions relating to state funding for early childhood education programs
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SB 871 - Currently, children between three and five years old who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch and attend an early childhood education program operated by a school district or a charter school may be included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance. The total number of such pupils shall not exceed 4% of the total number of pupils between 5 and 18 years old who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch and who are included in such district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance.

Under this act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall remit to school districts and charter schools an amount equal to the product of the state adequacy target, the dollar-value modifier, and the average daily attendance of pupils who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch and who attend, in the year prior to their kindergarten enrollment eligibility, an early childhood education program that is operated by a school district or a charter school. Three-year-old pupils and other pupils who are more than one year prior to kindergarten enrollment eligibility, who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch, and who attend such early childhood education programs shall be included in a district's or charter school's calculation of average daily attendance under existing law.

Any increase in a school district's average daily attendance that occurs as a result of the provisions of the act shall not disqualify such school district for certain state aid payments under current law.

This act is similar to SB 495 (2023), HB 833 (2023), and HB 933 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/25/2024 
S - Removed from Senate Hearing Agenda - Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children - 3/26/24 - 10:30 am - SCR 1
SB872 - Modifies provisions relating to the taxation of utility infrastructure
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SS#2/SB 872 - This act modifies provisions relating to the taxation of utility infrastructure.

VIDEO SERVICE PROVIDERS

This act modifies the definition of "video service" to include the provision of video programming by a video service provider provided through wireline facilities located in a public right-of-way without regard to the delivery technology. "Video service" does not include any video programming accessed via a service that enables users to access content over the internet, including streaming content. (Section 67.2677)

This provision is identical to SB 947 (2024) and SB 152 (2023), and is substantially similar to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 222 (2023), HCS/SB 275 (2023), SB 299 (2023), HCS/HB 536 (2023), HCS/HBs 651, 479 & 647 (2023), and SCS/SB 1232 (2022).

WIRELESS FACILITIES

This act extends the sunset date of the Uniform Small Wireless Facility Deployment Act from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2029. (Section 67.5122)

This provision is identical to SB 1411 (2024).

BROADBAND GRANT DEDUCTION

Current law authorizes a taxpayer to claim an income tax deduction for 100% of federal grant moneys received for the purpose of providing or expanding access to broadband internet to areas of the state deemed to be lacking such access. This act modifies such deduction to also allow it to be taken for state and local grant moneys received. (Section 143.121)

SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR UTILITIES

This act creates a state and local sales tax exemption for utilities, equipment, and materials used to generate or transmit electricity. A public utility realizing savings as a result of this exemption shall provide the Public Service Commission information on the amount of savings realized and shall include a statement that such savings will be passed through to the public utility's rate determined in the public utility's next general rate proceeding. (Section 144.058)

This provision is identical to a provision in SB 896 (2024), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), is substantially similar to SB 300 (2023), SB 246 (2021), SB 757 (2020), SB 467 (2019), HB 64 (2017), SB 784 (2016), SB 480 (2015), and HB 693 (2015), and is similar to HB 1511 (2018), HB 2255 (2014), and to a provision in CCS/HCS/SB 584 (2014).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
SB875 - Modifies provisions relating to background checks for certain applicants of agencies, boards, and commissions
Sponsor: Sen. Jason Bean (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 875 - This act provides that if fingerprint submissions are required in an application for licensure, certain agencies, boards, or commissions, as provided in this act, shall require applicants to submit fingerprints to the Missouri State Highway Patrol for the purpose of conducting a state and federal fingerprint-based criminal history background check. The fingerprints and any required fees shall be sent to the Highway Patrol and shall be forwarded to the Federal Bureau of Investigation to conduct a federal background check. The Highway Patrol shall notify the agency, board, or commission of any criminal history record discovered on the individual.

This act is similar to HB 1800 (2024).

KATIE O'BRIEN
Last Action:
02/22/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB876 - Authorizes a tax credit for certain railroad infrastructure investments
Sponsor: Sen. Jason Bean (R)
Summary: SS/SCS/SB 876 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a tax credit in the amount of fifty percent of an eligible taxpayer's qualified railroad expenditures and qualified new rail infrastructure expenditures. "Qualified railroad expenditures" are defined as gross expenditures for maintenance, reconstruction, or replacement of railroad infrastructure, as described in the act. "Qualified new rail infrastructure expenditures" are defined as gross expenditures for new rail infrastructure, as described in the act.

A tax credit for qualified railroad expenditures shall not exceed $5,000 multiplied by the number of miles of railroad track owned or leased in the state by a railroad, and the total amount of tax credits for qualified railroad expenditures authorized in a calendar year shall not exceed $4.5 million. A tax credit for qualified new rail infrastructure expenditures shall not exceed $1 million for each new rail-served customer project, and the total amount of tax credits for qualified new rail infrastructure expenditures authorized in a calendar year shall not exceed $10 million.

An eligible taxpayer shall submit a certificate of eligibility to the Department of Economic Development after the completion of the qualified railroad expenditures or qualified new rail infrastructure expenditures.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable, but may be carried forward for five subsequent tax years. Tax credits may be transferred as described in the act.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is substantially similar to SB 385 (2023) and HCS/HB 657 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/HB 939 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/13/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB877 - Modifies the retirement allowance multiplier for certain members of the Public School Retirement System of Missouri
Sponsor: Sen. Doug Beck (D)
Summary: SCS/SB 877 - Current law provides that the normal retirement allowance multiplier for a member of the Public School Retirement System of Missouri is 2.5% of the member's final average salary for each year of the membership service, except if the member has 32 years or more of service, then the multiplier shall be 2.55%. This act provides that for those members with 33 years of service or more the multiplier factor shall be 2.6%.

This act is similar to SB 556 (2023).

KATIE O'BRIEN
Last Action:
03/27/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB880 - Modifies a property tax credit for certain seniors
Sponsor: Sen. Greg Razer (D)
Summary: SB 880 - Current law authorizes a property tax credit for certain seniors who are eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. This act modifies the definition of "eligible taxpayer" by providing that a taxpayer shall be 62 years of age or older, rather than eligible for Social Security retirement benefits.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB882 - Modifies the required school year start date for school districts in which a charter school operates
Sponsor: Sen. Greg Razer (D)
Summary: SB 882 - Under this act, any school district in which one or more charter schools is operated shall not be required to set an opening date no earlier than fourteen calendar days prior to the first Monday in September.

This act is identical to SB 338 (2023) and HB 918 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/12/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB885 - Modifies provisions relating to school board elections in urban and metropolitan school districts
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 885 - Under current law, any vacancy on an urban school board shall be filled by special election. Under this act, the remaining members of the board shall fill any such vacancy by appointment until the next school board election. These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023) and are substantially similar to provisions in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023), in HCS/SB 155 (2023), in HCS/HB 497 (2023), and in HB 716 (2023).

Current law also provides that any vacancy that occurs on the City of St. Louis school board outside of the normal election cycle shall be filled by appointment by the mayor for the remainder of the term. Under this act, the City of St. Louis school board shall fill any such vacancy by appointment for the remainder of the term. This provision is identical to SB 363 (2023) and HB 914 (2023) and to provisions in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023), in CCS/HS/HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 96 (2023), in HCS/SB 155 (2023), in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023), in HCS/HB 497, and in HB 716 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
S - Re-Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB892 - Modifies and creates new provisions relating to electric utilities
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SB 892 - This act creates and modifies provisions relating to electric utilities.

PERMITS TO CONSTRUCT SOLAR FARMS (Section 67.5350)

Under the act, prior to obtaining a certificate of public convenience or necessity from the Public Service Commission, any person constructing a solar farm shall first submit an application to the county commission in each county where the solar farm is to be located.

The county commission of any county shall adopt orders or ordinances requiring a permit to construct a solar farm within specified boundaries in an unincorporated area within the county. Within 90 days of receiving an application for a permit, the county commission shall hold a public meeting and give notice at least 14 days prior to the public meeting. The applicant shall provide certain information at the public meeting as provided in the act.

This act further provides that not later than 90 days after the public meeting, the county commission shall do the following:

- Issue a permit;

- Issue a permit limiting the boundaries of the proposed solar farm; or

- Deny the permit.

Any applicant making a material amendment to a permit once it is issued must submit a new application for a permit to the county commission for approval. Additionally, any applicant who is issued a permit shall obtain liability insurance in an amount sufficient to cover any damages which may arise from the construction of the solar farm.

Finally, the Public Service Commission shall not issue a certificate of public convenience or necessity to any applicant who did not receive a permit from a county commission in each county where the solar farm is to be located.

TAXATION OF SOLAR ENERGY PROJECTS (Section 137.100, 137.124, 153.030, & 153.034)

Current law exempts solar energy systems not held for resale from property taxes. This act repeals such provision and provides that solar energy systems constructed for exclusive use of a single property may be exempted from property tax at the discretion of the county assessor.

Beginning January 1, 2025, for purposes of assessing all real property, excluding land, or tangible personal property associated with a project that uses solar energy directly to generate electricity, 37.5% of the original costs shall be the true value in money of such property. Such value shall begin the year immediately following the year of construction of the property. Original costs are described in the act.

Beginning January 1, 2025, for any public utility assessed under the act which has a solar energy project, such solar energy project shall be assessed using the methodology for real and personal property as described under the act.

The act also modifies the definition of “distributable property” to include real or tangible personal property as described in the act.

These provisions are identical to SB 549 (2023), SB 1014 (2022) and HB 1997 (2022).

COMMISSION'S RULEMAKING AUTHORITY RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LINES ON AGRICULTURAL LAND (Section 393.172)

By March 31, 2025, the Public Service Commission shall promulgate rules applicable to electrical corporations requiring construction of electric transmission lines for which permission is sought from the Commission to adhere to specific standards relating to construction activities occurring on privately owned agricultural land. Such standards are described in the act.

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
04/03/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB894 - Modifies provisions relating to the promotion of business development
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SS/SCS/SBs 894 & 825 - This act establishes provisions relating to the promotion of business development.

RIGHT-TO-START ACT

By no later than June 30, 2026, and annually thereafter, this act requires the Commissioner of Administration to file a report with the General Assembly that includes information on contracts awarded to businesses that have been in operation for less than three years, as described in the act.

This act also requires the Commissioner of Administration, in conjunction with the Office of Entrepreneurship, which is established by the act, to file a report with the General Assembly making recommendations on improving access and resources for new Missouri businesses that have been in operation for less than three years, including businesses owned by a racial minority group, and women-owned and veteran-owned businesses. (Section 34.195)

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023), SB 593 (2023), and SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), and is substantially similar to a provision in HB 237 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 807 (2022), SS/HCS/HB 2587 (2022), and HCS/HB 1590 (2022).

OFFICE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

This act creates the Office of Entrepreneurship within the Department of Economic Development. The Office shall employ an individual to promote policies and initiatives to support the growth of entrepreneurship of Missouri-based businesses with less than ten employees, including entrepreneurship within racial minority groups, and women and veteran entrepreneurship, in this state. (Section 620.3800)

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023), SB 593 (2023), and SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), and is substantially similar to a provision in HB 237 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 807 (2022), SS/HCS/HB 2587 (2022), and HCS/HB 1590 (2022).

REGULATORY SANDBOX ACT

This act establishes the "Regulatory Sandbox Act", which creates the Regulatory Relief Office within the Department of Economic Development. The Regulatory Relief Office shall administer the provisions of the act with the purpose of identifying state regulations that could potentially be waived or suspended for participating businesses during a two-year period in which the participating business demonstrates an innovative product offering to consumers.

The Regulatory Relief Office shall maintain a web page on the Department's website that invites residents and businesses to make suggestions regarding regulations that could be modified or eliminated to reduce the regulatory burden of residents and businesses in the state. (Section 620.3905)

The Regulatory Relief Office shall be responsible for evaluating and approving or denying applications to participate in the Sandbox Program. An applicant shall submit an application along with a $300 application fee to the Regulatory Relief Office, which shall include contact information and a description of the innovative offering to be demonstrated, including statements regarding how the innovative offering is subject to licensing, legal prohibition, or other authorization requirements outside of the Sandbox Program; each regulation that the applicant seeks to have waived or suspended while participating in the Sandbox Program; how the innovative offering would benefit consumers; and what risks might exist for consumers who use or purchase the innovative offering, as described in the act.

No later than fifteen business days after the day on which a completed application is received by the Regulatory Relief Office, the Office shall review the application and refer the application to each applicable agency, as defined in the act, that regulates the applicant's business. No later than sixty days after the day on which an applicable agency receives a completed application for review, the applicable agency shall provide a written report to the Sandbox Program director with the applicable agency's findings, including any identifiable, likely, and significant harm to the health, safety, or financial well-being of consumers and Missouri's environment that the relevant regulation protects against, and a recommendation to the Regulatory Relief Office that the applicant either be admitted or denied entrance into the Sandbox Program. An applicable agency may deny an application for reasons described in the act. The Regulatory Relief Office shall not approve any application denied by an applicable agency. (Section 620.3915)

Upon the receipt of a report from all applicable agencies, the Regulatory Relief Office shall provide the application and associated reports to the General Regulatory Sandbox Program Advisory Committee, which is created by the act. The Advisory Committee shall be composed of eleven members, as described in the act. The Advisory Committee shall advise and make recommendations to the Regulatory Relief Office on whether to approve applications to the Sandbox Program, and may meet at its own discretion to override a decision of the Regulatory Relief Office on the admission or denial of an applicant to the Sandbox Program, provided such override is decided with a two-thirds majority vote of the members of the Advisory Committee, and further provided that such vote shall be taken within fifteen business days of the Regulatory Relief Office's decision. Meetings of the Advisory Committee shall be considered public meetings for the purposes of the Sunshine Law. (Section 620.3910)

Upon approval of an application, a sandbox participant shall have twenty-four months after the day on which its application was approved to demonstrate the innovative offering described in the sandbox participant's application. During such period, the sandbox participant shall be exempt from the regulations outlined in an agreement entered into with the Regulatory Relief Office. Innovative offerings shall only be available to consumers who are residents of this state, and no regulation shall be waived or suspended if such waiver or suspension would prevent a consumer from seeking restitution in the event that the consumer is harmed. A sandbox participant shall not be subject to prosecution or administrative penalty for a violation of any regulation that is waived or suspended during the duration of the participant's demonstration period. (Section 620.3920)

Prior to demonstrating an innovative offering, a sandbox participant shall disclose certain information to consumers, as described in the act. (Section 620.3925)

At least forty-five days prior to the end of a participant's demonstration period, the participant shall notify the Regulatory Relief Office that it either intends to exit the Sandbox Program or that it seeks an extension. The Regulatory Relief Office may grant an extension not to exceed twelve months, and a participant may seek multiple extensions. If a demonstration includes an innovative offering that requires ongoing services or duties beyond the two-year demonstration period, the participant may continue to demonstrate the offering, but shall be subject to all regulations that were waived or suspended as part of the Sandbox Program, provided that any participant that receives an extension to the demonstration period shall not be subject to the waived or suspended regulations until after the end of the extended demonstration period.

A sandbox participant shall retain certain records for a period of two years after exiting the Sandbox Program.

The Regulatory Relief Office shall establish quarterly reporting requirements for each participant.

No later than forty-five days after a sandbox participant exits the Sandbox Program, such participant shall submit a written report describing an overview of the demonstration. No later than thirty days after receiving such report, an applicable agency shall provide a written report to the Regulatory Relief Office that describes any statutory or regulatory reform the applicable agency recommends. (Section 620.3930)

These provisions are substantially similar to SB 1068 (2022) and to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023), SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023), SS/HCS/HB 2587 (2022), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 931 (2022), HCS/SS/SB 807 (2022), and HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 968 (2022).

SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY FAIRNESS BOARD

Provisions in current law establishing the Small Business Regulatory Fairness Board are repealed. (Sections 536.303 to 536.315 and sections 536.323 to 536.328)

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 3 & 69 (2023) and SS#3/HCS/HB 268 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/23/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
SB896 - Modifies provisions relating to utilities
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 896 - This act modifies provisions relating to utilities.

ASSESSMENT OF SOLAR PROPERTY

Beginning January 1, 2025, for purposes of assessing all real and tangible personal property associated with a project that uses solar energy directly to generate electricity, and that was built prior to December 31, 2024, shall be considered to be de minimis in value. The assessor shall request any documentation necessary to determine the true value in money of such property.

The tax liability actually owed for solar energy property that was built prior to December 31, 2024, shall not exceed $500 per megawatt. For projects for which the land associated with such project is reclassified due to the project, the property tax liability incurred from such land shall be included in such limit. (Section 137.077)

This provision shall expire on December 31, 2050.

This provision is substantially similar to SCS/SB 607 (2023) and HB 1246 (2023).

ASSESSMENT OF STATIONARY PROPERTY

Beginning January 1, 2025, the provisions of current law relating to depreciable tangible personal property shall apply to all stationary property used for transportation or storage of liquid and gaseous products, including, but not limited to, natural gas that is not LP gas, water, and sewage that was or will be placed in service at any time.

To estimate the value of such stationary property, this act requires that the assessor shall value such property by applying the twenty-year depreciation schedule provided in current law to the original cost of the property. The presumption as to the proper method of determining the assessed value of such property shall apply regardless of when such property was placed in service.

The act requires each taxpayer to provide to the assessor, upon written request from the assessor received no later than January 31st of the applicable tax year, the original cost and year placed in service of such property summarized in a format that is substantially similar to the real property reporting and valuation forms contained in section 7.4 of the State Tax Commission assessor manual (revision date March 23, 2016). Such information shall be provided for each taxing district within the assessor's jurisdiction if the assessor's written request includes a description of each taxing district that is sufficient to enable the taxpayer to provide such information and such information is maintained by and readily available to the taxpayer. The taxpayer shall certify that the information provided to the assessor is accurate to the best of its knowledge. All information provided to an assessor pursuant to this act shall be considered proprietary information and shall be accessible only to the assessor and the assessor's staff for internal use only. (Section 137.122)

This provision is substantially similar to SB 533 (2023), HB 349 (2023), SB 196 (2021), SCS/SB 785 (2020), and HCS/HB 1907 (2020), and to provisions in SCS/SB 944 (2022) and HCS/HB 2208 (2022).

SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR UTILITIES

This act creates a state and local sales tax exemption for utilities, equipment, and materials used to generate or transmit electricity. A public utility realizing savings as a result of this exemption shall provide the Public Service Commission information on the amount of savings realized and shall include a statement that such savings will be passed through to the public utility's rate determined in the public utility's next general rate proceeding. (Section 144.058)

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SB 247 (2023) and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), is substantially similar to SB 300 (2023), SB 246 (2021), SB 757 (2020), SB 467 (2019), HB 64 (2017), SB 784 (2016), SB 480 (2015), and HB 693 (2015), and is similar to HB 1511 (2018), HB 2255 (2014), and to a provision in CCS/HCS/SB 584 (2014).

COMMON SEWER DISTRICTS

Current law authorizes trustees for certain common sewer districts to receive reasonable compensation for their services. This act provides that trustees may receive an attendance fee not to exceed $100 for attending each regular or special meeting, but not more than two meetings per month, or four meetings per month for trustees in a county of the first classification. (Sections 204.300 and 204.610)

These provisions are identical to HB 697 (2023) and to provisions in HCS/SB 155 (2023).

PUBLIC WATER UTILITIES

This act provides that for any acquisition of a small water utility by a large public water utility with an appraised value for $5,000,000 or less, the Public Service Commission shall issue a decision of such acquisition within six months from the submission of the application for such acquisition by the large public water utility. Prior to the expiration of the six-months period, the Commission staff or the office of the Public Counsel may request, upon a showing of good cause, from the Commission an extension for approval of the application for an additional 30 days.

This act further modifies the definition of "large water public utility". (Sections 393.320 and 393.1506)

This provision is substantially similar to SB 567 (2023) and to provisions in SCS/HCS/HB 1152 (2023), and similar to provisions in HCS/SB 275 (2023).

RENEWABLE ENERGY STANDARD

This act modifies provisions relating to the current renewable energy standard.

Under this act, energy that meets the criteria of the renewable energy portfolio requirements under this act and contracted for by an accelerated renewable buyer must do the following:

(1) Have all associated renewable energy certificates retired by the accelerated renewable buyer and the certificates shall not be used to meet the electric utility's portfolio requirements under in the act;

(2) Be excluded from the total electric utility's sales used to determine the portfolio requirements under the act;

(3) Be used to offset all or a portion of its electric load to determine compliance with the portfolio requirements under the act.

This act defines an "accelerated renewable buyer" as a customer of an electric utility, with an aggregate load of over 100 average megawatts, who enters into a contract to obtain renewable energy certificates from renewable energy sources or energy sources described in the act.

Under this act, the accelerated renewable buyer shall be exempt from any renewable energy standard compliance costs as established by the utility and approved by the Public Service Commission under the act.

Under this act, each electric utility shall certify, and verify as necessary, to the Commission that the accelerated renewable buyer has satisfied the exemption requirements under the act. The accelerated renewable buyer may also certify the exemption requirements to the Commission individually.

Provisions under the act apply to electric utilities with more than 250,000 but less than one million retail customers as of 2022. (Section 393.1030)

This provision is identical to SCS/SB 374 (2023) and HCS/HB 1293 (2023).

DISCOUNTED GAS RATES

This act creates provisions for gas corporation customers to be considered for a discounted gas rate.

Under the act, a new or an existing gas corporation account meeting the criteria under the act shall qualify for the following discounts:

(1) When the customer is a new customer and the new load is reasonably projected to be at least 270,000 CCF annually, the discount shall equal 25% and shall apply for four years; or

(2) When the customer is an existing customer and the new load is reasonably projected to be at least 135,000 CCF annually, the discount shall equal 25% and shall apply for four years.

To obtain one of the discounts under the act, the customer's load shall be incremental, net of any offsetting load reductions due to the termination of other accounts of the customer or an affiliate of the customer within twelve months prior to the commencement of service to the new load. The customer shall receive an economic development incentive from a governmental entity, as described in the act, in conjunction with the incremental load. The customer shall meet the criteria set forth in the electrical corporation's economic development rider tariff sheet, as approved by the Public Service Commission, that are not inconsistent with the act. The gas corporation, as defined in the act, shall verify the customer's consumption annually to determine continued qualification for the applicable discount.

In each general rate proceeding concluded after August 28, 2023, the difference in revenues with the discounts under the act and the revenues without such discounts shall not be imputed into the gas corporation's revenue requirement. Instead, such revenue requirement shall be set as described in the act. A gas corporation's authority to offer discounted rates shall terminate on the date that such natural gas corporation’s authority to make deferrals expires. (Section 393.1645)

This provision is substantially similar to SB 638 (2023) and HCS/HB 1143 (2023).

REVIEW OF FINANCING ORDERS FOR ENERGY TRANSITION COSTS

Under the act, the Public Service Commission may directly contract counsel, financial advisors or other consultants as necessary for the purpose of reviewing financing orders for energy transition costs. This provision shall not be subject to state purchasing provisions, but the Commission shall establish a policy for the bid process. Such policy shall be publicly available and any information related to contracts under the policy shall be included in the publicly available rate case documentation. (Section 393.1700)

This provision is identical to HCS/HB 1071 (2023) and similar to SB 520 (2023).

HYDRANT INSPECTION PROGRAM

Currently, all community water systems are required to create a hydrant inspection program which includes annual testing of every hydrant of such community water systems. This act repeals the annual testing requirement of such hydrants and provides for a scheduled testing of such hydrants. (Section 640.144)

This provision is identical to SB 629 (2023), HB 891 (2023) and a provision in HCS/SB 275 (2023).

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
01/11/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB898 - Modifies provisions relating to public employee retirement systems
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SS/SB 898 - This act modifies provisions relating to public employee retirement systems.

LAGERS: BOARD OF TRUSTEES (SECTION 70.605)

Currently, the governing bodies of the employers of the system elect three trustees to the Board of Trustees ("Board") of the Missouri Local Government Employees’ Retirement System (“LAGERS”). Beginning on January 1, 2025, this act provides that the employer trustee with a term ending December 31, 2024, shall thereafter be replaced by a person elected by the retirants of the system.

This act also provides that not more than one trustee elected by the members shall be public safety personnel. Additionally, current law provides that the employer trustees shall be elected or appointed officials of the employers and shall not be members of the system and no more than one shall be from any one employer. This act provides that for terms beginning on or after January 1, 2025, employer trustees shall be either elected or appointed officials of the governing bodies of the employers or executive level employees certified by the governing bodies of the employers, but no more than one trustee shall be from any one employer, and no more than one trustee shall be a policeman, and no more than one trustee shall be a fireman, and no more than one trustee shall be public safety personnel.

Additionally, this act repeals the requirements on the annual meetings and elections of delegates. Furthermore, this act states that the elections of the trustees shall be arranged for and managed and conducted by the Board. Finally, this act provides that only four trustees shall constitute a quorum of the Board, instead of four trustees consisting of at least two member trustees and two employer trustees.

This provision is identical to HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

LAGERS: MEMBERSHIP (SECTION 70.630 & 70.690)

This act repeals the provision prohibiting membership in LAGERS for employees where continuous employment to the time of retirement eligibility will leave the employee with less than the minimum required number of years of credited service. Additionally, this act provides that in the event a member's membership terminates, any accumulated contributions unclaimed by the member within ten years, instead of three years, shall be transferred to the investment income fund of the system.

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

LAGERS: COST OF LIVING CPI (SECTION 70.655)

This act provides that cost of living adjustment for LAGERS shall be a measure of the Consumer Price Index as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor and adopted by the Board of LAGERS, instead of the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

LAGERS: REPEAL OF OBSOLETE STATUTORY PROVISION (SECTION 70.680)

This act repeals references to obsolete statutory provisions.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

LAGERS: INVESTMENT DECISIONS (SECTIONS 70.745, 70.746 & 70.747)

This act provides that the Board of LAGERS may deliberate or make decisions on investments or other financial matters in a closed meeting if the disclosure of such deliberations or decisions would jeopardize the ability to implement a decision or to achieve investment objectives. Additionally, records that disclose such deliberations or decisions are not public records and the Board shall not be prohibited from closing records to the extent that such records relate to information in connection with investments in or financial transactions with business entities.

Furthermore, this act repeals the provision providing that the investment counselor of the Board be registered as an investment advisor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Lastly, this act repeals the limitation that no more than 1/10th of the funds of the system be invested in real estate.

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

LAGERS: INVESTMENT FUNDS (SECTION 70.748)

This act provides that the Board may establish and maintain a local government employee retirement systems of Missouri investment fund account in which investments of LAGERS may be placed and be available for investment purposes. The funds may be combined with funds of any retirement plan administered by LAGERS and any retirement plan established for providing benefits to employees of LAGERS, but such funds shall be accounted for separately.

This provision is substantially similar to a provision in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

ST. LOUIS POLICE RETIREMENT: EARNABLE COMPENSATION (SECTION 86.200)

This act modifies the definition of "earnable compensation", as used by the Police Retirement System of St. Louis, by providing that the term shall not include any funds received through a judgment or settlement of a legal action or claim made or threatened by a member against the City of St. Louis if such funds are intended to retroactively compensate the member for the salary differential between the member's actual rank and the rank the member claims he or she should have received.

This provision is substantially similar to SB 1267 (2024) and a provision in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

ALL PUBLIC PLANS: INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY CLOSURE OF RECORDS (SECTION 105.688)

This act provide that an investment fiduciary of a public employee retirement system established by the state or any political subdivision of the state shall not be prohibited from closing records related to information in connection with investments in or financial transactions with business entities.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/HB 2431 (2024).

PSRS: MULTIPLIER (SECTION 169.070)

Current law provides that the normal retirement allowance multiplier for a member of the Public School Retirement System of Missouri is 2.5% of the member's final average salary for each year of the membership service, except if the member has 32 years or more of service, then the multiplier shall be 2.55%. This act provides that for those members with 33 years of service or more the multiplier factor shall be 2.6%.

This provision is identical to SCS/SB 877 (2024) and is similar to SB 556 (2023).

PSRS/PEERS: WORKING AFTER RETIREMENT (SECTIONS 169.560 & 169.660)

Currently, a retired member, except for those retired due to disability, of the Public School Retirement System ("PSRS") may work after retirement in a certified position with a covered employer without discontinuance of his or her retirement benefits if the member does not exceed 550 hours of work each school year and 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position. This act provides that the member, including those retired due to disability, may earn up to 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position or 50% of the limit set by the employer's school board for the position if submitted and approved by the Board of Trustees.

Additionally, current law provides that if a member of PSRS or the Public Education Employee Retirement System ("PEERS") is in excess of the limitations, the member shall not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed. This act provides that either member shall not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed or the retirement system shall recover the amount earned in excess of the limitations, whichever is less.

These provisions are identical to provisions in the perfected SS#2/SCS/SB 727 (2024) and are similar to provisions in SB 1286 (2024).

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
04/15/2024 
H - Read Second Time
SB902 - Creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Sen. Nick Schroer (R)
Summary: SB 902 - This act creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education.

EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS PROGRAM (Sections 135.714 and 166.700)

The act modifies the Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program by providing that the maximum total grant amount to a scholarship recipient shall be equal to 90% of the previous year's statewide average per-pupil state funding allocated to school districts under current law, rather than the state adequacy target.

The act provides that scholarship recipients who are not required to take the statewide assessment tests under current law shall be given the opportunity to choose to take such assessment tests or nationally norm-referenced tests, rather than requiring such students to take such a test.

The act repeals provisions requiring a "qualified student", as such term is defined in the act, to live in a charter county or a city with at least 30,000 inhabitants and to either have an individualized education plan or be a member of a household whose total annual income does not exceed 200% of the income standard used to qualify for free and reduced-price lunch.

