Health Care

Bill #:  HCS HB 2413

LWVMO SUPPORTS

Short Description:  Treats and prevents disease, increases access to contraception, and ensures healthcare facilities are properly equipped to conduct sexual assault forensic exams.

Status of the Bill:  Will be taken up for a Third Reading (the final vote in the Senate), Monday, May 13 

Link to the summary of the bill: HERE

5 for Democracy: Contact your Senator and tell them you support this bill.  HERE

Links to further reading: 

Missouri Independent Article May 8, 2024

Firearms

Bill: HCS HB 1708

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Allows concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms on public transportation and in churches; removes ban on eligibility for a permit if applicant has pled guilty to misdemeanor offenses involving crimes of violence; lowers the age requirement for concealed carry permits. 

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1708

5 for Democracy: Contact your House Representative HERE

Firearms

Bill: HB 2291

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description:  Exempts firearms and ammunition from sales tax.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2291

5 for Democracy:  Contact your House Representative HERE

Bill: HCS HB 1708

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Allows concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms on public transportation and in churches; removes ban on eligibility for a permit if applicant has pled guilty to misdemeanor offenses involving crimes of violence; lowers the age requirement for concealed carry permits. 

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1708

5 for Democracy: Contact your House Representative HERE

Bill: HCS HB 1440

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description:  Allows designated school personnel the authority to carry a weapon on school grounds with a concealed carry endorsement or permit. Currently only teachers and school administrators are authorized. HB 1440 would allow districts to authorize other personnel who have concealed carry permits to carry on campus.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1440

5 for Democracy:  Contact your House Representative HERE

Links to further reading: https://www.acluwv.org/en/news/four-reasons-why-arming-schoolteachers-wont-make-schools-safer

https://everytownresearch.org/solution/arming-teachers/

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/04/11/about-1-in-4-us-teachers-say-their-school-went-into-a-gun-related-lockdown-in-the-last-school-year/?utm_source=pocket-newtab-en-us

Bill: HCS HBs 1477 & 1437

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill. 

Short Description: Establishes "Blair's Law" which states that a person commits the offense of unlawful discharge of a firearm if that person, with criminal negligence, discharges a firearm within or into the limits of any municipality.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HBs 1477 & 1437 

5 for Democracy: Contact your House Representative HERE

LGBTQ Rights

Bill: HCS HBs 1520, 1519, 2355 & 2357

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Changes the sunset and grandfather provisions in the gender-affirming health care ban already in place from August 28, 2027 (SB 49 from 2023) to March 1, 2025.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May, 6.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS/HBs 1520,1519, 2355 & 2357

5 for Democracy: Contact your Representative HERE

Social Justice

Bill#: SB 969

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill. 

Short Description: Prohibits discrimination on the basis of hair texture and protective hairstyles in any program or activity conducted by educational institutions that receive or benefit from state financial assistance or state student financial aid. This bill is similar to HCS HBS 1900, 1591 & 2515.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6. 

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 969

5 for Democracy: Contact your Senator HERE

Links to further reading:

MO has yet to pass the CROWN Act to ban hair discrimination

When CROWN Acts stall in states

Taxes

Bill: HCS HB 1428

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill. 

Short Description: Increases income eligibility for the residential property credit and the rental rebate for persons age 65 or older or disabled, and increases the amount of credit allowed.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 6.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1428

5 for Democracy: Contact your House Representative HERE

Links to further reading: 

https://www.mobudget.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Circuit-Breaker-Fact-Sheet-01-2023.pdf

Climate and Environment

Bill #: HCS HB 2153

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Short Description: Makes it unlawful for any person to withdraw from any water source for export outside the state of Missouri via a pipeline facility unless he or she holds a water export permit issued by the Department of Natural Resources, with certain exceptions.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session in the Senate on Monday, May 6 at 1:00 PM in the Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 2153

5 for Democracy: Contact committee members HERE

Links to further reading: 

The Water Wars Are Coming

Missouri push against out-of-state water exports gains traction 

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill: HCS/SS #4 SCS/SJRs 74, 48, 59, 61 & 83

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Changes Missouri's initiative petition process by adding a concurrent majority of the total votes cast statewide and in a majority of the state congressional districts. The amendment also includes distracting and misleading additional changes (that aren't actually changes).

