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Will Vandergrift
House Floor Debate
March 11, 2025
Summary
The Missouri House session on March 11, 2025, tackled three major bills. HB 615 aims to toughen laws against child enticement and human trafficking, sparking debate over victim support. HB 799 adjusts vehicle inspection rules and adds veteran license plates, with smooth bipartisan support. HB 567, the most contentious, seeks to repeal a voter-approved sick leave mandate from Proposition A, splitting lawmakers over respecting the November 2024 vote versus easing business burdens.
Bills Discussed
HB 903
Surface Score: 9/10
This bill proposes a major change to local tax structures with a nearly billion-dollar estimated impact. The debate was substantive, involving core disagreements about taxation philosophy, local control, funding essential services, and voter intent. High potential impact on citizens and local governments.
Summary:
This bill proposes to reduce the assessment rate for tangible personal property tax from 33.33% to 18% over three years (2026-2028), effectively cutting the taxable value in half. The sponsor argues the tax is inefficient and unfair double taxation.
Noteworthy Points:
Significant potential fiscal impact: A fiscal note estimates a $909 million reduction in revenue for local taxing districts (schools, fire, police, libraries, etc.).
Major point of contention: Opponents argue the bill defunds essential local services without providing a replacement revenue source, while proponents argue the tax is unjust and inefficient, and local entities can seek revenue elsewhere or voters can approve higher tax rates on the lower assessment.
Voter Intent Debate: Proponents claim voters dislike the tax and would eliminate it if asked directly. Opponents counter that voters approved the existing tax levies supporting local services.
Efficiency Argument: The sponsor highlighted difficulty in getting data from county assessors/collectors on the cost of administering the tax, arguing it's inefficient. Opponents noted the bill reduces revenue but doesn't eliminate the administrative process.
Constitutional Goal: The sponsor stated the ultimate goal is the complete elimination of personal property tax in a future bill.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Schnelting introduces HB 903, outlining the phased reduction in personal property tax assessment.
[00:51:45-00:53:07]
Rep. Schnelting argues personal property tax constitutes double taxation and deters business investment (e.g., rental cars, aircraft).
[00:53:07-00:54:43]
Rep. Schnelting describes failed attempts to get cost data from county assessors/collectors via Sunshine requests.
[00:55:03-00:57:25]
Rep. Schnelting discusses assessment cost estimates, inefficiency, and public opinion against the tax.
[00:57:26-00:59:52]
Rep. Fogle inquires about the $909M fiscal impact and how local entities would replace lost revenue.
[01:00:00-01:03:25]
Rep. Fogle speaks against the bill, citing risks to funding for schools, fire, police etc.
[01:04:42-01:05:26]
Rep. Clemens supports the bill, arguing taxes should reflect true (depreciating) value and it saves taxpayers money.
[01:05:42-01:07:56]
Rep. Hovis supports the bill, discussing constituent dislike for the tax, rising vehicle costs, and arguing revenue loss would be offset by real property growth.
[01:08:15-01:13:23]
Rep. Nurrenbern questions the bill, raising concerns about defunding police and asking which taxes the sponsor prefers.
[01:13:29-01:15:57]
Rep. Bland Manlove argues the bill doesn't fix inefficiency, just cuts revenue, potentially requiring real estate tax hikes, and overrides local voter decisions.
[01:16:00-01:19:58]
Rep. Evans supports the bill, distinguishing between assessment (controlled by state) and tax rate (controlled by voters), arguing voters can raise rates if needed and rejecting the 'defund police' claim.
[01:20:04-01:24:41]
Rep. Unsicker speaks against the bill, citing a $25M impact in her county and the lack of a revenue replacement plan, potentially shifting the burden to real property.
[01:24:44-01:26:58]
HB 331
Surface Score: 6/10
Expands the popular A+ program to better serve workforce needs in skilled trades. While broadly supported, it represents a tangible change in educational funding accessibility for a specific student group.
Summary:
This bill creates the Career and Technical Certificate Program, allowing recent high school graduates who qualify for the A+ Scholarship Program to use those funds for shorter-term certificate or license programs (like CDL, CNA, EMT) that are often ineligible for traditional A+ or federal Pell grants.
