HB 2829 requires that arbitration agreements for certain disputes be included in a separate written document, distinct from other contract terms. This directly affects businesses and consumers entering contracts that include arbitration clauses, ensuring such agreements are clearly presented separately. The key provision mandates that arbitration cannot be enforced unless both parties specifically agree to it in a standalone written agreement. The bill does not change arbitration law itself but alters how such agreements must be structured in contracts. As a newly introduced bill (first reading January 7, 2026), it has not yet advanced in the legislative process.
This bill regulates fees for professionals assisting veterans with benefits claims. It prohibits charging referral fees, setting upfront fees, or guaranteeing specific benefits. It requires written agreements that limit compensation to five times any monthly benefit increase (paid only if benefits improve) and mandates clear disclosure that the service isn't affiliated with the VA or Missouri Veterans' Commission. The bill also bans using medical professionals with employment ties for exams and restricts handling veterans' personal data through international call centers.
HB 2678 creates a process for parole hearings for offenders who were adolescents (18-21 years old) when they committed their crimes and are serving 25+ year sentences. It requires the parole board to grant a hearing after 15 years of incarceration, mandating an institutional parole officer to investigate rehabilitation efforts (including work, programs, and behavior) and prepare a report. The bill also requires 12 months' written notice to victims or their families about the hearing, including their right to attend and provide input. If parole is granted, offenders face 3-10 years of supervised release (depending on offense type), and denied parole applicants must wait 3 years for a second hearing.
HJR 157 proposes a constitutional amendment in Missouri that would prevent the state legislature from amending or repealing laws approved by voters through statutory initiatives (like ballot measures), except under three specific conditions: after six years have passed, with a three-fourths supermajority vote in both legislative chambers, or if the proposed change is approved by voters in the next general election. This bill directly affects voter-approved initiatives by making them harder for the legislature to change without significant legislative consensus or further voter input. The key mechanism is creating these three exceptions to override the legislature's usual power to modify such laws. As a constitutional amendment proposal, it requires voter approval to take effect, and it is currently in early legislative stages (prefiled in January 2026).
HB 2679 creates a tax deduction for Missouri residents who open "First-Time Business Owner Savings Accounts" to fund new business startups. Eligible individuals - defined as those who have never owned a business before and identify as members of a racial, ethnic, religious, or cultural minority - can deduct 50% of annual contributions (up to $800 for single filers or $1,600 for joint filers) from their state taxable income. The savings account must be used for eligible startup costs (like equipment, legal fees, or rent) within six years, with total contributions capped at $20,000 per account. The program expires automatically in 2033 unless reauthorized by the legislature.
HB 2691 requires Missouri state agencies and local governments to obtain a sworn certification from electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers before purchasing EVs or components. This certification must confirm no forced labor or oppressive child labor was used in any stage of production, including material sourcing. The bill imposes penalties: manufacturers face $10,000 per false statement or half the contract value, while government entities and employees violating the requirement pay similar fines. It directly affects all Missouri public entities buying EVs and the manufacturers supplying them, mandating ethical supply chain verification as a condition of state contracts.
HB 2657 establishes foundational definitions to advance renewable energy use in Missouri state buildings. It defines key terms like "renewable energy source" (including solar, wind, and geothermal), "state building," and "substantial renovation" to create clear standards for energy efficiency. These definitions directly affect state agencies, public buildings, and contractors working on state construction or renovation projects by setting requirements for renewable energy integration and energy efficiency reporting. The bill creates the framework for future implementation of energy-saving measures but does not yet mandate specific actions or funding.
HB 2736 eliminates Missouri's pre-election voter registration deadline, allowing eligible residents to register and vote on Election Day itself. The bill directly affects Missouri voters who missed the traditional registration deadline (the fourth Wednesday before an election), enabling them to register at their polling place or designated registration locations up until the polls close. Key provisions require voters to provide acceptable ID (like a driver's license or birth certificate) at the time of registration and confirm residency. This change does not alter eligibility requirements (e.g., citizenship, age, residency) but removes the prior deadline for registration. The bill applies to all elections where voter registration is required, except as specified in federal law or other existing sections.
HB 2805 modifies Missouri's correctional records policies to protect offender privacy while enabling necessary access. It designates medical records and certain security documents as protected (not public), requires the department to provide offenders with free electronic copies of their medical records within 30 days of request, and establishes rules for sharing records with treatment agencies, law enforcement, or researchers under confidentiality agreements. The bill also creates a new hospice care training program within state prisons, allowing inmates to earn certification through joint programs with health and licensing departments. These changes directly affect incarcerated individuals, correctional staff, healthcare providers, and agencies handling offender records.
This Missouri House bill (HR 3879) authorizes a committee selected by the Speaker to introduce articles of impeachment against Secretary of State Denny Hoskins. It alleges he violated Missouri's constitution by unlawfully refusing to verify signatures on a referendum petition challenging a gerrymandered congressional map and by directing election officials to implement the new districts despite a constitutional requirement for voter approval. The bill cites his actions as misconduct, willful neglect of duty, and oppression in office under Article VII, Section 1 of the Missouri Constitution. The impeachment process would begin only if a committee finds "good cause" after investigation.
HB 2798 designates November 26th each year as "Tina Turner Day" in Missouri to honor the singer's St. Louis roots, specifically her early career performing during Ike Turner's shows at local nightclubs. The bill encourages Missourians to participate in events celebrating her legacy as the "Queen of Rock 'n Roll." This is a ceremonial designation with no new laws, funding, or direct impact on residents or policy. It serves solely as a symbolic tribute to Tina Turner's cultural contributions to the state.
HB 2795 designates June 20th each year as "John Goodman Day" in Missouri to honor the state-born actor. The bill encourages Missouri citizens to participate in events celebrating his accomplishments, but it does not create new laws, funding, or obligations. As a commemorative resolution, it has no direct legal effect on policy or government operations. This symbolic gesture solely recognizes an individual's contributions without implementing any concrete policy change.
