As you might guess, the last weeks before the end of session will yield an abundance of new laws. Session ends May 15th.  Bills that may eventually become law are already in the pipeline.  It is unlikely any new legislation introduced after Easter will have enough time to navigate all the hurdles in the House and the Senate.

So far this session six bills have been truly agreed and finally passed by the House and the Senate and are awaiting the Governor’s signature. The six bills are:

Cannabis and Hemp Regulation

HB 2641 updates state cannabis law by regulating intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoid products under Missouri’s existing marijuana framework through the “Intoxicating Cannabinoid Control Act.” It limits certain products to licensed dispensaries, establishes THC thresholds, and updates definitions of hemp and industrial hemp while maintaining protections for non-intoxicating hemp products.

Sports Complex Governance and Funding

HB 2934 revises the structure and financing tools of regional sports and convention authorities, including expanded authority for the Regional Convention and Visitors Commission and its assumption of responsibilities from the St. Louis sports complex authority.

Division of Finance Licensing Reform

HB 2423 restructures how the Division of Finance funds and oversees consumer financial service industries by creating a Consumer Licensing Fund supported by industry fees to cover regulatory and administrative costs.

Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation

HB1908 This bill prohibits pregnancy status from preventing the court from entering a judgment of dissolution of marriage or legal separation.

 Appropriations

HB 2014 appropriates money for supplemental purposes for the expenses, grants, refunds, and distributions of the several departments and offices of state government, and the several divisions and programs.

 Sexual Offenses Assistance from the Attorney General

HB 2273 allows a prosecuting or circuit attorney to request assistance from the Attorney General to assist in the prosecution of child sex trafficking cases

 Appropriations will be the focus of the Senate for a big chunk of the remaining time. The House will work through the remaining bills on the calendar.  Our House Majority Floor Leader, Alex Riley, has been extremely efficient with our time.  It is refreshing for me to feel like our time and energies in Jefferson City have some value and are not wasted.

 Reach out to us if you need our help.  My Legislative Assistant, Jill Ryals, can be reached at 573-751-6668.   I pay close attention to your emails at bruce.sassmann@house.mo.gov