Noteworthy Points:
Addresses a gap where A+ eligible students couldn't use funds for short, intensive career tech programs immediately after high school.
Aimed at boosting workforce participation in skilled trades by removing financial barriers for non-college bound students.
Provides A+ graduates a choice between using funds for an associate degree or a career tech certificate/license.
Received unanimous support in committee and positive comments from both parties on the floor.
Specific language was added to ensure EMT and paramedic programs are explicitly included.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. O'Donnell inquires about coverage for paramedic program costs.
[02:17:20-02:18:04]
Rep. Kelley introduces HB 331, explaining the gap in A+ funding for short-term career tech programs.
[02:13:34-02:15:38]
Rep. Davidson inquires about changes (adding EMT/paramedic clarity) and notes bipartisan support from business and education.
[02:15:44-02:17:15]
Rep. Young expresses support, noting it helps non-college bound students in her district.
[02:18:07-02:18:30]
Rep. Lewis supports the bill, highlighting its benefit for high school graduates seeking career opportunities.
[02:18:37-02:18:59]
HB 615
Surface Score: 6/10
The bill addresses the serious issue of human trafficking and includes potentially impactful provisions like increased age protection and a restitution fund. While discussion was relatively brief and non-contentious, the subject matter holds significant public importance.
Summary:
This bill modifies laws related to human trafficking. Key provisions include increasing the age for the offense of enticement of a child and establishing a restitution fund, paid for by perpetrators, to support victims and law enforcement efforts against trafficking.
Noteworthy Points:
An amendment removed provisions related to court reporters, allowing them to pursue separate legislation.
The bill raises the age definition for child enticement victims from under 14 to under 17, aiming to protect more older teenagers.
It establishes a restitution fund managed by the Treasurer's office, distributing fines collected from perpetrators to arresting agencies and victim support organizations in the county of arrest.
The bill focuses specifically on targeting the perpetrators (Johns and traffickers) to reduce demand.
Received bipartisan support, with several members highlighting its importance in combating human trafficking concentrated along Missouri's interstate corridors.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Washington introduces HB 615 and proposes amendments.
[00:20:47-00:21:21]
Rep. Washington explains Amendment 1, removing court reporter language and aligning sections.
[00:21:48-00:22:21]
Rep. Chipman discusses the provision raising the age for child enticement offenses.
[00:25:28-00:26:31]
Rep. Hausman speaks in support, noting similarities to anti-trafficking bills and the inclusion of restitution.
[00:26:42-00:27:28]
Rep. Merideth inquires about local law enforcement's role and fund oversight for restitution.
[00:27:33-00:29:30]
Rep. Washington provides closing remarks on the bill's focus on perpetrators and raising victim age protections.
[00:29:57-00:31:49]
HB 799
Surface Score: 4/10
Eliminating vehicle inspections is a noticeable change for drivers, but the debate was minimal and amendments were generally agreeable. Lower impact compared to major tax or social policy changes.
Summary:
This bill primarily phases out most state motor vehicle safety inspections, retaining only a mileage requirement. It also adds provisions for new specialty license plates (Space Force, Conservation Heritage Foundation fee changes) and allows retired law enforcement to obtain confidential license plates.
Noteworthy Points:
Eliminates most vehicle safety inspections, arguing there's no proven link to public safety and calling it an unnecessary burden.
Adds a specialty license plate option for U.S. Space Force veterans and active members.
An amendment allows retired law enforcement officers, in addition to active ones, to apply for confidential license plates to protect their privacy.
Another amendment changes the fee payment process for Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation license plates, allowing direct payment to DOR.
The core inspection removal provision previously passed the House overwhelmingly as part of another bill.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Brown introduces HB 799 regarding vehicle inspections.
[00:32:47-00:33:57]
Rep. Brown explains Amendment 2, adding Space Force license plates.
[00:34:09-00:34:25]
Rep. Voss explains Amendment 3, allowing retired law enforcement to get confidential plates.
[00:35:10-00:36:00]
Rep. Gragg inquires about the confidential plates and expresses support.
