Are you election-ready? In this episode, Michele and Skyler sit down with Susie Adams, President of the League of Women Voters of Columbia-Boone County, to discuss voter registration, first-time voting, election myths, and the importance of civic engagement. Learn how to verify your registration, make a voting plan, and use trusted resources like Vote411.org to stay informed before Election Day. Because every vote matters, and every voice counts.

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

National Voter Registration Day, voter registration, verify voter registration, election information, voting resources, civic engagement, democracy, first-time voters, Missouri elections, voter turnout, polling place, local ballot, Vote411.org, League of Women Voters, election preparedness, voting plan, voter education, ballot information, voter participation, make your voice heard, every vote matters, voter outreach, voter engagement, community involvement, Election Day readiness.

Skyler and Michele sit down with Sandy Michaels and Kelly Sutton, co-Presidents of the League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri and LWVSWMO members Liz Wertz, Emily Fessler, Anna Miller Lyu, and Grace Wasson, to reflect on Women’s Equality Day, connecting history, policy, and the ongoing fight for equality.

Women’s Equality Day, Missouri, League of Women Voters, LWVMO, League of Women Voters Southwest Missouri, LWVSWMO, civic engagement, democracy, reproductive rights, representation, equality, suffrage legacy, women’s voices, policy, advocacy, community leadership

Skyler and Michele sit down with Kay Park, President of the League of Women Voters of Missouri and Jen Johnmeyer, a member of the League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri, to reflect on Women’s Equality Day, connecting history, policy, and the ongoing fight for equality.

Women’s Equality Day, Missouri, League of Women Voters, LWVMO, civic engagement, democracy, reproductive rights, representation, equality, suffrage legacy, women’s voices, policy, advocacy, community leadership

Get ready for Missouri's August election with a special League of Women Voters of Missouri podcast. Learn how to vote, understand Amendments 1, 2, 4, and 5, explore voter ID requirements, absentee voting options, and make informed decisions before Election Day.

Check your registration and prepare for election day at  Vote411.org

🚨VOTE NO on Amendment 4 & 5 🚨

AMENDMENT 1 — Parks, Soils, and Water (Vote Yes)

Amendment 1 asks Missouri voters to continue, for another 10 years, a one-tenth-of-one-percent sales and use tax that funds soil and water conservation, as well as Missouri's state parks and historic sites.

AMENDMENT 2 — Jackson County Assessor

Since 2010, Missouri's charter counties have been required to elect their assessors. Jackson County received an exemption due to its population and has appointed its assessor instead. This amendment would remove that exemption and require Jackson County to elect its assessor like other charter counties.

AMENDMENT 4 — Keep Majority Rule (Vote NO)

Missourians have had the constitutional right to place initiatives on the ballot through the petition process for more than a century—since 1908. It is a tool voters can use when they believe the legislature is not acting on issues important to the public.

AMENDMENT 5 — The Everything Tax (Vote NO)

It is being marketed as the largest middle-class tax cut in Missouri history. However, independent estimates suggest that 60 to 80 percent of Missourians would pay more overall, not less. A middle-income Missourian earning approximately $65,000 a year could see an estimated net tax increase of $535 annually, while households earning $300,000 or more would receive the largest tax benefits.

EPISODE RESOURCES

2026 Missouri Amendments for the August Primary & November General Elections

2026 Ballot Measures Missouri Secretary of State's Office (official ballot titles and fair ballot language)

Parks, Soils and Water Tax

 League of Women Voters of Missouri position statements

Missouri Budget Project analysis of Amendment 5

 Jackson County 2025 Question 1 election results;

roll-call records for HJR 173 and HJR 174. (Amendment 5)

LWVMO Presents 2026 Missouri August Election Ballot

LEAGUE RESOURCES

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

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Legislative Update

Date: May 10, 2026

NOTE: Things can happen very rapidly during the last week of session. Please watch for additional calls to action in the coming days.

Voting Rights / Elections

Bill #: HB 3146 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:

Would allow misleading ballot summary statements.

Status of the Bill:

Currently on the Informal Senate Calendar. It could be moved to the Formal Calendar at any time and voted on. If it passes, this would be the final vote before going to the Governor.

Talking Points:

• Removes the ability of citizens to challenge misleading or unconstitutional ballot language.
• Missouri courts have historically corrected misleading summary statements.
• Accurate ballot summaries are critical for informed voting.
• Forces courts to return flawed language instead of fixing it, causing delays that reduce time to inform voters.

Call to Action:

Contact your Senator, regardless of party, and urge them to OPPOSE this bill.

If your Senator is a Democrat, encourage a filibuster.

Find your Senator: HERE

Bill summary: HB 3146

LWV Position:

Democracy depends on informed and active participation and access to accurate public information.

Bill #: HB 2125 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:

Requires data matching between the Secretary of State and Department of Revenue, including citizenship status; reinstates investigative and subpoena power for election offenses.

Status of the Bill:

On the Senate Informal Calendar; could be brought up for a vote at any time.

Talking Points:

• Risks disenfranchising eligible voters.
• Voters already must show identification.
• Raises concerns about voter suppression.
• Data use must prioritize accuracy, transparency, and fairness.

Call to Action:

Contact your Senator and urge them to OPPOSE HB 2125.

Find your Senator: HERE

Bill summary: HB 2125

Further Reading:

Lawsuit Challenges Recent Voter Roll Purges in Virginia

LWV Position:

Voter list maintenance must be transparent, accurate, and minimize disenfranchisement.

Bill #: HCS HBs 2387 & 2480 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description:

Reinstates the presidential preference primary.

Status of the Bill:

On the Senate Informal Calendar; could be taken up at any time.

Talking Points:

• Uses secret ballots to ensure voter privacy.
• Run by state and local governments.
• More accessible than caucuses.
• Includes early voting options.

Call to Action:

Contact your Senator and urge them to SUPPORT this bill.

Find your Senator: HERE

Bill summary: HCS HBs 2387 & 2480

LWV Position:

Supports primaries over caucuses to increase participation.

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: SB 999 (Senate bill now in the House)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:

“Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act.”

Status of the Bill:

Scheduled for a hearing in the House Children and Families Committee on May 11, 2026 at 1:00 PM.

Talking Points:

• Conflicts with voter-approved reproductive protections.
• Inserts government into medical decision-making.
• Fails to consider non-viable pregnancies.
• Restricts compassionate care for families.

Call to Action:

Submit testimony in OPPOSITION.

Be sure to mark “In Opposition to” on the form.

Submit testimony: HERE

Bill information page: SB 999

LWV Position:

Supports reproductive rights, bodily autonomy, and access to care.

Education

Bill #: SCS HCS HB 2710 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:

Creates an A–F report card system tied to school funding.

Status of the Bill:

On the Senate Informal Calendar; may be brought up for a vote at any time.

Talking Points:

• Enables performance-based funding disparities.
• School grading systems may not be objective.
• Schools with fewer resources would be further penalized.
• Struggling schools need more funding, not less.

Call to Action:

Contact your Senator and urge them to OPPOSE this bill.