PERFORMANCE-BASED SCHOOL DISTRICT ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES

(Sections 160.423, 160.2900, 160.2902, 160.2904, 160.2906, and 161.092)

Under this act, the State Board of Education shall establish and implement an accountability system for all public schools and school districts and shall provide an annual accreditation status for each school and school district. Each charter school sponsor shall provide an annual accreditation status for each school it sponsors based on policies that are consistent with accreditation standards used by the State Board of Education. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, as well as each charter school sponsor, shall annually, prior to July 1st, determine the annual accreditation status for each school and school district based on verifiable accreditation data from the previous school year. The annual accreditation status of each school and school district shall be based on compliance with best practice standards, as defined in the act. After assignment of the school's or district's status, the Department and each charter school sponsor shall monitor the schools and districts to determine the status of the schools or districts for the following school year. If the Department or a sponsor determines during the course of the monitoring that a school or district may be in violation of a best practice standard, the head of the school as well the school board or governing body of a charter school shall be notified and given an opportunity to correct the violation.

Schools and school districts shall be assigned an annual accreditation status based on a determination by the State Board of Education or the charter school sponsor of the school's or district's compliance with any policies or rules establishing accreditation policies and best practice standards. Such status shall include "accredited", "provisionally accredited", or "unaccredited".

The State Board of Education shall develop a simplified annual school report card for each school district, public school, and charter school for the purpose of providing information about the school's or district's academic performance. The act repeals the current provision of law regarding report cards for schools. The State Board shall assign the duties of implementing the report to the Department or to a contracted private entity.

The State Board shall assign each public school, charter school, and school district a letter grade of "A", "B", "C", "D", or "F". The school's or school district's grade shall be based on evaluation of a number of factors described in the act relating to student scores on the annual statewide assessment, the percentage of students demonstrating growth towards proficiency on assessment of English language arts and mathematics, the percentage of students in high school earning a high school diploma in four years, and measures of college and career readiness. The act further sets forth the student assessment data to be utilized in determining the school's or school district's grade.

If a school or school district earns a grade of "D" or "F" for a school year, the Department or the charter sponsor shall provide the school or school district with a list of organizations that can provide specific, evidence-based turnaround services. The school or school district shall implement a plan for improvement that is approved by the Department or charter sponsor. If a school or school district earns a "D" or "F" for three consecutive years, then students shall have the option of transferring to a nonresident school or district. For schools or school districts that earn a "D" or "F" for four consecutive years, the Department or charter sponsor shall choose a managing partner to lead the reorganization of the school or school district. Finally, if a school or school district earns a "D" or "F" for five consecutive years, the Department or charter sponsor shall consider school closures.

The Department shall prepare annual reports of the results of the accountability measures contained in this act.

These provisions are identical to SB 341 (2023) and HB 558 (2023).

SCHOOL SAFETY ASSESSMENTS (Section 160.3250)

The act requires every public school district and public charter school to develop and maintain a comprehensive school safety plan that addresses various aspects of school safety, including, but not limited to, emergency response procedures, crisis management, prevention of safety risks, and communication protocols. A school safety plan shall be developed in collaboration with local law enforcement, fire department, and emergency management officials.

To assist in the development of a school safety plan, a school district or charter school shall conduct a comprehensive school safety assessment every three years to assess the safety, security, accessibility, and emergency preparedness of school buildings and grounds. The school safety assessment shall be conducted in collaboration with local law enforcement, fire department, and emergency management officials. A comprehensive school safety assessment shall be conducted by more than one individual, including at least one individual who is not assigned to the facility being assessed, if the assessment is conducted by school district or charter school personnel.

The act outlines certain information that shall be assessed as part of a school safety assessment, including emergency response procedures, crisis management, risk prevention, and communication protocols.

The initial comprehensive school safety assessment for each school district and charter school shall be completed by July 1, 2026.

PARTICIPATION OF CERTAIN STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

(Sections 161.670, 162.996, 162.1250, 166.700, 167.031, 167.061, 167.600, 167.619, 210.167, 210.211, 211.031, 452.375, 167.071, and 167.790)

This act modifies the definition of "home school", creates a definition for "FLEX school", repeals provisions authorizing the appointment of school attendance officers, repeals provisions authorizing parents to submit a written declaration of intent to home school, and establishes provisions relating to the participation of certain students in public school activities.

These provisions are similar to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023).

FLEX SCHOOLS

(Sections 161.670, 162.996, 162.1250, 166.700, 167.031, 167.061, 167.600, 167.619, 167.790, 210.167, 210.211, 211.031, 452.375, 167.619, 167.071, and 167.790)

The act defines a "Family-Led Educational eXperience (FLEX) school" or "FLEX school" as a school that meets certain criteria that also apply to home schools, except that a FLEX school may enroll students who participate in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program or activities offered by a public school district. The definition of "home school" is modified to exclude students who participate in such Program or activities. The act modifies certain provisions of law to include FLEX schools in provisions that also apply to home schools. The act also modifies the definition of "qualified schools" in provisions relating to the Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program to include FLEX schools instead of home schools. However, any state laws or regulations that apply to the Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program shall not apply to FLEX school students who do not participate in such program. The act specifies that no state agency shall have regulatory oversight or rulemaking authority over FLEX schools unless such oversight or authority is specifically delegated under state law.

Public schools, state agencies, state employees, and certain private entities shall not refer to FLEX schools or to publicly funded programs, including but not limited to virtual school programs, as "home schooling". Additionally, public schools, state agencies and employees, and certain private entities shall not refer to students who are enrolled in an attendance center of a public school district, students who are enrolled in full-time virtual school programs, students who receive education funding from the state of Missouri, or students who participate in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program as "home schooled" students.

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023).

PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS

(Sections 161.851, 161.852, 161.853, and 170.355)

The act establishes provisions relating to procedures for public schools and school districts. These provisions are similar to SB 158 (2023) and HCS/HBs 1995 and 1474 (2022).

PARENTS' BILL OF RIGHTS (Section 161.851)

This act establishes "The Parents' Bill of Rights for Student Well-Being", which lists rights for parents relating to education, health care, and mental health. The act prohibits public schools and school districts from infringing on the rights of a parent to direct the upbringing, education, health care, or mental health of such parent's minor child without first demonstrating that the infringement is narrowly tailored to achieve a compelling state interest and such interest cannot be otherwise served by a less restrictive means. The act lists a number of specific related rights.

The act requires school districts to adopt a policy to promote parental involvement, including procedures to object to instructional materials and to withdraw a student from health education courses relating to human sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall develop forms for school districts to use that allow a parent to object to, and opt out of, instructional materials. School districts may provide any information that a parent is entitled to access by publishing such information electronically in a reasonably accessible format. Further, the act establishes a formal request process with specific time periods for a superintendent to comply with such request, as well as an appeal process to the school board if a request is denied.

Nondisclosure agreements shall not be required in order for a parent to review curricula, and parents may make copies of curriculum documents. Each school board meeting pertaining to curricula shall be open to the public and allow for public comment.

Public schools and school districts are required to notify parents in a timely manner of all reported incidents pertaining to student safety as outlined in the act.

No employee of a public school or school district shall coerce or encourage a minor child to withhold information from the child's parent, with exceptions for suspected abuse or neglect.

A public school or school district shall not, when publishing or providing any information to a parent as required pursuant to the provisions of the act, publish or provide any personally identifiable information relating to any student other than a parent's own child in violation of the provisions of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

These provisions are similar to provisions in SB 158 (2023) and SB 810 (2023).

The Attorney General or any parent of a minor child enrolled in a public school may bring legal action against the school district in which the child is enrolled for violations of these provisions. If a school district or an employee is found liable, then such district or employee shall be fined $1,000 for each violation. The penalty for a knowing or purposeful violation shall be $10,000 for each violation. The proceeds of the fine shall be divided so that 20% will be awarded to the parent who brought the action and 80% will be awarded to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Fund. School district employees who disclose violations of the act shall be protected from any retaliation. This provision is identical to a provision in SB 158 (2023). (Section 161.853)

CURRICULUM AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT MATERIALS

(Sections 161.852 and 161.853)

The act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop a tool, as described in the act, within the Department's comprehensive data system to give access to every school district's curriculum and professional development materials. The Department shall establish forms for school districts to complete. School districts are required to submit updates to any required information every six months and the Department shall update the tool monthly.

This provision is identical to a provision in SB 158 (2023) and HB 482 (2023) and similar to provisions in SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89, in SB 42 (2023), in SB 89 (2023), and in SB 645 (2022).

The Attorney General or any parent of a minor child enrolled in a public school may bring legal action against the school district in which the child is enrolled for violations of this provision. If a school district or an employee is found liable, then such district or employee shall be fined $1,000 for each violation. The penalty for a knowing or purposeful violation shall be $10,000 for each violation. The proceeds of the fine shall be divided so that 20% will be awarded to the parent who brought the action and 80% will be awarded to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Fund. School district employees who disclose violations of the act shall be protected from any retaliation. This provision is identical to a provision in SB 158 (2023). (Section 161.853)

STUDENT ATTENDANCE PLANS (Section 167.031)

Current law provides that the parent of a student who fails to attend school on a regular basis is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor. This act specifies that for students enrolled in a public school district or public charter school, "on a regular basis" shall mean in compliance with the student attendance policy for the district or charter school, as provided in the act. The act requires every public school district and public charter school to establish a student attendance policy that defines the terms "excused absence" and "unexcused absence" and provides a system of accountability for unexcused absences. Such policy shall contain certain provisions intended to reduce unexcused absences, including mandatory meetings between the student's parent and the school principal, the school counselor, and the superintendent of the school district or the chief governing officer of the charter school. After certain conditions specified in the act are met, if a student continues to accrue additional unexcused absences, the student's parent or legal guardian shall be deemed to be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor.

DECLARATIONS OF INTENT TO HOME SCHOOL (Section 167.042)

The act repeals a provision authorizing parents to submit a written declaration of intent to home school their child to the recorder of deeds of the county where the child legally resides or to the superintendent of the public school district where the child legally resides.

This provision is identical to a provision in SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023).

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OFFICERS (Section 167.071)

The act repeals a provision authorizing a seven-director school district to appoint a school attendance officer who has the powers of a deputy sheriff and may investigate claims of violations of the compulsory attendance law and arrest truant juveniles without a warrant.

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023).

PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOL ACTIVITIES (Section 167.790)

The act provides that a school district shall not be a member of, or remit any funds to, a statewide activities association that prohibits a student receiving instruction at a FLEX school or a full-time virtual school from participating in any event or activity offered by the school district in which the student resides or that requires such students to take any class at a public school in order to participate in such event or activity. The act further provides that a school district shall not prohibit a student receiving instruction at a FLEX school or a full-time virtual school from participating in any event or activity offered by the school district in which such student resides or require such student to take any class in order to participate in such event or activity.

A school district may establish an attendance policy for any rehearsals, practice sessions, or training sessions that are directly related to and required for participation in an event or activity. A school district may also require students to participate in components of instruction that are required for participation in fine arts activities, career and technical student organizations, or integrated cocurricular activities.

A statewide activities association shall not prohibit any member school district from participating in any event with a school that is not a member of the association.

Any school disciplinary policies and attendance policies shall be applied in the same manner to all students who participate in an event or activity. A school district shall not establish a separate disciplinary or attendance policy for students who receive instruction at a FLEX school or a full-time virtual school.

If a student whose academic performance or disciplinary status would preclude such student from eligibility to participate in extracurricular events or activities in the resident school district disenrolls from such school district in order to receive instruction at a FLEX school or a full-time virtual school, such student shall not be eligible to participate in public school events or activities in the district of such student's disenrollment for twelve calendar months from the date of disenrollment.

The parent of a FLEX school student shall oversee any academic standards relating to such student's participation in a public school event or activity.

Any records created pertaining to a FLEX school student or a full-time virtual school student shall be made confidential.

The act outlines certain criteria that FLEX school and virtual school students shall satisfy in order to be eligible to participate in public school activities in their district of residence. Such students shall provide proof of residency in the district in which they wish to participate in public school activities. They shall also adhere to the same behavior, responsibility, performance, and code conduct standards as do students who are enrolled in the district.

This provision is similar to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023) and to HB 241 (2023), SB 835 (2022), HCS/HB 2369 (2022), HCS/HB 494 (2021), SCS/SB 875 (2020), SCS/HC/HB 1540 (2020), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 528 (2020), HCS/HB 2273 (2020), and SB 130 (2019).

DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN CONCEPTS AND BELIEFS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (Section 170.355)

No school or school employee shall compel a teacher or student to discuss public policy issues without consent. No school or school employee shall compel a teacher or student to adopt, affirm, adhere to, or profess ideas in violation of federal civil rights laws including: that individuals of any race, ethnicity, color, or national origin are inherently superior or inferior and that individuals, by virtue of their race, ethnicity, color, or national origin, bear collective guilt and are inherently responsible for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race, ethnicity, color, or national origin. In addition to remedies brought under federal law, any school or school employee found to be in violation of this provision may have a private cause of action brought against them.

This provision is identical to a provision in SB 158 (2023) and similar to provisions in HCS/HB 482 (2023), in HCS/SS#2/SB 761 (2022), in HCS/HB 1858 (2022), and in HCS/HBs 1995 & 1474 (2022), and to HCS/HB 2428 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB905 - Modifies provisions relating to the protection of vulnerable persons
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 905 - This act modifies several provisions relating to the protection of vulnerable persons, including: (1) access to SNAP benefits; (2) pregnant offenders; and (3) admissibility of certain evidence in criminal cases.

ACCESS TO SNAP BENEFITS (Section 208.247)

This act repeals provisions of law allowing for individuals convicted of certain drug offenses to participate in SNAP only if certain conditions are met. Under this act, individuals convicted of a state or federal felony drug offense shall not be excluded from SNAP for such conviction.

This provision is identical to provisions in the perfected SS/SB 82 (2023) and the perfected HCS/HB 719 (2023).

PREGNANT OFFENDERS (Section 221.520)

Under this act, all county and city jails shall be prohibited, except in extraordinary circumstances, from using restrains on a pregnant offender in her third trimester, including during transportation or labor, delivery, and 48 hours post-delivery. Pregnant offenders shall be transported in vehicles equipped with seatbelts. In cases of extraordinary circumstances requiring restraints to be used, the sheriff or jailer shall document in writing within 48 hours of the incident the reasons for the restraints used, as specified in the act.

If restraints are used, they shall be the least restrictive available and the most reasonable under the circumstances. No leg, ankle, or waist restraints or mechanical restraints shall be used and any wrist restraints used shall be placed in front of the offender's body.

Jails shall offer staff training on the provisions of this act and inform offenders of policies and practices developed under this act.

By January 1, 2025, all county and city jails shall develop specific procedures for intake and care of pregnant offenders, including maternal health evaluations, dietary supplements, nutritious meals, substance abuse treatment, HIV treatment, hepatitis C, sleeping arrangements, mental health; sanitary materials; postpartum recovery, and a requirement that a female medical professional be present during examinations.

These provisions are substantially similar to provisions in SCS/SB 803 (2018), HB 1002 (2017), and SB 180 (2017).

ADMISSIBILITY OF CERTAIN EVIDENCE IN CRIMINAL CASES (Sections 491.075 and 492.304)

Under current law, a statement made by a child under 14 years of age may be admissible in criminal proceedings under certain circumstances. This act changes the age to a child under the age of 18 years of age.

Additionally, this act provides that visual or audio recordings of a child under 18 years of age or a vulnerable person relating to certain criminal offenses shall be admissible in criminal proceedings under certain circumstances.

These provisions are identical to provisions in the perfected HCS/HB 454 (2023) and SCS/HS/HCS/HBs 1108 & 1181, et al (2023).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
04/22/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB909 - Prohibits availability of public funds to health care facilities that refuse treatment based on COVID-19 vaccination status
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 909 - Under this act, no public funds shall be made available to any health care facility that refuses to provide treatment or services to an individual based on the COVID-19 vaccination status on the individual.

This act is identical to SB 671 (2023).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB911 - Modifies provisions relating to tobacco product regulations
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SB 911 - Under this act, the state's laws shall preempt any local laws, ordinances, orders, rules, or regulations enacted by a county, municipality, or other political subdivision of the state regulating the sale of tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, or vapor products.

Additionally, no political subdivision shall deny a qualified applicant for a tobacco products license, an alternative nicotine products license, or a vapor products license if the new license is for the same business or location that had a license within the previous 24 months, as described in the act.

This act is substantially similar to SB 522 (2023) and HCS/HB 1039 (2023) and similar to a provision in SB 1158 (2022).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
03/12/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB915 - Authorizes certain senior citizens to defer property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 915 - This act enables senior citizens, fifty-nine and a half years of age or older, and disabled persons to defer paying property taxes on their residences. The act establishes eligibility criteria for the taxpayer and the property for participating in the deferral. Taxpayers desiring deferral of property taxes shall file an application with the county assessor, who shall forward such application to the Department of Revenue for a determination of eligibility. If the application is approved, the Department of Revenue shall notify the county assessor who shall make a notation on the tax rolls identifying the property as tax-deferred.

Each year, the Department of Revenue shall allocate funds from the Property Tax Deferral Revolving Account, which is created by the act, to each county with properties subject to tax deferral in an amount equal to the taxes deferred within each such county. All deferrals of tax shall result in a lien to be held by the Department of Revenue against the property of the taxpayer, which shall be recorded in the mortgage records of the county in which the property is located. The lien shall be for the amount of the property tax as estimated by the Department of Revenue plus interest to accrue at six percent per annum. The taxes plus interest shall be paid when the owner dies or sells the property, moves, or the property changes ownership.

This act is identical to SB 689 (2023) and SB 1036 (2010), and is similar to SB 271 (2009), SB 1213 (2008), SB 32 (2007), SB 594 (2006), and SB 436 (2005).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SB918 - Establishes provisions relating to public school curriculum and instruction
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 918 - This act prohibits school districts from teaching about The 1619 Project, critical race theory, or any divisive concepts, as such term is defined in the act. Districts are also prohibited from certain actions listed in the act relating to curriculum and instruction.

In adopting the essential knowledge and skills for the social studies curriculum for each grade level from kindergarten through 12th grade, each school district shall develop each student's civic knowledge as set forth in the act.

School districts shall not accept private funding for the purposes of teaching any curriculum substantially similar to critical race theory or The 1619 Project.

The Attorney General may investigate school districts for compliance with the act. Any school district that violates the provisions of the act shall have 50% of the district's state aid withheld until the district presents evidence to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that the district is no longer in violation of the act.

This act is identical to SB 42 (2023) and SB 694 (2022) and is similar to SB 172 (2023), SB 638 (2022), SB 676 (2022), SB 734 (2022), and SB 1184 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/05/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB919 - Modifies provisions relating to certain improvement districts
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 919 - This act modifies provisions relating to votes in political subdivisions.

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS

Current law requires the governing body of a municipality to adopt an ordinance to establish a proposed community improvement district. This act requires such ordinance to be approved by a two-thirds majority vote if the proposed district utilizes a sales tax as a proposed funding mechanism. (Sections 67.1421)

TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

Current law requires a transportation development district (TDD) to submit a proposed project to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, or to the local transportation authority, as applicable, for approval prior to the construction or funding of any project. This act requires the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, or the local transportation authority, as applicable, to approve such projects with a two-thirds majority vote if the proposed project utilizes a sales tax as a proposed funding mechanism. (Section 238.225)

This act is identical to provisions in CCS/HS/HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 96 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Local Government and Elections
SB920 - Provides that charter schools may be operated in Boone County and St. Louis County
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 920 - This act adds all school districts located in Boone County and St. Louis County to the list of school districts in which a charter school may be operated by any entity currently authorized to operate a charter school under state law.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB921 - Modifies provisions relating to student enrollment in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 921 - Under this act, the average daily attendance of a student who is enrolled full-time in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program shall be calculated as if such attendance equaled the host district's or charter school's average attendance percentage for the previous year. Host districts that enroll one or more full-time virtual school students shall receive an amount of state aid specified in the act for such students on a monthly basis.

The act provides that students who reside in Missouri may enroll in the virtual program of their choice. Provisions of current law regarding a school district's approval of a student's request to enroll in a virtual program shall not apply to full-time virtual program enrollment.

The act requires host districts to adopt student enrollment policies for full-time virtual students and allows virtual schools to mutually agree with resident and host districts on the services that the resident district might offer, including possible financial reimbursements for those services. For students with disabilities, the enrollment policy shall ensure the development of an individualized education program and related services agreement, as necessary. The act also specifies that student progress reports are necessary only for part-time virtual school program enrollees. The act requires a student's parent or guardian, if the student is not considered homeless, to apply for enrollment directly with the full-time virtual program.

Finally, the act provides that a host district may contract with a provider to perform any required services involved with delivering a full-time virtual education.

This act is substantially similar to HB 827 (2023) and is similar to SB 545 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB929 - Requires all elections for local tax increases to be held at a general or primary election
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SB 929 - This act requires all proposals for new local taxes, licenses, or fees, or for a renewal or increase in an existing tax, license, or fee, to be submitted to the voters on a general election day or primary election day.

This act is identical to SB 479 (2023) and HB 1202 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Local Government and Elections
SB930 - Modifies the Senior Citizens Property Tax Relief Credit
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SB 930 - Current law authorizes an income tax credit for certain senior citizens and disabled veterans in amount equal to a portion of such taxpayer's property tax liabilities, not to exceed $750 in rent constituting property taxes actually paid or $1,100 in actual property tax paid. This act annually adjusts such maximum amounts for inflation. (Section 135.025)

Additionally, current law limits the tax credit to qualifying taxpayers with an income of $27,500 or less, or $30,000 in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year. This act increases such maximum income to $35,000, or $38,000 in the case of a homestead owned and occupied by a claimant for the entire year, and annually adjusts both amounts for inflation. (Section 135.030)

This act is identical to provisions in SS/SCS/SB 15 (2023) and is substantially similar to HB 666 (2023) and HCS/HB 1134 (2023), and to provisions in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and HB 1351 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB933 - Establishes provisions requiring liability insurance and prevention policies of childhood sexual abuse for child care providers and modifies civil actions for childhood sexual abuse
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 933 - This act establishes and modifies provisions relating to liability of childhood sexual abuse, including establishing requirements for liability insurance and prevention policies for licensure of child care providers and modifying actions for childhood sexual abuse.

CHILD CARE PROVIDER LICENSURE (SECTION 210.233)

This act provides that child care providers that provide overnight care that are applying for licensure in this state shall provide demonstration of certain liability insurance and policies on the prevention of sexual abuse.

ACTIONS FOR CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE (SECTION 537.046)

This act modifies the offenses included in the definition of "childhood sexual abuse" and defines the term "actions against nonperpetrator defendants" as any action or claim to recover damages brought against a nonperpetrator defendant by any person alleging negligent or intentional failure to supervise a person that commits childhood sexual abuse, or that the nonperpetrator defendant's conduct caused or contributed to the childhood sexual abuse by another person including, but not limited to, wrongful conduct, neglect or default in supervision, hiring, employment, training, monitoring, or failure to report, or the concealment of childhood sexual abuse.

Currently, a civil action for recovery of damages suffered as a result of childhood sexual abuse shall be brought within ten years after the victim reaches the age of twenty-one or within three years of the victim discovering that the injury or illness was caused by childhood sexual abuse, whichever is later. This act removes the statute of limitations and provides that an action for childhood sexual abuse or actions against nonperpetrator defendants in actions brought pursuant to this act shall be commenced at any time. This provision shall apply to any action commenced on or after August 28, 2024, including those that would have been barred by the application of the statute of limitations prior to August 28, 2024.

This act also provides that in any action involving childhood sexual abuse or actions against nonperpetrator defendants, any nondisclosure clause or nondisparagement clause, as those terms are defined in the act, shall be judicially unenforceable.

This provision is similar to SB 416 (2023), HB 367 (2023), a provision in HB 1139 (2023), and SB 1084 (2022).

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence
SB945 - Creates new provisions relating to leave from employment
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 945 - This act creates the Missouri Family and Medical Leave Program. Under this act, employers with 12 or more employees are required to compensate an employee who has worked at least 1,250 hours in the previous 365-day period with up to sixteen weeks of paid leave if the employee is unable to work because of one the following reasons:

· Because of his or her own serious health condition;

· For the purpose of caring for a family member with a serious health condition;

· To bond with a child within one year of the birth or placement of the child in connection with foster care or adoption; or

· For the purpose of participating in activities directly related to the educational advancement of the employee's child.

Leave must be taken concurrent with any leave taken under the federal Family Medical Leave Act. Leave taken under this act may be in addition to any additional leave provided by an employer's leave program. Eligibility for leave under this act shall be established by filing a certificate of a health care provider that establishes the serious health condition of the employee or the employee's family member. Employers are required to pay employees who take leave under this act at a rate of 65% of the hourly rate at which such employee is paid in the normal course of employment, or $300 per week, whichever is greater. Employers are required to maintain health care coverage for the employee in the same manner as if the employee had not taken leave.

Employers who fail to comply with the leave requirements of this act shall be liable to affected employees for the full amount of wages owed plus an additional equal amount as liquidated damages. All actions brought under this act shall be commenced within two years of the accrual of the cause of action.

The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations is required to conduct an outreach program to ensure that individuals who may be eligible for leave under this act are aware of the provisions of this act. Employers are required to keep a notice posted in a conspicuous place summarizing the requirements of this act.

This act is identical to SB 193 (2023), SB 54 (2017), and SB 983 (2016), substantially similar to HB 1255 (2023), and similar in concept to SB 548 (2023), HB 1126 (2023), SB 729 (2022), HB 2222 (2022), HB 2822 (2022), SB 416 (2021), HB 1372 (2021), SB 565 (2020), HB 2542 (2020), SB 162 (2019), SB 607 (2018), HB 1956 (2018), SB 69 (2017), HB 659 (2017), SCS/SB 291 (2017), HB 1059 (2017), SB 1049 (2016), and HB 1161 (2015).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SB948 - Modifies provisions relating to penalties for officers of political subdivisions
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 948 - Under current law, no political subdivision shall adopt any order or ordinance relating to the sale, purchase, or ownership of a firearm unless it conforms exactly with state law.

This act adds that any officer of a governing body who violates those provisions shall be subject to a penalty of $1,000 for every offense and shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety
SB950 - Modifies provisions relating to the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 950 - This act modifies the definition of "explicit sexual material" as used in the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student by providing that such material shall include any written or pictorial material that, when taken as a whole, a reasonable person applying contemporary community standards would find the material lacks serious literary or scientific value or appeals predominantly to a prurient interest in sex.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB952 - Prohibits certain entities from infringing on the right of individuals to refuse medical procedures or treatments
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 952 - This act prohibits the passage or implementation of any law, order, ordinance, regulation, or public policy of the state or any political subdivision of the state, including schools and institutions of higher education that receive public funds, that infringes upon the unquestionable right of individuals to refuse any medical procedure or treatment, including, but not limited to, injections, vaccines, or prophylactics. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged to any person in this state because of the exercise of this right. Nothing in this act shall be interpreted to infringe upon a parent's right to exercise control over their minor, unemancipated child's physical and mental care.

This provision is substantially similar to SJR 20 (2023), SJR 47 (2022), and SJR 50 (2022).

Additionally, no licensed or registered health care facility shall require visitors to undergo an invasive medical procedure, including an injection or vaccine, in order to have in-person contact with a patient or resident.

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB953 - Repeals a portion of the tax on motor fuel, and the exemption and refund process applicable to that portion
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 953 - This act repeals a portion of the tax on motor fuel, and the exemption and refund process applicable to that portion.

This act is identical to SB 260 (2023), similar to SB 242 (2023), SB 454 (2023), and HB 2884 (2022), identical to SB 10 (2022 First Extraordinary Session), and similar to SB 811 (2022), SB 782 (2022), SB 1149 (2022), and HB 1594 (2022).

ERIC VANDER WEERD

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety
SB955 - Establishes provisions relating to teacher recruitment and retention and creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" and the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program"
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SB 955 - This act establishes provisions relating to teacher recruitment and retention. The act creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" and changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program." This act is similar to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

MINIMUM TEACHER'S SALARY (Section 163.172)

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this act increases the minimum teacher's salary from $25,000 to $38,000.

For teachers with a master's degree and at least ten years of experience, this act increases the minimum salary from $33,000 to $44,000 for the 2025-26 school year and further increases such salary by $1,000 each year until the 2029-2030 school year, when the minimum shall be $48,000. In the 2026-27 school year and in all subsequent school years, such minimum salary shall additionally be adjusted annually by the percentage increase in inflation, as such term is defined in the act. The State Board of Education shall publish such minimum salaries annually beginning on or after January 1, 2026.

The act creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" and "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" for the purpose of increasing minimum teacher's salaries. The General Assembly may appropriate moneys to the Fund, provided that the total amount appropriated shall not exceed the amount necessary to assist each school district in increasing minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. For the 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 school years, each school district may apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for a grant from the Fund, provided that a grant shall not exceed 70% of the amount necessary for a district to increase minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. The remaining 30% of the amount necessary to increase minimum teacher's salaries shall be allocated from the district's local effort funding as provided in current law. These provisions shall expire on December 31, 2028.

These provisions are similar to a provision in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

HARD-TO-STAFF SCHOOLS AND SUBJECT AREAS (Section 168.110)

The act provides that a school board may include differentiated placement of teachers on the salary schedule to increase compensation in order to recruit and retain teachers in hard-to-staff subject areas or schools. No modifications to the identification of hard-to-staff subject areas or schools shall result in the demotion of a teacher in the salary schedule. Each school district that includes differentiated placement of teachers on the district salary schedule shall annually provide to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education a report containing information outlined in the act.

These provisions are identical to HB 190 (2023) and to a provision in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS (Section 168.400)

The act repeals provisions of current law that require preservice teacher education programs to include a program of entry-level testing of all prospective teacher education students to be administered by the Commissioner of Education.

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

CAREER LADDER (168.500)

The act repeals a provision of current law that teachers' Career Ladder responsibilities and career efforts shall be required to occur outside of compensated hours. The act also specifies that teachers may receive Career Ladder admission and stage achievement for certain activities that are not included in the duties that require a teaching certificate under current law.

TEACHER RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION STATE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (173.232)

The act changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program". The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly.

The number of years a student may receive a scholarship is reduced from four to two years. The number of students who may receive a scholarship is increased from 100 to 200 in the 2025-26 academic year, with 20 more students being added in each subsequent year until 2030-31 and all subsequent academic years, when 300 students may receive scholarships.