[00:36:12-00:37:23]
Rep. Haffner explains Amendment 4, regarding Conservation Heritage Foundation plate fees.
[00:38:37-00:38:56]
Rep. Brown closes on the bill, emphasizing removal of unnecessary inspection burdens.
[00:39:26-00:39:52]
HB 974
Surface Score: 5/10
Addresses insurance complexities in the growing gig economy (peer-to-peer rentals). While a key controversial part (delivery drivers) was removed, the remaining section sets a framework for a modern business model. Moderate impact.
Summary:
This bill establishes insurance requirements for peer-to-peer car sharing platforms (like Turo), ensuring coverage exists regardless of whether the car owner's or the platform's insurance applies. An amendment removed a section dealing with insurance for delivery service drivers (like DoorDash) due to ongoing negotiations.
Noteworthy Points:
Addresses the growing trend of peer-to-peer car sharing (likened to 'Airbnb for cars').
Creates an insurance framework where the platform's insurance acts as a backstop if the owner's or renter's insurance is insufficient.
Negotiated language clarifies that the bill does not define whether these platforms legally constitute 'rental car companies', leaving that distinction for potential future debate.
A significant amendment removed provisions related to delivery service drivers (DoorDash, etc.) after stakeholders (insurance industry and delivery platforms) failed to agree on when coverage should apply (app on vs. job accepted). This issue will be revisited.
Highlights potential insurance coverage gaps for individuals using personal vehicles for commercial purposes like deliveries or peer-to-peer rentals.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Murphy introduces the bill covering peer-to-peer car sharing and delivery service insurance.
[00:41:58-00:43:44]
Rep. Murphy explains Amendment 1, clarifying uninsured motorist language and removing the delivery service section.
[00:44:25-00:45:22]
Rep. Gragg discusses the 'Airbnb for cars' concept and the negotiated language between platforms and rental companies.
[00:45:29-00:47:18]
Discussion on why the DoorDash/delivery driver insurance section was removed (disagreement on coverage trigger).
[00:47:19-00:48:17]
Rep. Gragg highlights the importance of addressing insurance gaps for gig workers using personal vehicles.
[00:48:31-00:49:52]
HB 618
Surface Score: 8/10
Directly impacts healthcare delivery and administrative burdens for providers statewide. Addresses common frustrations for both patients and doctors regarding insurance delays. Strong bipartisan support and potential for real change in healthcare processes make it highly relevant.
Summary:
Known as 'gold carding,' this bill exempts healthcare providers with a high prior authorization approval rate (90%+) from needing to seek prior authorization for specific services for six months. It aims to reduce administrative burdens on providers and delays in patient care.
Noteworthy Points:
Addresses widespread frustration among healthcare providers regarding the time spent on prior authorizations instead of patient care (estimated 14 hours/week for some physicians).
Establishes a 'gold card' system: providers achieving 90% approval for a service (or overall) are exempt from prior auth for that service (or overall) for 6 months, subject to ongoing review.
An amendment incorporated negotiated changes with insurance companies, including a delayed start date, specific exemptions (high-cost drugs/imaging, cosmetic, experimental), clarification on denials, auditing authority, and requiring clinical peer review for denials.
Includes a 90-day grace period for medication prior authorizations when a patient's insurance plan changes.
Strong bipartisan support was expressed, focusing on reducing patient care delays, lessening provider burnout, and questioning insurance companies acting as medical decision-makers.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Davidson introduces HB 618, explaining the prior authorization burden and the 'gold carding' concept.
[01:28:05-01:30:57]
Rep. Davidson explains Amendment 1, detailing changes negotiated with insurers (start date, exemptions, hospital criteria, grace period, etc.).
[01:31:04-01:33:57]
Rep. Appelbaum supports the amendment and bill, highlighting benefits for patient care access and speed.
[01:34:02-01:35:55]
Rep. Smith supports the bill, linking prior authorization burdens to physician burnout.
[01:36:03-01:37:02]
Rep. Haffner supports the bill, questioning insurance companies overriding medical decisions and praising the sponsor's work.
[01:37:08-01:38:26]
Rep. Murphy thanks Rep. Davidson for her extensive work and compromises on the bill.