Find your Senator: HERE

Bill summary: SCS HCS HB 2710

Further Reading:

• A–F grading scale for Missouri schools heads to Senate
• School report card proposal draws bipartisan skepticism

LWV Position:

Supports equitable funding and access to quality education for all students.

Social Justice

Bill #: SCS HCS HBs 2592, 2787, 2834 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description:

Restores voting rights to individuals leaving incarceration (with Senate modifications excluding certain offenses).

Status of the Bill:

On the Senate Informal Calendar; may be brought up at any time.

Talking Points:

• Voting reduces recidivism.
• Individuals on probation/parole pay taxes and should have representation.
• Voting fosters community connection.

Call to Action:

Contact your Senator and urge them to SUPPORT this bill.

Find your Senator: HERE

Bill summary: HCS HBs 2592, 2787 & 2834

Further Reading:

UConn research on voter engagement for formerly incarcerated individuals

LWV Position:

Supports the fundamental right of all citizens to vote.

LEAGUE RESOURCES

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Missouri legislative update, LWVMO podcast, education bills Missouri, climate and environment policy, Missouri Senate, civic engagement podcast, League of Women Voters Missouri, screen time standards act, green building standards Missouri, energy efficiency policy, Missouri politics podcast, legislative news Missouri, community advocacy Missouri.

SPECIAL CALLS TO ACTION

May 5, 2026

Voting Rights / Elections

Bill #: HB 3146 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:

Would allow misleading ballot summary statements.

Status of the Bill:

Currently on the formal Senate Calendar, which means it could be voted on at any time. If it passes, this would be the final vote before sending it to the Governor to sign into law.

Talking Points

• This bill removes the ability of citizens to challenge unconstitutional or misleading language in legislatively referred constitutional amendments by prohibiting courts from changing summary statements.
• Missouri has a history of misleading summary statements that have been corrected only through court action.
• It is critical that summaries of ballot issues be accurate and not misleading so voters can make informed decisions about how they choose to use their votes.
• Under this proposed law, if the courts find that the summary language is flawed, rather than rewriting it, the court must send it back to the Secretary of State up to three times, causing unnecessary delays. This would negatively impact the time needed to inform voters about a ballot measure.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 3146

Call to Action:

Contact your Senator—regardless of party—and tell them to OPPOSE this bill. If your Senator is a Democrat, encourage a filibuster.

Find your Senator HERE.

LWV Position:

The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that democratic government depends upon informed and active participation at all levels of government. The League further believes that governmental bodies must protect the citizen’s right to know by giving adequate notice of proposed actions, holding open meetings, and making public records accessible.

(LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024–2026, p. 59)

LEAGUE RESOURCES

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.co

Missouri legislative update, LWVMO podcast, education bills Missouri, climate and environment policy, Missouri Senate, civic engagement podcast, League of Women Voters Missouri, screen time standards act, green building standards Missouri, energy efficiency policy, Missouri politics podcast, legislative news Missouri, community advocacy Missouri.

Education

HCS HB 2195 — Safe Driving Lessons

• Requires DESE to vet sample safe‑driving lessons from statewide professional organizations and districts.
• LWVMO Position: Information Only — Neither Support nor Oppose
• Status: Placed on House formal perfection calendar.

SCS HCS HBs 2230 & 2978 — Student Screen‑Time Standards Act

• Requires school‑board policies limiting screen time for grades K–5.
• Keeps specific policy details under local control.
• LWVMO Position: Support — Equal opportunity and quality education for pre‑K through 12.
• Status: Taken up for 3rd read in the Senate.

Call to Action: Contact your Senator to SUPPORT this bill. Find your Senator on the Missouri Senate website.

Climate & Environment

SCS HCS HB 2384 — Green Building Standards

• Restricts local governments from enforcing green‑building requirements that developers claim affect affordability.
• LWVMO Position: Oppose — Limits local control and weakens energy‑efficiency standards.
• Status: Taken up for 3rd read in the Senate.
• Talking Points:
• Energy efficiency reduces costs and improves health and property value.
• Local standards help communities address climate change responsibly.

Call to Action: Contact your Senator to OPPOSE this bill. Find your Senator on the  Missouri Senate website.

🔗 Further Reading: Best Energy Practices for Multifamily Buildings (Self‑Help) | Take Action to Protect Building Codes (Sierra Club)

NOTE : DATA CENTERS: If you are interested in learning more about Data Centers, the House Utilities Committee will hold an informational meeting on Wednesday, 5/6/26, at 8:30 a.m. Find the meeting: HERE

HB3146 — "Let Politicians Lie Act/ SB22 Redo" Ballot Summary Statement Changes

Bill Summary

What it does: Alters the process courts use to correct misleading ballot summaries; could cause delays and allow disputed language to remain.

Status: This bill has already passed the House, and has been added to the Senate calendar for debate.

League Position: Oppose

The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that democratic government depends upon informed and active participation at all levels of government. The League further believes that governmental bodies must protect the citizen’s right to know by giving adequate notice of proposed actions, holding open meetings, and making public records accessible. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 59)

Call to Action: Contact your Senator to OPPOSE this bill. Find your Senator on the Missouri Senate website.

LEAGUE RESOURCES

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Welcome to our comprehensive legislative update covering three major areas currently moving through the Missouri General Assembly:

1. Voting Rights
2. Education Policy
3. Funding for K–12 Schools and Public Libraries

This page summarizes the bills, their status, key talking points, League of Women Voters of Missouri (LWVMO) positions, and calls to action for those who wish to.

Legislative Bulletin 4-26-2026

Voting Rights

Bill Number: HCS HBs 2387 & 2480

Reinstating Missouri’s presidential preference primary.

LWVMO Supports this measure.

Status: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee on Monday, April 27 at 2:00 PM.

Summary

This bill would reinstate Missouri’s presidential preference primary.. 

The League of Women Voters of Missouri supports the measure because it restores a voting process that is well‑established, accessible to the public, and secure..

Key Points

• Primary elections use a secret ballot, ensuring voter privacy.
• Primaries are administered and funded by state and local governments, rather than political parties.
• Election procedures are uniform and state‑regulated, promoting consistency and integrity.
• Voters are already familiar with official ballots and secure voting protocols.
• Primaries offer greater accessibility than caucuses, particularly for individuals with work obligations or childcare needs.
• Early voting opportunities further expand access for eligible voters.

Call to Action

Only in‑person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings.

Contact Members of the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee and tell them that you support this bill.

Clicking a senator’s photo will take you to their contact information.

LWVMO Position

According to the LWVMO Guide to State Action (2025–2027, p. 17), the League supports open primaries rather than caucuses because they believe primaries increase informed participation in selecting presidential nominees.

Education 

Bill Numbers: SCS SBs 971 & 906

Student transfers to nonresident districts (“open enrollment”)

LWVMO Opposes these bills .

Status: On the Informal Calendar; scheduled for perfection in the Senate on Monday, April 27.

Summary

These bills would change Missouri’s open‑enrollment rules, allowing students to attend districts outside their own. The League of Women Voters of Missouri opposes the proposals due to concerns about equity and funding impacts.

Key Points

• Public schools must remain accountable and transparent.
• Public funds should not support homeschooling or private or religious schools.
• Open enrollment may increase resegregation.
• It complicates district budgeting.
• Unequal tax bases create funding inequities.