To be eligible for a scholarship, recipients shall sign an agreement to teach in a hard-to-staff subject or a hard-to-staff school, as defined in the act, in a Missouri public school for two years for every one year the recipient receives a scholarship. Recipients after June 30, 2025 shall also sign a statement that they have made a good faith effort to secure all available federal sources of grant funding.

The scholarships provided in the act shall be available to students who have successfully completed two years at a community college, been awarded an associate degree or the equivalent, or have completed their baccalaureate degree.

The act modifies the interest rate paid by scholarship recipients who do not follow through on their agreement to teach in a hard-to-staff subject or school and must therefore repay their scholarship award as a loan.

An individual who has qualified as an eligible student under the act shall continue to qualify as an eligible student as long as he or she remains employed by the school district in which he or she agrees to teach, regardless of whether his or her employing school no longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff school, the class he or she teaches longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff subject area, or his or her position within the school district changes.

These provisions are substantially similar to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023) and to HCS/HB 809 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB957 - Establishes the Education Stabilization Fund
Sponsor: Sen. Jason Bean (R)
Summary: SB 957 - This act creates the "Education Stabilization Fund" in the state treasury, which shall consist of funds appropriated by the General Assembly.

In any fiscal year in which actual revenues are less than the revenue estimates upon which appropriations were based, the Governor may, subject to appropriation, transfer from the Education Stabilization Fund to the foundation formula such moneys as are necessary to ensure the free public schools are funded as closely to the fully appropriated amount as practicable.

The balance in the fund at the close of any fiscal year shall not exceed ten percent of the appropriation to the foundation formula from the previous fiscal year. When the balance in the fund at the close of a fiscal year exceeds ten percent of the appropriation to the foundation formula from the previous fiscal year, the excess balance shall be transferred, subject to appropriation, to the General Revenue fund.

This act is identical to SB 587 (2023) and SB 601 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB958 - Modifies provisions relating to agricultural tax credits
Sponsor: Sen. Jason Bean (R)
Summary: SB 958 - This act modifies provisions relating to agricultural tax credits.

WOOD ENERGY TAX CREDIT

A tax credit for the production of certain wood-energy processed wood products expires on June 30, 2028. This act extends the tax credit until June 30, 2030. (Section 135.305)

MEAT PROCESSING FACILITIES TAX CREDIT

The Meat Processing Facility Investment Tax Credit for the expansion or modernization of meat processing facilities expires on December 31, 2028. This act extends such tax credit until December 31, 2030. (Section 135.686)

HIGHER ETHANOL FUEL TAX CREDIT

A tax credit for the sale of higher ethanol blend fuels expires on December 31, 2028. This act extends such tax credit until December 31, 2030. (Section 135.772)

BIODIESEL RETAIL SALE TAX CREDIT

A tax credit for the sale of biodiesel fuels expires on December 31, 2028. This act extends such tax credit until December 31, 2030. (Section 135.775)

BIODIESEL PRODUCTION TAX CREDIT

A tax credit for the production of biodiesel fuels expires on December 31, 2028. This act extends such tax credit until December 31, 2030. (Section 135.778)

URBAN FARMS TAX CREDIT

A tax credit for the establishment or improvement of urban farms expires on December 31, 2028. This act extends such tax credit until December 31, 2030. (Section 135.1610)

ROLLING STOCK TAX CREDIT

A tax credit for eligible expenses incurred in the manufacture, maintenance, or improvement of a freight line company's qualified rolling stock expires on August 28, 2028. This act extends such tax credit until August 28, 2030. (Section 137.1018)

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION TAX CREDITS

Tax credits for contributions to the Missouri Agriculture and Small Business Development Authority and investments in new generation cooperatives for the purpose of development of agricultural business expire on December 31, 2028. This act extends such tax credits until December 31, 2030. (Section 348.436)

SPECIALTY AGRICULTURAL CROPS

The "Specialty Agricultural Crops Act" loan program for family farmers and tax credits for lenders expires on December 31, 2028. This act extends such program until December 31, 2030. (Sections 348.491 and 348.493)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food Production, and Outdoor Resources
SB959 - Establishes provisions relating to charter school management
Sponsor: Sen. Doug Beck (D)
Summary: SB 959 - Under this act, the governing board of a charter school shall be exclusively responsible for the operation of such charter school and for compliance with all laws and regulations that apply to such charter school. A charter school shall not hire or contract with a management company for the provision of any services whatsoever.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB960 - Modifies provisions regarding the safekeeping of personal information
Sponsor: Sen. Doug Beck (D)
Summary: SB 960 - Under current law, a person that owns or licenses personal information of Missouri residents is required to provide notice to the affected consumer of a breach of security and such notification shall be made without unreasonable delay. This act changes the notification time to within 14 business days of the discovery or notification of the breach.

Additionally, the act authorizes any person to bring an action for damages for willful and knowing violation of the notification requirement in instances of a breach of security relating to personal information. Damages shall not exceed $150,000 per breach and a civil penalty for a violation may be awarded, but shall not exceed $150,000 per breach.

This act is identical to SB 222 (2021) and HB 1499 (2020).

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SB961 - WITHDRAWN
Sponsor: Sen. Doug Beck (D)
Summary: SB 961 - Under the act, a commercial entity shall not publish or distribute material harmful to minors, as defined in the act, on the internet from a website that contains a substantial portion, defined in the act, of such material unless the commercial entity performs age verification to ensure that an individual attempting to access the material is at least 18 years of age.

Violations of provisions of this act may be reported to the Attorney General. If the Attorney General finds that a commercial entity violated provisions of this act, the Attorney General shall bring a civil action against a commercial entity for such violations.

If the court finds that a commercial entity violated provisions of this act, the court may grant actual damages, injunctive relief, civil penalties not to exceed $5,000 for each day of the violation, and any other relief the court finds appropriate. The Attorney General may request an additional civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 for each day of the violation under the act against a commercial entity.

The State Treasury shall create the "Cyber Exploitation of Children Fund". Moneys in the Fund shall be expended for the investigation of cyber crimes involving the exploitation of children. The Attorney General shall administer the Fund. The Attorney General shall deposit all civil penalties granted by the court into the Fund.

The rights of any news-gathering organization, as defined in the act, shall not be affected by the act.

The act shall not apply to any internet service provider or subsidiary, search engine, cloud service that provides internet access to any content not under the provider's control.

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
01/03/2024 
S - Read First Time
SB965 - Authorizes a sales tax for special educational services
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 965 - This act authorizes the board of education of a metropolitan school district to impose a sales tax for the purpose of funding special educational services in the district. The tax shall not exceed 0.25%.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB966 - Authorizes a property tax for special educational services
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 966 - This act authorizes the board of education of a metropolitan school district to impose a tax on real property located in the district for the purpose of funding special educational services in the district. The tax shall not exceed three cents per one hundred dollars assessed valuation.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB967 - Modifies the calculation of weighted average daily attendance used to calculate state aid for school districts
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 967 - This act provides that children who are homeless shall be included in the calculation of a school district's weighted average daily attendance by multiplying the number of such pupils by twenty-five hundredths.

This act is identical to SB 485 (2023) and similar to a provision in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB969 - Creates new provisions on discriminatory practices relating to hair
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 969 - This act creates the "Missouri Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (Missouri CROWN) Act", which governs discriminatory practices as they relate to protective hairstyles. Specifically, no person shall be subjected to discrimination based on the person's hair texture or protective hairstyle, if that protective hairstyle or texture is commonly associated with a particular race or origin, in any program or activity conducted by an educational institution that receives or benefits from state financial assistance, as that term is defined in the act, or that enrolls pupils who receive state student financial aid; provided, however, that such institution may require the use of hair nets or coverings or may require that hair be secured for safety purposes in any career and technical training course or class to comply with safety regulations and standards of the course or class throughout the duration of the course or class.

This provision does not apply to an educational institution that is controlled by a religious organization if the application of such provision would not be consistent with the religious

tenets of that organization.

This act is identical to SCS/SB 424 (2023) and HCS/HBs 930, 361, & 326 (2023) and is substantially similar to SB 994 (2022), HCS/HBs 1743 & 2185 (2022), SB 145 (2021), HB 282 (2021), HB 420 (2021), HB 503 (2021), HB 1066 (2021), HB 1309 (2021), HB 1314 (2021), and HB 2356 (2020).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/28/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
SB970 - Authorizes a tax credit for the purchase of certain homes
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 970 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a tax credit in the amount of $5,000 for a taxpayer that is a first-time home buyer purchasing an eligible blighted property, as described in the act. To be eligible, a taxpayer shall also enter into an agreement with the land clearance for redevelopment authority to use such property as a principal residence for at least two years following rehabilitation of the property, shall purchase the property within one year or contract for purchase within six months of applying for a tax credit, and shall meet certain income requirements as described in the act.

The tax credit authorized by this act shall not be refundable or transferable, but may be carried back for three years or carried forward for five years.

This act shall sunset after six years unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is identical to SB 425 (2023), SB 719 (2022), SB 84 (2021), and HB 1588 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB974 - Requires all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms to be designated for and used by male or female students only
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SB 974 - This act requires that all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms accessible for use by multiple students shall be designated for and used by male or female students only. The act provides for the best available accommodations for any student who asserts that his or her gender differs from his or her biological sex. Such accommodations may include, but are not limited to, controlled use of faculty shower rooms, locker rooms, or restrooms, or access to single-stall and unisex restrooms.

This act is identical to SB 690 (2018) and SCS/SB 98 (2017), substantially similar to SB 720 (2016), and similar to a provision in SB 165 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB975 - Authorizes a property tax exemption for certain property used for childcare
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SB 975 - This act exempts from property tax all real and personal property used primarily for the care of a child outside of his or her home.

This act shall only become effective upon the passage and approval by the voters of a constitutional amendment permitting a property tax exemption for real and personal property used primarily for the care of a child outside of his or her home.

This act is identical to SB 151 (2023) and HB 813 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/14/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB976 - Establishes provisions relating to technological education in public schools and creates the STEM Career Awareness Activity Fund
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 976 - This act creates provisions relating to technological education in public schools.

STEM CAREER AWARENESS

(Section 161.264)

This act creates the "STEM Career Awareness Activity Fund" for the purpose of establishing a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activity program for students in grades nine through twelve. Under the act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall select a provider to deliver a teacher-led program that involves facilitating a cohort of students to conduct STEM activities at state, national, or international competitions. DESE shall select a provider that presents data demonstrating the effectiveness of the program in achieving certain goals specified in the act. DESE shall begin soliciting applications from providers by January 1, 2025, and select a provider by March 1, 2025.

This provision is substantially similar to SB 535 (2023), to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023), to HB 887 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/HB 502 (2023).

SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY INSTRUCTION

(Section 161.265)

Under the act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall create a model curriculum and instructional materials for social media safety instruction for students in grades 6 through 12. The model curriculum and instructional materials shall be published on DESE's website and the website of each school district. Each school district shall notify students' parents of the availability of such materials online. DESE shall periodically update such materials to reflect changes in social media use, emergent technologies, and new threats to teens using social media platforms.

Each school district may offer instruction on social media and internet safety to students in grades 6 through 12. Students' parents shall be given the ability to opt their child out of such instruction. The act outlines certain topics that shall be included in such instruction, such as the negative effects of social media on mental health; the permanency of sharing materials online; and how to report suspicious behavior. The act also specifies certain benefits of social media that may be covered in the instruction.

A school district shall prohibit student access to social media platforms through the use of internet access provided by the school district, except when access to social media is expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.

Finally, the act provides that a school district shall provide and adopt an internet safety policy for student access to the internet provided by the school district. Such policy shall include certain provisions specified in the act, including limiting internet access to age-appropriate subject matter and prohibiting students from accessing websites that do not protect against the disclosure, use, or dissemination of students' personal information.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB980 - Creates new restrictions on certain business practices of entities doing business in this state related to economic boycotts and DEI initiatives
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 980 - This act creates new provisions relating to the business practices of entities doing business in this state.

ECONOMIC BOYCOTTS (Section 34.650)

Under this act, public entities are prohibited from entering into certain contracts with a company unless the contract includes a written certification that the company is not currently engaged in, and agrees for the duration of the contract not to engage in, any kind of economic boycott, as that term is defined in the act. Any contract failing to comply with the provisions of this act shall be void against public policy.

Provisions are included allowing the Attorney General to enforce this act. A company that enters into a contract with a public entity that is subject to this act and engages in any economic boycott during the term of the contract shall be obligated to pay damages to the state in an amount equal to three times all monies paid to the company under the contract. Additionally, any person injured as a result of any violation or threatened violation of this act may bring a cause of action in Cole County Circuit Court and shall be entitled to injunctive relief as well as damages, including costs and attorney fees.

This act does not apply to contracts with a total potential value of less than $100,000 or to contractors with fewer than 10 employees.

This provision is identical to SB 430 (2023).

UNLAWFUL BUSINESS PRACTICES - DEI CLASSIFICATIONS (Section 431.205)

The act also creates unlawful business practices relating to DEI classifications. A DEI classification is defined as race, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity.

Pursuant to the act, it is an unlawful business practice for any private business, in entering into, maintaining, or seeking to establish contractual relations with any other private business to:

· Fail or refuse to enter into a contract, maintain a contract, or entertain bids or offers to contract, based, in whole or in part, on the fact that the other private business: (a) does not provide information or data, or does not provide sufficient information or data, about the extent to which its workforce or ownership exhibit particular DEI classifications; or (b) Fails to satisfy any rule, standard, policy, goal, aspiration, or preference, whether express or implied, regarding the extent to which its workforce, managers, executives, or ownership exhibit or claim to exhibit particular DEI classifications.

· Consider, including as one criterion among many other criteria, whether or not it is treated as a dispositive criterion in making a decision, and whether or not it is part of an express or implied scoring or grading system: (a) Whether the owners, controllers, officers, or employees of another private business exhibit or claim to exhibit particular DEI classifications; or (b) Whether another private business has adopted or endorsed any particular policy or practice that promotes the hiring and promotion of employees based on the fact that those employees or prospective employees exhibit or claim to exhibit particular DEI classifications;

· Require or suggest that individuals exhibiting particular DEI classifications, because of their DEI classifications, work on the contract or have particular roles in performing the contract, or to require or suggest that a particular quota or percentage of individuals working on the performance of a contract exhibit one or more particular DEI classifications; and

· Require or suggest that any other contracting party provide data regarding the extent to which its workforce, managers, executives, or ownership exhibit or claim to exhibit particular DEI classifications.

A civil action for violation of this provision may be brought within two years after the alleged unlawful business practice occurred or after its reasonable discovery by the alleged injured party. In any civil action brought pursuant to this act, the plaintiff shall bear the burden of proving the alleged unlawful practice was the direct proximate cause of the claimed damages. The court may award certain fees, damages, and court costs as described in the act.

The act additionally empowers the Attorney General to issue a civil investigative demand or bring a civil action in the Cole County Circuit Court seeking appropriate remedies if there is reasonable cause to believe that any private business or group of private businesses is engaged in an unlawful business

practice prohibited by this provision.

This act contains various exemptions.

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
02/29/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1000 - Modifies provisions relating to a tax credit for the acquisition of certain properties
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 1000 - Current law provides for a tax credit for the acquisition costs and interest costs incurred for the acquisition of certain parcels located in distressed areas, with such tax credit expiring on August 28, 2013. This act reauthorizes such tax credit until August 28, 2030.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1001 - Modifies provisions relating to property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1001 - This act modifies provisions relating to property taxes.

PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS

This act provides that if the common level of assessment, as defined in the act, in a subclass is lower than the individual level of assessment, as defined in the act, of any parcel in such subclass, then the individual level of assessment for such parcel shall be reduced to the common level of assessment. Such reduction shall be made upon an appeal by the taxpayer. (Section 137.132)

PROPERTY TAX APPEALS

Current law provides that, in any appeal in which an assessor fails to provide evidence of a physical inspection required by law, the taxpayer shall prevail as a matter of law. This act also provides that the assessor's increased assessed valuation shall be void in its entirety and the previous assessed valuation shall be applied. (Section 138.060)

Current law authorizes any first class charter county or city not within a county to require, by ordinance or charter, the reimbursement of just and reasonable appraisal costs, attorney fees, and court costs resulting from hearings before the State Tax Commission for taxpayer appeals of property assessments. This act requires such reimbursements. This act also increases the maximum amount of fees to be reimbursed from $1,000 to $5,000 for residential property appeals, and from $4,000 to $5,000 for utility, industrial railroad, or other subclass three property appeals. (Section 138.434)

PROTESTED PROPERTY TAXES

Current law requires a taxpayer to file a written protest of property taxes with the collector at the same time such taxpayer makes full payment of such taxes. This act repeals such requirement.

This act also provides that the interest due to a taxpayer whose protested taxes were distributed to a taxing authority shall be calculated from the date that the protested taxes were distributed to the taxing authority through the date of the refund.

Any taxpayer determined by a circuit court or the State Tax Commission to be entitled to a refund of property taxes shall receive such refund from the collector within thirty days of the final determination of the refund amount by the circuit court or State Tax Commission. If such refund is not issued within thirty days, the taxpayer shall be entitled to interest on the refund as calculated under current law. (Section 139.031)

This act is substantially similar to SS/SB 95 (2023) and SB 1108 (2022), and to provisions in SS/SCS/SB 15 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
SB1002 - Prohibits school districts and charter schools from requiring students to wear face masks or be immunized against COVID-19
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1002 - This act prohibits public school districts and charter schools from establishing a dress code policy that requires students to wear face masks, respirators, or other facial coverings. The act also prohibits districts and charter schools from requiring students to be immunized against COVID-19.

This act is similar to provisions in SB 201 (2023), SB 646 (2022), SB 693 (2022), SCS/SBs 702, 636, 651 & 693 (2022), SB 740 (2022), SB 1203 (2022), and SB 1207 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1005 - Authorizes the Governor to transfer the powers, duties, personnel, and property of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to other state agencies
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SB 1005 - This act abolishes the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and authorizes the Governor to transfer its powers, duties, personnel, and property as part of a reorganization plan under existing law. The Commissioner of Education shall continue to serve as the chief administrative officer of the State Board of Education and shall assist in the implementation of the provisions of the act. Subject to the approval of both the Governor and the State Board of Education, the Commissioner may retain or employ certain staff members who are necessary to assist with the implementation of the provisions of the act.

This act is identical to SB 711 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1006 - Modifies provisions relating to charter schools and the assessment of public elementary and secondary schools
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SB 1006 - This act establishes provisions relating to charter schools and assessment of public elementary and secondary schools.

This act is identical to SS/SB 304 (2023).

CHARTER SCHOOLS (Sections 160.400, 160.422, and 160.425)

Under this act, charter schools may be operated in any school district located in Boone County or St. Charles County.

Procedures relating to changes in a school district's accreditation status that affect charter schools are repealed under this act.

Under this act, St. Louis City shall not adopt, enforce, impose, or administer an ordinance, local policy, or local resolution that prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful education purpose by a charter school.

St. Louis City may not impose, enforce, or apply any deed restriction that expressly, or by its operation, prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful educational purpose by a charter school.

If St. Louis City offers property of the city for sale, lease, or rent, St. Louis shall not refuse to sell, lease, or rent to a charter school solely because the charter school intends to use the property for an educational purpose.

Any deeds that have been executed and recorded prior to the effective date of this act shall be exempt from this provision.

These provisions are similar to SB 650 (2022), provisions in SCS/SB 55, 25, & 23 (2021), HCS/HB 137 (2021), HB 322 (2021), HB 729 (2021), SB 315 (2021), SB 649 (2020), SB 603 (2020), HB 1917 (2020), SS#2/SCS/SB 292 (2019), SCS/HB 485 (2019), and is similar to HCS/HB 581 (2019), SB 51 (2019), SCS/SB 271 (2019), HCS/HB 924 (2019), HCS/SS/SB 218 (2019).

LOCAL CONTROL SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND ASSESSMENT OF SCHOOLS (Sections 160.518, 160.522, 161.062, and 163.201)

This act provides for the designation of local control school districts that are exempt from certain assessment, data reporting, and performance reporting requirements. The act also modifies provisions relating to the statewide assessment system, school accountability report cards, the powers and duties of the State Board of Education, and the designation of option districts.

These provisions are identical to SS/SCS/SB 85 (2023).

STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (Section 160.518)

The act repeals provisions of current law that authorize the State Board of Education to develop a statewide assessment system and a standardized assessment instrument based on academic performance standards. Instead, the State Board shall develop an assessment system that satisfies the requirements of federal law, and the State Board shall use the results of the assessments only for the purpose of compliance with federal law and the determination of performance districts in the calculation of state aid. The State Board shall ensure that standardized assessments are administered to the minimum extent necessary to comply with federal law. The State Board shall not use assessment results to classify school districts and charter schools.

The act repeals a provision of current law that the statewide assessment system shall permit the academic performance of students in each school to be tracked only against prior academic performance in the same school.

Under the act, school districts and charter schools shall create local assessments that reflect statewide academic standards. The assessments shall meet certain criteria outlined in the act. Local assessments and assessment systems shall be developed by teachers and school administrators working individually, in grade teams, in discipline teams, and with the community.

The act repeals provisions of law relating to the State Board's authority to suggest criteria for a school to demonstrate that its students learn the knowledge, skills, and competencies measured by the statewide assessment system at exemplary levels. The act further repeals provisions relating to "Outstanding School Waivers" that exempt certain schools from meeting requirements related to the authority of the State Board to classify school districts.

SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT CARDS (Section 160.522)

The act repeals provisions of law authorizing the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to produce a school accountability report card for each public school district, public school building, and charter school in the state. Under the act, districts and charter schools shall report certain accountability data annually to parents, community members, and the media.

The act repeals provisions of law relating to the identification of priority schools that fail to meet acceptable standards of student achievement set by the State Board of Education. The act also repeals provisions relating to the identification of attendance centers that are categorized as requiring school improvement strategies.

The act repeals the requirement for school districts and charter schools to provide their school accountability report cards to legislators by December first annually, as well as the requirement for the State Board of Education to approve the inclusion of charter school data in a school district's school accountability report card.

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION (Section 161.092)

The act provides that the State Board of Education shall identify a minimum of two national school accreditation agencies from which any district may seek to obtain accreditation. Any district accredited by at least one of these agencies shall be considered to be fully accredited for all legal purposes. A district that is accredited by one of these agencies shall not be subject to the State Board's authority to classify the public schools of the state, establish requirements for the schools of each class, and formulate rules governing the inspection and accreditation of schools.

The act repeals a provision of law enabling an accredited district to propose alternative criteria to become classified as accredited with distinction.

The act specifies that no assessment data shall be used in determining State Board classification.

OPTION DISTRICTS (163.042)

The act repeals provisions of law authorizing the designation of option districts that may forgo state aid in exchange for waivers from certain requirements related to the authority of the State Board of Education to classify school districts.

LOCAL CONTROL SCHOOL DISTRICTS (Section 163.201)

Any public school district or public charter school may become designated as a local control school district by certifying to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in writing that it intends to be designated as a local control school district pursuant to the provisions of the act.

A local control school district shall not be required to participate in the Missouri school improvement program; annual performance reviews conducted by the Department; the requirement to develop and report standards of teaching to the Department; or the maintaining of a school improvement plan in any format provided by or approved by the Department. A local control school district shall not be assigned an accreditation classification by the State Board of Education, but shall be considered as accredited for all legal purposes.

A local control school district shall further have the ability to develop and implement a local assessment system. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall not advise or incentivize the adoption of any curriculum resources, software programs, or assessments purchased from commercial vendors. Assessment items shall not be developed from materials provided to the district or teachers by entities that have not been formally reviewed and adopted by the district's board of education. Local control school districts may form a consortium without the approval of the State Board of Education for the purpose of developing, reporting, or purchasing assessments in their district assessment plans.

The act requires a local control school district to store all district data on servers secured according to industry standards. A local control school district may share only aggregated data, and not any personally identifiable information, as defined in the act, with any external parties, including public agencies and private vendors.

A local control school district may continue to receive state funding through the foundation formula. A local control school district may apply for state and federal grants and shall be considered for such grants without prejudice or penalty.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1009 - Reduces the assessment percentage of real property
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SB 1009 - Current law requires residential real property to be assessed at 19% of its true value in money. Beginning with the 2024 calendar year, this act reduces such percentage by one percent every two years through the 2030 calendar year. Beginning with the 2031 calendar year, residential real property shall be assessed at 15% of its true value in money.

This act is substantially similar to SS/SB 105 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/04/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1010 - Reauthorizes an income tax deduction for certain savings accounts
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SB 1010 - Current law authorizes an income tax deduction for one hundred percent of a participating taxpayer's contributions to a long-term dignity savings account, with such deduction scheduled to sunset on December 31, 2024. This act extends the sunset on the deduction until December 31, 2029.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1013 - Establishes the Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1013 - The act changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program". The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly.

The act provides that scholarship funds may be used to cover up to 100% of the cost of tuition, university-charged fees, and other costs directly associated with teacher preparation, as approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The number of years a student may receive a scholarship is reduced from four to two years. The number of students who may receive a scholarship is increased from 100 to 200 in the 2025-26 academic year, with 20 more students being added in each subsequent year until 2030-31 and all subsequent academic years, when 300 students may receive scholarships.

Scholarship recipients after June 30, 2025, shall sign a statement that they have made a good faith effort to secure all available federal sources of grant funding.

The act a repeals a provision that a student must have attended a Missouri high school in order to be eligible for a scholarship.

To be eligible for a scholarship, recipients shall sign an agreement to student teach at, apply for, interview for, and accept a position, if offered, in a Missouri public school that is a hard-to-staff school or to teach at least one hard-to-staff subject area in a Missouri public school, or both, for two years for every one year the recipient receives a scholarship. The act defines a "hard-to-staff school" as an attendance center where the percentage of certificated positions that were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year exceeds 5% as reported to the Department. A "hard-to-staff subject area" is defined as a content area for which positions were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year.

The scholarships provided in the act shall be available to students who have successfully completed 48 credit hours at an institution of higher education.

The act modifies the interest rate paid by scholarship recipients who do not follow through on their agreement to teach in a hard-to-staff subject or school and must therefore repay their scholarship award as a loan.

An individual who has qualified as an eligible student under the act shall continue to qualify as an eligible student as long as he or she remains employed by the school district in which he or she agreed to teach, regardless of whether his or her employing school no longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff school, the class he or she teaches longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff subject area, or his or her position within the school district changes.

This act is similar to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023) and to HCS/HB 809 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1014 - Establishes provisions relating to the compensation of public school teachers
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1014 - This act establishes provisions relating to the compensation of public school teachers.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this act increases the minimum teacher's salary from $25,000 to $38,000. For teachers with a master's degree and at least ten years of experience, this act increases the minimum salary from $33,000 to $44,000 for the 2025-26 school year and further increases such salary by $1,000 each year until the 2027-28 school year, when the minimum shall be $46,000.

By November 15th of each year, the Commissioner of Education shall present to the Joint Committee on Education information concerning the average Missouri teacher's salary, regional average salaries, and national average salaries. The Joint Committee shall, no later than January 1st of each year, recommend to the House Budget Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee the amount of money that should be appropriated in order to adequately fund public school teachers' salaries.

The act creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" and "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" for the purpose of increasing minimum teacher's salaries. The General Assembly may appropriate moneys to the Fund, provided that the total amount appropriated shall not exceed the amount necessary to assist each school district in increasing minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. For the 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 school years, each school district may apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for a grant from the Fund, provided that a grant shall not exceed 70% of the amount necessary for a district to increase minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. The remaining 30% of the amount necessary to increase minimum teacher's salaries shall be allocated from the district's local effort funding as provided in current law. These provisions shall expire on December 31, 2028.

The act repeals a provision of current law that teachers' Career Ladder responsibilities and career efforts shall be required to occur outside of compensated hours.

This act is similar to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023) and to a provision in SB 415 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1022 - Modifies the definition of weighted average daily attendance used to calculate state aid for school districts
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 1022 - This act modifies the definition of "weighted average daily attendance" as used in the education funding formula to mean the average daily attendance plus the "weighting modifier for free and reduce price lunch pupils", rather than the product of 0.25 multiplied by the free and reduced price lunch pupil count that exceeds the free and reduced price lunch threshold, plus certain other factors set forth in current law.

The act defines "weighting modifier for free and reduced price lunch pupils" as the product of the free and reduced price lunch pupil count that exceeds the free and reduced price lunch threshold multiplied by 0.30 for fiscal year 2025, by 0.35 for fiscal year 2026, by 0.40 for fiscal year 2027, by 0.45 for fiscal year 2028, and by 0.50 for fiscal year 2029 and each subsequent fiscal year.

The same modification is made in the calculation of weighted average daily attendance for special school districts.

This act is substantially similar to SB 251 (2023), SB 771 (2022), and SB 476 (2021) and is similar to SB 954 (2020).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1024 - Establishes provisions relating to classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in certain grade levels
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 1024 - This act establishes that classroom instruction relating to gender identity or sexual orientation shall not occur in kindergarten through third grade or in a manner that is not age appropriate or developmentally appropriate.

This act is identical to SB 390 (2023) and similar to HB 1752 (2022) and HB 786 (2021).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1029 - Phases out the corporate income tax
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 1029 - This act phases out the corporate income tax over a period of years beginning with the 2025 tax year. Each annual reduction in the tax rate shall be by 0.8%, and beginning with the 2029 tax year there shall be no income tax on corporate income.

This act is similar to SS/SCS/SBs 93 & 135 (2023), HB 1131 (2023), SB 701 (2022) , SB 393 (2021), and HB 2239 (2020), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023), HCS/HBs 816 & 660 (2023), and SB 18 (2022 First Extraordinary Session).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
SB1032 - Requires public schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SCS/SBs 1032 & 1081 - For the 2025-26 school year and all subsequent school years, this act requires every public school to develop and implement a cardiac emergency response plan that addresses the appropriate use of school personnel to respond to incidents involving an individual experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or a similar life-threatening emergency while on a school campus. A public school with an athletic department or organized athletic program shall also develop and implement a plan specific to life-threatening emergencies that may occur at an extracurricular event or school-sponsored event on campus.

Members of each public school's administration shall coordinate with local emergency services providers to integrate the public school's cardiac emergency response plan into the local emergency services providers' protocols. A cardiac emergency response plan shall integrate evidence-based core elements, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association guidelines, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements.

