Rep. Mazzie Christensen

Maddy summaryHB 1574 establishes a new state income tax on nonresident entertainers and professional athletes who perform in Missouri for more than $300, requiring venues and payers to withhold 2% of their compensation. The bill defines these groups to include performers from out-of-state bands, comedy acts, and professional sports teams across various disciplines. Revenue generated from this tax is designated to fund specific state programs, with portions allocated to the arts council, humanities council, public libraries, and public television and radio broadcasting. The law applies to taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 1999, and remains in effect until December 31, 2030.

Maddy summaryHB 1573 updates the rules for when child care homes are exempt from state licensing requirements. The bill clarifies that individuals caring for six or fewer children at one address, including up to three under age two, do not need a license, while also expanding exemptions for various settings like schools, camps, hospitals, and religious organizations. It mandates that unlicensed facilities must clearly inform parents of their status and obtain a signed acknowledgment from guardians, and it allows caregivers to exclude certain related children from their licensed capacity count. Additionally, the law requires all facilities to disclose their licensing status and disciplinary policies to parents and maintains the department's authority to enforce safety and supervision standards.

Maddy summaryHB 1576 mandates that schools in the state provide instruction on human sexuality and development that emphasizes abstinence as the most effective method for preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The bill requires educators to present medically accurate information on health risks, contraception, and the emotional consequences of sexual activity, while also teaching students skills like conflict management and how to resist peer pressure. Specific provisions include showing high-definition ultrasound videos and a particular video about fertilization during human growth and development lessons, as well as defining consent and prohibiting schools from offering abortion services or materials from providers of such services. Local school boards retain the authority to determine the specific content of the curriculum and to decide on policies regarding parental notification and student referrals for contraception. Additionally, the law requires schools to notify parents of the basic content of the instruction and their right to withdraw their children from any part of the program.

Maddy summaryHB 1651 defines "red flag laws" as any state or federal order that temporarily or permanently seizes firearms, accessories, or ammunition from individuals without a prior court conviction for a violent felony. The bill prohibits Missouri state agencies and local law enforcement from enforcing these orders and bars them from accepting federal funds used to enforce such measures. It also establishes civil penalties of up to $50,000 for officers who knowingly violate the law and provides a legal pathway for citizens to sue for damages or injunctive relief if their firearms are seized under these prohibited orders.

Maddy summaryHB 1955 updates Missouri state laws regarding how the state manages its financial assets and how residents calculate their state income taxes. The bill requires the state treasurer to keep at least one percent of state funds in local banks as cash or interest-bearing deposits, provided these funds are not needed for current expenses. It also modifies the state income tax code by adding specific federal tax refunds and interest amounts to a taxpayer's income while allowing certain deductions to be subtracted. These tax adjustments are designed to align Missouri's tax calculations with changes in federal tax laws, such as rules on business interest and property tax deductions.