[01:38:30-01:39:23]
Rep. Francis shares a personal story about prior authorization delays impacting his own medical care.
[01:39:27-01:41:10]
Rep. Stinnett speaks in support, calling prior authorization 'red tape in healthcare' and citing absurd examples.
[01:41:13-01:41:58]
Rep. Evans discusses the complex prior authorization appeal process, delays, and impact on provider time.
[01:42:20-01:45:20]
Rep. Coleman speaks in support, emphasizing that clinicians in the room, not on the phone, should make care decisions.
[01:45:51-01:48:14]
HB 1259
Surface Score: 6/10
Combines multiple distinct policy changes. The MERA repeal and e-wills provisions are noteworthy, along with judicial additions. The original tax change is technical but corrects a disparity. Moderate overall impact due to the collection of items.
Summary:
Originally a bill to equalize state income tax treatment for trusts formed inside Missouri versus outside, it was amended to include provisions requiring title searches for real property put in trusts, creating new circuit judge positions, repealing the state's ability to seize prisoner assets (MERA), modifying notary requirements, and allowing electronic wills.
Noteworthy Points:
Core purpose: Aligns Missouri's income tax rules so trusts formed in Missouri aren't taxed on out-of-state income, matching the treatment already given to out-of-state trusts earning income here.
Amendment added a requirement for a title search before real property is placed into a trust to prevent issues arising from outdated property descriptions.
Amendment added authorization for a new circuit judge in the 25th Judicial Circuit and an associate circuit judge in the 26th Judicial Circuit, citing population and caseload needs.
Amendment repealed the Missouri Incarceration Reimbursement Act (MERA), preventing the state/AG from seizing assets (like inheritances) from incarcerated individuals to pay for their incarceration costs.
Amendment added provisions related to notary public acts, allowing certain professionals (peace officers, medical staff) to perform notarial acts in specific circumstances (related to HB 543).
Amendment added provisions authorizing and regulating the creation and execution of electronic wills.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Davis introduces HB 1259, explaining the trust taxation equalization goal.
[01:49:59-01:50:53]
Rep. Knight introduces Amendment 2, covering trust title searches and new judge positions.
[01:51:01-01:52:02]
Rep. Knight explains the need for title searches when putting real estate in trusts due to outdated deeds causing beneficiary disputes.
[01:52:09-01:55:10]
Rep. Knight explains the justification for adding new judge positions in the 25th and 26th circuits (population, caseload, geography).
[01:55:10-01:57:28]
Rep. Burton inquires about potential burdens of the title search requirement for property owners adding existing properties to trusts.
[01:57:51-02:00:37]
Rep. Stinnett introduces Amendment 3, repealing the Missouri Incarceration Reimbursement Act (MERA or 'Pay to Stay').
[02:01:02-02:02:03]
Rep. Myers introduces an amendment to the amendment (HB 543 language) regarding notary requirements.
[02:02:09-02:02:50]
Rep. Washington inquires about the MERA repeal, confirming its unanimous committee passage and purpose.
[02:03:17-02:04:44]
Rep. Cook introduces Amendment 4, allowing for electronic wills and estate planning documents.
[02:05:12-02:05:58]
Rep. Gragg inquires about the original trust taxation provision and the definition/purpose of the 'Civil Jurisprudence' title change.
[02:07:13-02:10:29]
HB 32
Surface Score: 3/10
A minor adjustment to an existing program's eligibility age. While beneficial for some individuals, it lacks broad controversy or major statewide policy implications.
Summary:
This bill lowers the minimum eligibility age for students to attend adult high schools in Missouri from 21 to 18 years old. These schools allow individuals to earn a standard high school diploma.
Noteworthy Points:
Aims to provide an earlier opportunity for individuals who may have dropped out or faced challenges in traditional high school to earn their diploma.
Builds on the existing adult high school program established in 2017, which has seen success.
Received unanimous support in committee votes (20-0 and 13-0).
Supported by members from districts with existing adult high schools, citing positive impacts on constituents' lives.
Viewed as a simple measure to enhance workforce readiness and educational opportunity.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Evans introduces HB 32, explaining the purpose of lowering the age for adult high schools.