The act outlines certain guidelines that a cardiac emergency response plan shall integrate, including the establishment of a cardiac emergency response team and the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the school campus. Appropriate AED placement shall be dictated by the cardiac emergency response plan and in accordance with guidelines set by the American Heart Association, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements.

Appropriate school personnel shall be trained in first

aid, CPR, and AED use following evidence-based guidelines set

forth by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements. The school personnel required to be trained shall be determined by the cardiac emergency response plan and shall include, but not be limited to, athletics coaches, school nurses, and athletic trainers.

This act is identical to HB 1991 (2024).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/21/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1036 - Modifies a tax credit relating to certain sporting events
Sponsor: Sen. Greg Razer (D)
Summary: SCS/SB 1036 - Current law authorizes a tax credit for costs incurred relating to the conduct of amateur and collegiate sporting events. This act modifies such tax credit by requiring certified sponsors to be active members of the Sports Events and Tourism Association rather than of the National Association of Sports Commissions.

This act also removes the definition of "eligible costs" and bases the amount of the tax credit on either the number of admission tickets sold or the number of registered participants.

The act requires an applicant to submit a ticket sales or box office statement, or a list of registered participants, rather than documentation of eligible costs.

The amount of the tax credit shall be equal to either $6 for every admission ticket sold, rather than $5, or $12 for every registered participant, rather than $10. The Department of Revenue shall pay the amount of the tax credit within ninety days of the applicant's submission of a valid tax credit certificate.

This act extends the sunset on the tax credit from August 28, 2025, to August 28, 2031.

Current law also authorizes a tax credit in the amount of fifty percent of an eligible donation made to a certified sponsor or local organizing committee. This act extends the sunset on such tax credit from August 28, 2025, to August 28, 2031.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/23/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB1041 - Modifies provisions relating to benevolent tax credits
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 1041 - This act modifies provisions relating to benevolent tax credits.

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSISTANCE TAX CREDITS

Current law authorizes multiple tax credits for contributions made to and investments made for the purposes of providing physical revitalization, economic development, job training or education for individuals, community services, crime prevention, and affordable housing assistance, with such tax credits being equal to varying percentages of the contributions or investments made. This act sets each tax credit equal to 70% of the amount of such contributions or investments. (Section 32.115)

This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/SB 455 (2023), and is substantially similar to HCS/HB 1210 (2023) and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023) and HCS/HB 714 (2023).

YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION TAX CREDIT

Current law authorizes a tax credit in the amount of 50% of contributions made to certain youth programs. This act increases such tax credit to 70% of the amount of such contributions made. (Section 135.460)

This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/SB 455 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), and HCS/HB 714 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/28/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1048 - Modifies the powers of the State Auditor
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 1048 - This act modifies the authority of the State Auditor.

AUDITS BASED ON IMPROPER GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITY (Sections 29.225 and 610.021)

The act allows the State Auditor, or his or her authorized representatives, to audit all or part of any political subdivision or other governmental entity if, after an investigation of the political subdivision or governmental entity, or its officers or employees, the Auditor believes an improper governmental activity has occurred. An audit may also be conducted by the Auditor when requested by a prosecuting attorney, circuit attorney, or law enforcement agency as part of an investigation of an improper governmental activity. Records relating to reports of allegations of improper governmental activities are permitted to be closed under the Sunshine Law.

SUBPOENA POWER (Section 29.235)

Insofar as necessary to conduct an investigation, the act allows the Auditor or the Auditor's authorized representatives to have the power to subpoena witnesses, to take testimony under oath, to cause the deposition of witnesses residing within or without the state to be taken in a manner prescribed by law, and to assemble records and documents, by subpoena or otherwise. The subpoena power shall be exercised in the same manner as permitted in the course of conducting an audit under current law.

RESULTS OF AUDITS OF INSURANCE FUNDS (Section 374.250)

Current law requires the State Auditor to audit, adjust and settle all receipts and disbursements in the Insurance Dedicated Fund and the Insurance Examiners' Fund, and certain taxes certified or collected on foreign and domestic insurance premiums, surplus line premiums, and county taxes on the property owned by insurance companies in the state. This act repeals the requirement with respect to the taxes certified and collected and additionally requires the results with respect to the Insurance Dedicated Fund and the Insurance Examiners' Fund to be reported as part of the annual audit of the state's financial statements.

This act is identical to HB 2111 (2024) and substantially similar to SB 645 (2023) and HB 1175 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
03/14/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1049 - Establishes provisions relating to assessment of virtual school students
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SB 1049 - This act provides that any virtual school or program that is part of the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program may administer any statewide assessment virtually. The act outlines requirements for such virtual assessments, including the monitoring of students via a camera and the maintaining of a student-to-proctor ratio that is targeted at 10-1 or lower.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1051 - Allows the enrollment of nonresident students in public school districts
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1051 - This act establishes provisions allowing enrollment of nonresident students in public school districts and modifies provisions regarding transportation costs for certain school districts. This act is similar to SB 5 (2023).

MAGNET SCHOOLS (Section 163.161)

Under this act, any school district that operates magnet schools as part of a master desegregation settlement agreement shall not be considered inefficient for purposes of state aid for transportation of pupils attending such magnet schools and shall not receive a financial penalty for the magnet school transportation portion of the overall transportation budget. This provision is identical to provisions in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42, & 89 (2023), in SB 5 (2023), in HCS/HB 253 (2023), HB 672 (2023), and a provision in SB 1010 (2022).

PUBLIC SCHOOL OPEN ENROLLMENT ACT (Sections 167.1200 to 167.1230)

The act establishes the "Public School Open Enrollment Act" to enable students to transfer from their district of residence ("resident district") to a nonresident district. The Act shall become effective on July 1, 2025. These provisions are similar to provisions in SB 5 (2023) and to SB 1010 (2022), HCS/HB 253 (2023), HB 1814 (2022), and HS/HCS/HB 543 (2021).

TRANSFER POLICY AND PARTICIPATION (Section 167.1205)

On or before October 1st of each year, each school district and charter school shall indicate whether it will participate in the open enrollment program during the subsequent school year. Participating districts and schools may accept transferring nonresident students from any other school district. For the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years, a district may restrict the number of students who may transfer away from the school district to a maximum of 5% of the district's enrollment for the prior year. The act shall not be construed to require any school to add teachers, staff, or classrooms.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall develop a model policy for districts and charter schools to determine such standards and the number of transfers they may accept. The model policy shall be adopted by all districts and charter schools, whether or not they participate in the program, and may be modified to meet each district's or charter school's particular needs. The model policy shall require each district or charter school to define "insufficient classroom space" and may provide additional standards for evaluating transfer applications.

Nonresident districts shall accept credits toward graduation from other districts and shall award a diploma to any transferring student who meets the nonresident district's graduation requirements.

Superintendents shall cause information regarding the open enrollment program to be posted on the school district's or charter school's website and in the district's or charter school's student handbook.

A student seeking to transfer to a magnet school, an academically selective school, or a school with a competitive entrance process shall submit proof that the student meets all admission requirements.

A student may be denied transfer if, in the most recent school year, he or she has been suspended from school two or more times, was suspended for an act of school violence, or expelled for acts that school administrators are required to report to law enforcement under current law. Such student may alternatively be permitted to transfer on a provisional, probationary basis subject to no further disruptive behavior based on standards that shall be developed by the nonresident district. Students denied transfer shall have the right to an in-person meeting with the nonresident district's superintendent.

A 9th to 12th grade transfer student shall be ineligible to participate in varsity sports during the first 365 days of such student's enrollment, unless the student meets certain conditions as provided in the act. A statewide activities association may provide additional penalties if the student was unduly influenced to transfer for reasons related to participation in sports.

APPLYING FOR TRANSFER (Section 167.1210)

Students may transfer into only one nonresident district per school year. Transferring students shall commit to attending and taking all courses through the nonresident district for at least one school year, and at least one such course shall be in-seat. Students who transfer back to their resident districts shall reapply in order to transfer back into a nonresident district and shall first remain in the resident district for at least one full semester.

Siblings of transferring students may also enroll in the same nonresident district to which their sibling transfers, subject to limitations based on school capacity and the student's disciplinary record.

Except for students who qualify for reimbursement of transportation costs as described in the act and for agreements allowing such students to be picked up at an existing bus stop, transferring students or their parents shall be responsible for transportation to and from nonresident districts. By agreement with the nonresident district, parents of transferring students may waive requirements for such district to provide transportation required under the student's individualized education program.

Any student who qualifies for free and reduced price lunch and transfers to an adjacent school district or charter school shall be reimbursed quarterly by the Parent Public School Choice Fund established in this act, based on calculations described in the act.

PARENT PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICE FUNDS (Sections 167.1211 and 167.1212)

Nonresident districts shall receive reimbursement for the costs of certain special educational services for transferring students. Such reimbursement shall not exceed the district's current expenditure per average daily attendance. The reimbursement shall come from the Parent Public School Choice Fund established in the act. The Fund shall consist of an appropriation of $60 million and any subsequent appropriations. The Department shall annually evaluate the availability and use of moneys from the fund. If additional moneys are needed to fulfill the purposes of the act, the Department shall request such moneys by a specific line item appropriation.

NUMBER OF TRANSFER STUDENTS (Section 167.1215)

By October 1st annually, each school district and charter school shall set the number of transferring students such district or charter school is willing to accept for the following school year. The district or charter school may set criteria, including limits on the number of students to be accepted to particular buildings, grades, classrooms, or programs. Districts and charter schools shall publish and notify the Department of such information.

Each district and charter school shall develop a procedure for creating a waiting list for all transfer applications when applications exceed the district's or charter school's maximum. In accepting students from the waiting list, nonresident districts shall give additional priority to students in the following order: siblings of transfer students, children of active duty military personnel, children of district or charter school employees, students who previously attended school in the district or charter school as resident students, and students whose parents' employment circumstances would cause transfer to be in the student's best interest. Nonresident districts may also include other priority factors. Parents of applicants shall be informed of how the waiting list shall operate and may be required to reapply to remain on the waiting list.

APPLICATION PROCESS (Section 167.1220)

A student's transfer application shall be submitted to the nonresident and resident districts on a form approved by the Department before December 1st in the year prior to the school year in which the student seeks to transfer. Nonresident districts shall mark the date and time of receipt on each such application. Applications shall be reviewed and decided upon by the superintendent. Reasons for any rejection shall be submitted to the school board or charter school governing body for review. Rejection decisions may be finalized only by a majority vote of the board or governing body.

School boards and governing bodies of charter schools may adopt a policy granting the superintendent authority to approve transfer applications submitted after the December 1st deadline if conditions described in the act are met, including a finding of good cause. The act provides additional procedures related to the timing of late applications. Resident districts may appeal the decisions of nonresident districts for suspected violations of the late application provisions of the act. The Commissioner of Education or a three member panel selected by the Missouri Charter Public School Commission shall mediate such disputes and shall conduct a hearing if the mediation is unsuccessful. A decision shall be issued within 10 days of such hearing and may be appealed within 5 days.

The superintendents of nonresident districts shall notify the parents of transfer applicants by February 1st whether the application has been accepted or rejected. Such notice shall include, if the application is rejected, the reason for a rejection, or, if the application is accepted, an enrollment deadline and instructions for renewing the transfer enrollment.

AUTHORIZED EXEMPTIONS (Section 167.1225)

The provisions of the Public School Open Enrollment Act shall not supercede any provision of an enforceable desegregation court order or a court-approved desegregation plan. A school district may declare an exemption from the Act if the district is subject to such an order or desegregation plan, or if the district is subject to a settlement agreement to remedy past segregation. Such exemption is irrevocable for one year from the date the district gives notice to the Department. Notice of a district's exemption or intent to resume participation in open enrollment for the next school year shall be issued to the Department by April 1st.

By June 1st of each year, the Department shall report to each school district the maximum number of transfers under the Public School Open Enrollment Act for the next school year.

When students are unable to transfer due to an exemption declared by a school district due to a court order, desegregation plan, or segregation-related settlement agreement, such students shall be given priority for any transfers in the subsequent school year by the resident district in the order application notices were received from such students.

A school district with an approved or voluntary diversity plan may deny an Public School Open Enrollment Act transfer if the district determines that such transfer conflicts with such plan. Such denials shall be deemed to be made in good faith.

Students transferring to nonresident districts pursuant to provisions of current law allowing transfer if the resident district does not offer high school instruction, under the Elementary and Secondary School District Enrollment Option Act, or through the Metropolitan Schools Achieving Value in Transfer Corporation, shall not be subject to the requirements of the Open Enrollment Act. School districts participating in such programs shall also not be subject to such requirements. Students transferring pursuant to the Open Enrollment Act shall not be considered transfer students for purposes of other provisions of current law allowing transfer.

APPEAL PROCEDURE (Section 167.1230)

Transfer applicants who are rejected may file an appeal with the Department or a three member panel selected by the Missouri Charter Public School Commission. The appeal shall be sent in writing within 10 business days after the student or the student's parent receives notice of rejection. A copy shall also be sent to the superintendent of the nonresident district where the applicant seeks to transfer. The appeal shall state the basis for appeal, shall include a copy of the notice of rejection, and may include documentation to show that transfer would be in the student's best interest. The nonresident district may submit additional documentation or arguments supporting the rejection decision to the Department or the three member panel, and shall submit copies of any such response to the student or student's parent, no later than 10 days after receiving a copy of the appeal. The Department or the three member panel shall notify the parent, nonresident district, and resident district of the basis for the Department's or panel's decision if it overturns the rejection.

The Department shall collect data from school districts and each charter school sponsor shall collect data from each sponsored charter school on the number of applications made under the act to study its effects. The Department shall consider the maximum number of transfers and exemptions for up to two years to determine whether a significant racially segregative impact has occurred in any district. Before October 1st of each year, the Department and each charter school sponsor shall report its findings to the Joint Committee on Education, the House Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education, the Senate Committee on Education, and any other education committee designated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives or the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/21/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1056 - Increases the maximum gross income for eligibility for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1056 - This act increases the maximum gross income for eligibility for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant from $80,000 to $100,000 for taxpayers who are married filing jointly and from $40,000 to $50,000 for all other taxpayers, adjusted annually based on inflation.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1057 - Modifies provisions relating to youth employment
Sponsor: Sen. Nick Schroer (R)
Summary: SB 1057 - This act repeals various provisions relating to youth work certificates. Two new provisions are created to provide that no department, agency, entity, or political subdivision of the state may require, by rule or practice, that a child under 18 years of age be issued a work certificate of employment, entertainment work permit, or any other written authorization issued by a government entity as a condition of employment. Additionally, an employer shall not be required to obtain such a certificate or permit from a child under 18 years of age as a condition of employment. However, employers are required to receive signed permission slips from the parent, legal custodian, guardian, or designated guardian, in formats prescribed by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, in order to employ a child between 14 and 16 years of age who is otherwise eligible to be employed.

This act shall not be construed to authorize a child to be absent from school in violation of the requirements of state law or regulations or policies of the State Board of Education, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or a local school board. Additionally, nothing in this act shall be construed to preclude the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations from issuing a work certificate as evidence of age upon the request of a child who represents to be under 18 years of age or an employer who wishes to employ a child who represents to be under 18 years of age.

Additional new provisions are created, substantially replicating current law, regulating the manner in which a child may be employed in the entertainment industry, as that term is defined in the act.

This act is identical to SCS/SB 175 (2023) and similar to SCS/SB 809 (2022).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1059 - Establishes the Missouri Education Intervention Task Force
Sponsor: Sen. Nick Schroer (R)
Summary: SB 1059 - This act establishes the Missouri Education Intervention Task Force for the purpose of providing academic and financial oversight to help districts in need, as such term is defined in the act, ensure that students achieve academic success.

Each year the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall provide to the Governor a list of the ten school districts that achieved the lowest scores on the annual performance report for the immediately preceding school year. The Governor may designate any of these school districts as districts in need. All districts in need shall be placed under the governance of the task force established in the act.

The task force shall consist of five members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The act describes the qualifications of task force members and terms of office. Task force members and their staff shall be compensated subject to appropriations.

The Governor may cause the termination of the designation of a school district as a district in need at any time upon a determination that the task force has accomplished the purposes for which it was established and is no longer needed to govern such district. The Governor may cause the reestablishment of a district in need at any time upon a determination that it is necessary for a district in need to be reestablished. The termination or reestablishment of a district in need shall become effective thirty days following such determination.

The act outlines the responsibilities and powers of the task force in each district in need, including creating an academic accountability plan; overseeing all employment decisions involving teachers and administrators; and overseeing the use of state funds.

The task force shall develop a comprehensive school improvement plan and establish student performance standards consistent with the standards established by the State Board of Education.

All students in the district in need who do not achieve grade-level standards shall be required to attend summer school, and no student shall be promoted to a higher grade level unless that student has a reading ability at or above one grade level below the student's grade level, except that these provisions shall not apply to students who receive special educational services.

The task force shall develop, implement, and annually update a professional development plan for teachers and other support staff.

To the extent practicable, the task force shall ensure that per-pupil expenditures and pupil-teacher ratios shall be the same for all schools serving students at a given grade level in the same district in need.

The task force shall ensure that early childhood education and vocational education instruction are provided throughout the district in need.

The task force shall establish an accountability officer whose duty shall be to ensure that academically deficient schools within the district in need are raised to acceptable condition within two years.

The task force shall not take any action in violation of state or federal law, or recommend that districts in need take any action in violation of state or federal law.

The task force shall compile an annual report of its activities for submission to the Governor and the General Assembly. The report shall identify patterns and commonalities among districts in need that have a detrimental impact on students' academic achievement, and shall include any recommendations the task force may have for legislative action.

Finally, the act provides that a district in need shall not spend or transfer any state funds without prior authorization from the task force. The act outlines the process for a district in need to apply for permission to use state funds and the process for the task force to approve or deny any such request. Neither the task force nor a district in need shall be authorized to spend or transfer state funds in violation of state or federal law.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1060 - Modifies provisions relating to tax credits
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1060 - This act modifies provisions relating to tax credits.

CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN TAX CREDIT

Current law authorizes a tax credit for contributions made to CASAs, child advocacy centers, and crisis care centers, as such terms are defined in the act, with such tax credit equal to fifty percent of the contribution. For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2024, this act increases the tax credit to seventy percent of the contribution.

Additionally, the current maximum amount of tax credits that may be authorized for contributions made to qualified agencies shall not exceed $1.5 million. For all fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2024, this act provides that the amount of tax credits that may be authorized by the act in a fiscal year shall not be limited.

This act changes the sunset date from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Section 135.341)

This provision is identical to SB 662 (2023) and HB 1343 (2023).

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING RECRUITMENT ACT

This act establishes the "Missouri Advanced Manufacturing Recruitment Act".

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a tax credit for qualified manufacturing capital investments made in this state by qualified manufacturing companies, as defined in the act. The tax credit shall not exceed twenty percent of such investment, and shall not exceed the least amount necessary to obtain the qualified manufacturing company's commitment to initiate the project. A qualified manufacturing capital investment is defined as an expenditure on property that is depreciable pursuant to federal law. To be eligible for the tax credit, a qualified manufacturing company shall make a qualified manufacturing capital investment of at least $1 billion and create at least 500 new jobs.

Tax credits authorized pursuant to this act shall be refundable and may be transferred, sold, or assigned. The total amount of tax credits authorized pursuant to this act in any given calendar year shall not exceed $200 million.

Qualified manufacturing companies that are awarded tax credits pursuant to the act shall receive such tax credits in four separate equal installments, with each installment awarded for each quarter of the total qualified manufacturing capital investment made.

Qualified manufacturing companies shall apply to the Department of Economic Development to receive tax credits. Upon approval of a notice of intent, the qualified manufacturing company and the Department shall enter into an agreement specifying the number of new jobs, payroll, and new qualified manufacturing capital investment for each year during the project period; clawback provisions, as described in the act; and any other provisions required by the Department.

In evaluating an application for tax credits, the Department shall consider the significance of the qualified manufacturing company's need for tax credits; the amount of projected economic impact to the state; the size and quality of the proposed project; the financial stability and creditworthiness of the qualified manufacturing company; the level of economic distress in the area; and the competitiveness of alternative locations for the project.

Upon entering into an agreement with the Department, a qualified manufacturing company shall have three years to make twenty-five percent of the qualified manufacturing capital investment. If such investment is not made, the agreement shall be void.

The Department shall verify with applicable state agencies that a qualified manufacturing company does not owe any delinquent income, sales, or use tax or interest or penalties on such taxes, or any delinquent fees or assessments levied by any other state agency. Tax credits issued to a qualified manufacturing company shall offset any such delinquencies and penalties, as described in the act.

The Department shall submit quarterly reports to the General Assembly detailing tax credits approved pursuant to the act.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Section 620.040)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1061 - Creates new provisions relating to public contracts
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1061 - Under this act, public entities are prohibited from entering into certain contracts with a company unless the contract includes a written certification that the company is not currently engaged in, and agrees for the duration of the contract not to engage in, any kind of economic boycott, as that term is defined in the act. Any contract failing to comply with the provisions of this act shall be void against public policy.

This act does not apply to contracts with a total potential value of less than $100,000 or to contractors with fewer than 10 employees.

This act is identical to SB 377 (2023) and substantially similar to SB 430 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Governmental Accountability
SB1062 - Exempts the sale of food from sales tax
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1062 - Current law taxes retail sales of food, as defined in current law, at a rate of one percent. This act provides that retail sales of food shall be exempt from state sales taxes.

This provision is identical to SCS/SB 161 (2023) and to a provision in SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), and is substantially similar to HB 260 (2023), HB 452 (2023), HB 591 (2023), HB 896 (2023), HCS#2/HB 1992 (2022), HB 1817 (2022), and HB 2530 (2022), and to a provision in HB 377 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), HB 1136 (2023), HB 1779 (2022), and HB 2249 (2022).

This act also provides that, beginning on January 1, 2025, local sales taxes imposed on food shall annually be reduced in four equal increments over a period of four years. Beginning January 1, 2029, there shall be no local sales taxes imposed on food.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/25/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1065 - Establishes the Career-Tech Certificate Program Fund to reimburse certain students' tuition, books, and fees to certain postsecondary training programs and programs of study
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 1065 - This act establishes the "Career-Tech Certificate (CTC) Program" and the "Career-Tech Certificate (CTC) Program Fund" to reimburse the costs of eligible students' tuition, books, and fees to certain approved institutions, such as two-year community colleges and technical schools, that offer training programs or eligible programs of study.

The act defines an "eligible student" as a student who meets the eligibility requirements for the A+ Schools Program under current law, provided that such student has not received reimbursement for tuition, books, or fees under the A+ Schools Program.

A "training program" is defined as a program of study that leads to a certificate or degree that does not meet the length-of-program requirements for an eligible program under federal regulations regarding federal grants and loans for postsecondary students. Training programs include but are not limited to certified nurse assistant programs, certified medication technician programs, and commercial driver's license programs.

An "eligible program of study" is a program of instruction that results in the award of a certificate or credential below the graduate level in an area of occupational shortage, as determined annually by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education. The length of an eligible program of study shall not exceed the equivalent of 60 credit hours.

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year and all subsequent years, the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development shall establish a procedure to reimburse the costs of tuition, books, and fees from the CTC Program Fund to the approved institution at which an eligible student is enrolled in an eligible program of study or a training program. Tuition reimbursements shall not exceed the tuition rate charged by a public community college for coursework offered by a two-year private vocational or technical school, virtual institution, or eligible training provider. Tuition reimbursements shall not be provided to an eligible student who enrolls in a private school or training provider if a public community college or vocational or technical school located within a 40-mile radius of such student's domicile offers the same or a substantially similar eligible program of study or training program.

Eligibility for reimbursements under the act shall expire upon the earliest of (a) the approved institution's receipt of the reimbursement for the required length of the eligible program of study or training program, (b) a student's successful completion of an eligible program of study or training program, or (c) a student's completion of 150% of the time usually required to complete an eligible program of study or training program.

The Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development shall establish by rule procedures for the reimbursement of tuition, books, and fees to all approved institutions, provided that no rule established shall prohibit students from qualifying for tuition reimbursement solely because such student's program of study or training program does not meet the length-of-program requirements for federal financial aid or does not participate in federal student aid programs.

This act is similar to HB 76 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1068 - Establishes provisions relating to school board information submitted to election authorities and the Secretary of State
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SB 1068 - This act provides that certain school districts shall submit to the election authority having jurisdiction over the area in which the majority of such school district is located a report containing information including the names of school board members, the length and expiration date of the term of each school board member, and a hyperlink to a publicly accessible webpage on the school district's website outlining the process that a person may follow to file as a candidate for election to the school board. Such information shall be provided to the election authority before June first immediately following a municipal election for members of the school board. Before July first, the election authority shall report this information to the Secretary of State. Additionally, each school district shall report to the election authority information about any resignation, removal, or death of a school board member and a change or appointment made to fill a vacancy on the school board. The election authority shall report such information to the Secretary of State within 30 days of receipt. The Secretary of State shall post on its website a list containing all information received from election authorities under the act before August first of each year.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1072 - Reauthorizes the Big Government Get Off My Back Act
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 1072 - This act reauthorizes the "Big Government Get Off My Back Act".

This act requires that the state of Missouri shall not increase any user fees for a five-year period beginning August 28, 2024, unless the fee increase is to implement a federal program administered by the state or is a result of an act by the General Assembly.

For a five-year period beginning August 28, 2024, any state agency proposing a rule not required by the federal government or the general assembly shall certify that the rule does not have an adverse impact on small businesses, that is it is necessary to protect the life, health, or safety of the public, or that it exempts small businesses from such rule, as described in the act.

This act is substantially similar to HB 1639 (2016) and to a provision in HCS/SB 18 (2017) and SCS/SB 183 (2017), and is similar to HB 32 (2015) and SB 459 (2015).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SB1079 - Modifies provisions relating to ballot language for certain debt service tax levies
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SB 1079 - For elections in which the board of education of a school district submits to the voters a question whether to issue additional bonds that do not result in an increase to the current debt service property tax levy, this act requires the ballot language for such question to include language that indicates that if the proposition is not approved, the current debt service levy shall be reduced upon the retirement of outstanding bonds, as described in the act.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/05/2024 
S - Removed from Senate Hearing Agenda - Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children - 2/6/24 - 8:00 am - Senate Lounge
SB1080 - Modifies terms used in the elementary and secondary school funding formula
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1080 - Currently, in calculating the current operating expenditures of a public school district, the calculated amount is annually recalculated by adding certain increases in funding from the school funding formula but not to exceed five percent per recalculation. This act increases such percentage to ten percent. Further, current law requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to recalculate the state adequacy target for certain school districts as used in the school funding formula every two years using the most current available data. This act provides that any increases in average daily attendance over ten percent, per recalculation, shall not be included in the calculation of the state adequacy target.

This act also modifies the definition of "weighted average daily attendance" as used in the public school funding formula by multiplying .25 by the higher of the current law definition of free and reduced price lunch pupil count that exceeds the free and reduced price lunch threshold or the Census Bureau poverty pupil count, as defined in the act.

This act is identical to SB 17 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1081 - Requires public schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1081 - For the 2025-26 school year and all subsequent school years, this act requires every public school to develop and implement a cardiac emergency response plan that addresses the appropriate use of school personnel to respond to incidents involving an individual experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or a similar life-threatening emergency while on a school campus. A public school with an athletic department or organized athletic program shall also develop and implement a plan specific to life-threatening emergencies that may occur at an extracurricular event or school-sponsored event on campus.

Members of each public school's administration shall coordinate with local emergency services providers to integrate the public school's cardiac emergency response plan into the local emergency services providers' protocols. A cardiac emergency response plan shall integrate evidence-based core elements, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association guidelines, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements.

The act outlines certain guidelines that a cardiac emergency response plan shall integrate, including the establishment of a cardiac emergency response team and the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the school campus. Appropriate AED placement shall be dictated by the cardiac emergency response plan and in accordance with guidelines set by the American Heart Association, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements.

Appropriate school personnel shall be trained in first aid, CPR, and AED use following evidence-based guidelines set forth by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Project ADAM, or another set of nationally recognized, evidence-based standard or core elements. The school personnel required to be trained shall be determined by the cardiac emergency response plan and shall include, but not be limited to, athletics coaches, school nurses, and athletic trainers.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/06/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1082 - Allows students to attend multiple public summer school programs non-concurrently
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1082 - Under current law, no pupil shall attend summer school classes in more than one school district during any one summer. This act modifies such restriction to apply only when attendance occurs in more than one school district concurrently.

This act is identical to SB 246 (2023), SB 661 (2022), and SB 166 (2021) and is similar to a provision in HCS/SCS/SB 982 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1084 - Creates provisions requiring filtering of obscene websites
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 1084 - The act creates the "Protect Young Minds Online Act".

Under this act, when entering into an agreement with Missouri subscribers, an internet service provider shall offer subscribers the ability to filter obscene websites. Such filtering system is described in the act. Opting in or out of the filtering system shall be a prerequisite to receiving internet service for new subscribers of internet service providers. On an annual basis, such subscribers shall be given an opportunity to opt in or out in the filtering system as described in the act.

An internet service provider shall not be in violation of this act if the provider makes a good faith effort to apply a generally accepted and commercially reasonable method of compliance under the act.

The Attorney General may seek injunctive and other equitable relief against an internet service provider that fails to comply with the provisions under the act.

The act is identical to SB 308 (2023).

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB1085 - Creates new provisions relating to COVID-19 vaccination requirements
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 1085 - This act creates various new provisions relating to COVID-19 vaccination mandates.

PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS (Section 67.308)

This act modifies the current law prohibiting political subdivisions from requiring a COVID-19 vaccination to access transportation systems, services, or public accommodations. Under this act, no public or private entity receiving public funds or any other public accommodation shall require documentation of a COVID-19 vaccination to access transportation systems, facilities, services, or public accommodations, as defined in the act.