Call to Action

Contact your individual legislator to express opposition to these bills.

Further Reading

•  Columbia Missourian Education Bills Tackle a Variety of Topics     
• St. Louis Public Radio Open School Enrollment in Missouri Advances through Senate Committee 
• From Reason Foundation, Missouri Senate bill 906 and 971 would improve open enrollment 
• Missouri School Boards Association Opposes Open

LWVMO Position

The League supports equal opportunity in education, access to quality programs, and adequate financing for pre‑K through 12 (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025–2027, p. 57).

K–12 and Public Library Funding 

Missouri’s future depends on strong public institutions. The League urges full funding for K–12 schools and restoration of state aid for public libraries.

Status: Budget differences between the House and Senate must be resolved by May 8 at 6:00 PM.

Key Points

Public Education

• Do not divert public funds to homeschooling or private schools.
• Districts should not rely on higher property taxes.
• Reduce dependence on local property taxes for school funding.
• Fully fund the school foundation formula.

Public Libraries

• Libraries are essential community services.
• They provide access to information for civic engagement.
• Require stable, adequate, long‑term funding.
• Funding should come from all levels of government.
• Maintain support for technologies like MOREnet.
• Ensure funding for evening and weekend hours.

Action Needed

Contact your Senator and Representative to support:

• Full K–12 funding
• Restoration of state library aid

You may also contact legislators who have served on House and Senate Budget Committees:

• Rep. Dirk Deaton
• Rep. Bishop Davidson
• Rep. Betsy Fogle
• Sen. Rusty Black
• Sen. Brad Hudson
• Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern

LWV Position

The League supports equal opportunity in education, access to quality programs, and adequate financing for pre-K through 12. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025-2027, p. 57)

Thank you for visiting our legislative update page. Staying informed and engaged is essential to ensuring that Missouri’s public institutions remain strong, accessible, and accountable. For more information on the LWVMO, see our League Resources below.

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Click HERE for the LWVMO Official Call to Action and Legislative Bulletin!

Taxes

Bill #: SS SCS HCS HJRs 173 & 174 "EVERYTHING TAX"

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description:

If voters approve, and the income tax rate drops below 1.4% under current law, the state income tax would be eliminated by 2031, and sales taxes could be raised or expanded to offset the lost revenue.

Call to action:

Contact your State Representative

Links to further reading:

Permanently eliminating Missouri’s income tax moves forward with Senate approval

Ill-Conceived Tax Proposals Would Increase Taxes for Most Missourians from Missouri Budget Project

More MBP Analysis & Education Impact Estimates

Voting Rights

Bill #: HB 2125 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description: Requires data matching between Secretary of State (SOS) and Department of Revenue (DOR) to include information pertaining to the citizenship status of individuals in DOR database; reinstates the Secretary of State's ability to conduct investigations and exercise subpoena power with respect to suspected election offenses, which expired Aug 28, 2025.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Calendar or 3rd read in the Senate on Monday, April 20 (in Fiscal Oversight).

Talking points:  

• While the State of Missouri should provide uniform, transparent and non-discriminatory data reporting tools and resources to help local election authorities to accurately maintain their voter registration rolls, an important objective should be to minimize disenfranchising eligible voters
• In the current political climate, the Missouri Secretary of State’s intent appears to be to suppress eligible votes
• Voters are already required to show identification in order to vote

Call to action:Contact your Senator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill. Find your Senator HERE

Links to further reading: Lawsuit Challenges Recent Voter Roll Purges in Virginia (League of Women Voters)

House Committee discusses proposed citizenship verification for voters (Press News Journal)

Missouri Lawmakers weigh Restoring Secretary of State’s Investigation and Subpoena Power in Election Cases  (Missourinet)

Education

Bill #: HCS HB 2748 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO neither opposes or supports this bill  FOR INFORMATION ONLY

Short Description: Currently, school districts must ensure that elementary school students participate in an average of 30 minutes of physical activity a day; this bill requires that schools ensure that all students in grades K-12 participate in moderate physical activity for a minimum of 60 minutes daily.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday, April 23 at 9:30 AM.

Climate and Environment

Bill #: SCS SB 959 (Senate bill now in the House)

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description: Creates the Missouri Geospatial Advisory Council

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the House Emerging Issues Committee on Monday, April 20 at 4:30 PM.

Talking points:  

• Encourages effective land use management
• Improves coordination across government agencies 
• Saves taxpayer money by sharing geospatial data between state and local governments 
• Missouri Geographic Information Systems Advisory Council supports this bill

Link to the summary of the bill:

Call to action: Contact Committee members and tell them you SUPPORT this bill. Members of the House Emerging Issues Committee can be found HERE. Click on the representative’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

Links to further reading: Missouri GIS Advisory Council (MGISAC)

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

It's another week and another opportunity to use your power!

Calls to Action 4-12-2026

Legislative Bulletin 4-12-2026

Voting Rights

Bill #:  HB3146

LWVMO OPPOSES these bills

Short Description:

The bill revises Missouri's ballot summary statutes by expanding allowable word limits and specifying procedures for preparing and reviewing ballot language. Like SB 22 which was invalidated by the Missouri Supreme Court, the bill addresses the roles of state officials and courts in drafting, certifying, and challenging ballot summaries,but it does not apply to referendums initiated by the people to challenge recently enacted laws.

Status of the Bill:

The Senate Committee on Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence met on April 8 and passed (5-1). Moving to Senate Floor Soon.

Call to action:

Contact your Senator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill.

Bill #: HCR48

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description:

This resolution commends the United States House of Representatives for passing the SAVE Act and urges the United States Senate to do the same.

Status of the Bill:

Taken up for third read in the House on Monday, April 13.

Call to action:

Contact your individual legislator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill. 

Bill #: HB2125 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description:

This measure requires the Secretary of State and the Department of Revenue to share and compare data, including citizenship information in the DOR database. It also restores the Secretary of State’s authority to investigate suspected election offenses and issue subpoenas—powers that expired on August 28, 2025.

Status of the Bill:

Taken up for 3rd read in the Senate.

Call to action:

Contact your Senator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading:

Lawsuit Challenges Recent Voter Roll Purges in Virginia

Bill #: SB 896

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description:

Creates new provisions relating to elections.

Status of the Bill:

Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 13.

Call to action:

Contact your Senator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill.

Education

Bill #: HCS HB 2748 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO neither opposes or supports this bill FOR INFORMATION ONLY

Short Description: The bill increases the requirement from 30 minutes of daily physical activity for elementary students to 60 minutes of moderate activity each day for all K–12 students.

Health Care

Bill #: HCS HBs 1826, 2560, 2349 & 2194 (House bills now in the Senate)

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill 

Short Description:

Modifies provisions relating to epinephrine delivery systems in schools.

Status of the Bill:

Scheduled for a hearing Senate Families, Seniors and Health Committee on Wednesday, April 15 at 8:30 AM.