Status of the Bill: Placed on Senate Bills with House Amendments calendar for Monday, April 29.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS/SS#4/SCS/SJRs 74, 48, 59, 61 & 83

5 for Democracy: Contact your State Senator. Look up your Senator HERE

Links to further reading: Missouri Independent: Missouri Initiative Petition Ballot Candy Reinstated

The Kansas City Star: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/missouri-house-passes-limits-on-direct-democracy-with-ballot-candy-to-entice-voters/ar-AA1nELka

Voting Rights

Bill: SS/SJR 78

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Bill effectively prohibits rank choice voting by imposing the restriction that "The candidate that receives the greatest number of votes in a political party primary shall be the only candidate for that political party at the general election".

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday, April 30, at 12:00 PM in the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: SS/SJR 78

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony here: HERE

Links to further reading: 

Independent Voter News: https://ivn.us/posts/missouri-resolution-designed-sucker-voters-banning-ranked-choice-voting

Reproductive Rights

Bill: HCS HB 2634

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Under this act, no public funds shall be expended to any abortion facility, or affiliate or associate thereof, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement.

Status of the Bill: On the governor's desk for signing into law

Talking points: 

• Planned Parenthood does not provide abortions in MO but provides necessary healthcare such as mammograms, cancer screenings, contraception, and sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment
• Missouri medical providers should not be denied government funding for providing legally permissible services in the state
• Missouri should support the rights of women and those who can become pregnant to self-determination related to, and including, but not limited to, bodily autonomy, privacy, reproductive health, and lifestyle choice
• Experts agree the “health-care-safety-net system” (places that do not accept Medicaid patients) cannot absorb all Planned Parenthood patients

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 2634

5 for Democracy: Contact Governor Parson’s to veto this bill HERE

Links to further reading: Planned Parenthood: Missouri Legislature Votes to Block Access to Essential Health Care, Denying Medicaid Patients Ability to Choose Planned Parenthood as a Trusted Provider

KY3: https://www.ky3.com/2024/04/10/missouri-senate-passes-bill-defund-area-health-care-provider/

Senator Lauren Arthur: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaisjFggXeE

Social Justice

Bill: HCS HBs 1900, 1591 & 2515

LWVMO SUPPORTS

Short Description: Prohibits discrimination on the basis of hair texture and protective hairstyles in any program or activity conducted by educational institutions that receive or benefit from state financial assistance or state student financial aid.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday, May 1 at 11:00 AM in the Senate Progress and Development Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HBs 1900, 1591 & 2515

5 for Democracy: Contact committee members HERE

Voting Rights

Bill: HB 1525 and HB 2895

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills.

Short Description:  Reinstate the presidential preference primary in Missouri.

Status of the Bills: Scheduled for Executive Session, Monday April 22 at 4:30 PM in the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee.

Link to the bill summary: HB 1525  HB 2895

5 for Democracy:  Email committee members by clicking on their pictures (this will take you to their individual websites where you can fill out the form to email them) HERE

Health Care

Bill: HCS HBs 2632 and 1446

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills.

Short Description:Creates a registration process to allow health insurance reimbursement of Doula services.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 22. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HBs 2632 & 1446

5 for Democracy: Contact your Senator HERE

Firearms

Bill #: HCS/HBS 1477 & 1437

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Short Description: This bill establishes ""Blair's Law"" which states that a person commits the offense of unlawful discharge of a firearm if that person, with criminal negligence, discharges a firearm within or into the limits of any municipality.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Informal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 22.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS/HBS 1477 & 1437

5 for Democracy: Contact Floor Leader Rep. Jonathan Patterson (R – Lee’s Summit) and ask to bring it to the floor for debate (see below). Jonathan.Patterson@house.mo.gov

Links to further reading: Which states have the ideal laws to prevent gun violence?

Subject: HB1477 Blair’s Law regarding celebratory gunfire. 

Dear Rep. Patterson,

HB1477 has been on the House calendar for 6 weeks. Last year celebratory gunfire caused the death of four Missourians, injured many and caused a significant amount of property damage. People should be prosecuted for needlessly shooting off firearms. This puts others in danger. Shooting into the air for no reason can be fatal. 

Thank you,Your name, etc.

Voting Rights

Bill #: ΗΒ 1445

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Short Description: Makes Election Day a state holiday and requires colleges & universities to be closed that day unless serving as a polling place.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing on Monday, April 15 @ 4:30 PM in the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of HB 1445

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony here

Firearms

Bill #: HCS HB 1440

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Short Description: This bill allows designated school personnel the authority to carry a weapon on school grounds if they have obtained a concealed carry endorsement or permit.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar, Monday April 15.