K-12 STUDENTS (Section 167.181)

No student shall be required, as a condition of school attendance or participation in school-sponsored extracurricular activities, to be immunized against COVID-19 or to undergo any testing policy as an alternative to a COVID-19 vaccination. No public institution of higher education shall require a COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 diagnostic testing for a student to access facilities, services, or activities, including in-class attendance. This provision expires December 31, 2029.

PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION (Section 174.336)

The act prohibits public institutions of higher education from requiring a COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 diagnostic testing in order for a student to access facilities, services, or activities, including in-class attendance. This provision expires on December 31, 2029.

CHILD CARE CENTERS (Section 210.003)

No child attending any day care center, pre-school, or nursery school shall be required to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of attendance until December 31, 2029.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR EMPLOYEES (Section 213.055)

The act makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer to require employees to receive a COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of employment without permitting employees to be exempted for religious, moral, ethical, or philosophical beliefs or for medical reasons, including pregnancy, or previous exposure to and recovery from COVID-19. The employer shall not require the employee to provide any explanations or proof regarding his or her religious, moral, ethical, or philosophical beliefs or medical conditions relating to requesting the vaccination exemption. a The Commission on Human Rights shall develop and make available to employers and employees a form that employees may use to request an exemption. No employer shall require an employee to undergo testing as an alternative to a COVID-19 vaccination. This provision expires December 31, 2029.

This act contains an emergency clause.

This act is identical to SB 201 (2023) and SCS/SBs 702, 636, 651, & 693 (2022).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB1086 - Modifies provisions relating to personal property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SB 1086 - Current law requires that personal property be assessed at 33.3% of its true value in money. This act requires political subdivisions to annually reduce such percentage such that the amount by which the revenue generated by taxes levied on such personal property is reduced is substantially equal to one hundred percent of the growth in revenue generated by real property assessment growth, as defined in the act. Annual reductions shall be made until December 31, 2073. Thereafter, the percentage of true value in money at which personal property is assessed shall be equal to the percentage in effect on December 31, 2073.

Subject to appropriations, a political subdivision that receives less than the allowable amount of total real and personal property tax revenues shall be eligible for reimbursement from the state in an amount equal to the amount by which such revenues are below the allowable amount.

This act is substantially similar to SS/SCS/SB 8 (2023) and SB 493 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), as amended, HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1091 - Modifies provisions relating to sales taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 1091 - This act modifies provisions relating to sales taxes.

COUNTY SALES TAX ACT

Current law limits the aggregate amount of sales tax levied by a county pursuant to the County Sales Tax Act to 1%. This act increases such limit to 1.5%, and provides that any sales tax levy approved during the November 8, 2022, general election shall be deemed to be in compliance with state law if the aggregate amount of sales tax levied pursuant to the County Sales Tax Act is not in excess of 1.5%. (Section 67.547)

LAW ENFORCEMENT SALES TAX

Current law authorizes certain counties to levy a sales tax for the purpose of providing law enforcement services to such county, with the rate not to exceed 0.5%. This act authorizes such levy not to exceed 1%. (Section 67.582)

These provisions are identical to SB 550 (2023) and HB 872 (2023).

HOSPITAL SALES TAX

This act authorizes Bates County to impose a sales tax not to exceed 1% for the purposes of supporting the operations of hospital services in the county. (Section 67.597)

This provision is identical to HB 2731 (2024).

PUBLIC SAFETY SALES TAX

This act adds the cities of Hannibal and Moberly to the list of cities authorized to levy a sales tax for public safety. (Section 94.900)

This provision is identical to HB 2290 (2024).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1099 - Establishes the "Cronkite New Voices Act" to protect the freedom of press in school-sponsored media
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 1099 - This act establishes the "Cronkite New Voices Act", which provides that in both public high schools and public institutions of higher education, a student journalist, as defined in the act, has the right to exercise freedom of speech and of the press in school-sponsored media.

In school districts, the district and student-media advisors may regulate the number, length, frequency, and format of school sponsored media. School districts shall not engage in prior restraint of school-sponsored media except in the circumstances described in the act.

Student journalists shall be responsible for determining the content of school-sponsored media, while student-media advisors are responsible for teaching and encouraging expression and the standards of English and journalism. No student-media advisor shall be subject to disciplinary actions described in the act for refusal to abridge or infringe upon freedom of expression.

No exercise of the rights provided under this act shall be deemed an expression of school policy or the basis for liability of the school district, institution of higher education, or the employees of such entities, except to the extent such an entity or person actively participated. School districts and their employees may also be liable in such actions if they knew of the conduct and failed to take timely action. Student journalists in school districts who are not minors may be liable for criminal or civil actions based on material for which they were responsible or involved.

School districts shall adopt a written freedom of the press policy that includes reasonable provisions for the time, place, and manner of student expression. The policy may also restrict speech that is offensive, threatening, or that fits other similar descriptions provided in the act.

This act is identical to SB 440 (2023), SB 855 (2022), SB 434 (2021), HB 480 (2021), SB 923 (2020), HCS/HBs 743 & 673 (2019), and HB 1940 (2018), and is substantially similar to HB 1668 (2022), HB 2317 (2020) and HCS/HB 576 (2019).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/28/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
SB1103 - Requires certain topics in Native American and African American history to be included in the seventh through twelfth grade history curriculum in public schools
Sponsor: Sen. Angela Mosley (D)
Summary: SB 1103 - This act modifies provisions of current law prohibiting the State Board of Education from mandating the curriculum, textbooks, or other instructional materials to be used in public schools. Under this act, the Board shall require that the history curriculum taught in the 7th through 12th grades include certain topics relating to Native American and African American history, as described in the act.

This act is identical to SB 273 (2023) and SB 950 (2022) and substantially similar to HB 66 (2023) and HB 1776 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1104 - Modifies provisions relating to special administrative boards for unaccredited school districts
Sponsor: Sen. Angela Mosley (D)
Summary: SB 1104 - Under this act, upon classification of a school district as unaccredited, the State Board of Education may suspend the governing or managing authority of the elected school board members of the unaccredited district and take actions relating to special administrative boards as set forth in the act.

Current law states that a special administrative board for a school district shall have no fewer than 5 members. Under this act, such board shall have 7 members, 4 of whom shall be residents of the district. Each member of the board shall serve for 3 years, and the qualifications of the members are listed in the act.

The special administrative board shall meet at least once per month and each member shall receive a salary of $500 a month.

Within 15 days after the vote to appoint a member to the special administrative board, if a member of the Missouri House of Representatives whose district touches the school district, in whole or in part, submits a request to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, the appointment shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

The members of the district's elected school board shall be ex-officio non-voting members of the special administrative board. The act repeals a provision allowing the State Board of Education to appoint members of the district's elected board to the special administrative board.

Upon failure of the school district to be classified as provisionally or fully accredited for at least two successive academic years, the State Board of Education shall require the special administrative board to establish a specific plan and timeline for achieving accreditation and require the special administrative board to appoint a new superintendent of the school district every 3 years.

A special administrative board may be extended for no more than 3 years after its expiration date by the State Board of Education. Governance of the school district shall be returned to the elected school board upon the expiration of the authority of the special administrative board.

The act repeals a provision of law that allows the State Board of Education to appoint additional members to any special administrative board and set final terms of office for members of such board. Finally, no later than 6 full school years following appointment of the special administrative board, any district operating under the governance of a special administrative board shall return to local governance.

This act is identical to SB 272 (2023), SB 951 (2022), and HB 1774 (2022) and similar to HB 63 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1111 - Modifies provisions relating to the regulation of child care
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SS/SB 1111 - Beginning August 28, 2025, it shall be unlawful for any person to establish, maintain, or operate a prescribed pediatric extended care facility without a license issued by the Department of Health and Senior Services. A "prescribed pediatric extended care facility" is defined as a facility providing medically necessary multidisciplinary services to children under 6 years of age with complex medical needs requiring continuous skilled nursing intervention of at least 4 hours a day under a physician's order. Multidisciplinary services may include skilled nursing, personal care, nutritional assessment, developmental assessment, and speech, physical, and occupational therapy. Prescribed pediatric extended care facilities shall also be licensed child care providers under state law.

This act sets forth the Department's authority to issue, suspend, or revoke such licenses, as well as conduct inspections and investigations and to promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this act.

Prescribed pediatric extended care facilities with caregiver staffing ratios of one licensed nurse present for every child present; hospitals, sanitariums, or homes operated for medical treatment or nursing or convalescent care for children; and certain programs licensed by the Department of Mental Health shall not be required to be licensed under this act.

Under current law, any program licensed as a child care provider that provides child care to school-age children located and operated on elementary or secondary school property shall be deemed in compliance with child care licensure requirements relating to safety, health, and fire. This act expands this provision to apply to all licensed programs providing child care to only school-age children, regardless of where such program is located and operated. "School-age children" is defined as any child five years of age or older who is in kindergarten or above. The act further exempt any program serving only children enrolled in sixth grade or above from certain child-care facility licensing requirements.

This provision is identical to SCS/SB 899 (2024).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
04/16/2024 
H - Public hearing completed
SB1113 - Modifies provisions relating to fiduciary duties for investments of public employee retirement systems
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1113 - This act modifies provisions relating to duties of fiduciaries for public employee retirement systems. Specifically, investment fiduciaries are required to:

· Not consider environmental, social, or governance characteristics in a manner that would override his or her fiduciary duties;

· Not be subject to any legislative, regulatory, or other mandates to invest with environmentally, socially, or other noneconomically motivated influence unless the mandates are consistent with the fiduciary's responsibility or as provided in the system's governing statutes, ordinances, charter, or documents with respect to the investment of system assets or other duties imposed by law relating to the investment, management, deposit, or custody of system assets; and

· Not be subject to any legislative, regulatory, or other mandates for divestment from any indirect holdings in actively or passively managed investment funds or in private assets.

All shares of common stock held directly by a retirement system shall be voted solely in the economic interest of participants of the system. Voting shares for the purposes of furthering noneconomic environmental, social, political, ideological, or other goals is prohibited. The act creates provisions on proxy voting for such purposes.

This act is substantially similar to HB 769 (2023) and provisions in HCS/HB 863 (2023).

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
02/28/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1118 - Modifies provisions relating to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1118 - This act modifies the definition of "qualified student" in the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program by repealing provisions requiring such student to live in a charter county or a city with at least 30,000 inhabitants and to either have an individualized education plan or be a member of a household whose total annual income does not exceed 200% of the income standard used to qualify for free and reduced-price lunch.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1119 - Authorizes sales tax exemptions for certain purchases
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1119 - This act modifies provisions relating to sales tax exemptions.

DIAPERS SALES TAX EXEMPTION

This act authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers, as defined in the act.

This provision is identical to HB 290 (2023), SB 1124 (2022), and HB 2384 (2022), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SBs 73 & 162 (2023), SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), and SS#2/SCS/SB 649 (2022), and is substantially similar to HB 351 (2023), HB 744 (2023), and HCS/HBs 1679, 2859, & 2272 (2022), and to a provision in SCS/SB 184 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), and HB 1136 (2023).

FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCT SALES TAX EXEMPTION

This act also provides a sales tax exemption for all purchases of feminine hygiene products, defined as tampons, pads, liners, and cups.

This provision is identical to SB 433 (2023) and SB 897 (2022), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SBs 73 & 162 (2023) and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), is substantially similar to HB 351 (2023) and HCS/HBs 1679 (2022), 2859, & 2272 (2022), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), and HB 1136 (2023), and is similar to SB 800 (2020), HCS/HBs 1306 & 2065 (2020), SB 443 (2019), and HB 747 (2019), and to a provision contained in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 570 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1123 - Modifies provisions relating to charter schools
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SB 1123 - Under this act, charter schools may be operated in any school district located within a charter county as well as in any municipality with a population greater than 30,000.

Procedures relating to changes in a school district's accreditation status that affect charter schools are repealed under this act.

Under this act, St. Louis City shall not adopt, enforce, impose, or administer an ordinance, local policy, or local resolution that prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful education purpose by a charter school.

St. Louis City may not impose, enforce, or apply any deed restriction that expressly, or by its operation, prohibits property sold, leased, or transferred by the city from being used for any lawful educational purpose by a charter school.

If St. Louis City offers property of the city for sale, lease, or rent, St. Louis shall not refuse to sell, lease, or rent to a charter school solely because the charter school intends to use the property for an educational purpose.

Any deeds that have been executed and recorded prior to the effective date of this act shall be exempt from this provision.

This act is identical to SB 304 (2023) and similar to HB 158 (2023), identical to SB 650 (2022), substantially similar to HB 2087 (2022), and similar to provisions in SCS/SB 55, 25, & 23 (2021), provisions in HB 729 (2021), provisions in SCS/SB 603 (2020), provisions in SB 649 (2020), and provisions in HB 1917 (2020).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1127 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for certain vitamins
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 1127 - This act authorizes a sales tax exemption for all sales of vitamins or minerals used to support prenatal and menstrual phases.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/11/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1129 - Provides a sales tax exemption for the production of electricity
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 1129 - This act creates a state sales tax exemption for utilities, equipment, and materials used to generate or transmit electricity.

This act is identical to SB 300 (2023), SB 246 (2021), SB 757 (2020), SB 467 (2019), HB 64 (2017), SB 784 (2016), SB 480 (2015), and HB 693 (2015), is substantially similar to a provision in HCS/SB 247 (2023), HCS/SB 275 (2023), as amended, and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), and is similar to HB 1511 (2018), HB 2255 (2014), and to a provision in CCS/HCS/SB 584 (2014).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB1130 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for boat docks
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 1130 - This act authorizes a sales tax exemption for boat dock rentals or leases thereof.

This act is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/SB 513 (2023), and SCS/HCS/HB 713 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1131 - Modifies provisions relating to the taxation of pass-through entities
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 1131 - Current law provides for an alternative method for the taxation of the income of pass-through entities, and provides for a compensatory tax credit against income taxes due pursuant to other methods of taxation. This act applies such provisions to fiduciaries.

This act also allows a designated affected business entity representative to sign the form electing to be taxed pursuant to the alternative method of taxation.

This act is identical to SB 696 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/23/2024 
S - Removed from Senate Hearing Agenda - Senate-Economic Development and Tax Policy - 2/26/24 - 2:00 pm - Senate Lounge
SB1134 - Modifies provisions relating to ethics
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1134 - This act modifies provisions relating to campaign finance.

LATE FEES ON CAMPAIGN FINANCE DISCLOSURE REPORTS (Section 105.963)

Under current law, the executive director of the Missouri Ethics Commission is required to charge late fees of $100 per day for candidate committees and $10 per day for continuing committees, campaign committees, and political party committees for campaign finance reports required to be filed 8 days prior to an election. This act requires all committees to be charged $100 per day in late fees for such reports. All other campaign finance reports will be charged a $20 per day late fee, rather than $10 per day as required by current law. Such fees shall be increased based on the increase in the cost of living, as provided in the act.

The act additionally allows the executive director of the MEC to notify the candidate or treasurer of a committee by any means, rather than just registered mail, if the committee has failed to file any campaign finance report required by Missouri law.

INVESTMENTS IN MUTUAL FUNDS (Sections 130.021 and 130.034)

Current law limits how funds held in committees may be invested. This act permits certain committees to invest in mutual funds.

ITEMIZED EXPENDITURE REPORTING (Section 130.041)

Current law requires expenditures of $100 or less to be itemized on a disclosure report filed with the Missouri Ethics Commission. This act raises the threshold for this requirement to $200 or less and provides for an increase based on the increase in the cost of living, as provided in the act.

LATE FILING FEES (Section 130.056)

The act raises the fine for filing any disclosure report late from $10 to $20 and provides for an increase based on the increase in the cost of living, as provided in the act.

CONTRIBUTIONS BY FOREIGN LLCs (Section 347.163)

Under this act, a foreign limited liability company is not considered to be transacting business in this state by reason of making a campaign contribution to any political committee.

This act is identical to certain provisions in SCS/SB 238 (2023) and HCS/SS/SB 378 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
04/16/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1143 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 1143 - This act modifies several provisions relating to taxation.

INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act reduces the top rate of tax by 0.17%. Such reduction in the top rate of tax shall only occur if one or more institutions is subject to the tax on the endowments of higher education institutions imposed under this act. (Section 143.011)

HIGHER EDUCATION ENDOWMENT TAX

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act imposes a tax on the endowments of qualifying institutions of higher education at a rate of 1.9% of the aggregate fair market value of the assets of such endowments. The tax shall apply to the endowments, as defined in the act, of higher education institutions that 1) are affiliated with, or provide medical faculty to, any abortion facility, 2) offer specific medical residencies or fellowships that offer training in performing or inducing abortions, or 3) support in any manner any abortion facility where abortions are performed or induced when not necessary to save the life of the mother. Any institution that becomes a qualifying institution of higher education on or after January 1, 2025, shall remain subject to the tax imposed by the act regardless of whether such institution no longer meets the definition of qualifying institution of higher education as defined in the act.

All revenues generated by the endowment tax shall be deposited in the General Revenue Fund. (Section 146.200)

This act is identical to SB 290 (2023), SB 892 (2022), HB 1874 (2022), SB 451 (2021), and HB 302 (2021), and is substantially similar to HB 1332 (2023), SCS/SB 574 (2020), and SCS/SB 188 (2019).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SB1149 - Modifies provisions relating to delinquent property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 1149 - Current law authorizes the governing body of a county to provide for the payment of all or any part of current and delinquent real property taxes, in such installments and on such terms as the governing body deems appropriate. This act provides that such terms may included a compromised amount of delinquent property taxes.

This act also provides that no tract or parcel of land on which delinquent taxes are due shall be subject to sale to discharge a lien for the delinquent and unpaid taxes if the owner of such tract or parcel has entered into an installment agreement.

This act is identical to SB 468 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Progress and Development
SB1153 - Requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to conduct safety assessments of all public schools in the state
Sponsor: Sen. Angela Mosley (D)
Summary: SCS/SB 1153 - This act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to conduct safety assessments of all public schools in the state. The Department of Public Safety shall assist DESE in implementing the provisions of the act. The safety assessments shall include a consideration of each school's vulnerabilities to school shootings and intruders, with specific reference to the implementation of various safety procedures, policies, and tools specified in the act. Based upon the findings of the safety assessments, DESE shall provide each school a report that summarizes each school's safety vulnerabilities, along with recommendations for mitigating such vulnerabilities.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1154 - Creates the "Missouri School Meals Act"
Sponsor: Sen. Angela Mosley (D)
Summary: SB 1154 - This act establishes the "Missouri School Meals Act". Under the act, schools shall provide a free lunch to students who qualify for reduced-price lunch under the National School Lunch Program. Subject to appropriation, the State Board of Education shall reimburse schools for their share of the cost of providing free lunches to students who qualify for reduced-price lunch.

A school shall determine which students may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program and shall provide information and assistance to parents and guardians for purposes of filling out applications for such Program. Schools shall not publicly identify or stigmatize students who are eligible for such assistance.

This act creates the "School Meals Fund", which shall be used to reimburse schools for the costs of providing free lunches to students who qualify for reduced-price lunch under the National School Lunch Program. The State Board of Education shall promulgate rules to implement the program, including the process by which schools may apply for reimbursement.

This act is similar to SB 321 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1163 - Establishes provisions relating to teacher recruitment and retention and creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" and the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program"
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1163 - This act establishes provisions relating to teacher recruitment and retention. The act creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" and changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program." This act is similar to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

MINIMUM TEACHER'S SALARY (Section 163.172)

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, this act increases the minimum teacher's salary from $25,000 to $38,000.

For teachers with a master's degree and at least ten years of experience, this act increases the minimum salary from $33,000 to $44,000 for the 2025-26 school year and further increases such salary by $1,000 each year until the 2029-2030 school year, when the minimum shall be $48,000. In the 2026-27 school year and in all subsequent school years, such minimum salary shall additionally be adjusted annually by the percentage increase in inflation, as such term is defined in the act. The State Board of Education shall publish such minimum salaries annually beginning on or after January 1, 2026.

The act creates the "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Fund" and "Teacher Baseline Salary Grant Program" for the purpose of increasing minimum teacher's salaries. The General Assembly may appropriate moneys to the Fund, provided that the total amount appropriated shall not exceed the amount necessary to assist each school district in increasing minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. For the 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 school years, each school district may apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for a grant from the Fund, provided that a grant shall not exceed 70% of the amount necessary for a district to increase minimum teacher's salaries as required pursuant to the provisions of the act. The remaining 30% of the amount necessary to increase minimum teacher's salaries shall be allocated from the district's local effort funding as provided in current law. These provisions shall expire on December 31, 2028.

These provisions are similar to a provision in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

HARD-TO-STAFF SCHOOLS AND SUBJECT AREAS (Section 168.110)

The act provides that a school board may include differentiated placement of teachers on the salary schedule to increase compensation in order to recruit and retain teachers in hard-to-staff subject areas or schools. No modifications to the identification of hard-to-staff subject areas or schools shall result in the demotion of a teacher in the salary schedule. Each school district that includes differentiated placement of teachers on the district salary schedule shall annually provide to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education a report containing information outlined in the act.

These provisions are identical to HB 190 (2023) and to a provision in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS (Section 168.400)

The act repeals provisions of current law that require preservice teacher education programs to include a program of entry-level testing of all prospective teacher education students to be administered by the Commissioner of Education.

These provisions are identical to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023).

CAREER LADDER (Section 168.500)

The act repeals a provision of current law that teachers' Career Ladder responsibilities and career efforts shall be required to occur outside of compensated hours. The act also specifies that teachers may receive Career Ladder admission and stage achievement for certain activities that are not included in the duties that require a teaching certificate under current law.

TEACHER RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION STATE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (Section 173.232)

The act changes the name of the "Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program" to the "Teacher Recruitment and Retention State Scholarship Program". The corresponding state treasury fund is also renamed accordingly.

The number of years a student may receive a scholarship is reduced from four to two years. The number of students who may receive a scholarship is increased from 100 to 200 in the 2025-26 academic year, with 20 more students being added in each subsequent year until 2030-31 and all subsequent academic years, when 300 students may receive scholarships.

To be eligible for a scholarship, recipients shall sign an agreement to teach in a hard-to-staff subject or a hard-to-staff school, as defined in the act, in a Missouri public school for two years for every one year the recipient receives a scholarship. Recipients after June 30, 2025 shall also sign a statement that they have made a good faith effort to secure all available federal sources of grant funding.

The scholarships provided in the act shall be available to students who have successfully completed two years at a community college, been awarded an associate degree or the equivalent, or have completed their baccalaureate degree.

The act modifies the interest rate paid by scholarship recipients who do not follow through on their agreement to teach in a hard-to-staff subject or school and must therefore repay their scholarship award as a loan.

An individual who has qualified as an eligible student under the act shall continue to qualify as an eligible student as long as he or she remains employed by the school district in which he or she agrees to teach, regardless of whether his or her employing school no longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff school, the class he or she teaches longer qualifies as a hard-to-staff subject area, or his or her position within the school district changes.

These provisions are substantially similar to provisions in HCS/HB 497 (2023) and to HCS/HB 809 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1164 - Establishes the Education Stabilization Fund
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1164 - This act creates the "Education Stabilization Fund" in the state treasury, which shall consist of funds appropriated by the General Assembly.

In any fiscal year in which actual revenues are less than the revenue estimates upon which appropriations were based, the Governor may, subject to appropriation, transfer from the Education Stabilization Fund to the foundation formula such moneys as are necessary to ensure the free public schools are funded as closely to the fully appropriated amount as practicable.

The balance in the fund at the close of any fiscal year shall not exceed ten percent of the appropriation to the foundation formula from the previous fiscal year. When the balance in the fund at the close of a fiscal year exceeds ten percent of the appropriation to the foundation formula from the previous fiscal year, the excess balance shall be transferred, subject to appropriation, to the General Revenue fund.

This act is identical to SB 587 (2023) and SB 601 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1174 - Modifies provisions relating to a tax credit for contributions to certain child advocacy organizations
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 1174 - Current law authorizes a tax credit for contributions made to CASAs, child advocacy centers, and crisis care centers, as such terms are defined in the act, with such tax credit equal to fifty percent of the contribution. For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2024, this act increases the tax credit to seventy percent of the contribution.

Additionally, the current maximum amount of tax credits that may be authorized for contributions made to qualified agencies shall not exceed $1.5 million. For all fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2024, this act provides that the amount of tax credits that may be authorized by the act in a fiscal year shall not be limited.

This act changes the sunset date from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is identical to SB 662 (2023) and HB 1343 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1175 - Modifies provisions relating to a tax credit for neighborhood assistance programs
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 1175 - Current law authorizes a tax credit for business firms which engage in providing affordable housing assistance activities or market rate housing in distressed communities (Housing Credit), with the total amount of such tax credits not to exceed $10 million in a fiscal year. Current law also authorizes a tax credit for business firms which makes a contribution to a neighborhood organization that provides affordable housing assistance activities or market rate housing in distressed communities (Contribution Credit), with the total amount of such tax credits not to exceed $1 million in a fiscal year. This act provides that any amount of the $10 million in Housing Credits not authorized in a fiscal year may be authorized for Contribution Credits during the same fiscal year, provided that the total combined amount of Housing and Contribution credits shall not exceed $11 million during the fiscal year.

This act is identical to SB 661 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1178 - Establishes the Missouri Angel Investment Incentive Act
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 1178 - This act establishes the Missouri Angel Investment Incentive Act.

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act allows an investor, as defined in the act, to claim a tax credit in an amount equal to forty percent of the investor’s investment in the qualified securities of a qualified Missouri business, as defined in the act, or fifty percent of the investor's investment if the qualified Missouri business is located in a rural county, as defined in the act. If the amount of the tax credit exceeds the investor’s tax liability in any one tax year, the credit may be carried forward for up to five subsequent tax years. No investor shall receive more than seventy-five thousand dollars in tax credits in a single year for contributions to a single qualified Missouri business, and shall not receive more than three hundred thousand dollars in tax credits in total in a single tax year. A tax credit may be transferred by a qualified investor. The total amount of tax credits authorized in a single tax year by the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) shall not exceed six million dollars for the 2025 and 2026 calendar years years. Thereafter, the maximum amount of tax credits that may be authorized shall be increased annually by 20%, provided that the maximum amount of tax credits was authorized in the previous year.

To be designated as a qualified Missouri business, a business shall apply to the MTC, as described in the act. The designation of a business as a qualified Missouri business shall be made annually by the MTC. In addition to other requirements described in the act, a qualified Missouri business shall not have had annual gross revenues of more than five million dollars in the most recent tax year of the business, and the business shall not have been in operation longer than five years if the business is not a bioscience business, or longer than ten years if the business is a bioscience business.

Each business that has been allocated tax credits by the MTC shall submit a report containing certain information, as described in the act, to the MTC before such tax credits are issued.

The state of Missouri shall not be held liable for any damages to an investor that makes an investment in any qualified security of a qualified Missouri business, any business that applies to be a qualified Missouri business but is turned down, or any investor that makes an investment in a business that applies to be a qualified Missouri business but is turned down.

The MTC shall annually review the activities undertaken by this act to ensure they are in compliance with the provisions of the act. If the MTC determines that a business is not in substantial compliance, it may inform the business that such business will lose its designation if it does not come into compliance within one hundred twenty days. If the business does not come into compliance, the MTC may revoke its designation. If a business loses its designation as a qualified Missouri business, it shall be precluded from being allocated any additional tax credits. However, investors in such a business shall be entitled to keep all of the tax credits properly issued prior to the loss of designation by the business.

The MTC shall report certain information annually, as described in the act, to the Department of Economic Development, the Governor, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2031, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is identical to SS/SCS/SB 413 (2023) and to provisions in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 92 (2023), as amended, and is substantially similar to HB 727 (2023), SB 78 (2017), and HB 2302 (2016).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1179 - Modifies provisions relating to benevolent tax credits
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1179 - This act modifies provisions relating to benevolent tax credits.

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSISTANCE TAX CREDITS

Current law authorizes a tax credit for contributions made for the purposes of providing physical revitalization, economic development, job training or education for individuals, community services, and crime prevention, with such tax credit being equal to fifty percent of the contributions made. This act increases such tax credit to seventy percent of the amount of such contributions. (Section 32.115)

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023) and HCS/HB 714 (2023), and is substantially similar to HCS/HB 1210 (2023).

YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION TAX CREDIT

Current law authorizes a tax credit in the amount of 50% of contributions made to certain youth programs. This act increases such tax credit to 70% of the amount of such contributions made. (Section 135.460)

This provision is identical to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/SB 455 (2023), and HCS/HB 714 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/04/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1180 - Modifies a sales tax exemption for the sale of certain medical devices
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1180 - Current law provides a sales tax exemption for certain durable medical equipment as defined on January 1, 1980 by the federal Medicare program. This act removes the reference to January 1, 1980.

Additionally, current law provides a sales tax exemption for the sales or rental of manual and powered wheelchairs, including parts. This act applies the exemption to accessories for such wheelchairs. (Section 144.020)

This provision is identical to SB 173 (2023) and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023) and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), and is similar to SB 943 (2022), HB 1864 (2022), and SB 483 (2021), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SB 649 (2022), SB 743 (2022), CCS/HCS/SB 226 (2021).

This act also provides a sales tax exemption for sales of class III medical devices that use electric fields for the purposes of treatment of cancer, including components and repair parts and disposable or single patient use supplies required for the use of such supplies. (Section 144.813)

This provision is identical to a provision in SS/SCS/SB 131 (2023) and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), and is substantially similar to SB 943 (2022), HB 1864 (2022), and SB 483 (2021), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SB 649 (2022), SB 743 (2022), CCS/HCS/SB 226 (2021).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1181 - Establishes provisions relating to discussion of certain concepts in public schools
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1181 - The act provides that no school or school employee, as the term "school" is defined in the act, shall compel teachers to teach, or compel a student or teacher to personally adopt or profess, a position or viewpoint that a reasonable person would conclude violates certain public policies described in the act. Such viewpoints include, but are not limited to, the notion that individuals of any race, ethnicity, color, or national origin are inherently superior or inferior to others, or that individuals, by virtue of their race, ethnicity, color, or national origin, bear collective guilt and are inherently responsible for actions committed in the past by others. No school may require a student or employee to attend or participate in a training, instruction, or therapy that a reasonable person would believe violates this provision.

