Rep. Chad Perkins

Maddy summaryHB 1770 modifies the state laws defining the quantities of specific drugs that constitute trafficking offenses in the first and second degrees. The bill updates the weight thresholds for various substances, including heroin, cocaine, LSD, PCP, marijuana, and fentanyl, and adjusts the felony classifications based on these amounts. It also includes provisions that allow individuals convicted of certain cocaine-related trafficking crimes before August 28, 2024, to petition for sentence reductions. Additionally, the legislation specifies stricter penalties for trafficking near schools, housing complexes, or in motor vehicles.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Telecommunications Security Act of 2024 to regulate telecommunications infrastructure in Missouri by prohibiting the use of equipment from specific foreign nations and federally banned companies. It requires all new critical telecommunications infrastructure to be built without equipment from designated foreign adversaries or restricted entities, while also mandating the removal and replacement of any existing prohibited gear. Telecommunications providers must register with the state Public Service Commission annually, pay a fee, and certify that their networks comply with these restrictions. The bill imposes significant daily fines for violations and bars non-compliant providers from receiving state or local funds for infrastructure projects.

Maddy summaryHB 1785 creates the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act to shield individuals and businesses from lawsuits when they speak out on matters of public concern in government proceedings. The law allows defendants to file a special motion to dismiss such claims within sixty days, which immediately pauses all related court activities, including discovery and hearings, until the motion is resolved. If the court determines the lawsuit is not valid under the act, the case is dismissed and the defendant may be awarded legal fees; however, the law does not protect lawsuits filed by government officials or those arising from commercial sales disputes. This measure applies to civil actions filed on or after August 28, 2024, and is designed to encourage free speech and press rights by reducing the burden of defending against certain types of litigation.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies eligibility requirements for Missouri's A+ Schools Program, which provides grants to public and certified nonpublic secondary schools. To qualify for funding, schools must establish measurable performance standards, eliminate general academic tracks that lead only to a diploma, and implement rigorous coursework alongside partnership plans involving local businesses and community leaders. Additionally, the legislation allows high-performing schools to receive waivers from certain state testing and classification rules after three consecutive years of meeting program standards. Students graduating from eligible schools become eligible for tuition reimbursement at community colleges and vocational schools, with specific exemptions for military dependents.

Maddy summaryHB 2547 creates the Zero-Cost Adoption Fund to help offset adoption expenses and prevent children from entering foster care. The bill allows individuals and businesses to donate at least $10,000 to the fund in exchange for a state tax credit equal to 100% of their donation, up to a limit of 50% of their annual state tax liability. This tax credit can be carried forward for up to four years, and the program includes a cap on the total number of credits available each year, which adjusts for inflation until reaching a maximum of $75 million. The fund will be managed by the Department of Social Services to support adoption recruitment, post-adoption services, and grants for adoption-sensitive care in healthcare settings.

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.