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of HCS HB 1440

5 for Democracy:  Contact your Representative and tell them you oppose this bill.  Look up your representative HERE.

Links to further reading: https://www.acluwv.org/en/news/four-reasons-why-arming-schoolteachers-wont-make-schools-safer

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/04/11/about-1-in-4-us-teachers-say-their-school-went-into-a-gun-related-lockdown-in-the-last-school-year/?utm_source=pocket-newtab-en-us

Social Justice

Bill #:  SB969

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Short Description:  Prohibits discrimination on the basis of hair texture and protective hairstyles in any program or activity conducted by educational institutions that receive or benefit from state financial assistance or state student financial aid. This bill is similar to HCS HBS 1900, 1591 & 2515.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar.

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of SB969 here  

5 for Democracy: Contact your Representative and tell them you support this bill.  Look up your representative HERE.

Links to further reading: 

MO has yet to pass the CROWN Act to ban hair discrimination; When CROWN Acts stall in states

Health Care

Bill #: HB 2654

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description: Requires insurance to cover Doula services and childbirth education classes for pregnant women

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session in the House on Tuesday, April 9 at 2:00 PM in the Healthcare Reform Committee

Talking points: 

• Doulas can provide emotional and physical support to pregnant women
• Doula care is a proven, cost-effective means of reducing racial disparities in maternal health
• Doula care can improve health outcomes and lead to more satisfying birthing experiences
• All pregnant and postpartum people deserve access to full spectrum doula care 

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2654

5 for Democracy: Contact committee members and tell them you support this bill HERE. Click on the member’s picture to be taken to their home page. 

Taxes

Bill #: HCS HB 1428

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description: Increases the income eligibility for the residential property credit and the rental rebate for persons age 65 or older or disabled persons, and increases the amount of credit allowed (also known as the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit).

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 8

Talking points: 

• Property tax credit income limits have not been adjusted since 2008
• Senior citizens and disabled persons eligible for the credit have seen their social security income rise - which results in a lower and lower credit 
• With the rise in property taxes and rent, the credit is even more necessary to help them stay in their homes or pay rent
• The Missouri Legislature needs to expand income eligibility, increase the credit amount, and index the value of the credit to keep pace with inflation which is important to support low and moderate income Missouri Residents 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1428

5 for Democracy: Contact your Representative and tell them you support this bill.  Look up your representative HERE. 

Links to further reading: Improving Missouri's Property Tax Credit Would Help Seniors, Missourians with Disabilities...

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #: HCS HB1749

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Sets up hurdles for the initiative petition (IP) process by adding multiple administrative actions.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session, Tuesday, April 2 at 1:00 PM in the Senate Local Government and Elections Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill:  HCS HB1749

30 Minute Matters: Contact committee members HERE.  Click on the member’s picture to be taken to their home page.

Bill #: SJR 74

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Weakens Missouri's initiative petition process by adding a concurrent majority of the total votes cast statewide plus a majority of state congressional districts.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session, Tuesday, April 2 at 11:00 AM in the House Elections and Election Officials Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: SJR 74

30 Minute Matters: Contact committee members HERE.  Click on the member’s picture to be taken to their home page.

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: HJR 131

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Amends the Missouri Constitution to ban abortion except in cases of a medical emergency and bans any further exceptions unless those exceptions are approved by voters; subjects a provider to a class B felony and loss of license.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session, Tuesday, April 2 at 4:00 PM in the House General Laws Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HJR 131

30 Minute Matters: Contact committee members HERE.  Click on the member’s picture to be taken to their home page.

We're back from Spring Break!

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #:  HB 1749  

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  Sets up hurdles for the initiative petition (IP) process through multiple administrative actions including a 30 day residency requirement for signature gatherers and restricting challenges on signature decisions and official ballot title or fiscal notes to come only from Missouri registered voters as opposed to any citizen.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate on Monday, March 25, 2024 at 2:00 PM in the Local Government and Elections Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1749 as Perfected in the House

5 for Democracy: Contact your Senator and tell them you oppose this bill.

Voting Rights

Bill #:  HB 1525 and HB 2895

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills

Short Description:  Reinstate the presidential preference primary in Missouri.