This act shall not be construed to prohibit constitutionally protected speech, access to research or study materials, or the discussion or assignment of materials for educational purposes. The act shall not be construed to prevent teachers from discussing current events in a historical context or courses including, but not limited to, African American history, Native American history, women's history, Asian American History and Hispanic history.

The act additionally provides that a school shall post on its website the names of all books required for students and provide parents access to the digital library catalogue for the attendance center where the parent's student is enrolled.

Any employee of a school who discloses a violation of these provisions shall be protected from any manner of retaliation as provided by current law.

Any parent of a student enrolled in a school may bring a civil action against the school for injunctive relief or damages for any violation of the act that causes harm to their child.

Any public school teacher who violates the provisions of the act shall face charges to suspend or revoke their license to teach based upon charges of incompetence, immorality, or neglect of duty.

This act is similar to provisions in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SBs 4, 42 & 89 (2023), SB 158 (2023), HCS/HB 482 (2023), HCS/SS#2/SB 761 (2022), HCS/HB 1858 (2022), HCS/HBs 1995 & 1474 (2022), and HCS/HB 2428 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1202 - Authorizes a tax credit for contributions to certain benevolent organizations
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1202 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a tax credit in an amount equal to 50% of a taxpayer's contribution to a qualified organization. A qualified organization is defined as a non-profit organization that provides recovery support services and assistance to justice-involved individuals, as such terms are defined in the act, and people in recovery from substance use disorders.

Contributions to qualified organizations shall not be used to purchase goods or services from or to produce a direct financial benefit for the contributor. Contributions shall be used to assist people in recovery from substance use disorders by providing such people with recovery support services including, but not limited to, supportive housing.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable, but may be carried forward to the four subsequent tax years. Tax credits shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned.

The Director of the Department of Mental Health shall at least annually determine which organizations in the state are qualified organizations. Qualified organizations shall issue to a taxpayer a statement evidencing the receipt of a contribution, and shall be permitted to decline a contribution.

The total amount of tax credits that may be authorized in a calendar year shall not exceed $2.5 million, and no more than 20% of the total tax credits authorized shall be authorized for contributions to any given qualified organization.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is identical to SB 547 (2023) and is substantially similar to HB 1028 (2023) and HCS/HB 2527 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/11/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1203 - Establishes provisions relating to transparency of school staff training, instructional, and curricular materials
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1203 - Under this act, school districts and charter schools shall ensure that certain information relating to staff training and instructional and curricular materials on topics including nondiscrimination, diversity, equity, inclusion, and bias shall be publicly posted on each school website in a manner set forth in the act.

The Attorney General or the prosecuting or circuit attorney in the county in which a violation of the act occurs may bring a cause of action against any school district or charter school that violates a provision of the act. An attorney acting on behalf of a school district or charter school may request an opinion of the Attorney General as to whether a particular piece of training, instructional, or curricular material complies with the provisions of the act.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1206 - Authorizes a tax credit for the purchase of electric vehicles
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 1206 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act allows a taxpayer to claim a tax credit for each qualified purchase of an electric vehicle or previously-owned clean vehicle, as such terms are defined in the act. The amount the tax credit shall be $2,500 for qualified purchases of electric vehicles or, for purchases of previously-owned clean vehicles, the lesser of 10% of the purchase price or $1,000. Tax credits authorized by this act shall not be refundable or transferable, but may be carried forward for three tax years.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is substantially similar to SB 516 (2023), SB 583 (2023), SB 1193 (2022), HB 1526 (2022), and HB 2756 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1207 - Establishes a work opportunity tax credit
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SS/SB 1207 - This act modifies provisions relating to taxation.

WORK OPPORTUNITY TAX CREDIT

For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act authorizes a taxpayer to claim a tax credit for wages paid by the taxpayer during the tax year to an individual who is in a targeted group, as such term is defined for the federal work opportunity tax credit, and who is employed in the state. The amount of the tax credit shall be the lesser of one hundred percent of the federal work opportunity tax credit claimed for the tax year by the taxpayer or the taxpayer's state income tax liability for the tax year. A nonprofit organization with no state income tax liability may retain withholding tax for such employees in the amount of the tax credit such organization would have be authorized to claim.

Tax credits authorized by the act shall not be refundable or carried forward, and shall not be transferred, sold, or assigned.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly. (Section 135.465)

This provision is identical to SB 720 (2023) and is substantially similar to HB 1345 (2023) and to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SB 92 (2023), as amended.

PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS

Current law requires that personal property be assessed at 33.3% of its true value in money. This act requires political subdivisions to annually reduce such percentage such that the amount by which the revenue generated by taxes levied on such personal property is reduced is substantially equal to one hundred percent of the growth in revenue generated by real property assessment growth, as defined in the act. Annual reductions shall be made until December 31, 2073. Thereafter, the percentage of true value in money at which personal property is assessed shall be equal to the percentage in effect on December 31, 2073.

Subject to appropriations, a political subdivision that receives less than the allowable amount of total real and personal property tax revenues shall be eligible for reimbursement from the state in an amount equal to the amount by which such revenues are below the allowable amount. (Section 137.115)

This provision is identical to SB 725 (2024) and is substantially similar to SS/SCS/SB 8 (2023) and SB 493 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), as amended, HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), HCS/SB 247 (2023), and SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023).

CORPORATE INCOME TAXES

Current law imposes a tax on the Missouri taxable income of corporations at a rate of 4%. Beginning with the 2025 calendar year, this act reduces such rate of tax to 3.75%. Beginning with the 2026 calendar year, this act allows for three additional potential 0.5% reductions, for an eventual rate of 2.25%. Such additional reductions shall only occur if the amount of corporate income tax revenue collections for the immediately preceding fiscal year exceeds the highest amount of corporate income tax revenue collections from any fiscal year prior to the immediately preceding fiscal year by at least $50 million. (Section 143.071)

This provision is identical to SB 823 (2024) and SS/SCS/SBs 93 & 135 (2023), and is similar to SB 1029 (2024), HB 1131 (2023), SB 701 (2022) , SB 393 (2021), and HB 2239 (2020), and to a provision in HCS/SS/SB 23 (2023), HCS/SS#3/SCS/SB 131 (2023), HCS/SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023), HCS/HBs 816 & 660 (2023), and SB 18 (2022 First Extraordinary Session).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB1208 - Provides that the State Board of Education shall cause its annual report to be published on the website of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1208 - This act provides that the State Board of Education shall cause its annual report to be published on the website of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), rather than printing 60 copies for DESE and the State Library.

This act is identical to SB 589 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1210 - Allows school districts to remove certain property from tax increment financing districts
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1210 - This act allows a school district to exclude real property from a proposed tax increment financing redevelopment area if the school district determines that such redevelopment area will have an adverse effect on such school district. The school district shall adopt a resolution making such determination and shall deliver the resolution to the municipality establishing the redevelopment area. Within thirty days of receiving the resolution, the municipality shall remove such property from the redevelopment area or terminate the redevelopment area.

This act is identical to SB 306 (2023), HB 1306 (2023), SB 874 (2022), SB 247 (2021), and SB 840 (2020), and is substantially similar to SB 1080 (2020) and HB 1350 (2020), and to a provision contained in HCS/SCS/SB 616 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1219 - Modifies provisions relating to the assessment of solar energy property
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1219 - This act provides that the definition of "tangible personal property" shall, for the purposes of property taxation, include solar panels, racking systems, inverters, and related solar equipment, components, materials, and supplies installed at commercial solar photovoltaic energy systems that were constructed and producing solar energy prior to August 9, 2022. (Section 137.010)

This act also creates a new subclass of tangible personal property that includes solar panels, racking systems, inverters, and related solar equipment, components, materials, and supplies installed at commercial solar photovoltaic energy systems that were constructed and producing solar energy prior to August 9, 2022, and provides that such subclass shall be assessed at five percent of its true value in money. (Section 137.080 and 137.115)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB1225 - Creates an income tax deduction for certain dependents
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 1225 - Current law authorizes a taxpayer to claim a $1,200 exemption for each dependent for whom such taxpayer is entitled to a dependency exemption for federal tax purposes, provided such federal exemption is not equal to $0. This act authorizes a taxpayer to claim a $2,400 exemption during the tax year in which a taxpayer gives birth to a child for which the taxpayer is entitled to a dependency exemption for federal tax purposes, regardless of whether the federal exemption is equal to $0.

This act is identical to a provision in SS/SCS/SB 133 (2023), as amended, and is substantially similar to HB 457 (2023) and SB 12 (2022 First Extraordinary Session).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1228 - Authorizes a tax credit for the purchase of electric vehicles
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 1228 - For all tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, this act allows a taxpayer to claim a tax credit in the amount of $2,500 for each qualified purchase of an electric vehicle, as such terms are defined in the act. Tax credits authorized by this act shall not be refundable or transferable, but may be carried forward for three tax years.

This act shall sunset on December 31, 2030, unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act is identical to SB 516 (2023), SB 583 (2023), SB 1193 (2022), and HB 2756 (2022), and is substantially similar to HB 1526 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1231 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for diapers
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1231 - This act authorizes a sales tax exemption for the purchase of diapers, as defined in the act.

This act is identical to HB 290 (2023), SB 1124 (2022), and HB 2384 (2022), and to a provision in SS/SCS/SBs 73 & 162 (2023), HCS/SS/SB 143 (2023), and SS#2/SCS/SB 649 (2022), and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), and is substantially similar to HB 351 (2023), HB 744 (2023), and HCS/HBs 1679, 2859, & 2272 (2022), and to a provision in SCS/SB 184 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), and HB 1136 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1233 - Authorizes a sales tax refund for certain taxpayers audited by the Department of Revenue
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 1233 - This act requires the Director of Revenue to refund sales and use tax assessments paid by a taxpayer when it is determined by the Administrative Hearing Commission or a court of law that the negligence of or incorrect information provided by an employee of the Department of Revenue resulted in the taxpayer failing to collect and remit sales and use tax assessments that were required to be collected for which the Department of Revenue subsequently audited the taxpayer. A taxpayer shall file a claim for refund not later than April 15, 2025.

This act is identical to SB 203 (2023) and to a provision in SCS/HCS#2/HB 713 (2023) and SCS/HB 2090 (2022), and is similar to SB 700 (2022), SB 353 (2021), HB 1806 (2020), HCS/HB 422 (2019), HCS/HB 1722 (2018), and HB 223 (2017), and to a provision in SS#2/SCS/SB 649 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1241 - Enacts provisions relating to motor vehicle sales tax payment plans
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 1241 - This act enacts provisions relating to motor vehicle sales tax payment plans.

The act establishes a period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, but not to exceed one year, in which certain purchasers of motor vehicles may apply for a payment plan for motor vehicle sales tax, late fees, and penalty amounts due as a result of failure to properly title and register a vehicle purchased on or before August 30, 2024.

The Department of Revenue shall establish forms and procedures for applying for the payment plans, as specified in the act. Upon entering into a payment plan, the purchaser shall pay a down payment equal to one month's payment, and the Department may issue a new temporary registration permit for the vehicle. The act details the methods by which payments may be made, and directs the Department to promulgate rules regarding payment processing and forms the purchaser will need to carry in his or her vehicle to present to law enforcement if stopped, or to other entities requesting verification of the payment plan status. The act requires the Department to issue a receipt upon completion of the payment plan for the purchaser to present to the license office to register the vehicle. If a purchaser fails to comply with the payment plan, the payment plan shall be terminated and the purchaser shall receive credit for prior payments toward the amount due.

This act is identical to SB 716 (2023), HB 58 (2023), and HB 1350 (2023).

ERIC VANDER WEERD

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety
SB1242 - Modifies provisions relating to tax increment financing
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SB 1242 - This act modifies the definition of "blighted area" for the purposes of tax increment financing (TIF). Such areas shall be in a distressed community and be insanitary or unsafe for living or working; shall have unemployment one and one-half times greater than the average for the state; or have a median household income of less than fifty percent of the median household income of the metropolitan statistical area in which the area is located. (Section 99.805)

A redevelopment plan shall include all federal, state, county, and municipal tax incentives received as sources of funds for the redevelopment plan. Such redevelopment plan shall also include a study stating that the project was not developed through private enterprise, and shall also include an economic feasibility analysis that indicates whether a return on investment is expected without public assistance. (Section 99.810)

This act exempts redevelopment projects from funding limits for TIF projects associated with a geospatial intelligence

federal employer in St. Louis City if such projects consist solely of public infrastructure improvements on public land that requires less than $2 million in TIF financing and will pay off its bonds in seven years or less. (Section 99.811)

This act requires a municipality to pay an amount equal to 25% of payments in lieu of taxes received for a TIF project to all other taxing entities in the municipality that are entitled to receive property tax revenue. Such amount shall be distributed pro rata to such entities. If a TIF project includes residential uses, real property tax levies attributable to the residential portion shall be distributed to the local school district or districts. (Section 99.812)

This act requires the Department of Economic Development to annually submit a report to the Governor and the General Assembly that provides certain information regarding TIF projects in the state, as described in the act. (Section 99.813)

Redevelopment districts providing emergency services in certain municipalities and counties, as described in the act, shall be entitled to reimbursement from a TIF special allocation fund in an amount between 25%-100% of such revenue. (Section 99.814)

This act adds blighted areas located in distressed communities to the areas eligible to receive state revenues for a TIF project. Additionally, this act prohibits redevelopment projects unless all school districts in the redevelopment area have low fiscal capacity, as defined in the act; all census blocks or groups have high unemployment, as defined in the act; or all municipalities or census blocks or groups are characterized by moderate income, as defined in the act. (Section 99.845)

This act is identical to SB 722 (2023), SB 147 (2021), and HB 1585 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1245 - Modifies provisions relating to children and vulnerable persons
Sponsor: Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder (R)
Summary: SB 1245 - This act modifies provisions relating to children and vulnerable persons.

REFERENCES TO CERTAIN SEXUAL OFFENSES (Several sections)

This act repeals references to child pornography and offenses relating to child pornography and adds references to child sexual abuse material and offenses relating to child sexual abuse material. Additionally, this act provides that "child sexual abuse material" shall include any anatomically correct doll with features that resemble those of a minor intended to be used for the purpose of gratifying the sexual desire of any person or to cause emotional distress to a person.

This act also repeals references to sexual contact with a prisoner or offender and adds references to sexual conduct in the course of public duty.

STATEWIDE COUNCIL AGAINST TRAFFICKING (Section 210.1505)

This act repeals provisions relating to the "Statewide Council on Sex Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation of Children" within the Department of Social Services and creates the "Statewide Council Against Adult Trafficking and the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children" within the office of the Attorney General. The Council shall coordinate a statewide effort against the trafficking of adults and children within the state. The Attorney General shall service as chairperson of the Council and shall hold an initial meeting before October 27, 2024. Finally, this act creates the "Anti-Trafficking Fund" to provide funds for the position of the Executive Director of the Council, for education regarding human trafficking, and for anti-trafficking efforts.

ADMISSIBILITY OF EVIDENCE IN CRIMINAL CASES (Sections 491.075 & 492.304)

Under current law, a statement made by a child under 14 years of age may be admissible in criminal proceedings under certain circumstances. This act changes the age to a child under the age of 18 years of age.

Additionally, this act provides that visual or audio recordings of a child under 18 years of age or a vulnerable person relating to certain criminal offenses shall be admissible in criminal proceedings under certain circumstances.

These provisions are identical to the perfected HCS/HB 454 (2023) and to provisions in the perfected HS/HCS/HBs 1108 & 1181 (2023).

ACTIONS FOR CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE (SECTION 537.046)

Currently, a civil action for recovery of damages suffered as a result of childhood sexual abuse shall be brought within ten years after the victim reaches the age of twenty-one or within three years of the victim discovering that the injury or illness was caused by childhood sexual abuse, whichever is later.

This act provides that a civil action for recovery of damages suffered as a result of childhood sexual abuse, child sex trafficking, or tortious conduct that caused the victim to be a victim of childhood sexual abuse or child sex trafficking shall be brought within 20 years after the victim reaches the age of twenty-one or within three years of the victim discovering that the injury or illness was caused by childhood sexual abuse, whichever is later.

Furthermore, this act modifies the offenses included in the definition of "childhood sexual abuse".

This act shall apply to any action commenced on or after August 28, 2024, but shall not apply to any action barred by the statute of limitation applicable prior to that date.

This provision is similar to SB 416 (2023) and HCS/HB 367 (2023).

SEXUAL OFFENSES (Sections 566.151 & 567.030)

Under current law, a person over 21 years old commits the offense of enticement of a child if he or she persuades any person less than 15 years old to engage in sexual conduct. This act changes the age to less than 17 years old.

Additionally, this act modifies the offense of patronizing prostitution if the person patronized for prostitution is ages 15 to 17 it shall be a Class E felony and if the person is less than 15 years old it shall be a Class B felony.

These provisions are identical to provisions in the perfected HS/HCS/HBs 1108 & 1181 (2023), SCS/HB 2697, et al (2022), SCS/HB 2088, et al (2022), HB 1637 (2022), and HB 2590 (2022).

ATTORNEY GENERAL ASSISTANCE WITH CHILD TRAFFICKING CASES (Section 566.201)

This act provides that a prosecuting or circuit attorney may request assistance from the Attorney General to assist in the prosecution of child sex trafficking cases and may utilize any resource of the Attorney General to prosecute such cases.

OFFENSE OF SEXUAL TRAFFICKING OF A CHILD IN THE 2ND DEGREE (Section 566.211)

This act modifies the offense of sexual trafficking of a child in the second degree to provide that if the offense is committed by a parent, legal guardian, or other person having custody or control of the child, the punishment shall be a felony with life imprisonment.

RESTITUTION FOR SEXUAL TRAFFICKING OFFENSES (Section 566.218)

This act provides that any real or personal property used in the commission of a sexual trafficking offense may be seized and forfeited subject to the Criminal Activity Forfeiture Act. Any remaining proceeds from the sale of the property after satisfying any liens shall go to the victims of sexual trafficking.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
03/27/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1246 - Repeals the 2027 expiration of a provision of law prohibiting students from participating on an athletic team that is designated for the opposite biological sex
Sponsor: Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder (R)
Summary: SB 1246 - This act repeals the August 28, 2027, expiration of a provision of law that prohibits a student at an elementary, secondary, or postsecondary educational institution from participating on an athletic team that is designated for the biological sex opposite to such student's biological sex as stated on his or her official birth certificate.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB1250 - Modifies provisions relating to the taxation of pass-through entities
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1250 - This act modifies provisions relating to the taxation of pass-through entities.

NON-MISSOURI INCOME TAX CREDIT

Current law authorizes a taxpayer to claim a tax credit for income tax paid to another state on income that is also taxable in Missouri. This act provides that the calculation of the maximum allowable credit shall apply to credits claimed by S corporation shareholders. (Section 143.081)

SALT PARITY ACT

The SALT Parity Act, in current law, provides for an alternative method for the taxation of the income of pass-through entities, and provides for a compensatory tax credit against income taxes due pursuant to other methods of taxation. This act modifies the calculation of such tax by changing the subtraction of the federal business income deduction to a subtraction of the business income deduction allowed pursuant to state law.

This act also allows a member of an affected business entity to opt out of being taxed pursuant to the SALT Parity Act, as described in the act.

This act also applies the provisions of the SALT Parity Act to fiduciaries.

This act also allows a designated affected business entity representative to sign the form electing to be taxed pursuant to the alternative method of taxation. (Section 143.436)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1252 - Exempts the sale of food from sales tax
Sponsor: Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder (R)
Summary: SB 1252 - Current law taxes retail sales of food, as defined in current law, at a rate of one percent. This act provides that retail sales of food shall be exempt from state sales taxes.

This act is identical to SCS/SB 161 (2023) and to a provision in SB 1062 (2024) and SCS/HCS/HB 154 (2023), and is substantially similar to HB 260 (2023), HB 452 (2023), HB 591 (2023), HB 896 (2023), HCS#2/HB 1992 (2022), HB 1817 (2022), and HB 2530 (2022), and to a provision in HB 377 (2023), HCS/HBs 876, 771, 676 & 551 (2023), HB 1136 (2023), HB 1779 (2022), and HB 2249 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/25/2024 
Scheduled for Committee Hearing
03/25/2024 2:00 PM - Senate-Economic Development and Tax Policy, Senate Lounge
Senate-Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1256 - Creates the Given Name Act establishing provisions relating to forms of address in public schools
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 1256 - This act establishes the "Given Name Act". Under the act, no individual working in any capacity at a public school or school district shall address a student using a name that differs from the student's name as registered by such student's parents during enrollment or a pronoun that differs from a student's biological sex without first obtaining the written consent of the student's parents.

A public entity, as such term is defined in the act, including any institution supported in whole or in part by public funds, shall not require any individual working in any capacity at a public school or school district to use a pronoun that differs from a person's biological sex if doing so would be contrary to such individual's sincerely held religious or moral convictions.

If the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has reasonable cause to believe that a public school or school district has knowingly violated the provisions of the act, DESE shall withhold any state funding to which such school or school district may be entitled until the school or school district proves to DESE's satisfaction that it is no longer in violation of the act.

Any parent of a student may bring a civil action against a school or school district that violates the provisions of the act, and any individual or parent may bring a civil action against a public entity that violates the provisions of the act, as set forth in the act. A public entity that is found by a court to have violated the act shall, in addition to any damages or other remedy deemed appropriate by the court, be ineligible for state or local contracts using state funds allocated to public schools and school districts under the education funding formula for a period of time specified in the act.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1259 - Modifies provisions relating to abuse and neglect reporting, including a requirement to report companion animal abuse
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SB 1259 - This act requires animal control officers and animal humane investigators to be mandated reporters in cases of abuse and neglect of children, the elderly, and other vulnerable persons. Additionally, animal control officers and animal humane investigators shall be required to receive one hour of training within the first 60 days of employment to recognize the signs of abuse or neglect in children, the elderly, and vulnerable persons.

This act creates a mandated reporting requirement for certain mental health, educational, protective services, and law enforcement personnel to report cases of companion animal abuse or neglect to a hotline established by the Missouri Animal Control Association (MACA). A "companion animal" is defined in the act as a living creature maintained by a household for companionship and not commercial purposes. MACA shall provide the report of abuse or neglect to any duly-authorized law enforcement official, county or municipal animal control officer, or animal cruelty investigator. If the mandated reporter is an employee of an agency or political subdivision of the state and fails to make a report as required under this provision, the employer shall send a written notice to the employee noting the failure and providing a reminder of the requirements of reporting companion animal abuse or neglect. Additionally, a mandated reporter who fails to make a report shall be subject to discipline by his or her professional licensing board, as well as a fine, as described in the act.

Finally, protective services employees with direct contact with children, the elderly, and vulnerable persons shall be required to receive one hour of training within the first 60 days of employment to recognize the signs of abuse or neglect in companion animals.

This act is substantially similar to SB 91 (2023) and SB 1182 (2022).

SARAH HASKINS

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Health and Welfare
SB1261 - Specifies that ATVs used for any agricultural purpose shall be considered farm machinery and equipment for purposes of a sales tax exemption
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 1261 - This act specifies that all-terrain vehicles used for any agricultural use shall be considered farm machinery and equipment for purposes of a sales tax exemption.

ERIC VANDER WEERD

Last Action:
03/12/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1263 - Modifies eligibility for appropriations from the Waterways and Ports Trust Fund
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SCS/SB 1263 - This act requires that a Missouri port authority have requested funds for statutorily permitted port purposes before funds may be withdrawn from the Waterways and Ports Trust Fund.

The act also specifies that port projects located on land owned by the City of St. Louis and managed by a Missouri port authority, or within an adjacent waterway, may be eligible for an appropriation from the fund, provided the other conditions of the fund are met.

ERIC VANDER WEERD

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1272 - Modifies provisions relating to providing explicit sexual material to a student
Sponsor: Sen. Nick Schroer (R)
Summary: SB 1272 - This act provides that any library district or school district that employs a person who has been found guilty of the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student shall no longer be eligible to receive any state funds.

Additionally, this act modifies the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student to include if a person approves any explicit sexual material and also modifies the definition of "person affiliated with a public or private elementary or secondary school in an official capacity" to include a member of a library board.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1274 - Establishes provisions relating to physical privacy of children
Sponsor: Sen. Nick Schroer (R)
Summary: SB 1274 - This act requires that all public school shower rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms accessible for use by minors under 18 years of age shall be designated for and used by male or female minors only. The act provides for the best available accommodations for any minor who asserts that his or her gender differs from his or her biological sex, provided that such minor's parent shall consent to such accommodations in writing. Such accommodations may include, but are not limited to, controlled use of faculty shower rooms, locker rooms, or restrooms, or access to single-stall and unisex restrooms.

A school district that violates any provision of the act shall be ineligible to receive state aid and shall be classified as unaccredited until the district proves to the satisfaction of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that it is no longer in violation of the act.

This act is similar to SB 974 (2024), a provision in SB 165 (2023), SB 690 (2018), SCS/SB 98 (2017), and SB 720 (2016).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Emerging Issues
SB1286 - Modifies provisions relating to limitations on working after retirement for members of the Public School Retirement System and the Public Education Employee Retirement System
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Bernskoetter (R)
Summary: SB 1286 - Currently, a retired member, except for those retired due to disability, of the Public School Retirement System ("PSRS") may work after retirement in a certified position with a covered employer without discontinuance of his or her retirement benefits if the member does not exceed 550 hours of work each school year and 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position. This act provides that the member, including those retired due to disability, may earn up to 50% of the annual compensation to the person who last held the position or 50% of the limit set by the employer's school board for the position.

Additionally, current law provides that if a member of PSRS or the Public Education Employee Retirement System ("PEERS") is in excess of the limitations, the member shall not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed. This act provides that either member shall not be eligible to receive the retirement allowance for any month so employed or the retirement system shall recover the amount earned in excess of the limitations, whichever is less.

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
02/28/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1289 - Repeals a provision relating to health and family education
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 1289 - This act repeals a provision of law that requires the State Board of Education to develop academic performance standards relating to health and family education.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1290 - Establishes the "Classical Education Grant Program" for the purpose of assisting school districts with providing programs in classical education
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 1290 - Subject to appropriation, this act establishes the "Classical Education Grant Program" and corresponding fund in the state treasury for the purpose of assisting school districts with providing programs in classical education. The act defines a "classical education program" as a program that educates students in the liberal arts and sciences. The liberal arts consist of certain language and mathematical skills, while the sciences consist of bodies of knowledge including the human sciences, the natural sciences, and the theological sciences, as such terms are described in the act. A school district that wishes to receive a grant shall submit an application to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education outlining the proposed classical educational program, establishing key success metrics, identifying resources available in the community, and specifying additional resources necessary for successful implementation of the program.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SB1292 - Modifies provisions relating to financial transactions involving public funds
Sponsor: Sen. Sandy Crawford (R)
Summary: SB 1292 - This act provides that municipalities shall select a municipal depository with a state-chartered or federally chartered banking institution through a competitive process. Each municipality shall develop requirements for a request for proposals, as provided in the act, to provide to banking institutions interested in becoming a municipal depository.

The governing body of a municipality shall select a banking institution and shall enter into a contract outlining the terms and conditions of the depository relationship.

Finally, this act repeals provisions relating to procedures for third and fourth class cities selecting banking institutions to be depositories for the municipality.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
02/06/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1293 - Establishes the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act, which provides procedures for dismissal of causes of action based on public expression in public proceedings or on matters of public concern
Sponsor: Sen. Elaine Gannon (R)
Summary: SB 1293 - This act establishes the "Uniform Public Expression Protection Act". Currently, any action against a person for conduct or speech undertaken or made in connection with a public hearing or meeting in a quasi-judicial proceeding before a tribunal or decision-making body of the state or a political subdivision thereof is subject to a special motion to dismiss, a motion for judgment on the pleadings, or motion for summary judgment and any such motion shall be considered by the court on a priority or expedited basis. This act repeals this provision and creates procedures for dismissal of causes of action asserted in a civil action based on a person's:

(1) Communication in a legislative, executive, judicial, administrative, or other governmental proceeding;

(2) Communication on an issue under consideration or review in a legislative, executive, judicial, administrative, or other governmental proceeding; or

(3) Exercise of the right of freedom of speech or of the press, the right to assemble or petition, or the right of association, guaranteed by the United States Constitution or the Missouri Constitution, on a matter of public concern.

However, this act shall not apply to a cause of action asserted:

(1) Against a governmental unit, as described in the act, or an employee or agent of a governmental unit acting in an official capacity;

(2) By a governmental unit or an employee or agent of a governmental unit acting in an official capacity to enforce a law to protect against an imminent threat to public health or safety; or

(3) Against a person primarily engaged in the business of selling or leasing goods or services if the cause of action arises out of a communication related to the sale or lease of such goods or services.

No later than 60 days after a party is served with a complaint, cross-claim, counterclaim, third-party claim, or other pleading that asserts a cause of action covered by this act, or at a later time upon a showing of good cause, a party may file a special motion to dismiss. The court shall hear and rule on such motion no later than 60 days after the filing of the motion, unless the court orders a later hearing to allow for limited discovery or upon good cause. However, this act provides that the court shall hear and rule on the motion for dismissal no later than 60 days after the order allowing for discovery.

This act provides that all other proceedings between the moving party and the responding party in the action, including discovery and any pending hearings or motions, shall be stayed upon the filing of the special motion to dismiss. Additionally, this act provides that the court may stay, upon motion by the moving party, a hearing or motion involving another party or discovery by another party if a ruling on such hearing or motion or discovery relates to a legal or factual issue.

Any stay pursuant to this act shall remain in effect until the entry of an order ruling on the special motion to dismiss and the expiration of the time to appeal the order. A moving party may appeal an order denying the special motion to dismiss in whole or in part within 21 days of such order. If a party appeals an order ruling on a special motion to dismiss, this act provides that all proceedings between all parties shall be stayed until the conclusion of the appeal.

The court may allow discovery if a party shows that specific information is necessary to establish whether a party has satisfied or failed to satisfy the requirements of this act and such information is not reasonably available without discovery. Additionally, a motion for costs and expenses, voluntary dismissal, or a motion to sever shall not be stayed. During a stay, the court upon good cause may hear and rule on any motions unrelated to the special motion to dismiss and any motions seeking a special or preliminary injunction to protect against an imminent threat to public health or safety.

