JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Tuesday, during a bill signing ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed three pieces of legislation into law: Senate Bill (SB) 888, and House Bills (HB) 1908 and 2273.
SB 888, sponsored by Senator Nick Schroer and Representative Brad Christ, modifies provisions relating to the criminal systems.
- Allows for record sharing to enhance the ability of law enforcement and prosecutors to track cases and juvenile adjudication history.
- Adds increased penalties for sexual criminal offenses.
- Supports sentencing reform efforts by streamlining processes and adding transparency in parole eligibility calculation.
“Missouri must address the revolving door for repeat violent offenders—and that includes juveniles,” said Governor Kehoe. “I would like to thank the members of the General Assembly for getting this priority legislation to my desk. This bill delivers for law enforcement, prosecutors, and the safety of our communities by giving our criminal justice system the authority to respond to serious juvenile and adult offenses and strengthening sentencing transparency. Together, we are continuing to build on our Safer Missouri public safety initiative.”
HB 1908, sponsored by Representatives Cecelie Williams and Raychel Proudie and Senator Jill Carter, modifies provisions relating to the dissolution of marriage or legal separation and pregnancy status.
- Clarifies that pregnancy status shall not be used to prevent courts from granting divorce or legal separation.
“If we are serious about protecting life, we must also be serious about protecting vulnerable women and mothers,” said Governor Kehoe. “House Bill 1908 ensures that pregnancy is never used as a barrier to prevent a woman from seeking a divorce in unsafe situations. I appreciate Representative Williams for her leadership and courage in sharing her story, and thank the General Assembly for its unanimous support of this important legislation.”
HB 2273, sponsored by Representative Ed Lewis and Senator Jill Carter, modifies and establishes provisions relating to the protection of children and vulnerable persons.
- Increases penalties for sex offenses involving minors.
- Modifies statute for penalties for sharing or threatening to share a photo of a sex act that have been created or altered using digital manipulation.
- Strengthens Missouri’s efforts to combat child sex trafficking.
“Missouri will not tolerate those who exploit or harm our most vulnerable—especially our children,” said Governor Kehoe. “This bill strengthens Missouri law to keep pace with evolving threats, while protecting those most at risk. By signing this legislation into law we’re sending a clear message: if you harm a child, you will face the consequences.”
