Greetings from the Capitol District 155!
The legislative session is picking up pace, with just four weeks remaining. My colleagues and I are working diligently to advance meaningful legislation for our district and all Missourians.
Last week, HB 1638 was heard in committee, and this week it successfully advanced to the House floor. This bill focuses on addressing Alzheimer’s disease by prescribing appropriate state resources and attention. Its importance cannot be overstated; too many individuals and families have been affected, and this legislation represents a meaningful step toward better understanding and addressing its impact across Missouri.
This week, the language from HB 2194, our bill modifying provisions relating to epinephrine delivery systems, was heard in the Senate. This marks an important step forward in expanding access to epinephrine delivery systems for those who need them and in providing necessary legal protections for the community stakeholders who may administer them, helping improve safety for Missourians statewide.
Also continuing to move in the Senate is HB 1855, our Alpha-Gal legislation. The language was heard in committee as part of HB 2372, to which it has been added by amendment. While I am continuing to pursue a standalone hearing for HB 1855, the legislation is still advancing and remains on a path toward the Governor’s desk.
On Tuesday, I attended a Senate hearing for HB 1717 & HB 1643 which modifies provisions relating to alternative therapies and treatments, sponsored by Rep. West and myself, which includes my bill, HB 2817, as an amendment. It was encouraging to hear testimony underscoring the importance of these measures for Veterans and first responders. I remain committed to ensuring that those who serve our country and communities receive the support they deserve at home.
My office is equally committed to ensuring your voice is heard. If you have questions about state agencies or need assistance navigating government processes, please do not hesitate to reach out. Assisting constituents is a core part of my role, and my team and I are here to help.
Missouri House Advances Broad Legislative Package as Session Nears Final Weeks
As the legislative session enters its final stretch, the Missouri House has approved a wide range of bills addressing legal reform, transportation safety, state investments, healthcare, public safety, agriculture, and government operations.
House Gives Final Approval to Measure Targeting Abusive Website Accessibility Lawsuits
The House gave final approval to HCS SS SCS SBs 907, 1154 & 1272, legislation designed to curb abusive website accessibility lawsuits. The bill creates the “Act Against Abusive Website Access Litigation,” allowing courts to determine whether lawsuits alleging website accessibility violations are abusive. Courts must consider the totality of circumstances, particularly whether the primary purpose of the lawsuit is to force settlements based on defense costs rather than remedy violations.
The legislation creates a 90-day cure period allowing defendants time to correct accessibility violations after notice is received. If corrected in good faith, future claims may be presumed abusive. The Attorney General is authorized to intervene in cases, provide guidance, and pursue legal action when abusive litigation is suspected. Courts may award attorney fees, costs, and punitive damages for abusive lawsuits. The bill now returns to the Senate.
House Advances Expanded Commercial Driver Standards and Enforcement
The House passed HCS HB 2741, strengthening standards for commercial vehicle operators and motor carriers. The bill establishes minimum English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers to ensure they can communicate effectively, understand traffic signs, interact with law enforcement, and maintain records. Drivers failing to meet standards may be removed from service until compliant.
The bill also requires documentation proving lawful work authorization or citizenship for certain drivers and creates penalties for operating without proper federal work authorization. Motor carriers must verify drivers’ legal eligibility or face substantial fines and possible suspension for repeated violations. The bill also includes provisions for handling stranded cargo and preventing companies from evading penalties through restructuring. The measure now heads to the Senate.
Constitutional Amendment Expanding Treasurer Investment Authority Advances
The House approved HCS HJR 159, proposing a constitutional amendment to broaden the State Treasurer’s investment authority pending voter approval. The measure would allow certain state funds to be invested in a wider variety of secure financial instruments, including highly rated municipal securities, while maintaining safeguards on investment maturity timelines. Supporters say the proposal would provide greater flexibility to maximize returns on taxpayer funds while maintaining financial protections.
