Rep. Mark Sharp

Maddy summaryHB 1475 requires public school districts to hold educational programs and activities honoring the history of Black Americans during the month of February. The law mandates that these events include a period of time at least as long as one standard class period. School boards must work with individual school administrators to decide the specific content and format of these programs. This bill directly affects public school systems by establishing a new requirement for curriculum and events focused on Black American struggles and triumphs.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to lower the sales tax on diapers and feminine hygiene products to match the rate charged on food. It directly affects parents purchasing baby supplies and individuals buying personal care items like tampons and pads. The legislation defines "diapers" as absorbent garments for infants, toddlers, or those with bladder or bowel control issues, and "feminine hygiene products" as tampons, pads, liners, and cups. By aligning the tax rate with that of food, the bill aims to reduce the cost of these essential items for consumers.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates February 20th as "John Donaldson Day" in Missouri to honor the life and achievements of John Donaldson, a native Missourian and pioneering baseball player. The resolution recognizes Donaldson's contributions as a top pitcher in the Negro Leagues, his service in World War I, and his role as the first full-time Black talent scout in Major League Baseball. It encourages citizens to participate in events commemorating his legacy but does not alter any laws or policies. The measure requires approval from the Governor before it becomes effective.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates February 14th of each year as "Kansas City Parade Shooting Remembrance Day" to honor the victims of the 2024 Super Bowl victory parade shooting. It encourages citizens in Missouri to participate in events and activities that remember those affected by the tragedy. The legislation does not impose new laws or penalties but serves as a formal recognition of the date.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Missouri laws to require emergency rooms to provide annual forensic evidence training for staff and maintain secure storage for evidence from gunshot or stabbing victims. It mandates that doctors immediately report details of deep wounds to law enforcement and grants them immunity from civil lawsuits for doing so. Additionally, the bill ensures emergency rooms have access to specialized evidence collection kits provided by the state health department.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires public colleges and universities in the state that sponsor intercollegiate athletics to create and enforce a policy banning unauthorized entry into sports fields and arenas. Under the new rule, individuals are only permitted to access these locations during or after games if they are official participants or have received specific authorization from the institution. The legislation aims to secure athletic venues by restricting access to those directly involved in events or explicitly granted permission by school officials.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to allow members of the Missouri General Assembly to work as employees for school districts without losing their legislative seats. Currently, legislators must vacate their office if they accept employment from the state or its municipalities, but this change would create a specific exception for school district jobs. The amendment also clarifies that teachers, substitute teachers, and school board members are not subject to the general rule requiring legislators to leave office upon accepting state employment. If passed by voters, this provision would enable lawmakers to simultaneously hold public office and work in the education sector.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Missouri that would protect an individual's right to keep and bear arms for self-defense and other lawful purposes. While it establishes that restrictions on these rights must undergo strict scrutiny, it explicitly allows local governments in counties, St. Louis, and Kansas City to pass their own ordinances regulating firearm possession and carrying. These local rules could include permitting systems with fees limited to administrative costs, background checks, and penalties capped at a $1,000 fine or one year in jail. The amendment also maintains existing prohibitions on firearm ownership for convicted violent felons and individuals deemed a danger due to mental health issues.