Call to action:

Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you SUPPORT this bill. Click on the Senator’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

Taxes

Bill #: SCS HCS HJRs 173 & 174 (House bills now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description:

If voters approve, and the income tax rate drops below 1.4% under current law, the state income tax would be eliminated by 2031, and sales taxes could be raised or expanded to offset the lost revenue.

Status of the Bill:

Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Fiscal Oversight committee on Monday, April 13 at 3:30 PM.

Call to action:

Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading:

How states came to depend on income tax from Columbia Missourian    

Ill-Conceived Tax Proposals Would Increase Taxes for Most Missourians from Missouri Budget Project

More MBP Analysis & Education Impact Estimates

Climate and Environment

Bill #: SS/SCS/SB 838

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:

Adds "nuclear" to renewable energy.

Status of the Bill: T

aken up for 3rd read in the Senate.

Call to action:

Contact your Senator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill.

Bill #: HCS HB 2384 (House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description:

This is the third year for this bill, which prohibits local control over green building standards by setting statewide building codes to the 2009 International Residential Code.

Status of the Bill:

Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate on Monday, April 13 in the Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee.

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearing. Please contact committee members and let them know you OPPOSE this bill.

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Michele and Skyler are on break this week.

Please take a few minutes to listen to Michele's interview with Jamie Satner, with Paws to the Polls about their recent visit to the Missouri Capitol.

Paws to the Polls is a non-partisan campus initiative to increase civic engagement at Missouri State with a focus on voter participation and voter literacy.

Learn more about Paws to the Polls and what they do.

Calls to Action:

Take a look at this week's Legislative Update Bulletin for more information about what our Senators and Representatives are debating and voting on this week. Don't forget to exercise your right to be heard.

Click HERE for the LWVMO Official Call to Action and Legislative Bulletin!

Voting Rights

Bill #: HB 2125 (House bill now in the Senate) LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description:This bill requires the Secretary of State and the Director of the Department of Revenue to enter into an agreement to match information pertaining to the citizenship status of individuals in the voter registration database with information in the motor vehicle system; reinstates SOS's investigation and subpoena power. 

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate on Monday, March 30 at 2:00 PM in the Local Government, Elections, and Pensions Committee.

Call to action: Contact Committee members and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. Members of the Local Government, Elections, and Pensions Committee can be found HERE.

Further reading

Climate and Environment

Bill #: HB 3362 & 3364

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills

Short Description: These bills require large industrial users, such as AI data centers, to pay upfront for their energy infrastructure costs and obtain water use permits, protecting everyday consumers from having those expenses shifted onto their utility bills.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Monday, March 30 at 1:00 PM in the Conservation and Natural Resources Committee.

Call to action: Submit testimony to SUPPORT HB 3362 & 3364 HERE. Make sure to mark “In Support of” under reason in testimony form.

Further reading

Bill #: SB 953 (Senate bill now in the House)

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill 

Short Description: Relocates Department of Natural Resources excess funds to go solely to air pollution control program.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Monday, March 30 at 1:00 PM in the Conservation and Natural Resources Committee.

Call to action: Submit testimony to SUPPORT SB 953 HERE. Make sure to mark “In Support of” under reason in testimony form.

Further reading

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Below is a summary of key bills moving through the Missouri Legislature, along with League of Women Voters of Missouri (LWVMO) positions, talking points, and ways you can take action. We’ve also included national advocacy updates and information about the 2026 LWVUS National Convention.

 TAXES

HB 2457 — LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: HB 2457 increases the income tax credit for donations to food banks, homeless shelters, and soup kitchens from 50% to 70% and sets a statewide cap on total credits.

Bill Summary

Status: Scheduled for a hearing in the House Ways and Means Committee on Monday, March 23 at 4:30 PM.

Why LWVMO Opposes HB 2457

• The bill’s implementation is overly complicated.

• It diverts an additional $1 million in state tax revenue away from public programs and toward nongovernmental nonprofits.

• It prioritizes nonprofits—whose efficiency the state cannot oversee—over essential government-funded services.

• The application process lacks accountability: donors are not required to provide receipts or proof of donation. A staff certification alone is sufficient, allowing for potential overstatement of donation values.

LWV Position on Tax Policy

“A tax system should provide stable revenue, be easy to understand, difficult to evade, and simple to enforce.”

— LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025–2027, p. 31

Call to Action

Submit testimony to OPPOSE HB 2457.

Be sure to select “In Opposition to” on the testimony form.

CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

SB 959 — LWVMO SUPPORTS

Short Description: SB 959 creates the Missouri Geospatial Advisory Council, improving coordination and data sharing across state and local governments.

Bill Summary

Status: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, March 23.

Why LWVMO Supports SB 959:

• Encourages effective land use management.
• Improves coordination across government agencies.
• Saves taxpayer money by sharing geospatial data instead of duplicating efforts.
• Supported by the Missouri Geographic Information Systems Advisory Council.

LWV Position on Land Use

“Supports long‑range land use plans based on local goals, needs, and resources, with adequate financing and public participation.”

— LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025–2027, p. 51

Call to Action

Tell your state senator to SUPPORT SB 959. Find your senator here .

EDUCATION

HCS HB 2710 — LWVMO OPPOSES

Short Description: This bill requires the State Board of Education to create an A–F report card for public schools and establishes the Show Me Success Program to reward schools with strong academic growth.

Bill Summary

Status: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday, March 24 at 8:00 AM.

Why LWVMO Opposes HCS HB 2710

• Schools with more resources will score higher and receive more funding, widening inequities.
• Schools serving students with greater challenges—economic, educational, or social—will be penalized, not supported.

LWV Position on Education

“Equality of opportunity in education is a state responsibility.”

— LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025–2027, p. 31

Call to Action

Contact Senate Education Committee members and urge them to OPPOSE HCS HB 2710.

NATIONAL ADVOCACY UPDATE

The SAVE Act Suite of Bills — LWVUS OPPOSES

Congress is considering several bills requiring documentary proof of citizenship (DPOC) to register or vote in federal elections, including:

• The SAVE Act
• The SAVE America Act
• The Make Elections Great Again Act

Why LWV Opposes These Bills

• It is already illegal for noncitizens to vote in federal or state elections.
• These bills create unnecessary barriers for eligible voters.
• Groups disproportionately harmed include:
• Military families who move frequently
• People recovering from natural disasters
• Married women and others who have changed their names
• People of color, who are statistically less likely to have passports or citizenship documents

Call to Action

Contact your members of Congress and urge them to oppose the SAVE Act suite of bills. The form is at the bottom of the page.

LWVUS 2026 NATIONAL CONVENTION

The 2026 National Convention will take place June 25–28 in Columbus, Ohio. The theme is Women Unite & Rise.

Important Deadlines — All Due March 31

• Early-bird registration
• Breakout session/caucus/workshop proposals
• Scholarship applications for full or partial registration support

For additional questions, contact the LWV events team at events@lwv.org.

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.co

The Missouri Legislature is on Spring Break this week.

Please take a few minutes to listen to Michele's interview on February 24, 2026, with Shey Delahunt with Paws to the Polls about their recent visit to the Missouri Capitol.

Paws to the Polls is a non-partisan campus intiiative to increase civic engagement at Missouri State with a focus on voter participation and voter literacy.

