The Missouri General Assembly continues to make progress on key legislation, with a strong focus on public safety, education, and government accountability. Several measures have advanced through the House, while administrative and judicial developments are also shaping policy across the state.
This week also included meaningful engagement with students and future leaders across Missouri.
Each year the Women Legislators of Missouri hold an auction to fund the Women’s Leadership Missouri (WLM) Scholarships that are given away each spring to a select number of young ladies from across the state. This session I was honored to have a recipient of the WLM Scholarship given to a student from District 163. Carlie Howard of Joplin was awarded the scholarship during a special ceremony held at the Capitol on April 13th along with a tour of the Missouri Supreme Court.
As a member of the bipartisan Women Legislators of Missouri Caucus, we are proud to have a record number of applicants and success fundraising efforts to support young women across our state to achieve their educational goals. As a result of fundraising, the scholarship amount has increased to $2000.
Additionally, some of the legislation considered this week includes:
Measure Targeting Abusive Website Accessibility Lawsuits (HCS SS SCS SBs 907, 1154 & 1272)The House gave final approval to legislation creating a legal framework to address abusive accessibility-related lawsuits, including a 90-day cure period and standards for courts to evaluate claims.
Expanded Commercial Driver Standards (HCS HB 2741) This bill strengthens requirements for commercial drivers and motor carriers, including English proficiency, documentation standards, and increased penalties for violations.
Constitutional Amendment on Treasurer Investment Authority (HCS HJR 159) A proposed constitutional amendment expands the State Treasurer’s investment options while maintaining safeguards, subject to voter approval.
Pharmacy Practice Expansion (HCS HB 3009) This legislation updates to pharmacy law expand pharmacists’ roles in administering vaccines, prescribing certain devices, and providing medication-related services.
Pediatric Disease Research Task Force (HCS HB 2740) This bill establishes a task force to advance research on pediatric and genetic diseases and provide policy recommendations to the General Assembly.
“Mason’s Law” (HCS HB 3175) This legislation creates a voluntary designation to assist law enforcement in interacting with individuals who have communication challenges, along with enhanced training resources.
Animal Welfare Law Revisions (HB 2436) This bill strengthens penalties for severe animal neglect and creates a new offense for filing false abuse reports.
Recording Fee Adjustments (HB 2422) This legislation increases document filing fees and directs additional funding to support the Missouri Land Survey Program.
Design-Build Process Expansion (HCS HB 2474) This bill adds a progressive design-build option for public construction, allowing more flexibility and collaboration in project development.
Agricultural Water Permitting Clarification (HCS HB 3076) This legislation clarifies exemptions for agricultural nonpoint sources from certain clean water permitting requirements.
Election-Related Resolutions (HCR 48 & HCR 23) These resolutions address voter identification requirements and reinforcing state authority over election policy and campaign finance regulation.
State Designations and Memorials (HS HB 2576) Designates state symbols, memorials, and tourism recognitions, and names highways and bridges across Missouri.
Finally, Missouri’s annual Show-Me Green Sales Tax Holiday will run from April 19 through April 25, providing consumers with savings on energy-efficient appliances while supporting local retailers. During this period, state sales tax will be waived on eligible ENERGY STAR® certified products, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and air conditioners, on the first $1,500 of each purchase. The program is designed to encourage energy-efficient choices while boosting retail activity across the state, with all local jurisdictions participating.
It is an honor to serve,
Cathy Jo Loy
State Representative
District 163
