Rep. Dave Griffith

Maddy summaryHB 2768 modifies the legal penalties for driving while intoxicated by adjusting the classification of offenses based on factors such as the driver's prior record, the presence of minors in the vehicle, and the severity of any resulting injury or death. The bill establishes a tiered sentencing structure where penalties range from misdemeanors for first-time offenders to higher-level felonies for repeat offenders or those who cause serious harm while driving. Additionally, the legislation restricts the ability of courts to grant suspended sentences or fines for repeat offenders and mandates specific minimum jail terms, community service, or alcohol monitoring for those convicted of multiple offenses.

Maddy summaryHB 1492 establishes a $4 admission fee for each person boarding an excursion gambling boat in Missouri, with the revenue split among several specific funds. One dollar goes to the state gaming commission, one dollar is directed to the local home dock city or county, and the remaining two dollars are divided between a veterans capital improvement trust and two legacy funds dedicated to preserving Missouri's steamboat and transportation history. The bill also mandates that the admission fee be adjusted annually based on the federal consumer price index and clarifies that licensees must collect this fee even for complimentary tickets, while prohibiting additional local taxes on gambling operations.

Maddy summaryHB 1493 modifies Missouri's laws regarding medical malpractice lawsuits by expanding the definition of "health care provider" to include licensed long-term care facilities. The bill gives the state director of commerce and insurance the authority to review and potentially reject insurance rates for medical malpractice if they are found to be excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory. In making these determinations, the director must consider specific factors such as local loss experience, inflation, administrative costs, and the specific needs of Missouri health care practices. Additionally, the legislation defines terms like "catastrophic personal injury" and "equitable share" to clarify how damages and liability are calculated in these cases.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires public and charter high schools to teach students cardiopulmonary resuscitation and choking first aid, such as the Heimlich maneuver, for a minimum of thirty minutes during their high school years. The instruction must be integrated into existing health or physical education curricula and follow guidelines from recognized organizations like the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. Schools have flexibility in delivering the training, as teachers do not need to be certified instructors unless the course aims to lead to official certification, and they may partner with local first responder groups for hands-on practice. Students with disabilities are included in these requirements to the extent appropriate under federal disability laws.