Maddy summaryHB 2057 updates Missouri state law to clarify how municipal franchise fees are calculated for video service providers. The bill repeals an older section of the law and replaces it with new definitions for key terms, such as "video service," "gross revenues," and "video service provider." These definitions specifically include cable and internet-based video services while excluding mobile streaming and certain fees like equipment rentals or taxes. The legislation also details exactly which charges count toward the fee base, such as recurring video bills, while explicitly removing items like late fees and advertising revenue from that calculation. This change directly affects cities, towns, and counties that collect fees from companies providing video content to their residents.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill modifies state evidence rules to allow the testimony of children and vulnerable persons in criminal cases without requiring them to appear in the courtroom. It permits their statements to be used as proof of what they said if a judge determines the statement is reliable, even if the witness cannot testify due to severe emotional trauma. The law also clarifies that such statements can serve as sufficient corroboration for a defendant's confession, regardless of whether the child or vulnerable person is available to testify. Additionally, the bill defines a "vulnerable person" as someone with significant intellectual or psychiatric limitations, developmental delays, or those under the age of fourteen. Prosecutors must provide advance notice of their intent to use these statements to ensure the accused has a fair opportunity to prepare a defense.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a non-binding resolution from the Missouri House of Representatives that urges the U.S. Congress to reinstate mandatory country-of-origin labeling for meat products. It directly addresses American farmers, ranchers, and consumers by calling for a return to the 2008 federal law that required labels to distinguish between meat produced domestically and meat imported from other countries. The resolution argues that such labeling helps consumers identify truly American products and supports local producers, though it does not have the legal power to enforce these changes itself.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a non-binding resolution that urges the Governor of Missouri to deploy National Guard members to Texas to assist with border security. It does not authorize the deployment itself or allocate any state funds, but rather asks the governor to consider sending troops to support Texas officials in preventing unauthorized immigration. The text notes that other states have already sent guards to the border and suggests Missouri could provide operational and surveillance support. Because it is a recommendation rather than a law, it has no immediate legal effect on the state or its residents.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates the rules for charter schools in Missouri by replacing existing sections with new provisions that define where and who can operate these independent public schools. It restricts charter school locations to specific types of districts, such as those in large cities, unaccredited areas, or counties with a charter form of government, while also setting a cap on how many local board-sponsored charter schools a large district can host. The legislation expands the list of eligible sponsors to include public and private colleges, community colleges, and accredited private vocational schools, provided they meet certain accreditation and location requirements. By repealing old statutes and enacting these new sections, the bill aims to clarify the operational boundaries and sponsorship options for charter education within the state.
Maddy summaryThis bill modifies existing laws to allow individuals with a valid concealed carry permit to bring firearms into churches and other places of worship. It specifically removes the current prohibition that generally restricts carrying weapons into these religious assembly areas. The change applies to anyone holding a proper permit, while still maintaining restrictions for those without one and preserving specific protections for law enforcement and other authorized personnel.
Maddy summaryHB 1743 proposes to exempt specific items from state sales taxes if they are purchased for generating, transmitting, or distributing electricity. The bill directly affects businesses and entities involved in the power industry by removing tax liability on electrical energy, fuel sources like coal and propane, and the machinery or materials used to produce and deliver power. This exemption would apply to purchases made for light, heat, or power services but would not change how local sales taxes are calculated. The measure is designed to work alongside any other existing tax exemptions rather than replacing them.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a legal shield for charities, nonprofits, religious groups, and churches when they share specific allegations of sexual misconduct with similar organizations. The protection applies only when the accused person has already been reported to the state's children's division and covers claims of sexual abuse, harassment, offenses under chapter 566, or conduct affecting fitness for religious ministry. However, the immunity does not extend to situations where the organization shares the information about its own members or acts with actual malice or reckless disregard for the truth. Additionally, this new rule does not remove any other existing legal defenses or privileges related to communications.
Maddy summaryHB 1740 directs the state board of education to create a new statewide assessment system for public schools that measures student proficiency in subjects like American history, math, and science through performance-based tasks rather than rote memorization. The bill specifically requires that American history assessments use document-based questions, asking students to analyze primary historical sources to demonstrate their understanding of context and impact. Additionally, the legislation establishes a process where high-performing schools that meet exemplary standards for three consecutive years could receive waivers from certain state rules to increase operational flexibility. The law also includes provisions for alternate assessments for students with special educational needs and military dependents, while ensuring that English language learners are not evaluated until they have attended school for three years.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes changes to how Missouri constitutional amendments are ratified, requiring approval from a majority of voters both statewide and in more than half of the congressional districts. It also mandates that only legal residents and citizens of the United States may vote on constitutional changes, regardless of whether they are registered to vote in a specific party or hold other statuses. Additionally, the measure would require specific publication of proposed amendments in newspapers across the state before an election. If passed, these rules would alter the current process for adopting constitutional changes in Missouri.