[02:20:53-02:21:44]
Rep. Proudie speaks in strong support of the bill.
[02:21:50-02:21:59]
Rep. Thompson speaks in support, sharing positive experiences from constituents and family members who attended adult high schools.
[02:21:59-02:22:37]
HB 87
Surface Score: 7/10
Increases penalties for serious crimes (DWI causing harm/death) which carries significant public safety implications. The addition of the diversion program adds another layer. Addresses a topic with strong emotional resonance for victims' families.
Summary:
Known as "Melanie's Law," this bill increases the felony classifications for driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses that result in physical injury, serious physical injury, or death. An amendment added provisions for a DWI diversion program and expanded ignition interlock requirements.
Noteworthy Points:
Increases penalties: Injury DWI becomes Class D felony (was E); Serious Injury DWI becomes Class C (was D); Death DWI becomes Class B (was C).
Creates a Class A felony for causing death of two or more, or death with BAC >= 0.15 if a prior/habitual offender.
Mandates minimum prison time before parole eligibility (5 years for single death, 10 years for aggravated circumstances).
Named in memory of Melanie Wankum, whose family worked with the sponsor.
An amendment added language from HB 273, establishing criteria for diverting DWI cases to a specialized program, requiring ignition interlock devices for at least one year for participants, and removing the officer's ability to physically take a driver's license upon citation.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. O'Donnell introduces HB 87 ("Melanie's Law"), detailing the increased penalties for injury/death DWIs.
[02:24:17-02:25:58]
Rep. O'Donnell shares the background story of Melanie Wankum and the goal of providing closure and prevention.
[02:26:07-02:27:25]
Rep. Burton explains Amendment 1 (HB 273 language), removing license confiscation and adding DWI diversion program/interlock requirements.
[02:27:44-02:30:01]
Rep. Haffner inquires if "intoxication" includes impairment by drugs, not just alcohol (confirmed yes).
[02:30:13-02:31:25]
Rep. O'Donnell expresses support for the amendment.
[02:31:27-02:31:35]
Rep. Roberts notes the amendment passed committee and supports it.
[02:31:43-02:31:55]
HB 419
Surface Score: 3/10
Clarifies existing law with broad support. Positive impact for military families but limited scope and no controversy.
Summary:
This bill clarifies existing state law to ensure that active duty military personnel stationed in Missouri, along with their dependents, are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Noteworthy Points:
Focuses on clarifying, rather than changing, existing statute to prevent misinterpretation.
Explicitly includes both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Aimed at supporting military families stationed in Missouri, potentially aiding retention as they transition out of service.
Zero fiscal note, indicating no expected cost to the state.
Received unanimous support in committee votes (19-0 and 8-0) and positive comments on the floor.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Knight introduces HB 419, explaining it clarifies in-state tuition for military personnel and dependents.
[02:34:38-02:35:14]
Rep. Sauls speaks in support, highlighting the benefit to military families and educational continuity.
[02:35:24-02:36:56]
Rep. Burton supports the bill, noting its relevance to Fort Leonard Wood personnel attending Missouri S&T.
[02:37:03-02:38:35]
Rep. O'Donnell supports the bill, emphasizing its importance for National Guard and Reserves.
[02:38:39-02:39:04]
HB 643
Surface Score: 5/10
Creates specific economic development zones in a major tourist region. While geographically limited, it follows established precedent and aims to boost local economies. Moderate interest.
Summary:
This bill authorizes the creation of specific entertainment districts within the cities of Lake Ozark (targeting "the strip") and Osage Beach (for a new amusement park). These districts allow businesses within them to share common infrastructure and amenities, similar to existing districts in Kansas City and St. Louis.
Noteworthy Points:
Enables local municipalities (Lake Ozark, Osage Beach) to designate specific zones as entertainment districts.
Allows businesses in the district to potentially pool resources for shared infrastructure or services (e.g., trash pickup, security, marketing).
Modeled after existing successful entertainment districts like Kansas City's Power & Light District and St. Louis's Ballpark Village.