Status of the Bills:  Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Tuesday, March 26 at 12:00 PM in the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1525  HB 2895

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony on HB 1525 and  HB 2895

Firearms

Bill #: HCS HB 1708

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Allows concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms on public transportation and in churches; removes ban on eligibility for a permit if applicant has pled guilty to misdemeanor offenses involving crimes of violence; lowers the age requirement for concealed carry permits. 

Status of the Bill: Has been placed back on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 25.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1708

5 for Democracy:   Contact your Representative and tell them you oppose this bill.

Social Justice

Bill #:  HCS HBs 1900, 1591 & 2515

LWVMO SUPPORTS

Short Description:  Prohibits discrimination on the basis of hair texture and protective hairstyles in any program or activity conducted by educational institutions that receive or benefit from state financial assistance or state student financial aid.

Status of the Bill: Will be taken up for a Third Reading in the House (the final vote in the House) on Monday, March 25.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HBS 1900, 1591 & 2515

5 for Democracy: Contact your Representative and tell them you support this bill.

Links to further reading: 

MO has yet to pass the CROWN Act to ban hair discrimination; When CROWN Acts stall in states

Taxes

Bill #:  HB 2274

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  This bill phases out the Missouri state corporate income tax rate to 0% over a period of 4 years.

Status of the Bill:  Scheduled for Executive Session on March 25, 2024 at 3:45 PM in the Senate Fiscal Review Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2274 Perfected

5 for Democracy: Contact members of the Fiscal Review Committee and tell them you oppose this bill HERE.

Links to further reading: Missouri Budget Project

Climate and Environment

Bill #:  HCS HBs 2134 & 1956

LWVMO SUPPORTS 

Short Description:  Modifies permit requirements and exemptions in relation to Missouri fertilizer and clean water laws.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Senate hearing on Tuesday, March 26 at 8:45 AM in the Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HBs 2134 & 1956 Perfected

5 for Democracy:  Contact your Senator and tell them you support this bill.

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #: SCS/SJR 74

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Short Description: Weakens Missouri's Initiative Petition process by adding a concurrent majority of US Congressional districts requirement.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee on Tuesday, March 12 at 12:00.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS/SJR 74

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony here 

Links to further reading: IP talking points, MIssouri Independent: As few as 1 in 5 voters could defeat IPs .

Voting Rights

Bill #: SB 1120

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Short Description: This bill would restore the presidential primary in Missouri.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Local Government and Elections Committee on Monday, March 11 at 2:00 PM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 1120

5 for Democracy: Email committee members using the form on the legislator’s website. List of committee members here.

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: SCS/SBS 1168/810

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill. 

Short Description: Under this act, no public funds shall be expended to any abortion facility, or affiliate or associate thereof, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Informal Calendar for Perfection for Monday, March 11. 

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS/SBS 1168/810

5 for Democracy: Email your state Senator using the form on the legislator’s website here.

Firearms

Bill #: HB 2487, HB 1877

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills.

Short Description: HB 2487 specifies that background checks be done on any transfer of a firearm by any person who is not a licensed dealer. Licensed dealers may charge a fee for doing the checks. HB 1877 expands endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree to include knowingly failing to secure a readily available firearm in the presence of a child under 17 or in a residence where a child under 17 lives.

Status of the Bill: HB 2487 and 1877 have not been referred to a committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2487 HB 1877

5 for Democracy: Write House Speaker Dean Plocher HERE and urge him to refer these bills to committee.

Bill #: HB 1819

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill. 

Short Description: ΗΒ 1819 allows courts to remove guns from respondents after issuing an Order of Protection for domestic violence and prohibiting those convicted of domestic violence from possessing guns.

Status of the Bill: Has been referred to the House Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1819

5 for Democracy: Write Committee Chairman Rep. Lane Roberts HERE and urge him to advance the bill for a hearing in his committee. 

Bill #: HB 2291

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Short Description: Exempts firearms and ammunition from sales tax.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 11. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2291

5 for Democracy: Contact your House Representative HERE

Bill #: HCS/HBS 1477 & 1437

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill. 

Short Description: This bill establishes ""Blair's Law"" which states that a person commits the offense of unlawful discharge of a firearm if that

person, with criminal negligence, discharges a firearm within or

into the limits of any municipality.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 11. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS/HBS 1477 & 1437

5 for Democracy: Contact your representative here.

Links to further reading: 

Which states have the ideal laws to prevent gun violence?