Learn more about Paws to the Polls and what they do.

And don't forget to:

RSVP for Your Area

SPRING BREAK Emergency Town Hall Meeting: RSVP

Meeting Schedule

• St. Louis County: March 12 @ 6 PM
• Springfield: March 18 @ 6 PM (Hatch Auditorium, Library Center)
• Kansas City: March 18 @ 6:30 PM
• E. Jackson County (KC): March 19 @ 6 PM
• Jefferson City: March 19 @ 6 PM
• St. Charles: March 21 @ 11:30 AM
• Columbia: March 21 @ 1 PM

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Click HERE for the LWVMO Official Call to Action and Legislative Bulletin!

🚨SPRING BREAK Emergency Town Hall Meeting: RSVP

Citizen Initiative Petitions

HB2124 — Initiative Petition Restrictions

Bill Summary

What it does: Adds administrative hurdles, bans paid petition circulators, and adds citizenship requirements.

Status: Hearing — House Elections Committee, March 9 at 8:00 AM

League Position: Oppose

The League of Women Voters believes responsible government should be responsive to the will of the people and promotes access to voting. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026 p. 11 and p. 57)

This bill adds additional red tape that could make the process more difficult for citizens to use.

Take Action

• Submit testimony (Oppose)
• House Elections Committee Members

HB3146 — Ballot Summary Statement Changes

Bill Summary

What it does: Alters the process courts use to correct misleading ballot summaries; could cause delays and allow disputed language to remain.

Status: House Formal Perfection Calendar, March 10 at 8:00 AM

League Position: Oppose

The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that democratic government depends upon informed and active participation at all levels of government. The League further believes that governmental bodies must protect the citizen’s right to know by giving adequate notice of proposed actions, holding open meetings, and making public records accessible. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 59)

These delays could reduce the time available to inform voters about ballot measures.

Take Action

Contact your State Representative

Taxes

HCS HJRs 173 & 174 — Elimination of State Income Tax

Bills Summary

What they do: Phase out Missouri’s income tax by 2031 and potentially expand sales taxes to replace revenue.

Status: House Formal Perfection Calendar — March 9

League Position: Oppose

LWV is in support of an adequate, balanced, and progressive tax system to finance necessary governmental services, which emphasizes equity and fair sharing of the tax burden (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025 -2027, p.27)

Income taxes are generally based on ability to pay. Sales taxes…are considered regressive.

Take Action

Contact your legislator

Education

HB2061 — Antisemitism & Discrimination Protections

Bill Summary

What it does: Establishes protections against discrimination and antisemitism in public schools and higher education.

Status: Senate General Laws Committee — Exec Session, March 9 at 3:15 PM

League Position: Information Only

LWV supports equal opportunity in education, access to quality programs, and adequate financing for pre-K through 12. (LWVMO Guide to

Resources

Combat Antisemitism.org

Human rights and other civil society groups urge U.N. to respect Human Rights

HB1767 — Missouri Educators & Parental Empowerment and Rights Act

Bill Summary

What it does: Addresses educator rights, parental rights, and student conduct.

Status: House Elementary & Secondary Education Committee — Exec Session, March 11 at 1:00 PM

League Position: Information Only

LWV supports equal opportunity in education, access to quality programs, and adequate financing for pre-K through 12. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025-2027 p. 57)

Firearms

HB3070 — Limits on Enforcement of Federal Firearm Laws

Bill Summary

What it does: Prohibits Missouri police from enforcing certain federal gun laws; imposes civil penalties.

Status: House General Laws Committee — Exec Session, March 9 at 12:00 PM

League Position: Oppose

The League supports strong federal measures to limit the accessibility and regulate the ownership of these weapons by private citizens. The League supports regulating firearms for consumer safety. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 179)

The bill could punish or restrict cooperation with federal enforcement efforts.

Take Action

Contact House General Laws Committee

Links to further reading

Police warn Missouri Republicans against reviving a controversial gun rights law

From Brady United regarding SAPA

SB1055 — Anti–Red Flag Act, Gun Tax Holiday, Stand Your Ground Expansion

Bill summary is unavailable on https://senate.mo.gov as of 3/8/26.

What it does:

• Prohibits enforcement of red flag laws
• Creates a 3‑day tax holiday for guns/ammo
• Expands Stand Your Ground provisions

Status: Senate Transportation, Infrastructure & Public Safety — Exec Session, March 12 at 8:30 AM

League Position: Oppose

The League supports strong federal measures to limit the accessibility and regulate the ownership of these weapons by private citizens. The League supports regulating firearms for consumer safety. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026 Page 179)

Take Action

Contact Committee Members

Links to further reading

Missouri House and path to pass anti red flag gun laws

Outdoor Sporting Goods Tax Holiday

SB1078 — Concealed Carry on Public Transit

Bill summary is unavailable on https://senate.mo.gov as of 3/8/26.

What it does: Allows concealed carry license holders to carry firearms on buses and trains.

Status: Senate Transportation, Infrastructure & Public Safety — Exec Session, March 12 at 8:30 AM

League Position: Oppose

The League supports strong federal measures to limit the accessibility and regulate the ownership of these weapons by private citizens. The League supports regulating firearms for consumer safety. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 179)

Transit agencies and riders have expressed concerns that allowing guns on transit could endanger passengers.

Take Action

Contact Committee Members

Link to further reading

Guns on Buses

Social Justice

HB2153 — Abolishing the Death Penalty in Missouri

Bill Summary

What it does: Ends the use of capital punishment in Missouri.

Status: House Corrections & Public Institutions Committee — Hearing, March 9 at 12:00 PM

League Position: Support

Statement of Position on Abolition of the Death Penalty, as adopted by the 2006 Convention: The League of Women Voters of the United States supports the abolition of the death penalty. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 183)

Concerns include the risk of wrongful convictions, which could lead to the execution of innocent individuals.

Take Action

• Submit Testimony (Support): Select Corrections & Public Institutions, then “Submit Testimony”

Statewide Emergency Town Hall Meetings

During the legislative spring break (March 13–20), LWVMO is co‑sponsoring nonpartisan emergency town halls across Missouri focused on the proposed income tax elimination and the future of Missouri communities.

RSVP for Your Area

SPRING BREAK Emergency Town Hall Meeting: RSVP

Meeting Schedule

• St. Louis County: March 12 @ 6 PM
• Springfield: March 18 @ 6 PM (Hatch Auditorium, Library Center)
• Kansas City: March 18 @ 6:30 PM
• E. Jackson County (KC): March 19 @ 6 PM
• Jefferson City: March 19 @ 6 PM
• St. Charles: March 21 @ 11:30 AM
• Columbia: March 21 @ 1 PM

Coming Next Week: Special Episode

During the legislative break, Michele brings a special episode about her recent trip to Jefferson City with Missouri State University’s Paws to the Polls students.

If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend who wants to stay informed about Missouri’s legislature.

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

A summary of key bills moving through the Missouri Legislature this week, along with the League of Women Voters of Missouri (LWVMO) positions and calls to action for listeners.

Calls to Action 3-1-2026

Legislative Bulletin 3-1-2026

Voting Rights

SB 986 — LWVMO Opposes

Requires documentary proof of citizenship (DPOC) to register to vote.  