Aimed at revitalizing the older "strip" area in Lake Ozark and supporting the new amusement park development in Osage Beach.
Seen by supporters as a tool for local economic development and enhancing tourism in the Lake of the Ozarks region.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Knight introduces HB 643, describing the two proposed entertainment districts in Lake Ozark and Osage Beach and citing existing examples.
[02:40:41-02:42:05]
Rep. Casteel speaks in support, describing the bill as creating a sub-community for common business interests.
[02:42:12-02:43:19]
Rep. Haffner speaks in support as a representative of the Lake area, noting it gives municipalities options.
[02:43:24-02:43:50]
Rep. McGirl inquires about the tourism benefits, comparing it to Branson and expressing support.
[02:43:53-02:45:38]
Rep. Evans speaks in support, framing it as an economic development tool for the local economy.
[02:45:44-02:46:07]
HB 971
Surface Score: 7/10
Addresses a significant safety and privacy concern amplified by modern technology, particularly relevant to domestic violence victims. Closes a perceived legal loophole and received strong, bipartisan support backed by compelling personal stories.
Summary:
This bill makes it a crime (Class A misdemeanor first offense, Class E felony subsequent) to knowingly install or place a tracking device on a motor vehicle without the consent of all registered owners. It includes exceptions for law enforcement, parents tracking minors, rental companies, and certain business/insurance uses with consent.
Noteworthy Points:
Addresses the misuse of GPS tracking devices, particularly in domestic violence and stalking situations.
Requires consent from *all* registered owners of a vehicle before a tracking device can be legally placed.
Includes specific exemptions for legitimate uses: law enforcement with warrants, parents tracking their minor children's vehicles, vehicle owners tracking their own vehicles, rental car companies, and business/insurance purposes where consent is given.
Multiple sponsors shared personal stories or constituent experiences where unauthorized tracking led to fear, harassment, or violence.
Seen as closing a loophole, as such tracking was surprisingly not explicitly illegal previously.
Received strong bipartisan support, framed as a common-sense safety and privacy measure.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Williams introduces HB 971, explaining the prohibition on unlawful GPS tracking and the penalties.
[02:47:54-02:49:02]
Rep. Morse notes the bill's unanimous passage from the Transportation committee.
[02:49:09-02:49:28]
Rep. Fogle inquires, leading Rep. Williams to share her personal experience with being tracked by an aggressor.
[02:49:33-02:51:15]
Rep. Fogle shares constituent stories of tracking in domestic violence situations and highlights the low cost/ease of tracking.
[02:51:15-02:52:56]
Rep. Fogle continues, mentioning specific murder cases linked to GPS tracking and a past incident involving a state legislator.
[02:53:11-02:54:40]
Rep. Riley shares his support based on law enforcement/military experience, recounting a stalking case involving a diplomat and emphasizing the bill as a tool for protection orders.
[02:54:45-02:57:51]
Rep. Burton aligns the bill with previous stalking statute updates and notes the challenge of technology in domestic violence cases.
[02:57:52-02:58:41]
Rep. Christofanelli inquires about exceptions (insurance tracking, rentals) and expresses surprise the act isn't already illegal, strongly supporting the bill.
[02:58:46-03:01:18]
Rep. Phifer shares her personal experience as a stalking victim and supports the bill.
[03:01:31-03:02:02]
HB 834
Surface Score: 5/10
Addresses licensing and disciplinary procedures across several professions. The apprenticeship and social work provisions aim to ease workforce entry, while the disciplinary change adds oversight. Moderate cumulative impact.
Summary:
Modifies licensing for embalmers and funeral directors to allow an apprenticeship pathway. Amendments added provisions allowing disciplinary action against massage/chiropractic licensees facing criminal charges before conviction, and enabling social work graduates from programs in candidacy status to take board exams and begin supervised practice.
Noteworthy Points:
Original bill streamlines funeral director/embalmer licensing via an apprenticeship model, supported by the industry association.
Amendment allows the Administrative Hearing Commission to discipline massage therapists or chiropractors if charged with a crime impacting public safety, even before conviction.
Amendment addresses a 'chicken-or-egg' problem for new university social work programs, allowing students to proceed with licensure steps while the program is in pre-candidacy/candidacy for accreditation.