Social Justice

Bill #: HCS HBs 1900, 1591, 2515

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Short Description: Prohibits discrimination on the basis of hair texture and protective hairstyles in any program or activity conducted by educational institutions that receive or benefit from state financial assistance or state student financial aid.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 11.

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of HCS HBs 1900, 1591, 2515

5 for Democracy: Contact your representative here.

Taxes

Bill #: HB 2274

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Short Description: This bill phases out the Missouri state corporate income tax to 0 over a period of 4 years.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 11.

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of HB 2274

5 for Democracy: Contact your representative here.

Voting Rights

Bill #: HJR 104 and SJR 78

LWVMO OPPOSES these bills

Short Description: These bills would effectively prohibit rank choice voting by imposing the restriction that "The candidate that receives the greatest number of votes in a political party primary shall be the only candidate for that political party at the general election".  They also would give the legislature the discretion of outlawing voting machines.

Status of the Bill: SJR 78 is scheduled for Executive Session on Monday, March 4 at 2:00 PM in the Senate Local Government and Elections Committee.  HJR 104 is scheduled for Executive Session on Tuesday, March 5 at 12:00 PM in the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: SJR 78   HJR 104

5 for Democracy: Contact committee members and tell them you oppose these bills:  HERE for SJR 78, HERE for HJR 104 

Voting Rights

Bill #: SB 724

LWVMO OPPOSES 

Short Description: Creates Office of Election Crimes and Security in the office of the Secretary of State (SOS) and gives Attorney General concurrent jurisdiction with local prosecuting attorneys; expands powers of SOS on election matters.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing on Monday, March 4 at 12:00 PM in the Senate Local Government and Elections Committee

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 724

5 for Democracy: Senate hearings only allow for in person testimony. Contact the members of the committee and tell them you oppose SB 724 HERE

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810 and HCS HB 2634

LWVMO OPPOSES these bills

Short Description: No public funds shall be expended to any abortion facility, or affiliate or associate thereof, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement.

Status of the Bill: SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810 is placed on the Senate Informal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 4.  HCS HB 2634 is scheduled for a third reading in the House on Monday, March 4.

Link to the summary of the bill: SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810; HCS HB 2634 (the same bill)

5 for Democracy: Contact your State Senator to tell them you oppose SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810 using the form on the legislator’s website.  Look up your Senator HERE. 

Contact your State Representative to tell them you oppose HCS HB 2634 using the form on the representative’s website. Look up your Representative HERE. 

Education

Bill #: SB 918

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: This act prohibits school districts from teaching about The 1619 Project, critical race theory, or any divisive concepts, as defined in the act. Districts are also prohibited from certain actions listed in the act relating to curriculum and instruction.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a Hearing in the Senate on Tuesday, March 5, at 8:00 AM in the Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 918

5 for Democracy: Senate hearings only allow for in person testimony. Contact the members of the committee and tell them you oppose SB 918 HERE

Firearms

Bill #: SB 754

LWVMO SUPPORTS

 sections regarding Blair’s Law and increasing the penalties for armed criminal action and endangering the welfare of a child.

Short Description: This act modifies provisions relating to public safety including Blair's Law that increases the penalty for celebratory gunfire; modifies penalties for armed criminal action; increases the offense to a class D felony for endangering the welfare of a child regarding firearms.

Status of the Bill: Has been taken up for a Third Reading (the final vote in the Senate) on Monday, March 4.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 754

5 for Democracy: Contact your State Senator to tell them you support this bill using the form on the legislator’s website. Look up your Senator HERE. 

Links to further reading: Grandparents for Gun Safety 

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: SCS/SBs 1168 & 810;  HCS HB 1563

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  No public funds shall be expended to any abortion facility, or affiliate or associate thereof, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement.

Status of the Bill: SCS/SBs 1168 & 810 has been placed on the Senate Informal Perfection Calendar for Monday, February 26. HCS HB 1563 was placed back on the House Formal Perfection Calendar.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS/SBS 1168 & 810;  HCS HB 1563

5 for Democracy: Contact your State Senator or House Representative to tell them you oppose these bills using the form on the legislator’s website.  Look up your Senator HERE.

Education

Bill #: SB 1051

LWVMO OPPOSES 

Short Description: This act establishes the “Public School Open Enrollment Act” that will enable students to transfer from their resident district to a nonresident district.

