Rep. Joe Adams

Maddy summaryHB 1547 repeals a specific provision that previously prohibited voters from allowing their ballots to be seen by others. This change directly affects voters in Missouri who may wish to have someone else observe their voting choices, such as a poll worker or family member. The bill removes the legal restriction without altering the existing penalties for election fraud or other offenses listed in the code. By eliminating this ban, the legislation aims to clarify the rules regarding ballot secrecy while maintaining the current framework for punishing illegal voting activities.

Maddy summaryHB 2354 allows registered voters in the state to request an absentee ballot without providing a specific reason during a three-week period before an election. Under this bill, voters who would normally need a valid excuse, such as illness, work, or religious observance, can vote by mail simply by requesting a ballot during this window. The law also expands access by permitting certain groups, including first responders and health care workers, to vote absentee without a reason at any time. Additionally, the bill enables interstate former residents and new residents to vote absentee for presidential and vice presidential elections, while maintaining existing requirements for photo identification and notarization for most absentee ballots.

Maddy summaryHB 1546 updates Missouri laws regarding the towing of abandoned vehicles and vessels from private property. The bill clarifies when law enforcement can authorize a tow, specifically allowing removal if a vehicle is left unattended for more than 48 hours or poses a safety hazard. It also sets new rules for private property owners to request tows without police involvement, requiring specific signage, notification to law enforcement, and waiting periods of either 10 or 96 hours depending on the property type. To support these changes, the legislation mandates a detailed written report for private tows that includes vehicle details and owner information, which must be submitted to local law enforcement within two or 24 hours. Additionally, the bill provides liability protections for officials and towing companies unless damage results from negligence or intentional acts.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would prevent the General Assembly from changing or repealing laws created by citizen initiatives without first holding a public vote. Under this rule, any law passed directly by voters could only be altered or canceled through a referendum, ensuring the public has a say in modifying such measures. The change aims to balance the power between the legislature and the electorate by restricting how easily citizen-driven laws can be overturned by lawmakers.

Maddy summaryHB 1548 modifies Missouri state laws to establish a formal certification and practice framework for community paramedics, a specific type of emergency medical provider. To become a community paramedic, individuals must already be certified paramedics, complete an approved training program, and adhere to protocols set by a medical director. The bill also allows ambulance services to contract with one another to provide these services across different geographic areas, provided the agreement includes a sixty-day cancellation notice. Additionally, the legislation updates legal definitions for various emergency medical roles and equipment to ensure clarity within the state's health and senior services department.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to protect the right to own and carry firearms for self-defense and to assist civil authorities. It establishes that restrictions on gun rights must meet a high legal standard known as strict scrutiny, while also allowing laws that ban guns for convicted violent felons or individuals deemed dangerous due to mental health issues. The amendment permits local governments, including St. Louis and Kansas City, to create their own rules on firearm possession and carrying, provided they limit permit fees to cover administrative costs and cap penalties for violations. Additionally, the text explicitly exempts law enforcement officers, judges, and licensed security guards from local gun regulations and recognizes permits issued by other counties.