Hearing: Senate Local Government, Elections & Pensions Committee — Monday, March 2 at 2:00 PM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• Would eliminate online and third‑party voter registration.
• Creates a two‑tiered voter registration system (federal vs. state).
• Disproportionate impact on women who changed names and other marginalized groups.
• Citizenship status can change; jury‑duty records are not reliable indicators.

Call to Action:  

Only in‑person testimony is allowed. Contact committee members and urge them to OPPOSE SB 986.  

Committee info: https://www.senate.mo.gov

HB 2480 — LWVMO Supports

Reinstates Missouri’s presidential preference primary.  

Hearing: House Elections Committee — Executive Session, Tuesday, March 3 at 8:00 AM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• Primaries use secure, state‑run election procedures.
• More accessible than caucuses for working people, caregivers, and those needing accommodations.
• Allows early voting and secret ballots.

Call to Action:  

Contact House Elections Committee members and SUPPORT HB 2480.  

Reproductive Rights

SJR 72 — LWVMO Opposes

Defines “person” for purposes of equal protection, effectively establishing fetal personhood.  

Hearing: Senate Emerging Issues & Professional Registration Committee — Monday, March 2 at 1:00 PM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• U.S. constitutional law has rejected fetal personhood under the 14th Amendment.
• Could criminalize miscarriage or natural pregnancy loss.
• Imposes one religious belief on a pluralistic society.
• Conflicts with Jewish, Islamic, and other religious teachings on personhood.

Call to Action:  

Only in‑person testimony is allowed. Contact committee members and OPPOSE SJR 72.  

Social Justice & Criminal Justice Reform

HCS HBs 2747 & 2047 — LWVMO Supports

Restores voting rights upon release from incarceration and expands expungement access.  

Hearing: House Fiscal Review Committee — Executive Session, Monday, March 2 at 2:30 PM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• Current expungement process is costly; fewer than 1% can complete it.
• Bill requires the state to expunge electronic records at its own expense.
• Helps with employment, housing, and economic stability.

Call to Action:  

Contact committee members and SUPPORT HCS HBs 2747 & 2047.  

HB 2967 — LWVMO Supports

Provides funding for Missouri’s expungement process.  

Hearing: House Fiscal Review Committee — Wednesday, March 4 at 12:00 PM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• “Clean Slate” bills lack funding; this bill fills that gap.

Call to Action:  

Contact committee members and SUPPORT HB 2967.  

Committee info: https://house.mo.gov

Climate & Environment

SCS/SB 838 — LWVMO Opposes

Adds “nuclear” to the definition of renewable energy.  

Status: On Senate Formal Perfection Calendar — Monday, March 2  

Summary

Key Issues:

• Nuclear energy is not renewable.
• Reduces Missouri’s renewable energy requirement from 15% to 7.5%.
• Misleads the public about clean‑energy progress.

Call to Action:  

Contact your Senator and OPPOSE SCS/SB 838.  

SB 849 — LWVMO Opposes

Places a moratorium on all solar projects.  

Status: On Senate Formal Perfection Calendar — Monday, March 2  

Summary

Key Issues:

• PSC already conducts extensive reviews of solar projects.
• Bill falsely claims safety hazards justify a moratorium.
• No other energy source is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources.

Call to Action:  

Contact your Senator and OPPOSE SB 849.  

Further reading

SB 879 — LWVMO Opposes

Creates new restrictions and tax burdens on solar energy development.  

Status: On Senate Formal Perfection Calendar — Monday, March 2  

Summary

Key Issues:

• Imposes burdens not applied to other energy sources.
• Limits tax exemptions for solar farms.
• Caps solar development at 2% of cropland per county.

Call to Action:  

Contact your Senator and OPPOSE SB 879.  

Find your Senator

Further reading

HB 2598 — LWVMO Opposes

“Missouri Nuclear Energy Advancement Act” — removes prohibition on nuclear plant construction.  

Hearing: House Utilities Committee — Wednesday, March 4 at 8:00 AM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• No long‑term nuclear waste solution exists.
• High construction costs burden ratepayers.
• Nuclear plants harm aquatic ecosystems.

Call to Action:  

Submit written testimony in OPPOSITION to HB 2598.  

Testimony form

Further reading

SB 1116 — LWVMO Opposes

Senate version of the Missouri Nuclear Energy Advancement Act.  

Hearing: Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy & Environment Committee — Tuesday, March 3 at 10:00 AM  

Summary

Key Issues:

• Generates radioactive waste.
• Nuclear is not renewable.
• Long, expensive construction increases costs for consumers.

Call to Action:  

Only in‑person testimony allowed. Contact committee members and OPPOSE SB 1116.  

Further reading

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Click HERE for the LWVMO Official Call to Action and Legislative Bulletin

Voting Rights

Bill #: SB 985 : OPPOSES

Short Description: This bill creates privacy concerns by requiring the secretary of state to post voter roll information on the SOS website, including name and date of birth. In the hands of parties who wish to suppress voting, this can lead to targeted non uniform efforts. 

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing on Monday, February 23 at 8:00 AM in the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee.

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you OPPOSE this bill : found HERE. Click on the Senator’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

Links to further reading: Brennan Center reports DOJ has demanded voter files

Bill #: HJR 104, HJR 122, HJR 149 :SUPPORTS

Short Description: This amendment would remove the rule that a serving member of the General Assembly can serve no more than eight years in one house. It would also prohibit any member from serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives for more than three terms and as President Pro Tem of the Senate for more than two terms.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session in the House Elections Committee on Tuesday, February 24 at 8:00 AM.

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you SUPPORT this bill -- found HERE

Education

Bill #: SCS/SB 971 & 906: OPPOSES

Short Description: These combined bills allow open school enrollment, enabling students to transfer from their charter school or resident school district to a nonresident school (or "local education agency" or "LEA," as the bill states.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, February 23 at 12:00 PM.

Call to action: Contact your individual legislator to tell them you OPPOSE these bills. Find your Senator HERE

Healthcare

Bill #:SB 1402: SUPPORTS

Short Description: Modifies a sales tax exemption for certain medical devices.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Economic and Workforce Development Committee on Wednesday, February 25 at 10:00 AM.

Call to action:  Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you SUPPORT this bill. found HERE.

FIREARMS

Bill # HB 2504: OPPOSES

Short Description: This bill adds other school personnel to the list of employees a school district can designate as a school protection officer and allows them authority to carry a weapon on school grounds if the individual has a concealed carry license and professional training.

Status of the Bill: Had a hearing in the General Laws Committee at the last minute on February 18. It is not currently scheduled for an Executive Session but could be at any time.

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. found HERE.

Links to further reading: KCUR reports MO lawmakers want to expand who can carry guns in schools   

Unpacking laws to arm teachers from Everytown

Bill #: SB1078: OPPOSES

Short Description: Allows concealed carry license holders to carry guns on public transportation.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee on Monday, February 23 at 2:00 PM.

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you OPPOSE this bill. found HERE.