Status of the Bill: Voted Do Pass out of the Senate Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children Committee, which means it's moving along towards a vote in the Senate.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 1051. 

5 for Democracy:  Contact your senators and tell them you oppose SB 1051.  Find your senator HERE.

Links to further reading: Information from LWVMO Legislative Bulletin regarding Open Enrollment.

Firearms

Bill #: HCS HB 1708

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Allows concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms on public transportation and in churches; removes ban on eligibility for a permit if applicant has pled guilty to misdemeanor offenses involving crimes of violence; lowers the age requirement for concealed carry permits. This bill was removed from consideration for a short time after the shooting in Kansas City.  It is back for consideration. 

Status of the Bill:  Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar, February 26.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1708

5 for Democracy:  Contact your representative and tell them to oppose this bill.  Find your legislator HERE.

Social Justice

Bill #: SB 969

LWVMO SUPPORTS

Short Description:  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.  

Status of the Bill: Hearing scheduled In the Senate for Wednesday, February 28, at 12:00 PM in the Senate Progress and Development Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 969

5 for Democracy:  Senate hearings only allow in person testimony.  Contact the members of the committee and tell them you support SB 969  HERE.

Links to further reading: KCUR Crown Act     PBS

Link to Joint Statement by LWVMO and LWVKC

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #: SCS/SJR 74

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Weakens Missouri's Initiative Petition process by adding a concurrent majority of US Congressional districts requirement.

Status of the Bill: On the Senate Informal Perfection Calendar.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS/SJR 74

5 for Democracy: Contact your Senator to oppose this bill HERE

Links to further reading: HERE

Bill #: HB 1749

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Places additional restrictions on signature gathering to the Initiative Petition process.

Status of the Bill: On the House Perfection Calendar.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1749

5 for Democracy: Contact your Representative to oppose this bill HERE

Links to further reading: HERE

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Short Description: No public funds shall be expended to any abortion facility, or affiliate or associate thereof, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement.

Status of the Bill:  SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810 is placed on the Senate Perfection Calendar for Monday, February 19.

Link to the summary of the bill: SS/SCS/SBs 1168 & 810

5 for Democracy:  Contact your State Senator to tell them you oppose this bill using the form on the legislator’s website.  Look up your Senator HERE.  

Health Care

Bill #: HB 1918; HB 2526

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills.

Short Description: MO HealthNet coverage of hearing aids and cochlear implants.

Status of the Bills: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the House on Tuesday, February 20 at 2:00 PM in the Healthcare Reform Committee.

Link to the summary of the bills:  HB 1918; HB 2626

5 for Democracy: Contact members of the committee in support of these bills: HERE

Social Justice

Bill #: HB 1413

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  Would require Missouri driver's licenses and nondriver's licenses to include a symbol that indicates that the holder of the license is a United States citizen.

Status of the Bills:  Set for Executive Session in the House on Monday, February 19 at 12:00 PM in the Special Committee on Homeland Security.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1413

5 for Democracy: Contact committee members and tell them you oppose this bill:  HERE

Bill #:  HB 1591,  HB 1900,  HB 2515

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills. 

Short Description: Prohibits discrimination on the basis of hair texture and protective hairstyles in any program or activity conducted by educational institutions that receive or benefit from state financial assistance or state student financial aid.

Status of the Bills: Scheduled for an Executive Session on Monday, February 19 at 4:30 PM in the Special Committee on Urban Issues.

Link to the summary of the bills: HB1591 HB1900 HB2515

5 for Democracy: Contact Committee members and tell them you support these bills:  HERE

Links to further reading:  KCUR Crown Act     PBS

Climate and Environment

Bill #:  HCS HBs 2134 & 1956

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill. 

Short Description: Modifies permit requirements and exemptions in relation to Missouri fertilizer and clean water laws.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, February 19.

Link to the summary of the bill:  HB 2134

5 for Democracy: Contact your House Representative using the form on the legislator’s website:  HERE  

We had a myriad of technical issues last week, please excuse our absence! We're back this week!!

Missourians for Constitutional Freedom Initiative Petition: https://moconstitutionalfreedom.org/

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #: SCS/SJR 74

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Weakens Missouri's Initiative Petition process by adding a concurrent majority of US Congressional districts requirement.

Status of the Bill: On the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS/SJR 74

5 for Democracy: Contact your Senator HERE

Links to further reading: HERE

Reproductive Rights/Health Care/Social Justice

Bill #: SB 1168

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Under this act, no public funds shall be expended to any abortion facility, or affiliate or associate thereof, including for MO HealthNet reimbursement.