The bill serves as a vehicle for multiple professional registration adjustments.
A motion for the previous question was successfully used to end debate and move to a vote on perfection.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Coleman introduces HB 834 concerning funeral director/embalmer apprenticeship licensing.
[03:03:54-03:04:17]
Rep. Haffner explains Amendment 2, allowing earlier disciplinary action for massage/chiropractic licensees charged with crimes.
[03:04:30-03:05:57]
Rep. Billington introduces Amendment 3 regarding social work graduates from programs in accreditation candidacy.
[03:07:25-03:08:13]
Rep. Davidson confirms the social work amendment passed committee and supports it.
[03:08:22-03:09:06]
Rep. Fogle (a social worker) discusses the social work amendment and accreditation process.
[03:09:10-03:11:19]
Rep. Spencer speaks in support of the original bill, citing her experience in the funeral industry and workforce needs.
[03:11:58-03:13:04]
Rep. Evans moves the previous question to end debate; the motion passes on a roll call vote.
[03:13:10-03:15:18]
HB 567
Surface Score: 10/10
This bill directly attempts to overturn significant portions of a statewide initiative petition approved by 57% of voters only months prior. It touches on core economic issues (wages, benefits) affecting nearly all workers and businesses, and raises fundamental questions about legislative power versus direct democracy. The debate was extensive and highly partisan, making it the most consequential and controversial item discussed.
Summary:
This bill seeks to modify Proposition A, which was passed by voters in November 2024. It retains the scheduled minimum wage increases but repeals the mandated paid sick leave provisions and removes the automatic annual CPI adjustment for the minimum wage after it reaches $15/hour in 2026.
Noteworthy Points:
Directly addresses and seeks to alter a recent voter-approved initiative (Proposition A).
Central Conflict: Pits arguments about respecting the 'will of the people' against concerns over the economic impact and complexity of the paid sick leave mandate on businesses, particularly small businesses.
Sick Leave Repeal: The primary goal is removing the requirement for employers to provide earned paid sick leave (accrued at 1 hour per 30 worked, up to 80 hours/year). Proponents argue this mandate is overly complex, costly, hurts competitiveness, wasn't fully understood by voters, and is funded by outside groups.
Minimum Wage: Keeps the voter-approved increases to $13.75 (already effective) and $15 (in 2026) but removes future automatic increases tied to inflation (CPI).
Partisan Divide: Strong opposition from Democrats emphasizing voter intent, worker health/safety, and the need for livable wages. Strong support from Republicans emphasizing business burdens, free market principles, and alleged flaws in the IP process/Prop A specifics.
Implementation Timing: Opponents argue the legislature is acting too quickly before the full effects (especially of sick leave, set for May 1) are known. Proponents argue immediate action is needed to prevent business harm.
Highlights:
Timestamp
Rep. Dinkins introduces HB 567, outlining the minimum wage context and potential negative impacts on businesses.
[03:16:50-03:19:43]
Rep. Dinkins details the specific issues with the paid sick leave mandate, citing complexity, cost, and potential negative consequences.
[03:19:44-03:23:31]
Rep. Haffner inquires about the impact on small/seasonal businesses and argues against government telling businesses how to operate.
[03:23:42-03:28:44]
Rep. Johnson supports the bill, citing impacts on unemployment mods, insurance costs, and the burden on small business owners.
[03:28:48-03:29:57]
Rep. Stinnett supports the bill as a small business owner, citing the financial cost ($31k for her company) and questioning voter understanding.
[03:30:01-03:31:40]
Rep. Lavender inquires about Prop A passage in the sponsor's district and argues against overturning the vote, highlighting worker needs and potential health risks (sick food service workers).
[03:31:45-03:37:20]
Rep. Evans speaks for the bill, questioning the 57% vote validity, arguing against price fixing for labor, and stating minimum wage hurts low-income people via inflation.
[03:37:40-03:39:58]
Rep. Aldridge questions the definition of 'small business' being used and suggests potential conflicts of interest for business-owning legislators.