Links to further reading: Oppose Conceal and Carry on Public Transit

Bill #: SB 1055:OPPOSES  

LWVMO this bill 

Short Description: This bill includes the "Anti-Red Flag Gun Seizure Act", a 3 day tax free holiday for guns and ammo and expands "Stand Your Ground " laws.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee on Monday, February 23 at 2:00 PM.

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you OPPOSE this bill. found HERE.

Links to further reading: Anti Red Flag Laws Outdoor sporting goods tax holiday

Social Justice

Bill #:HB 2967:SUPPORTS

Short Description: This is funding for "Clean Slate", a bill that would automatically have MO pay to have eligible records (up to 3 misdemeanors and 2 felonies) expunged from a person's record. Not all records are eligible and the actual records will still exist, just not available to the public.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday, February 25 at 12:00 PM in the House Financial Institutions Committee.

Call to action: Submit testimony to SUPPORT HB 2967 HERE. Make sure to mark “in Support of” under reason in testimony.

Climate&Enviroment

Bill #: HB 2122: OPPOSES

LWVMO this bill 

Short Description: Allows electrical corporations to charge for services based on the costs of certain construction work in progress.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the House Utilities Committee on Wednesday, February 25 at 8:00 AM.

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. found HERE.

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at :  Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

House Roster

Senate Roster

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Voting Rights, Health Care, Education, Social Justice & Climate

Voting Rights

Bill #: HJR 104, HJR 122, HJR 149

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills 

Short Description: This amendment would remove the rule that a serving member of the General Assembly can serve no more than eight years in one house. It would also prohibit any member from serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives for more than three terms and as President Pro Tem of the Senate for more than two terms.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Tuesday, February 17, at 8:00 AM in the Elections Committee.

Talking points:  

• Elections serve as a very effective form of term limits, and rigid laws prevent constituents from retaining effective representatives
• By relaxing limits, lawmakers can build the institutional knowledge necessary to resist outside influence from unelected lobbyists and bureaucrats

Link to the summary of the bill: HJR 104, HJR 122, HJR 149

Call to action: Submit testimony to SUPPORT HJR 104, HJR 122, and HJR 149 HERE. Make sure to mark “in Support of” under reason in the testimony form.

LMV Position: In 1991, the League announced its opposition to term limits for members of the US Congress because such limits would adversely affect the accountability, representativeness, and effective performance of Congress and, by decreasing the power of Congress, upset the balance of power between Congress and an already powerful presidency. The 1992 Convention reaffirmed opposition to term limits and authorized state and local Leagues to use national positions to take action on term limits for state and local offices. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 73)

Bill #: HJR 121

FOR INFORMATION ONLY

Short Description: Upon voter approval, beginning with the 2030 decennial census, this resolution changes the number of members in the Missouri

House of Representatives from 163 to 103.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Tuesday, February 17, at 8:00 AM in the Elections Committee.

Talking points:  

• Fewer delegates in house could limit voter choice and equitable representation 
• Redistricting should be done by an independent commission to include individuals and public interest groups rather than members of the legislative body
• Term limits and limits to terms of the House speaker and Senate president would be better addressed without a constitutional amendment 

Link to the summary of the bill: HJR 121

Call to action: Submit testimony to OPPOSE HJR 121 HERE. Make sure to mark “In Opposition to” under reason in the testimony form.

LWV Position: Responsibility for redistricting preferably should be vested in an independent commission that reflects the diversity of the unit of government, including citizens at large, representatives of public interest groups, and members of minority groups, with full disclosure throughout the process. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025-2027, p. 21-22)

The League of Women Voters of Missouri believes…the House should be reduced to 100-125 members. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025-2027, p. 20)

Health Care

Bill #: HCS HJR 154

LWVMO OPPOSES 

Short Description: Amendment for work requirements for Mo HealthNet. 

Status of the Bill: This bill was taken up for a third reading in the Fiscal Review Committee on Monday, February 16, at 2:00 PM.

Talking points:  

• Those who can't work, don't earn enough, or where no jobs are available, should have the right to income and/or services to meet basic needs
• This bill reduces the number of people on Medicaid by making the work requirements so onerous that people give up
• The bureaucratic paperwork involved is a deterrent to those trying to comply.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HJR 154

Call to action: Contact your individual legislator to tell them to OPPOSE this bill. Find your representatives here.   

LWV Position: The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that one of the goals of social policy in the United States should be to promote self-sufficiency for individuals and families and that the most-effective social programs are those designed to prevent or reduce poverty. Persons who are unable to work, whose earnings are inadequate, or for whom jobs are not available have the right to an income and/or services sufficient to meet their basic needs for food, shelter, and access to health care. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 170-171)

Education

Bill #: HB 2061

LWVMO neither opposes nor supports FOR INFORMATION ONLY

Short Description: Provides protections against discrimination and antisemitism in public schools and public postsecondary educational institutions.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Monday, February 16, at 2:00 PM in the Fiscal Review Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2061

LWV Position: Supports equal opportunity in education, access to quality programs, and adequate financing for pre-K through 12. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2025-2027, p.57)

Social Justice

Bill #: HB 2047. HB 2747

LWVMO SUPPORTS 

Short Description: These bills establish an automatic record-clearing or expungement process for closing records pertaining to a “clean slate eligible offense”, which is an offense not excluded from the eligibility for expungement. 

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the House Economic Development Committee on Tuesday, February 17, at 8:00 AM.

Talking points:   

• Expungement of eligible charges with certain conditions  
• Expungement of such records will help with finding employment and subsidize/low-income housing in particular 
• This bill will better enable reentry to better-paying jobs and therefore contribute to a better MO economy

Link to the summary of the bill: HB2047, HB2747

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you SUPPORT these bills. Members of the Economic Development Committee can be found HERE. Click on the representative’s picture, and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

LWV Position: The League of Women Voters supports a criminal justice system that is just, effective, equitable, transparent, and that fosters public trust at all stages, including policing practices, pre-trial procedures, sentencing, incarceration, and re-entry. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, p. 137)

Climate and Environment

Bill #: HB 1873

LWVMO OPPOSES 

Short Description: Requires the Air Conservation Commission to terminate by January 1, 2028, the operation of any motor vehicle emissions inspection program established under the Air Quality Attainment Act.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Tuesday, February 17, at 4:30 PM in the Transportation Committee.

Talking points:  

• Sponsor of the bill says it's for financial reasons without consideration of environmental impact
• The League promotes protection of air quality for Missourians
• Motor vehicle emissions are a significant source of air pollution

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1873

Call to action: Submit testimony to OPPOSE HB1873 HERE. Make sure to mark “in Opposition to” under reason in the testimony form.

LWV Position: The League supports measures to reduce vehicular pollution, including inspection and maintenance of emission controls, changes in engine design and fuel types, and development of more energy-efficient transportation systems. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 110)

Episode Resources

Voting Rights

League of Women Voters Denounces House Passage of Anti-Voter SAVE America Act

Education

Links to further reading: 

Combat Antisemitism.org   

Human Rights and other civil society groups urge U.N to respect Human Rights.