Status of the Bill: Has been placed on the Senate Informal Perfection Calendar for Monday, February 12

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 1168

5 for Democracy:  Contact your State Senator using the form on the legislator’s website.  Look up your Senator HERE

Bill #: HB 2567

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  Prohibits DEI training at medical institutions

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for House hearing on Tuesday, February 13 at 2:00 PM in the General Laws Committee

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2567

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony HERE

Links to further reading: 2023 witness testimony on similar bill; MU medical students oppose to bills that prohibit diversity training requirements

Bills #:  HB 2365, HB 2569 and HB 2619

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  Prohibits state departments from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Status of the Bills:  Set for House Hearing February 13, at 2:00 PM in the General Laws Committee

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2365  HB 2569  HB 2619 

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony HB 2365  HB 2569  HB 2619

Links to further reading: 360learning  Forbes

Bill #: HB 1918 and HB 2626

LWVMO SUPPORTS

Short Description:  MO HealthNet coverage of hearing aids (2626) and cochlear implants (1918).

Status of the Bill:  Scheduled for House hearing on Tuesday, February 13 at 2:00 PM in the Healthcare Reform Committee

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1918  HB 2626

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony here:  HB 1918  HB 2626

Firearms

Bill #: HB 2291

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  Exempts firearms and ammunition from sales tax.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, February 12

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2291

5 for Democracy: Contact your legislator using the form on the legislator’s website.  Look up your representative  HERE

Citizen Initiative Petition 

Bill #: HJR 119

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Makes the Initiative Petition process more difficult by raising the hurdle from a majority of votes to 55% of votes.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing Tuesday, January 30 at 12:00 PM in the Elections and Elected Officials Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HJR 119

5 for Democracy: Submit Testimony: HERE

30 Minute Matters: Write the committee members HERE

Bill #: HJR 76, HJR 86

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description:  Makes the Initiative Petition process more difficult by adding a concurrent majority requirement. This time with State Senate districts (last week was State Rep districts and US Congressional districts)

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing Tuesday, January 30 at 12:00 PM in the Elections and Elected Officials Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HJR 76  HJR86

5 for Democracy: Submit Testimony:  HERE

30 Minute Matters: Write the committee members HERE

Bill #: SJR 59, SJR 61, SJR 81, SJR 83, SJR 48, SJR 49, SJR 51, SJR 74, SJR 77, SJR 79

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Attempts to weaken Missouri's initiative petition process by adding a concurrent majority of the votes cast in a majority of the Missouri State House, State Senate, or US Congressional districts. 

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing Monday January 29 at 2 PM in the S Local Government and Elections Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill: SJR 59, SJR 61, SJR 81, SJR 83, SJR 48, SJR 49, SJR 51, SJR 74, SJR 77, SJR 79 

30 Minute Matters: Write the committee members: HERE

Bill #: SJR 73

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: This bill would weaken Missouri's Initiative Petition process by ending majority rule by including a campaign finance based formula (based on the total percentage of campaign contributions received in support of the measure by sponsoring campaign committees and supporting campaign committees from in-state contributors and out-of-state contributors) effectively raising the required margin of votes to gain passage.

Status of the Bill:Scheduled for a hearing Monday January 29 at 2:00 PM in the S Local Government and Elections Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: SJR 73

30 Minute Matters: Write the committee members: HERE

Links to further reading: HERE

Citizen Initiative Petition Bills

Bill #: HJR 102 (similar to HJR 72 below; concurrent majority of state rep districts)

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Ends majority passage of initiative petitions by changing to a ‘concurrent’ majority passage system; a statewide majority of all legal voters (what we currently have) AND passage in a majority of MO state representative districts. Also forbids a foreign country from sponsoring or funding initiatives and prohibits taxes on food or property by initiative.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a committee hearing in the House on Tuesday, January 23,  2024 at 10:30 AM in the Elections and Elected Officials Committee

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of HJR 102

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony online here

Bill #: HJR 72 (similar to HJR 102 above; concurrent majority of congressional districts)

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Ends majority passage of initiative petitions by changing to a ‘concurrent’ majority passage system; statewide majority of all legal voters AND majority of MO congressional districts. Also forbids a foreign country from sponsoring or funding initiatives and prohibits taxes on food or property by initiative.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for hearing in the House on Tuesday, January 23,  2024 at 10:30 AM in the Elections and Elected Officials Committee