[03:40:04-03:40:59]
Rep. Sharp supports the bill, arguing sick leave is a benefit, not a right, and employees can choose employers offering desired benefits.
[03:41:00-03:41:40]
Rep. Merideth opposes the bill, emphasizing that voters spoke and their will should be respected.
[03:41:46-03:42:26]
Rep. Hardwick supports the bill, sharing stories of constituents (gas station, movie theater) struggling with the mandate's complexity and potential impact.
[03:42:30-03:46:45]
Rep. Roberts introduces Art Still (Chiefs legend) advocating for Amyloidosis Awareness Day, relating it peripherally to business impacts.
[03:46:47-03:48:31]
Rep. Schulte inquires about the bill's evolution and reiterates small business concerns, leading to a discussion with Rep. Evans on constitutional issues (single subject rule) and free market principles vs. government mandates.
[03:48:40-03:57:29]
Rep. Schulte continues speaking for the bill, citing pressures on small businesses (COVID, inflation, regulations) and questioning the IP process.
[03:57:35-04:00:00]
Rep. Mann speaks against the bill, emphasizing Missouri as a land of opportunity and arguing the bill increases barriers for workers.
[04:00:28-04:01:23]
Rep. Quade speaks in support, citing a constituent restaurant that feared closure due to Prop A.
[04:01:28-04:02:23]
Rep. Ingle opposes the bill, discussing the history and purpose of minimum wage, its detachment from cost of living, the economic benefits of higher wages for workers, and the simplicity of implementing the sick leave calculation.
[04:02:28-04:07:52]
Rep. Christofanelli supports the bill, sharing a story of a constituent ice cream shop owner facing choices between staff cuts, closure, or raising prices due to the mandates.
[04:07:58-04:09:55]
Rep. Appeals opposes the bill, sharing her experience as a bartender without sick leave, advocating for workers without safety nets, and criticizing the legislature for potentially ruining trust by overturning the vote before implementation.
[04:09:59-04:12:29]
Rep. McGirl supports the bill, citing concerns from Branson tourism businesses about the cost forcing layoffs.
[04:12:33-04:13:42]
Rep. Johnson opposes the bill, recounting meetings with KC small businesses who prioritized infrastructure/schools over opposing Prop A, and arguing for worker prosperity.
[04:13:46-04:18:04]
Rep. Mosley opposes the bill, urging respect for the voters' trust and introducing the St. Louis County NAACP President.
[04:18:05-04:19:02]
Rep. Gray opposes the bill, warning against repeatedly overturning voter initiatives and highlighting the challenges faced by low-income workers needing sick time.
[04:19:10-04:21:23]
Rep. Gragg inquires about the bill specifics, confirming the main issue is sick leave, discussing voter understanding, employer flexibility with PTO, and the timing of overturning the vote pre-implementation.
[04:21:24-04:30:24]
Rep. Bland Manlove opposes the bill, highlighting the hypocrisy of overturning a vote won by a larger margin than many legislators' own elections and the legislature's previous actions forcing statewide minimum wage uniformity.
[04:30:25-04:33:04]
Rep. Fogle opposes the bill, recounting the history of attempts to repeal voter initiatives, criticizing the argument that voters didn't understand, and linking opposition to tariffs with concerns about consumer costs.
[04:33:11-04:37:48]
Rep. Brown supports the bill, highlighting foreign funding of the initiative, citing his county's rejection of Prop A, and arguing the bill protects businesses and honors voters in his district.
[04:37:53-04:42:02]
Rep. Evans opposes the bill, calling it the 'Make Workers Work While Sick Act,' reiterating the vote results, criticizing the hypocrisy on regional wage setting and outside money.
[04:42:04-04:44:41]
Rep. Appelbaum opposes the bill, invoking religious principles of caring for the poor and sick and criticizing the perceived lack of shame in paying low wages.
[04:44:46-04:46:07]
Rep. Allen supports the bill, discussing complexities for various industries (trucking, sales, salaried) not well-addressed by Prop A and the issue of outside funding influencing IPs.
[04:46:12-04:49:30]
Rep. Lavender opposes the bill, again emphasizing respect for the voters' decision.
[04:49:35-04:50:24]