House Expands Scope of Pharmacy Practice
The House passed HCS HB 3009, updating Missouri pharmacy laws. The bill shifts authority over pharmacist-administered vaccines to regulatory boards, expands pharmacists’ ability to prescribe certain medical devices, and updates medication therapy service rules. Additional provisions include emergency flexibility for pharmacies, out-of-state licensing accommodations, and revised dispensing protocols for certain medications.
House Establishes Pediatric Disease Research Task Force
HCS HB 2740 creates a statewide task force dedicated to pediatric and genetic disease research. The task force will include lawmakers and members of the medical and research communities who will meet regularly, track research progress and funding, and provide recommendations to the General Assembly. The initiative is temporary and will sunset at the end of the decade.
“Mason’s Law” Aims to Improve Law Enforcement Interactions
The House approved HCS HB 3175, known as “Mason’s Law,” creating a voluntary designation for individuals with medical conditions or disabilities that may impact communication with law enforcement. Officers would be able to view the designation during traffic stops or other encounters. The bill also requires development of training materials to better prepare officers for such interactions.
House Revises Animal Welfare Laws
HB 2436 updates Missouri animal welfare laws by creating a new offense for knowingly filing false reports of animal abuse and strengthening penalties for severe neglect, including starvation. The bill also revises standards for animal care, updates procedures for impounding animals, and clarifies responsibilities during abuse investigations.
Recording Fee Increase Proposed to Support Land Survey Program
The House approved HB 2422, increasing document filing fees collected by county recorders and directing additional funding toward the Missouri Land Survey Program. The bill also authorizes the Department of Agriculture to adjust certain fees by rule to reflect actual administrative costs.
Design-Build Process Expansion Clears House
HCS HB 2474 adds “progressive design-build” as an authorized procurement method for political subdivisions on public construction projects. The bill establishes a two-phase contractor selection process focused on qualifications and collaboration before pricing negotiations begin. Supporters say the change offers more flexibility for managing complex public construction projects.
Agricultural Exemption from Water Permitting Advances
The House passed HCS HB 3076, clarifying that agricultural nonpoint water sources are exempt from certain clean water permitting requirements. Supporters say the bill reinforces longstanding agricultural practices while providing regulatory certainty for Missouri farmers.
Oversight of Bail Bond Agents Shifted Under Licensing Board
HCS HB 3111 transfers regulatory oversight of bail bond agents to a professional licensing board within the Division of Professional Registration. The bill expands board membership, updates its name to reflect broader responsibilities, and removes statutory fee caps to allow flexibility in setting licensing fees tied to oversight costs.
House Adopts Resolution Urging Federal Action on Voter ID
The House adopted HCR 48, urging Congress to require proof of citizenship for voting and calling on the U.S. Senate to consider related legislation. Supporters argue the measure strengthens election integrity and ensures only citizens vote. Opponents contend it could create barriers for eligible voters lacking documentation.
Resolution Calls for State Authority Over Election Policy
The House also approved HCR 23, encouraging Missouri’s congressional delegation to support policies reinforcing state control over election administration and campaign finance laws. Supporters say the resolution opposes growing federal involvement in election matters and emphasizes state legislatures’ constitutional role in setting election policy.
State Designations and Memorials Package Approved
The House passed HS HB 2576, a broad bill establishing numerous official state designations, memorial highways and bridges, tourism recognitions, and cultural acknowledgments throughout Missouri. The measure includes recognitions for communities along the Rock Island Trail corridor and now heads to the Senate.
Show-Me Green Sales Tax Holiday Returns This Spring
Missouri’s annual Show-Me Green Sales Tax Holiday will run April 19–25. During the holiday, state sales tax will be waived on qualifying ENERGY STAR® certified appliances up to $1,500 per appliance, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, and air conditioners. State officials say the program encourages energy-efficient purchases while boosting business for Missouri retailers.
If you ever have, any questions or concerns feel free to call me at 573-751-2042 or email me at Matthew.Overcast@house.mo.gov. Our office is always here for you.