Link to the summary of the bill: Summary of HJR 72

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony online here for HJR 72

Bill #: HB 1749 

LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: Sets up hurdles for the initiative petition (IP) process by making it more difficult to gather signatures and makes successful signature gathering efforts vulnerable to legal challenges. This bill creates a number of administrative changes to the initiative petition process.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for hearing in the House on Tuesday, January 23,  2024 at 10:30 AM in the Elections and Elected Officials Committee

Link to the summary of the bill:   Summary of HB 1749    

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony online here for HB 1749

There are a lot more bills up this week but we don’t have time to cover them all here. For more information on other bills, visit LWVKC.org and scroll down to "Sign up to get our weekly Missouri Legislature Call to Action email". You'll get the information we talk about here, as well as additional talking points and bills that the League is tracking.

Voting Rights Bill

Bill #:  HB 2140

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill 

Short Description: Establishes the offense of tampering with an election official as a class one election offense.

Status of the Bill:  Scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday, January 16 at 12:00 pm in the Elections and Elected Officials Committee. 

Link to the summary of the bill:  HB 2140

5 for Democracy:  Submit testimony to support HB 2140 Here

Health Care Bills

Bill #:  HB 1632

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description:  Requires insurers that provide coverage for epinephrine auto-injectors or prescription insulin drugs to limit the amount that an insured is required to pay. 

Status of the Bill:  Scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday, January 14 at 4:30 PM in the Healthcare Reform Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill:  HB 1632

5 for Democracy:  Submit testimony HERE

Links to further reading:  Testimony from others who support the bill

Firearm Bills

Bill #:  SB 788

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill 

Short Description: Establishes “Blair’s Law” that increases the offense of unlawful discharge of a firearm.

Status of the Bill:  Set for a hearing on Wednesday, January 17 at 1:00 PM in the Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill:  SB 788

5 for Democracy:  Contact committee members Here

Links to further reading:  HERE – Ratings of all US states by Everytown on the strength of their gun safety laws compared to violent gun deaths.

LGBTQ Rights Bills

Bill #:  HB 2355, HB 2357, HB 2308, HB 1674

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: “Restroom and Locker Room Access” bills.  Forces students to use the restroom not aligned with their gender identity. 

Status of the Bills:  Scheduled for hearing on Wednesday, January 17 at 2:00 PM in the Emerging Issues Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill:  HB 2355   HB 2357 HB 2308  HB 1674

5 for Democracy:  Submit testimony  HB 2355  HB 2357  HB 2308 HB 1674

There are a lot more really awful LGBTQ bills up this week but we don’t have time to cover them all here. For more information on other bills, visit LWVKC.org and scroll down to "Sign up to get our weekly Missouri Legislature Call to Action email". You'll get the information we talk about here, as well as additional talking points and bills that the League is tracking.

Firearm Bills

Bill #: HB1708

LWVKC OPPOSES

Short Description: Allows concealed carry permit holders to carry firearms on public transportation and in churches; removes ban on eligibility for a permit if applicant has pled guilty to misdemeanor offenses involving crimes of violence; lowers the age requirement for concealed carry permits.

Status: There is a hearing on Tuesday, January 9 at 2pm in the General Laws Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill:  HERE

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony HERE

30 Matters: Contact members of the Committee HERE

Bill #: HB2291

LWVKC OPPOSES

Short Description: Specifies that firearms and ammunition sold in this state are exempt from state and local sales tax.

Status: There is a hearing on Tuesday, January 9 at 2pm in the General Laws Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HERE

5 for Democracy: Submit testimony HERE

30 Matters: Contact members of the Committee HERE

That's a wrap on the 2023 MO Legislative Session! Thanks for sticking with us and making your voices heard. Rachel and Anne talk about what passed and what didn't during this tense but under-productive session. Do you know where the Peach Capital of Missouri is? We do.

We're going to miss speaking to you every week! Drop us a line, hit us with a suggestion, or tell us what actions you took this session at lwvmopodcast@gmail.com.

That's it! The regular legislative session is over. Missouri passed 43 non-budget bills through the House and Senate over this 2022 legislative session. Listen to find out what passed and what didn't!

Thank you to all of you who took pen (or keyboard) in hand this session and made your voices heard!!