In ruling on a special motion to dismiss, this act provides that the court shall consider the parties' pleadings, the motion, any replies and responses to the motion, and any evidence that could be considered in a ruling on a motion for summary judgment. The court shall dismiss the cause of action with prejudice if:

(1) The moving party has established that the cause of action is covered by this act;

(2) The responding party has failed to establish that this act does not apply to the cause of action; and

(3) Either the responding party failed to establish a prima facie case as to each essential element of the cause of action, or the moving party has established that the responding party failed to state a cause of action upon which relief can be granted or that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact and that the party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.

A voluntary dismissal without prejudice of a cause of action that is subject to a special motion to dismiss pursuant to this act shall not affect the moving party's right to obtain a ruling on the motion and seek costs, reasonable attorneys' fees, and reasonable litigation expenses. Additionally, if the moving party prevails on the motion, this act provides that such costs, fees, and expenses shall be awarded to the moving party. A voluntary dismissal with prejudice of a cause of action that is subject to a special motion to dismiss establishes that the moving party prevailed on the motion. The responding party shall be entitled to such costs, fees, and expenses if the responding party prevails on the motion and the court finds that the motion was frivolous or filed solely with the intent to delay the proceeding.

Finally, this act applies to causes of action filed or asserted on or after August 28, 2024.

This act is substantially similar to a provision in SB CCS/HCS/SS/SCS/SB 72 (2023) and SB 432 (2023), and is similar to HB 750 (2023), SB 1219 (2022), in HCS/SS#2/SCS/SB 968 (2022), HB 2624 (2022), and HB 1151 (2021).

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence
SB1297 - Provides that the State Board of Education shall be responsible for handling appeals of decisions made by statewide activities associations
Sponsor: Sen. Jason Bean (R)
Summary: SB 1297 - Currently, a statewide activities association that facilitates interscholastic activities for secondary school students who attend a public school in this state may serve as the appellate body that handles appeals of decisions made by such activities association. This act transfers the authority to handle such appeals to the State Board of Education. Within 48 hours of receiving an appeal, the State Board of Education shall meet to consider the appeal, and within 24 hours of such meeting, the State Board of Education shall decide on the appeal.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/16/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1301 - Modifies the Missouri Works program
Sponsor: Sen. Jason Bean (R)
Summary: SB 1301 - Under current law, the Department of Economic Development is authorized to reserve a portion of Missouri Works program benefits for award prior to the completion of job creation requirements, with such provision to expire on June 30, 2025. This act removes such expiration date. (Section 620.2010)

Additionally, current law authorizes the Department of Economic Development to award a refundable tax credit to a qualified company receiving Missouri Works benefits in lieu of the retention of withholding tax if such qualified company is already retaining withholding tax pursuant to a job training program. This act allows such refundable tax credit to also be awarded to a qualified company that is retaining withholding tax because it is located in an advanced industrial manufacturing (AIM) zone or a targeted industrial manufacturing enhancement (TIME) zone.

Finally, current law limits the total annual amount of Missouri Works tax credits to $106 million, and limits the annual amount of withholding tax that may be retained to $75 million, for a total of $181 million in program benefits per fiscal year. This act provides that, beginning with the 2026 fiscal year, the Department may award any amount of tax credits and withholding tax benefits, provided that the total amount authorized does not exceed $181 million. (Section 620.2020)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/11/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1302 - Creates new provisions relating to prohibited investments for public funds
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SB 1302 - This act creates the Foreign Adversary Divestment Act of 2024. The act prohibits state-managed funds, as defined in the act, from:

· Holding investments in any foreign adversary, state-owned enterprise of a foreign adversary, company domiciled within a foreign adversary, or company owned or controlled by a foreign adversary, state-owned enterprise of a foreign adversary, company domiciled within a foreign adversary; or

· Investing or depositing public funds in any bank that is domiciled or has its principal place of business in a foreign adversary.

Beginning August 28, 2024, a state-managed fund shall immediately in good faith begin divestment of any holdings prohibited by this act, with total divestment achieved no later than August 28, 2026.

Nothing in this act shall be construed to require the impairment of the obligation of any contract entered into prior to August 28, 2024.

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Insurance and Banking
SB1309 - Modifies provisions relating to the assessment of solar energy property
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1309 - Beginning January 1, 2025, all real and tangible personal property associated with a project that uses solar energy directly to generate electricity, and that was built, or was contracted to sell power prior, to December 31, 2024, shall be considered to be de minimis in value for the purposes of assessment. The assessor shall request any documentation necessary to determine the true value in money of such property.

The tax liability actually owed for solar energy property that was built, or was contracted to sell power, prior to December 31, 2024, shall not exceed $1,000 per megawatt. For projects for which the land associated with such project is reclassified due to the project, the property tax liability incurred from such land shall be included in such limit.

This act is substantially similar to SCS/SB 607 (2023) and HB 1246 (2023), and to a provision in HCS/SB 275 (2023), as amended.

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB1311 - Establishes the "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking" pilot program requiring DESE to select 5-7 school districts to address the components of media literacy during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1311 - This act establishes the "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act," which requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to establish the "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking" pilot program during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. Under the act, DESE shall select between five and seven school districts to participate in the pilot program. A pilot program site shall address each component of media literacy outlined in the act and report on how the site addresses news content literacy, visual literacy, digital fluency, and digital literacy, as those terms are defined in the act.

The media literacy and critical thinking pilot program shall terminate on June 30, 2027, and each pilot program site shall submit a report to DESE by August 1, 2027. DESE shall study the results of pilot program and develop guidelines for students on areas outlined in the act, including the safe use of social media platforms; digital ethics and etiquette; and identifying online misinformation. DESE shall also develop guidelines that provide school districts with examples of learning activities, resources, and training that promote critical thinking and the skills necessary to evaluate all forms of media.

Before January 1, 2028, DESE shall compile the reports from the pilot program sites and submit its summary to the General Assembly. DESE's summary shall include specific information described in the act, including qualitative and quantitative insights on how the pilot program sites addressed media literacy; strategies and resources used by educators; any professional development that was required; and recommendations for the facilities, instructional materials, and technologies necessary to implement a statewide media literacy and critical thinking program. DESE shall also provide the General Assembly with a draft of media literacy and critical thinking state standards for preschool to grade 12. The provisions of the act shall expire on December 31, 2027.

This act is identical to HB 1513 (2024), substantially similar to SB 678 (2023) and HB 492 (2023), and similar to HB 1249 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/09/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1312 - Modifies provisions relating to the offense of making a terrorist threat
Sponsor: Sen. Caleb Rowden (R)
Summary: SB 1312 - Under current law, the offense of making a terrorist threat in the second degree is a class E felony. This act adds "private residence" to places a person can call in a terrorist threat and also provides that if such offense causes death, bodily injury, or property damage then the offense is a class D felony.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety
SB1314 - Creates new restrictions on the expenditure of funds by state departments for certain programs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, etc
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Fitzwater (R)
Summary: SB 1314 - This act prohibits funds from being expended by any state department for interdepartmental programs, staffing, or other initiatives associated with "diversity, equity, and inclusion" or "diversity, inclusion, and belonging", or any other similar initiative, as described in the act. Certain exceptions are outlined in the act.

This act is substantially similar to HB 2365 (2024).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Governmental Accountability
SB1332 - Modifies the Board of Trustees of the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis
Sponsor: Sen. Steven Roberts (D)
Summary: SB 1332 - Currently, there are eleven members on the Board of Trustees of the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis ("PSRSSTL"). This act increases the Board by two members who are appointed for terms of four years by the Missouri Public Charter School Association and who have experience and qualifications relevant to public charter schools and PSRSSTL.

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Veterans and Military Affairs
SB1343 - Establishes provisions relating to the reporting of certain violation of state law involving children in elementary and secondary education
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1343 - Current law requires every school district to adopt a policy about how and what information the district releases to other school districts about former employees. Beginning January 1, 2025, this act also requires such policies to include certain information about screened volunteers. A "screened volunteer" is defined in the act as any individual who assists a school by providing an uncompensated service, who may periodically be left alone with students, and who has successfully completed a criminal background check. The act applies to screened volunteers existing requirements related to allegations of sexual misconduct. Additionally, the act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to maintain a database of screened volunteers who have been dismissed from volunteer service as a result of allegations of sexual misconduct involving students or children, as provided in the act.

The act also adds employees of statewide athletic associations to the current list of mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect under existing law.

This act is similar to SB 417 (2023), HB 139 (2023), provisions in SS/SCS/SB 40 (2023), HCS/HB 1955 (2022), and HCS/HB 1955 (2022).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1354 - Authorizes a sales tax exemption for broadband communication service machinery and equipment
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SB 1354 - This act authorizes a state and local sales tax exemption for the sale of machinery and equipment used to provide broadband communications service, as defined in the act.

This act is identical to HB 2168 (2024).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB1366 - Establishes accountability measures for all public elementary and secondary schools
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 1366 - This act establishes accountability measures for all public elementary and secondary schools.

The act adds "student growth" to the categories of information required to be included in the school accountability report cards of all school districts, public schools, and public charter schools under current law. The act describes how student growth shall be calculated, with reference to a comparison of students' performance on statewide assessments in the current academic year to their performance in prior years.

By July 15 of each year, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall provide a confidential version of the school accountability report cards to each school building, school district, and charter school. By August 15 of each year, DESE shall publish the school accountability report cards for the previous year on the DESE website and include in DESE's annual budget request sufficient resources in personnel and equipment to prepare the report cards for the following year.

The act also establishes provisions relating to the preparation of annual performance ratings for public schools based on students' academic performance. Beginning with the 2026-27 school year and in all subsequent school years, the act sets forth a methodology for calculating the annual performance ratings based on students' year-to-year academic growth and achievement. For elementary schools, year-to-year student growth and overall student achievement shall each be weighted at 50% in the calculation, as specified in the act. For high schools, DESE shall create a college and career readiness measure that is based on statistical models that identify schools' contributions to students' long-term outcomes separately from their prior achievement. DESE shall determine a standard for both college readiness and career readiness, and shall promulgate rules relating to such standards. DESE shall consider certain factors when measuring college and career readiness, such as Advanced Placement scores and International Baccalaureate program scores. For high schools, 60% of the annual performance rating score shall be based on a combination of the attainment of college and career readiness credentials and student growth, as described in the act, and 40% of the score shall be based on a combination of student achievement on end-of-course exams and the five-year high school gradation rate.

Each school that has students who are enrolled in the school for the full academic year and who are tested using the statewide assessments shall receive an annual performance rating score and an annual report card. However, a school shall not earn an annual performance rating score based on students' academic performance if fewer than 10 students are tested in the statewide assessments.

DESE shall promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this act, and shall additionally have the authority to promulgate rules including incentives or rewards for schools and school districts that receive an annual performance rating score of 90% or more or that increase their score by 10% over a three-year period.

This act is similar to SB 804 (2024).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/21/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass as substituted
SB1372 - Creates new provisions relating to illegal immigrants
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SB 1372 - This act creates and modifies provisions relating to illegal immigrants.

PROHIBITED ENROLLMENT IN POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS

(SECTION 173.1110)

Current law prohibits any covered student, as that term is defined in the act, who is unlawfully present in the United States from receiving a postsecondary education public benefit. This act modifies that provision by prohibiting any covered student who is unlawfully present in the United States from enrolling in any post-secondary educational institution, as that term is defined in the act. Legal status of students shall be verified by the post-secondary educational institution prior to enrollment.

PROHIBITED RECEIPT OF APPROPRIATIONS BY GENERAL ASSEMBLY

(SECTION 208.009)

Current law prohibits any alien unlawfully present in the United States from receiving any state or local public benefit. This act additionally prohibits any appropriation made by the General Assembly to any entity, whether public or private, for the purpose of providing services to aliens unlawfully present in the United States.

OFFENSE OF IMPROPER ENTRY

(SECTION 577.690)

The act creates the offense of improper entry by an alien. A person commits the offense of improper entry by an alien if the person enters this state at a time when they are unlawfully present in this country under federal law.

The offense of improper entry by an alien is punishable by a fine of $10,000 and shall be subject to an order of removal to a federal port of entry, as provided in the act. For all subsequent offenses, the offense is a class E felony, subject to a term of imprisonment of 1-7 years and a $10,000 fine and additionally shall be subject to an order of removal to a federal port of entry upon the completion of any prison term.

The act allows any law enforcement officer whose duty it is to enforce criminal laws to arrest or detain such person upon probable cause that a person who has violated this act.

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
03/11/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1375 - Modifies provisions relating to student enrollment in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program
Sponsor: Sen. Karla Eslinger (R)
Summary: SB 1375 - Under this act, the average daily attendance of a student who is enrolled full-time in the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program shall be calculated as if such attendance equaled the host district's or charter school's average attendance percentage for the previous year. Host districts that enroll one or more full-time virtual school students shall receive an amount of state aid specified in the act for such students on a monthly basis.

The act provides that students who reside in Missouri may enroll in the virtual program of their choice. Provisions of current law regarding a school district's approval of a student's request to enroll in a virtual program shall not apply to full-time virtual program enrollment.

The act requires host districts to adopt student enrollment policies for full-time virtual students and allows virtual schools to mutually agree with resident and host districts on the services that the resident district might offer, including possible financial reimbursements for those services. For students with disabilities, the enrollment policy shall ensure the development of an individualized education program and related services agreement, as necessary. The act also specifies that student progress reports are necessary only for part-time virtual school program enrollees. The act requires a student's parent or guardian, if the student is not considered homeless, to apply for enrollment directly with the full-time virtual program.

Finally, the act provides that a host district may contract with a provider to perform any required services involved with delivering a full-time virtual education.

This act is identical to SB 780 (2024) and HB 827 (2023), substantially similar to SB 921 (2024), and similar to SB 545 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/05/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB1376 - Authorizes school districts and charter schools to employ or accept chaplains as volunteers
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Moon (R)
Summary: SB 1376 - This act authorizes a public school district or public charter school to employ a chaplain or accept a chaplain as a volunteer.

A chaplain shall not be required to be a certified teacher in order to work or volunteer for a school district or charter school. A background check shall be conducted on any chaplain prior to such chaplain's commencement of employment or volunteer service. A school district or charter school shall not employ or accept as a volunteer any chaplain who is required to be registered as a sex offender under current law.

By March 1, 2025, each school district and charter school shall vote on whether to adopt a policy authorizing the employment or volunteer service of a chaplain pursuant to the provisions of the act.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/08/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1378 - Modifies the definition of "weighted average daily attendance" as used in the education funding formula
Sponsor: Sen. Lauren Arthur (D)
Summary: SB 1378 - This act modifies the definition of "weighted average daily attendance" as used in the education funding formula by adding to such definition a weighting factor relating to school district enrollment.

"Membership" is defined in current law as the average number of students enrolled in a school district who attended school at least one day during ten days at the end of January and September.

The act defines "weighted membership" as the current law definition of "membership" multiplied by certain weighting factors relating to the number of students who fall into certain population groups, such as the number of students who receive special educational services above a certain threshold number that is determined in a manner provided for in current law.

The act provides that a school district's weighted average daily attendance shall be calculated as the sum of 50% of such district's weighted average daily attendance as calculated in current law, plus 50% of such district's weighted membership.

The same modification is made in the calculation of weighted average daily attendance for special school districts.

The provisions of this act shall become effective July 1, 2025.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/08/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1391 - Modifies provisions of the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program
Sponsor: Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer (R)
Summary: SCS/SB 1391 - This act creates and modifies provisions relating to educational opportunities for elementary and secondary school students.

MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS PROGRAM

(Sections 135.713, 135.714, 135.715, and 166.700)

This act modifies provisions relating to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

The act provides that all tax credits authorized under the program shall be refundable.

The act changes the maximum amount of tax credits that may be allocated in any year from $50 million to $75 million. Such maximum amount shall be increased annually by any percentage increase in the amount appropriated for student transportation over 90% of the projected amount necessary to fully fund transportation aid funding under current law. The act repeals a provision that the program shall be effective in any fiscal year immediately following any year in which the amount appropriated for pupil transportation equals or exceeds 40% of the projected amount necessary to fully fund transportation aid funding for fiscal year 2021. These provisions are substantially similar to provisions in SCS/SB 360 (2023).

The act modifies the total grant amount for students with an individualized education plan (IEP) or limited English proficiency or who receive free or reduced-price lunch. Students with limited English proficiency shall receive no more than 160% of the state adequacy target; students who receive free or reduced-price lunch shall receive no more than 125% of the state adequacy target; and students with an IEP shall receive no more than 175% of the state adequacy target. All other students shall receive a grant amount that does not exceed the state adequacy target. This provision is similar to a provision in HCS/HB 350 (2023).

Under the act, no parent of a student who attends a home school shall be required to undergo a background check in order to participate in the program. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/SB 360 (2023).

The act repeals a provision that the annual increase to the cumulative amount of tax credits shall cease when the amount of tax credits reaches $50 million.

If the total contributions to educational assistance organizations exceed $25 million in any school year, the State Treasurer may certify one additional educational assistance organization to administer scholarship accounts. A maximum of seven, rather than six, educational assistance organizations may have their principal place of business in any one of the counties listed in the act.

Finally, the act modifies the definition of "qualified student" by including any student who is a resident of this state, rather than only those students who live in a charter county or a city with at least 30,000 inhabitants. Such definition is further modified by including any student who is a member of a household whose total annual income is 400% or less than the income standard used to qualify for free and reduced-price lunch, rather than only those students whose household income is 200% or less than such standard.

CHARTER SCHOOLS

(Section 160.400)

This act adds all school districts located in Boone County, St. Charles County, and St. Louis County to the list of school districts in which a charter school may be operated by any entity currently authorized to operate a charter school under state law. This provision is similar to SB 920 (2024).

This act is identical to SCS/SB 727 (2024).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
04/23/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB1392 - Modifies provisions of the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program and authorizes charter schools to operate in Boone County, St. Charles County, and St. Louis County
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1392 - This act creates and modifies provisions relating to educational opportunities for elementary and secondary school students. This act is identical to SCS/SB 727 (2024).

MISSOURI EMPOWERMENT SCHOLARSHIP ACCOUNTS PROGRAM

(Sections 135.713, 135.714, 135.715, and 166.700)

This act modifies provisions relating to the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program.

The act provides that all tax credits authorized under the program shall be refundable.

The act changes the maximum amount of tax credits that may be allocated in any year from $50 million to $75 million. Such maximum amount shall be increased annually by any percentage increase in the amount appropriated for student transportation over 90% of the projected amount necessary to fully fund transportation aid funding under current law. The act repeals a provision that the program shall be effective in any fiscal year immediately following any year in which the amount appropriated for pupil transportation equals or exceeds 40% of the projected amount necessary to fully fund transportation aid funding for fiscal year 2021. These provisions are substantially similar to provisions in SCS/SB 360 (2023).

The act modifies the total grant amount for students with an individualized education plan (IEP) or limited English proficiency or who receive free or reduced-price lunch. Students with limited English proficiency shall receive no more than 160% of the state adequacy target; students who receive free or reduced-price lunch shall receive no more than 125% of the state adequacy target; and students with an IEP shall receive no more than 175% of the state adequacy target. All other students shall receive a grant amount that does not exceed the state adequacy target. This provision is similar to a provision in HCS/HB 350 (2023).

Under the act, no parent of a student who attends a home school shall be required to undergo a background check in order to participate in the program. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/SB 360 (2023).

The act repeals a provision that the annual increase to the cumulative amount of tax credits shall cease when the amount of tax credits reaches $50 million.

If the total contributions to educational assistance organizations exceed $25 million in any school year, the State Treasurer may certify one additional educational assistance organization to administer scholarship accounts. A maximum of seven, rather than six, educational assistance organizations may have their principal place of business in any one of the counties listed in the act.

Finally, the act modifies the definition of "qualified student" by including any student who is a resident of this state, rather than only those students who live in a charter county or a city with at least 30,000 inhabitants. Such definition is further modified by including any student who is a member of a household whose total annual income is 400% or less than the income standard used to qualify for free and reduced-price lunch, rather than only those students whose household income is 200% or less than such standard.

CHARTER SCHOOLS

(Section 160.400)

This act adds all school districts located in Boone County, St. Charles County, and St. Louis County to the list of school districts in which a charter school may be operated by any entity currently authorized to operate a charter school under state law. This provision is similar to SB 920 (2024).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/05/2024 
S - Placed on Informal Calendar
SB1393 - Changes the deadline for school districts to submit proposals to operate recovery high schools
Sponsor: Sen. Cindy O'Laughlin (R)
Summary: SB 1393 - This act changes the deadline for a school district to submit a proposal to operate a recovery high school from December 1st of the school year preceding the beginning of operation of the recovery high school to July 1st.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/25/2024 
S - Reported Do Pass
SB1394 - Establishes provisions relating to teacher certification
Sponsor: Sen. Cindy O'Laughlin (R)
Summary: SB 1394 - Current law requires candidates for a teaching license to satisfy certain criteria, including obtaining the recommendation of a state-approved, baccalaureate-level teacher preparation program. Under this act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education shall develop a fifteen credit hour, online teacher preparation program that may be completed by individuals who already possess a bachelor's degree instead of completing a state-approved, baccalaureate-level teacher preparation program. The Department may contract with an entity skilled in developing online teacher preparation programs or a charitable organization registered in Missouri to develop and maintain the online teacher preparation program. Such entity or charitable organization shall be certified to develop and maintain the program by the Department or the State Auditor.

The act also provides that an individual with a bachelor's degree who enrolls in a state-approved, baccalaureate-level teacher preparation program shall be required to complete no more than fifteen credit hours in the program in order to receive the recommendation of the program.

This act is identical to a provision in SS/HB 827 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1399 - Modifies provisions relating to property tax assessments
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SB 1399 - This act requires a county assessor, when determining the true value of real or personal property, to use the assessed value determined during an appeal relating to such property. (Section 137.275)

Additionally, current law allows a taxpayer to be awarded the costs of an appeal and reasonable attorney's fees when an assessor classifies real property under a classification that is contrary to or in conflict with a determination made by the State Tax Commission or a court of competent jurisdiction. This act applies such provision to personal property. (Section 138.430)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SB1421 - Modifies the total cost of living adjustments for members of the Public School Retirement System and the Public Education Employee Retirement System
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1421 - Current law provides that retired members of the Public School Retirement System ("PSRS") and the Public Education Employee Retirement System ("PEERS") may receive yearly cost of living adjustments on monthly retirement allowances, but the total of such cost of living adjustments shall not exceed 80% of a member's original monthly retirement allowance. The 80% limitation shall be subject to annual increases approved by the Board of Trustees every December 31s, except such increases to the limitation shall not exceed 1%. Additionally, if the investments of the system earn 2% or greater returns than the investment return rate adopted by the Board, the limitation on the total cost of living adjustments shall be increased by 1%. However, the cost of living adjustments shall not exceed 100% of a member's original monthly retirement allowance.

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
02/26/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Veterans and Military Affairs
SB1434 - Modifies provisions relating to the destribution of revenue from mineral mining on federal land
Sponsor: Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder (R)
Summary: SB 1434 - Currently, 15% of all proceeds from mineral mining extracted from national forest reserves shall be split equally between counties where there is no mining. Under the act, the 15% of all proceeds shall be split equally between counties where a national forest is situated.

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SB1440 - Prohibits public and private elementary and secondary schools and institutions of postsecondary education from being members of any statewide athletic activities association that allows students to use performance-enhancing drugs
Sponsor: Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R)
Summary: SB 1440 - This act provides that no public school, private school, public charter school, public school district, or public or private institution of postsecondary education shall be a member of any statewide athletic activities association that allows students to take performance enhancing drugs. Any public school, private school, public charter school, public school district, or public or private institution of postsecondary education that violates this act shall not receive any state aid or other revenues from the state. The parent or guardian of any student, or any student who is over eighteen years old, who is deprived of an athletic opportunity as a result of a violation of the act shall have a cause of action for injunctive or other equitable relief as described in the act.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1446 - Requires the State Board of Education to convene a work group to develop a curriculum framework of instruction on the dehumanization of marginalized groups
Sponsor: Sen. Brian Williams (D)
Summary: SB 1446 - Under this act, the State Board of Education shall convene a work group called the "Humanity Education Curriculum Framework Work Group" for purposes of developing a curriculum framework that teachers may use when teaching students in grades 6-12 about the dehumanization of marginalized groups in Missouri. The act defines "dehumanization" as the violation of a person's human rights or bodily autonomy. A "marginalized group" may include persons who have been subjected to dehumanization for reasons that may relate to their national origin, race, or sex. Members of the work group shall include, but shall not be limited to, educators or other experts in the areas of history, human rights, or social science. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall develop the curriculum framework in consultation with the work group.

The act outlines the topics that the curriculum framework shall address. Such topics shall include, but shall not be limited to, a study of the dehumanization practices that have occurred in Missouri's history and the interventions that may be available to prevent such dehumanization practices in the future. The curriculum framework shall also include the story of Celia, a victim of chattel slavery and sexual violence who was executed in Missouri in 1855 for defending herself against her owner, Robert Newsom.

The act describes certain marginalized groups that shall be included in the curriculum framework and awareness weeks or months with which the curriculum framework may be aligned.

DESE shall conduct a pilot program to study the impact and success of the curriculum framework in consultation with the work group in up to 25 school districts or schools within a school district in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. All participating schools or districts shall be provided the curriculum framework and offered the opportunity to participate in the "Celia Professional Development Program for Teachers" that shall be developed by the work group and DESE. Such program shall include instructional guidance and examples of curriculum resources that are age appropriate and consistent with the curriculum framework, as described in the act. The program shall also include instructional guidance on class visits to historic sites in Missouri relating to the story of Celia's enslavement, abuse, and execution. All schools or districts that participate in the pilot program shall provide a plan of professional development to such district's or school's teachers and may voluntarily participate in the Celia Professional Development Program for Teachers.

Upon the completion of the first year of the pilot program, DESE shall evaluate the success and impact of the pilot program and shall report the results of such evaluation to the General Assembly, as specified in the act. Beginning in the 2027-28 school year and in all subsequent school years, the curriculum framework and Celia Professional Development Program for Teachers shall be made available to all school districts and charter schools in the state.

OLIVIA SHANNON
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1447 - Authorizes a sales tax for early childhood educational services
Sponsor: Sen. Brian Williams (D)
Summary: SB 1447 - This act authorizes St. Louis County to impose a sales tax for the purpose of funding early childhood educational services in the district. The tax shall not exceed 0.25%.

This act is substantially similar to HB 373 (2024).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/02/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1458 - Modifies the required school year start date for school districts in which a charter school operates
Sponsor: Sen. Greg Razer (D)
Summary: SB 1458 - Under this act, any school district in which one or more charter schools is operated shall not be required to set an opening date no earlier than fourteen calendar days prior to the first Monday in September.

This act is identical to SB 882 (2024), SB 338 (2023), and HB 918 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1462 - Requires school districts and charter schools to provide instruction in cursive writing
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1462 - This act requires school districts and charter schools to provide instruction in cursive writing by the end of fifth grade and ensure that each student passes a teacher-constructed test demonstrating competency in both reading and writing cursive.

This act is identical to HB 1502 (2024), SB 664 (2023), and HB 232 (2023), and is similar to HB 2073 (2022), a provision in HB 108 (2021), SB 1071 (2020), HB 1262 (2020), HB 54 (2019), and HB 2614 (2018).

OLIVIA SHANNON
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1479 - Creates a provision relating to the calculation of school districts' local effort figures
Sponsor: Sen. Lincoln Hough (R)
Summary: SB 1479 - Beginning August 28, 2024, this act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to recalculate the local effort figure of any school district that, in fiscal year 2005, recorded revenues from intangible taxes, the merchants' and manufacturers' surcharge, and payments in lieu of taxes other than tax increment financing in the district's teacher and incidental funds that caused an elevation of the district's local effort figure. The Department must calculate the amount of state aid such a district would have received had the district placed these revenues in the capital projects fund or the debt service fund for payments subsequent to August 28, 2024.

This act is similar to SB 272 (2017) and HB 633 (2017).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Education and Workforce Development
SB1481 - Requires school districts and charter schools to promulgate a written policy regarding student possession and use of cellular phones
Sponsor: Sen. Elaine Gannon (R)
Summary: SB 1481 - This act requires all public school districts and public charter schools to promulgate a written policy regarding student possession and use of cellular phones by July 1, 2025. Such a policy shall address the possession of cellular phones on school property or at school functions and the use of cellular phones during instructional time. The act outlines certain provisions that may be included in such a policy, including provisions regarding the use of cellular phones for educational purposes and the designation of an area where cellular phones may be permitted to be used. The policy may provide that a student who possesses or uses a cellular phone in violation of the policy may be subject to disciplinary action.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1491 - Modifies certain provisions relating to solar energy systems
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SB 1491 - The act modifies certain provisions relating to the Net Metering and Easy Connection Act and solar panels rules by homeowner's associations.

Under the act, a retail electric supplier shall make net metering available to customer-generators until the total rated generating capacity of net metering equals 15%, instead of 5%, of the retail electric supplier's single-hour peak load during the previous year, after which the total rated generating capacity of net metering may be increased above 15%, instead of 5%. In a given year, no retail electric supplier shall be required to approve any application for interconnection if the total rate generating capacity equals or exceeds 2%, instead of 1%.

A retail electric supplier shall offer to the customer-generator the retail electric rate that is a tariff or a contract and identical in electric energy rates.

A retail electric supplier shall disclose annually the availability of the net metering program to its customers with the method of disclosure being at the discretion of the Public Service Commission, instead of the supplier.

If the customer generator's existing meter equipment does not meet certain requirements, the customer-generator shall reimburse the retail electric supplier for the costs associated with the additional equipment approved by the Commission.

The act repeals certain provisions relating to net electrical energy measurement requirements and provides that if the electricity generated by a customer-generator exceeds the electricity supplied by the supplier during a billing period, the customer shall be credited an amount at least equal to the retail electric costs, instead of the avoided fuel, with the credit applied anytime during the following 12-month period, instead of the following billing period.