Upcoming Event:

The next JEDI Book Club will discuss the book The Cradle of Citizenship: How Schools Can Help Save Our Democracy by James Traub on February 22, 2026 at 4 p.m. Veteran journalist James Traub set out during the 2023–24 school year to visit schools in Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, and Texas to see how well they are doing in preparing the next generation of citizens. His book critiques the failure of American civics education and offers a roadmap for improvement, arguing that schools are crucial for democracy but are failing due to political polarization and a lack of focus on deep knowledge.

Click here to register for this online event. 

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Register to Vote/check voter registration and more at: Vote411.org

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge, and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy.

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Voting Rights

Bill #: HB 3146

Short Description: This bill increases the word limit on summary statements for ballot measures proposed by the General Assembly from 50 to 100 words, excluding articles.

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Call to action: Submit testimony to OPPOSE HB 3146 HERE. Make sure to mark “in Opposition to” under reason in the testimony form

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for hearing in the House Elections Committee on Tuesday, February 10 at 8:00 AM.

Bill #: SB 983

Short Description: Current law requires the Secretary of State and the Director of the Department of Revenue (DOR) to enter into an agreement to match information in the voter registration database with information in the motor vehicle system. This act requires such agreement to include information pertaining to the citizenship status of those within DOR's database.

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill.

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you OPPOSE this bill. Members of the Local Government, Elections, and Pensions Committee are found HERE. Click on the Senator’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for hearing in the Senate Local Government, Elections, and Pensions Committee on Monday, February 9 at 2:00 PM.

Social Justice

Bill #: HB2747, HB2047

Short Description: These bills establish an automatic record-clearing or expungement process for closing records pertaining to a “clean slate eligible offense”, which is an offense not excluded from the eligibility for expungement. 

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the House Economic Development Committee on Tuesday, February 10 at 8:00 AM.

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you SUPPORT this bill. Members of the House Economic Development Committee are found HERE. Click on the representative’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information

Bill #: HB2834, HB2787, HB 2592

Short Description: These bills allow a person on probation or parole to vote, unless the person was convicted of a felony or misdemeanor connected with the right of suffrage and allow a person to vote while confined under a sentence of imprisonment for a misdemeanor.

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for an Executive Session in the House Corrections and Public Institutions Committee on Monday, February 9 at 12:00

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you SUPPORT this bill. Members of the House Corrections and Public Institutions Committee are found HERE. Click on the representative’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

Taxes

Bill #: SB 1239 

Short Description: Current law taxes retail sales of food, as defined in current law, at a rate of one percent. This act provides that retail sales of food shall be exempt from state sales taxes.

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Economic and Workforce Development Committee on Wednesday, February 11 at 10:00 AM.

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed at Senate hearings. Please contact committee members and let them know you SUPPORT this bill. Members of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee are found HERE. Click on the Senator’s picture and you will be taken to their information page for their contact information.

Episode Resources

Voting Rights Link to Further Reading:

The National Voter Registration Act Of 1993 (NVRA)

Taxes Link to Further Reading:

Bill to end Missouri sales tax on groceries draws resistance from local governments

Upcoming Event:

The next JEDI Book Club will discuss the book The Cradle of Citizenship: How Schools Can Help Save Our Democracy by James Traub on February 22, 2026 at 4 p.m. Veteran journalist James Traub set out during the 2023–24 school year to visit schools in Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, and Texas to see how well they are doing in preparing the next generation of citizens. His book critiques the failure of American civics education and offers a roadmap for improvement, arguing that schools are crucial for democracy but are failing due to political polarization and a lack of focus on deep knowledge.

Click here to register for this online event. 

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at : Vote411.org

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com

Due to space constraints on the various platforms the LWVMO: Legislate Update podcast can be found, not all of the bills we covered are listed below. Visit LWVMO Legislative Bulletin & Calls to Action to learn more about the bills we're tracking as well as links to help you take action.

Voting Rights

Bill #: SB 896

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description: Creates provisions relating to elections (foreign involvement).

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pension Committee on Monday, February 2 at 2:00 PM.

Talking points:  

• Is vague in defining election officers
• Sets up new reporting requirements
• Allows any voter to bring charges against election officers
• Could be used to harass or intimidate election workers

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. Members of the Senate Local government, Elections and Pension Committee are found HERE.

Bill #: HB 2480

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill 

Short Description: Reinstates the presidential preference primary.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for hearing in the House Elections Committee on Tuesday, February 3 at 8:00 AM.

• Talking points:  
• Voting happens anonymously through a secret ballot 
• Primaries are run by — and paid for by — state and local governments
• Primary process is a familiar one of official ballots and secure submission of votes
• Primaries are local and more accessible than caucuses for working people, people needing child care, etc 
• Early voting is a feature of primaries, supporting their accessibility 

Call to action: Submit testimony to SUPPORT HB 2480 HERE. Make sure to mark “In Support of” under reason in the testimony form.

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: HB 2688

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description: An unborn child, at any stage of development, is subject to the protections of the 5th and 14th Amendments of the United States Constitution.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session in the House on Wednesday, February 3 at 8:00 AM in the Children and Families Committee.

Talking points:  

• U.S. Constitution law has consistently rejected the idea that embryos or fetuses are “persons” under the 14th Amendment 
• Conception based personhood would create un-administrable legal obligations, including criminal liability for miscarriage or natural embryonic loss 
• Pluralistic society avoids enforcing one moral or religious belief through law; it contradicts science, medicine, and constitutional rights 
• An unborn child being identified as a "person" is not consistent with all religious beliefs of US citizens. Judaism and Islam, among others, do not recognize personhood at conception. This can cause concerns for religious freedom provisions and the First Amendment

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. Members of the Children and Families committee are found HERE.

Firearms

Bill #: SB 908

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description: Removes ability of municipalities to enact any type of firearms ordinances.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee on Monday, February 2 at 2:00 PM.

Talking points:  

• Forces a one-size fits all policy that ignores local conditions and local voters 
• Silences local problem solving entirely 
• Takes away limited, practical local laws and replaces them with threats of lawsuits and a 50,000 dollar fine every time a city tries to keep people safe

Link to the summary of the bill: SB908

Call to action: Email committee members and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. Members of the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety committee are found HERE.

Social Justice

Bill #: HB 2592, HB 2834, HB 2787

LWVMO SUPPORTS these bills

Short Description: Eliminates requirement to complete probation/parole prior to regaining voting rights.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a hearing in the House on Monday, February 2 at 12:00 PM in the Corrections and Public Institutions Committee.

Talking points: 

• This bill eliminates the requirement to complete all probation/parole before regaining voting right
• Incarcerated people can vote, once registered, upon release except if convicted of a voting-related crime

Link to the summary of the bill: HB2592

Call to action: Submit testimony to SUPPORT HB 2592, HB 2834, and HB 2787 HERE. Make sure to mark “In Support of” under reason in the testimony form.

Resources

LWV Voter Power Hour

League Resources

League of Women Voters of Missouri: www.lwvmissouri.org

Register to Vote / check vote registration and more at : Vote411.org

There is a Local League near you. Get involved or join today to help protect democracy.

Track Missouri Bills: www.senate.mo.gov | www.house.mo.gov

The League of Women Voters envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. We believe in the power of women to create a more perfect democracy

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email lwvmopodcast@gmail.com