The act repeals provisions relating to certain safety and performance requirements for each electric energy generation unit and provides that each unit shall meet the requirements of the unified solar permit and inspection form promulgated by the Commission.

For systems of 100 kilowatts or less, instead of 10 kilowatts, a customer-generator shall not be required to install additional controls or pay for additional equipment. For systems of greater than 100 kilowatts, instead of 10 kilowatts, the commission for electrical corporations and the respective governing body shall meet Commission standards and shall be reviewed and responded to by the electric supplier within 30 days or the application for interconnection of a qualified electric energy generation unit shall be considered approved. The act repeals certain provisions relating to the application requirements.

The Commission shall, within 6 months of January 1, 2025, instead of within 9 months of January 1, 2008, promulgate initial rules for the administration of the provisions of the Net Metering and Easy Connection Act. For systems of 100 kilowatts or less, instead of 10 kilowatts, the application process shall use an all-in-one document as described in current law.

The act repeals certain provisions relating to simple contracts to be used for interconnection and net metering by the governing body of a rural electric cooperative or municipal utility.

Before January 1, 2025, the Commission shall create and implement a unified solar permit and inspection form and automated permitting and inspection software for solar energy. Certain governing bodies, as described in the act, shall utilize such software and collect fees from applicants for solar energy device permits. The fees shall be forwarded to the Commission.

A homeowner's association shall deny or request re-submission of any applications for solar panels or solar collectors within 30 days or receipt or the application shall be considered approved. A homeowner's association shall not require the application to pass review or be approved by any committee or board designed to address architectural or aesthetic qualities or conditions.

Additionally, the act creates new definitions and modifies certain existing definitions.

The act is identical to HB 2592 (2024).

JULIA SHEVELEVA

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy, and the Environment
SB1492 - Modifies provisions relating to the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student
Sponsor: Sen. Denny Hoskins (R)
Summary: SB 1492 – Current law provides that the offense of providing explicit sexual material to a student a class A misdemeanor. This act changes such offense to a class E felony.

MARY GRACE PRINGLE

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1497 - Requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to post on its website any memorandum of understanding or other agreement with a third party
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SB 1497 - This act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to publish on its website any memorandum of understanding or other agreement between the Department and any third party or third parties, regardless of whether the memorandum or agreement is in effect or proposed.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1504 - Modifies the contribution rate for the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis
Sponsor: Sen. Karla May (D)
Summary: SB 1504 - This act modifies provisions relating to contribution rates for the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis ("PSRSSTL"). Currently, the member contribution rate for those members hired before January 1, 2018, was 5% with an annual 0.5% increase until the contribution rate reaches 9% and for members hired after January 1, 2018, is set at 9%. This act provides that the current member contribution rate shall be applicable unless a lower member contribution rate applies as the result of the funded ratio equaling or exceeding 100% with a total actuarially required contribution rate less than 18%.

Current law provides that the employer contribution rate shall be 16% in 2018 with yearly 0.5% decreases until the rate is 9% of the total compensation of all members employed. This act provides that the employer contribution rate shall be 14% in 2025 and shall be subsequently determined annually based on the funded ratio, which is defined as the ratio of the actuarial value of assets to the actuarial accrued liability based on the entry age normal cost method with normal cost expressed as a level percentage of covered compensation.

If the funded ration is less than 100%, the employer contribution rate shall be the greater of 14% or the difference between the total actuarially required contribution rate, as defined in the act, and the member contribution rate. If the funded ratio equals or is greater than 100% and the total actuarially required contribution rate is greater than 18%, then the employer contribution rate shall be the difference between the total actuarially required contribution rate and the member contribution rate. If the funded ratio equals or is greater than 100%, but the total actuarially required contribution rate is less than 18%, then the total actuarially required contribution rate shall be allocated equally between the employer and employee and adjusted depending on changes to the total actuarially required contribution rate as provided in the act.

Furthermore, the employer contribution rate and the member contribution rate shall not increase by more than 1% or decrease by more than 0.5% for any period from the corresponding rate in effect.

This act is identical to HB 2846 (2024).

KATIE O'BRIEN

Last Action:
04/03/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SB1506 - Modifies provisions relating to the Career Ladder program
Sponsor: Sen. Rusty Black (R)
Summary: SB 1506 - This act provides that school counselors shall be eligible for Career Ladder regardless of whether they possess a teaching certificate. Special education process coordinators shall also be eligible for Career Ladder.

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1508 - Provides for the establishment of an early education school district in St. Louis County
Sponsor: Sen. Tracy McCreery (D)
Summary: SB 1508 - This act provides that a special district called an "early education district" may be established in St. Louis County for purposes of providing free prekindergarten programs for children in the year before kindergarten eligibility. An early education district may establish schools and programs within any school district in the county. The school districts in St. Louis County shall continue providing prekindergarten services to eligible children until the resources of the early education district are sufficient to permit its assuming such responsibilities.

The curriculum of an early education district shall be developmentally appropriate and aligned with the Missouri Early Learning Standards and other standards specified in the act. An early education district shall comply with any accountability metrics for early childhood education established by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and shall provide reasonable assistance to DESE in the development of any such accountability metrics. DESE shall inspect all programs established by an early education district. Upon DESE's approval, and upon the levy of an initial property tax for an early education district, the district shall receive state aid as specified in the act, and all teachers and other personnel of the early education district shall be eligible for Career Ladder and retirement allowances in the same manner as other public school employees are eligible for Career Ladder and retirement allowances under current law. (Section 162.2000)

When the voters of St. Louis County desire to form an early education district, a petition signed by voters of the county shall be submitted to the State Board of Education as specified in the act. Within 30 days of receipt of such petition, the State Board of Education shall direct the board of education of each school district in St. Louis County to cause the proposal to be submitted to the voters of each district at the next municipal election using ballot language provided in the act. When a new early education district is organized, it shall be a body corporate and political subdivision of the state. An early education district may sue and be sued, levy and collect taxes within the limitations of the Constitution of Missouri and the provisions of the act, issue bonds, and possess the same corporate powers as seven-director school districts, other than urban districts. (Section 162.2005)

The board of education of an early education district shall perform the same duties and be subject to the same liabilities as the board of a seven-director school district, other than an urban district, acting under the general school laws of the state of Missouri. The act outlines certain powers that the board of education shall have, such as the power to employ teachers and other personnel necessary to provide prekindergarten programs for children who reside in the district. The board shall also have the power to develop a rolling five-year plan for the operation and management of the early education district, as provided in the act. (Section 162.2015)

Members of the board of education of an early education district shall be elected by the voters of the district in municipal elections conducted in accordance with the state's election laws. Each qualified candidate for the board of education shall be a voter of the early education district who has resided within the state for at least one year preceding the election and who is at least 24 years of age. For the initial election of board members, all candidates shall file their declarations of candidacy with the secretary of the State Board of Education. For all subsequent elections, candidates for the board shall file their declarations of candidacy with the board of education of the early education district. Board members shall serve staggered three-year terms as specified in the act. Any vacancy occurring in the unexpired term of office of any board member shall be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term by the qualified voters of the district at the next municipal election. Members of the board shall be prohibited from certain activities, such as accepting any contract or procurement in which that board member has a direct or indirect beneficial interest, unless certain conditions are met. The board shall adopt a redistricting plan that divides the district into seven subdistricts of equal population, taking into account insofar as possible existing school district boundary lines. The redistricting plan shall be adopted upon formation of the first board of education and each decade thereafter. Upon approval by the State Board of Education, the redistricting plan shall become effective, and all board members elected thereafter shall be elected from subdistricts in which they are residents. (Section 162.2025)

The initial tax imposed on property subject to the taxing power of an early education district shall not exceed the annual rate of 52 cents on each $100 assessed valuation, which tax rate shall be used to fund such district's prekindergarten programs. Increases in the tax rate may be made with voter approval in the same manner as provided under current law for other school districts. The taxes levied by an early education district shall not be included when determining the average school levy for the other school districts in St. Louis County. The taxes levied by the early education district shall be collected in the same manner as general county taxes. (Section 162.2035)

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
SB1519 - Modifies provisions relating to the assessment of real property
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SB 1519 - This act provides that, beginning with the 2025 reassessment year, the true value in money of residential real property shall be equal to the amount paid to obtain title to such property by the taxpayer owning such property as of January first of the year of reassessment. The true value in money of such property in each successive reassessment year shall be determined by applying the depreciation schedule provided in the act to the value determined during the 2025 reassessment year.

For residential real property that is sold subsequent to the 2025 reassessment year, the true value in money for such property shall be equal to the amount paid to obtain title to such property by the taxpayer purchasing such property. The true value in money of such property in each successive reassessment year shall be determined by applying the depreciation schedule provided in the act to the value determined during the year such property was purchased by the taxpayer owning such property as of January first of the year of reassessment.

This act is identical to SB 682 (2023).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SJR49 - Modifies process for ballot measures
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SJR 49 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, modifies the process for ballot measures that are submitted to the voters.

REVIEW AND COMMENT PERIOD FOR INITIATED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

(SECTION 50)

The amendment gives legal voters in each congressional district the opportunity to review and comment upon all initiative petitions proposing constitutional amendments not less than 15 days prior to the election. The process will be administered by the Secretary of State in a public forum.

LEGAL VOTERS AND ELECTORS

(SECTION 50)

Current law limits signing of initiative petitions to legal voters. This amendment further stipulates that, for purposes of signing petitions and voting on ballot measures, legal voters and electors only include those who are citizens of the United States of America, who are 18 years of age or older, and who are residents of and registered to vote in the State of Missouri.

RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF INITIATIVE FOR CERTAIN TOPICS

(SECTION 51.1 AND 51.4)

The amendment prohibits initiative petitions on the following topics:

· Permitting public officials to receive gifts from lobbyists;

· Raising sales taxes on food;

· Raising, expanding, or imposing any taxes or fees on real estate, real estate transactions, or real or personal property;

· Reducing the appropriation of money dedicated to any law enforcement agency, the Missouri Department of the National Guard, or first responders; and

· Reducing state revenues for public education.

Additionally, the General Assembly is given exclusive authority to enact laws enforcing provisions in the Constitution relating to ballot measures.

PROHIBITING FOREIGN ACTIVITY IN INITIATIVE PETITIONS

(SECTION 54.2)

The amendment creates new restrictions relating to foreign government activity with respect to initiative petitions. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for:

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to sponsor an initiative petition;

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to directly or indirectly make contributions in connection with an initiative petition or contributions in support or opposition to an initiative petition;

· An expenditure, independent expenditure, or disbursement for an electioneering communication, whether print, broadcast, or digital media, or otherwise, related to an initiative petition; or

· A person to solicit, accept, or receive a contribution or donation from a government of a foreign country or a foreign political party, in connection with an initiative petition.

VOTER APPROVAL THRESHOLD

(SECTION 51.3)

Current law provides that any initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment shall take effect when approved by a simple majority of the votes cast on the measure. This amendment requires such petitions to receive a majority of the votes cast statewide as well as a majority of the votes cast in at least a majority of the congressional districts.

TREATMENT OF ADOPTED INITIATED MEASURES

(SECTION 54)

Until three years following the effective date of any statutory measure approved through the initiative petition process, the General Assembly shall not pass any law amending or repealing such measure unless approved by at least four-sevenths of the members serving in each house, less any vacancies. In the event that a court of competent jurisdiction issues a final judgment that declares a law approved by the people through the initiative petition process is unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, in whole or in part, or that otherwise renders the measure inoperable and of no force and effect of law, in whole or in part, the General Assembly may amend or repeal such measure in a manner that is otherwise consistent with the constitution.

If any initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment that is approved by the people is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions of the measure shall also be invalid.

This constitutional amendment is identical to SJR 79 (2024) and similar to CCS/SS#3/HCS/HJR 43 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/29/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SJR50 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation
Sponsor: Sen. Andrew Koenig (R)
Summary: SS/SCS/SJR 50 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, prohibits the General Assembly from setting a state income tax rate exceeding 5.5%.

This amendment also modifies a provision prohibiting sales taxes levied on transactions not taxed as of January 1, 2015, by providing an exception for sales and use taxes on subscriptions, licenses for digital products, and online purchases of tangible personal property.

This amendment also provides that no state or local sales or use taxes or any similar transaction-based tax shall be authorized on the provision of video service if the state, a franchise entity, or a political subdivision also imposes a franchise fee on the provider of such video service.

This constitutional amendment is substantially similar to SS/SJR 3 (2023), SS/SJR 33 (2022), SJR 4 (2021), SJR 40 (2020), and SCS/SJR 20 (2019).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/18/2024 
H - Reported Do Pass
SJR51 - Modifies procedures for initiative petitions
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SJR 51 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, modifies various provisions relating to initiative petitions.

RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF INITIATIVE FOR CERTAIN TOPICS (SECTION 51.1 AND 51.4)

The amendment prohibits initiative petitions on the following topics:

· Raising sales taxes on food; and

· Raising, expanding, or imposing any taxes or fees on real estate, real estate transactions, or real or personal property.

Additionally, the General Assembly is given exclusive authority to enact laws enforcing provisions in the Constitution relating to ballot measures.

PROHIBITING FOREIGN ACTIVITY IN INITIATIVE PETITIONS (SECTION 54.2)

The amendment creates new restrictions relating to foreign government activity with respect to initiative petitions. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for:

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to sponsor an initiative petition;

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to directly or indirectly make contributions in connection with an initiative petition or contributions in support or opposition to an initiative petition;

· An expenditure, independent expenditure, or disbursement for an electioneering communication, whether print, broadcast, or digital media, or otherwise, related to an initiative petition; or

· A person to solicit, accept, or receive a contribution or donation from a government of a foreign country or a foreign political party, in connection with an initiative petition.

VOTER APPROVAL THRESHOLD (SECTION 51.3)

Current law provides that any initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment shall take effect when approved by a simple majority of the votes cast on the measure. This amendment requires such petitions to receive a majority of the votes cast statewide as well as a majority of the votes cast in a majority of the Congressional districts.

This constitutional amendment is identical to SJR 77 (2024), substantially similar to SJR 81 (2024) and similar to provisions in CCS/SS#3/HCS/HJR 43 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/29/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SJR53 - Modifies provisions relating to taxation
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SJR 53 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, prohibits total state general revenue appropriations for any fiscal year, as defined in the amendment, from exceeding the level from the previous fiscal year, allowing for growth in an amount equal to the annual rate of inflation plus the annual percentage change in state population. Total state general revenue appropriations may exceed the previous fiscal year’s amount only under certain conditions, as described in the amendment.

For any fiscal year in which net general revenue collections exceed total state general revenue appropriations by more than one percent of allowable total state general revenue appropriations, an amount equal to such excess revenue shall be deposited in the "Personal Property Reimbursement Fund", which is created by the amendment.

Beginning with the 2025 calendar year, this amendment requires the percentage at which personal property is assessed to be reduced over a period of four years, so as to produce the following total amounts of revenue, aggregated across all taxing jurisdictions:

(a) For the 2025 calendar year, seventy-five percent of the base assessment revenue;

(b) For the 2026 calendar year, fifty percent of the base assessment revenue;

(c) For the 2027 calendar year, twenty-five percent of the base assessment revenue;

(d) For the 2028 and all subsequent calendar years, personal property shall be assessed at zero percent of its true value in money.

The amendment defines "base assessment revenue" as the total revenue generated from taxes levied on personal property using the assessment percentage in effect as of the 2024 calendar year, as determined by the State Tax Commission.

For all fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2025, each taxing authority levying a tax on personal property as of January 1, 2024, shall be entitled to a reimbursement for all revenues lost because of reductions made to the base assessment percentage pursuant to this amendment. Reimbursements shall be made from the Personal Property Reimbursement Fund. The amount that a taxing authority shall be entitled to receive shall be equal to the base assessment revenue for the taxing authority minus the actual revenues generated from taxes levied on personal property during the calendar year. If the balance in the Personal Property Reimbursement Fund is insufficient to fully reimburse all taxing jurisdictions, the amount of such insufficiency shall stand appropriated from the General Revenue fund.

This amendment is similar to SJR 7 (2023), SJR 6 (2021), SJR 42 (2020), SJR 4 (2019), SJR 31 (2018), and SJR 12 (2017), and to a provision contained in HCS/HJR 56 (2016).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
04/18/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SJR58 - Exempts certain disabled veterans from property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer (R)
Summary: SJR 58 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, expands the current exemption from real property taxes for former prisoners of war with a total service-connected disability to all disabled veterans, as defined in the amendment.

This amendment is identical to SJR 16 (2023) and SCS/SJR 40 (2022), and is substantially similar to HCS/HJRs 7 & 11 (2023), HCS/HJR 52 (2023), HJR 57 (2023), HJR 72 (2022), HJR 73 (2022), HJR 86 (2022), HJR 89 (2022), HJR 115 (2022), HJR 119 (2022), HJR 140 (2022), HJR 3 (2021), HJR 32 (2021), HJR 63 (2021), SJR 23 (2018), SJR 34 (2018), HJR 63 (2018), and HJR 57 (2018).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/04/2024 
S - Voted Do Pass
SJR65 - Places limits on increases of the assessment of certain properties
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SJR 65 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, provides that the assessed valuation for any residential real property located in a subdivision located adjacent to a subdivision receiving a tax abatement shall not be increased for the duration of time that the adjacent subdivision receives such abatement.

This amendment is identical to SJR 36 (2023), SJR 42 (2022), SJR 17 (2021), and HJR 74 (2020).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SJR66 - Authorizes a property tax exemption for certain senior citizens
Sponsor: Sen. Barbara Washington (D)
Summary: SJR 66 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, exempts from taxation all real and personal property of citizens of this state who are aged 65 or older.

This amendment is identical to SJR 40 (2023) and SJR 43 (2022), and is similar to HJR 5 (2023), HJR 15 (2023), HJR 17 (2023), HJR 27 (2023), HCS/HJRs 33 & 45 (2023), HJR 36 (2023), HJR 44 (2023), HJR 51 (2023), HJR 66 (2022), HCS/HJR 81 (2022), HJR 90 (2022), HJR 122 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SJR77 - Modifies process for initiative petitions
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SJR 77 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, modifies various provisions relating to initiative petitions.

RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF INITIATIVE FOR CERTAIN TOPICS

(SECTION 51.1 AND 51.4)

The amendment prohibits initiative petitions on the following topics:

· Raising sales taxes on food; and

· Raising, expanding, or imposing any taxes or fees on real estate, real estate transactions, or real or personal property.

Additionally, the General Assembly is given exclusive authority to enact laws enforcing provisions in the Constitution relating to ballot measures.

PROHIBITING FOREIGN ACTIVITY IN INITIATIVE PETITIONS

(SECTION 54.2)

The amendment creates new restrictions relating to foreign government activity with respect to initiative petitions. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for:

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to sponsor an initiative petition;

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to directly or indirectly make contributions in connection with an initiative petition or contributions in support or opposition to an initiative petition;

· An expenditure, independent expenditure, or disbursement for an electioneering communication, whether print, broadcast, or digital media, or otherwise, related to an initiative petition; or

· A person to solicit, accept, or receive a contribution or donation from a government of a foreign country or a foreign political party, in connection with an initiative petition.

VOTER APPROVAL THRESHOLD

(SECTION 51.3)

Current law provides that any initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment shall take effect when approved by a simple majority of the votes cast on the measure. This amendment requires such petitions to receive a majority of the votes cast statewide as well as a majority of the votes cast in a majority of the Congressional districts.

This constitutional amendment is identical to SJR 51 (2024), substantially similar to SJR 81 (2024) and similar to provisions in CCS/SS#3/HCS/HJR 43 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/29/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SJR79 - Modifies process for ballot measures
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Brown (R)
Summary: SJR 79 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, modifies the process for ballot measures that are submitted to the voters.

REVIEW AND COMMENT PERIOD FOR INITIATED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

(SECTION 50)

The amendment gives legal voters in each congressional district the opportunity to review and comment upon all initiative petitions proposing constitutional amendments not less than 15 days prior to the election. The process will be administered by the Secretary of State in a public forum.

LEGAL VOTERS AND ELECTORS

(SECTION 50)

Current law limits signing of initiative petitions to legal voters. This amendment further stipulates that, for purposes of signing petitions and voting on ballot measures, legal voters and electors only include those who are citizens of the United States of America, who are 18 years of age or older, and who are residents of and registered to vote in the State of Missouri.

RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF INITIATIVE FOR CERTAIN TOPICS

(SECTION 51.1 AND 51.4)

The amendment prohibits initiative petitions on the following topics:

· Permitting public officials to receive gifts from lobbyists;

· Raising sales taxes on food;

· Raising, expanding, or imposing any taxes or fees on real estate, real estate transactions, or real or personal property;

· Reducing the appropriation of money dedicated to any law enforcement agency, the Missouri Department of the National Guard, or first responders; and

· Reducing state revenues for public education.

Additionally, the General Assembly is given exclusive authority to enact laws enforcing provisions in the Constitution relating to ballot measures.

PROHIBITING FOREIGN ACTIVITY IN INITIATIVE PETITIONS

(SECTION 54.2)

The amendment creates new restrictions relating to foreign government activity with respect to initiative petitions. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for:

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to sponsor an initiative petition;

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to directly or indirectly make contributions in connection with an initiative petition or contributions in support or opposition to an initiative petition;

· An expenditure, independent expenditure, or disbursement for an electioneering communication, whether print, broadcast, or digital media, or otherwise, related to an initiative petition; or

· A person to solicit, accept, or receive a contribution or donation from a government of a foreign country or a foreign political party, in connection with an initiative petition.

VOTER APPROVAL THRESHOLD

(SECTION 51.3)

Current law provides that any initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment shall take effect when approved by a simple majority of the votes cast on the measure. This amendment requires such petitions to receive a majority of the votes cast statewide as well as a majority of the votes cast in at least a majority of the congressional districts.

TREATMENT OF ADOPTED INITIATED MEASURES

(SECTION 54)

Until three years following the effective date of any statutory measure approved through the initiative petition process, the General Assembly shall not pass any law amending or repealing such measure unless approved by at least four-sevenths of the members serving in each house, less any vacancies. In the event that a court of competent jurisdiction issues a final judgment that declares a law approved by the people through the initiative petition process is unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, in whole or in part, or that otherwise renders the measure inoperable and of no force and effect of law, in whole or in part, the General Assembly may amend or repeal such measure in a manner that is otherwise consistent with the constitution.

If any initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment that is approved by the people is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions of the measure shall also be invalid.

This constitutional amendment is identical to SJR 49 (2024) and similar to CCS/SS#3/HCS/HJR 43 (2023).

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/29/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SJR82 - Replaces the property tax on real property with a sales tax
Sponsor: Sen. Rick Brattin (R)
Summary: SJR 82 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, prohibits counties and political subdivisions from levying or collecting a tax on real property beginning January 1, 2025.

In lieu of such property tax, the amendment requires a county to impose a sales tax on the sale of real property at a rate equal to the total combined rate of state and local sales taxes in effect at the location of the property, provided that all revenues generated by the tax are collected and distributed by the county in the same manner as the property tax levied prior to January 1, 2025. A taxpayer shall select whether to remit the tax due upon the transfer of the title of the property, or to remit ten percent of the sales tax due to the county collector upon the transfer of title of the property, and the remainder within five, ten, or fifteen years in equal annual installments. Financial institutions that are mortgage servicers shall pay sales tax obligations which they service from escrow accounts in one payment by the required due date.

This amendment also requires a taxpayer who purchases his or her real property prior to January 1, 2025, to remit a tax equal to the total combined rate of state and local sales taxes in effect at the location of the property multiplied by the remaining mortgage balance on such property, provided that all revenues generated by the tax are collected and distributed by the county in the same manner as the property tax levied prior to January 1, 2025. A taxpayer shall select whether to remit the tax due by December 31, 2025, 2030, 2035, or 2040, with such payment made in equal annual installments. Financial institutions that are mortgage servicers shall pay sales tax obligations which they service from escrow accounts in one payment by the required due date. (Section 4(e))

This amendment also modifies a constitutional provision prohibiting sales taxes on transactions that were not subject to tax as of January 1, 2015, by providing an exemption for the sales tax imposed pursuant to the amendment. (Section 26)

This amendment is identical to SJR 18 (2023) and SJR 59 (2022).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
01/25/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on General Laws
SJR83 - Modifies provisions relating to constitutional amendments
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SJR 83 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, modifies various provisions relating to constitutional amendments.

VOTER APPROVAL THRESHOLD (SECTIONS 2(B) AND 3(C))

Current law provides that any proposed constitutional amendment or new constitution shall take effect when approved by a simple majority of the votes cast on the measure. This amendment requires all proposed constitutional amendments and new constitutions to receive a majority of the votes cast statewide as well as a majority of the votes cast in at least a majority of the state house districts.

RESTRICTIONS ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS (SECTION 2(C) AND 2(F))

The amendment prohibits constitutional amendments that would permit public officials to receive gifts from lobbyists.

Additionally, the General Assembly is given exclusive authority to enact laws enforcing provisions in the Constitution relating to initiative petitions proposing constitutional amendments.

PROHIBITING FOREIGN ACTIVITY IN INITIATIVE PETITIONS (SECTION 2(D))

The amendment creates new restrictions relating to foreign government activity with respect to initiative petitions proposing constitutional amendments. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for:

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to sponsor an initiative petition proposing a constitutional amendment;

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to directly or indirectly make contributions in connection with an election on a constitutional amendment or contributions in support or opposition to a constitutional amendment;

· A government of a foreign country or a foreign political party to directly or indirectly make an expenditure, independent expenditure, or disbursement for an electioneering communication, whether print, broadcast, or digital media, or otherwise, related to a constitutional amendment; or

· A person to solicit, accept, or receive a contribution or donation from a government of a foreign country or a foreign political party, in connection with a constitutional amendment.

LEGAL VOTERS AND ELECTORS (SECTION 2(E))

No person shall be eligible to vote on any measure submitted to the people that amends, repeals, or replaces the constitution, whether submitted through the initiative petition process, by the General Assembly, or by a constitutional convention, unless such person is a legal resident of the state of Missouri and a citizen of the United States of America.

SCOTT SVAGERA

Last Action:
01/30/2024 
S - Superseded by SJR 74
SJR84 - Exempts certain disabled veterans from property taxes
Sponsor: Sen. Angela Mosley (D)
Summary: SJR 84 - Current constitutional provisions exempt from property tax all real property used as a homestead by a former prisoner of war who has a total service-connected disability. This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, removes the requirement that the former prisoner of war have a total service-connected disability.

This amendment also authorizes a property tax exemption for real property used as a homestead by disabled veterans, as defined in the amendment. The amount of the exemption shall be equal to $2,500 for veterans with a disability rating of 30-49%, $5,000 for veterans with a disability rating of 50-69%, and a total exemption for veterans with a disability rating of 70-100%.

This amendment is identical to HJR 95 (2024) and is substantially similar to SJR 58 (2024), SJR 16 (2023), SCS/SJR 40 (2022), HCS/HJRs 7 & 11 (2023), HCS/HJR 52 (2023), HJR 57 (2023), HJR 72 (2022), HJR 73 (2022), HJR 86 (2022), HJR 89 (2022), HJR 115 (2022), HJR 119 (2022), HJR 140 (2022), HJR 3 (2021), HJR 32 (2021), HJR 63 (2021), SJR 23 (2018), SJR 34 (2018), HJR 63 (2018), and HJR 57 (2018).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/11/2024 
S - Hearing Conducted
SJR86 - Places limitations on state spending
Sponsor: Sen. Jill Carter (R)
Summary: SJR 86 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, prohibits total state general revenue appropriations for any fiscal year, as defined in the amendment, from exceeding the level from the previous fiscal year, allowing for growth in an amount equal to the annual rate of inflation plus the annual percentage change in state population. Total state general revenue appropriations may exceed the previous fiscal year’s amount only under certain conditions, as described in the amendment.

For any fiscal year in which net general revenue collections exceed total state general revenue appropriations by more than one percent of allowable total state general revenue appropriations, an amount equal to such excess revenue shall be refunded to taxpayers.

This amendment is similar to SJR 53 (2024), SJR 7 (2023), SJR 6 (2021), SJR 42 (2020), SJR 4 (2019), SJR 31 (2018), and SJR 12 (2017), and to a provision contained in HCS/HJR 56 (2016).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
02/08/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Fiscal Oversight
SJR89 - Modifies provisions relating to the state budget
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Eigel (R)
Summary: SJR 89 - Current constitutional provisions require the Governor to submit to the General Assembly a budget for the ensuing appropriation period containing estimated available revenues and an itemized plan of proposed expenditures. This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, requires that such proposed expenditures shall not exceed estimated available revenues, and provides that "estimated available revenues" shall include all state revenues and federal funds, but shall not include any proceeds of debt incurred by the state or the federal government. Additionally, current constitutional provisions allow unspent fund balances to be included in estimated available revenues. This amendment prohibits such inclusion and allows the General Assembly to provide by law for the return of such unspent balances to the taxpayers. (Section 24)

Current constitutional provisions also allow the Governor to reduce the expenditures of the state below their appropriations when actual revenues are less than the revenue estimates. This constitutional amendment requires such reduction. (Section 27)

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Fiscal Oversight
SJR90 - Modifies provisions relating to property tax assessments
Sponsor: Sen. Mike Cierpiot (R)
Summary: SJR 90 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, provides that, beginning January 1, 2025, the assessed value of residential real property shall be the most recent assessment. For all reassessments of such residential real property, the assessed value shall not increase by more than the increase in inflation or by 4%, whichever is less, provided that the assessed value shall reflect the value added to the property as a result of new construction or improvements, as described in the act.

This amendment is substantially similar to HJR 78 (2024).

JOSH NORBERG

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tax Policy
SJR95 - Establishes parents' right to know what is being taught in their children's public school
Sponsor: Sen. Curtis Trent (R)
Summary: SJR 95 - This constitutional amendment, if adopted by the voters, provides that parents shall have the right to know what their children are being taught in public school. Specifically, parents shall have the right to access curricular information and a list and description of materials in school libraries.

This amendment is similar to a provision in SJR 6 (2023).

OLIVIA SHANNON

Last Action:
03/07/2024 
S - Referred to Senate-Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children
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