Local elections may not seem important because there is typically low voter turnout, but they shape our lives daily in an immediate and personal way. From voting access to education to roads, bridges, and utilities, from public safety to immigration, climate change, housing, and zoning, your vote, your voice carries the power to make positive changes in your community. This is a friendly reminder that your vote is your voice, and your voice is your power. Get out there and be heard!

If you don't see your county click here OR visit your local country clerk website for more information

Voters will decide on a Cassville Fire Protection District half-cent sales tax proposal to fund operations, equipment upgrades, and facility improvements for the district.

For more information:

• From SFCC website, dated 8/19/25: SFCC Board votes to place the SFCC Operations Levy on the November 2025 ballot
• From KMMO.com, dated 8/22/25: STATE FAIR CC ASKING VOTERS FOR LEVY INCREASE ON NOVEMBER BALLOT
• From KRMS 97.5 FM, dated 8/21/25: Tax Levy Question Heads To The Voters For State Fair Community College

Voters will decide whether to approve the Barton County Proposal to increase the landfill tipping fee from $1.15 per ton to $1.50 per ton. The additional revenue will go exclusively to countywide economic development efforts.

For more information:

• From KSN16 Four States, dated 10/27/25: Barton County voters to decide on landfill tipping fee increase
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Voters will decide whether to approve a use tax for the Barton County Ambulace District that matches the local sales tax rate Future rate adjustments made with voter-approved changes. The revenue will help fund emergency medical services, ambulance operations and staffing and equipment upgrades.

For more information:

• From KSN16 Four States, dated 10/30/25: Barton County may hike online tax to fund emergency services

Voters will decide on the City of Lamar's proposed $.005 sales tax increase from 8.975% to 9.475% to fund a new aquatic center. The tax would last for 30 years and support both construction and ongoing maintenance.

For more information:

• From KRPS, dated 10/2/25: Aquatic center’s fate in Lamar, Missouri hinges on half-cent sales‑tax increase vote
• From KSN16 Four States, dated 10/30/25: Lamar residents to decide sales tax fate for Aquatic Center

Voters will decide on a proposed $0.10 increase to the operating tax levy for State Fair Community College (SFCC). If passed, the new levy would be $0.4993 per $100.00 of assessed valuation starting in the 2026 tax year.

For more information:

• From SFCC website, dated 8/19/25: SFCC Board votes to place the SFCC Operations Levy on the November 2025 ballot
• From KMMO.com, dated 8/22/25: STATE FAIR CC ASKING VOTERS FOR LEVY INCREASE ON NOVEMBER BALLOT
• From KRMS 97.5 FM, dated 8/21/25: Tax Levy Question Heads To The Voters For State Fair Community College

Voters will decide on a proposed 20-year increase to the Morgan County R-1 School District's to fund school improvements, including an athletic complex operating tax levy ceiling to $3.9246 per $100.00 of assessed valuation. If passed, the levy would rise by $0.63 per $100.00 of assessed valuation from 2026 to 2045 and then automatically decrease in 2046.

For more information:

From the Morgan County R-1 School District website: Sports Complex Tax Levy Information

Voters will decide whether the Wheatland R-2 and Hermitage R-4 school districts will merge into a single, unified district with an operating tax levy of $2.84 per $100.00 of assessed valuation.

For more information:

• Hermitage/Wheatland Merger Tax Facts Document from 1/1/2024

Voters will decide on the Macks Creek R-V School District's proposal to authorize issuance of $1.5 million in general obligation bonds to fund facility improvements. This will not increase the current debt service levy, which is estimated to remain at $0.4053 per $100.00 of assessed valuation of real and personal property.

For more information:

From the

• Macks Creek R-V School District, dated 10/27/25: November 4th Bond Initiative Update

Voters will decide on the The City of Harrisonville proposal for a 1.25% city sales tax to fund public safety and emergency services.

For more information:

• The City of Harrisonville, MO website, dated 10/27/25: More information about Questions 1, 2 &3

Voters will decide whether to authorize the City of Harrisonville to impose a motor fuel fee of up to $0.01 per gallon to be paid ty fuel stations, to fund road and street improvements.

For more information:

• The City of Harrisonville, MO website, dated 10/27/25: More information about Questions 1, 2 &3

Voters will decide whether to authorize the City of Harrisonville to issue $82,000,000.00 in revenue bonds for waterworks and sewerage system improvements funded by system revenues.

For more information:

• The City of Harrisonville, MO website, dated 10/27/25: More information about Questions 1, 2 &3

Voters will decide whether to impose a 1/.5% local use tax on purchases made from out-of-state vendors, including online purchases, to generate revenue for public safety, road maintenance, and county services. The use tax rate will automatically adjust as the county's sales tax rate adjusts.

For more information:

• Citizen Portal, dated 8/27/25: Christian County commissioners place 1.5% local use tax on November ballot
• Springfield Daily Citizen, dated:10/27/25 Christian County puts local use tax before voters
• Springfield News-Leader, dated 10/13/27: What Christian County voters should know about proposed tax increases on ballots

Voters will decide on the Nixa Fire Protection District's proposal to authorize an additional $0.25 tax per $100.00 of assessed valuation on real and personal property to fund replacement of ageing equipment, recruiting and retaining qualified personnel, and meeting the demands of increased emergency calls. This will be the district's first operational tax increase in more than 20 years.

For more information:

• Nixa Fire Protection District: Tax Levy Question
• Ozarks First, dated 10/27/25: Nixa Fire holds town hall ahead of election
• KSMU, dated 10/2/25: Nixa Fire District will put tax levy before voters in November

Voters will decide whether to approve the City of Springfield's proposal to increase the city's lodging tax by 3% from 5% to 8% to help fund a $175 million regional convention and event center. The tax will apply to overnight stays in hotels, motels, and short-term rentals.

For more information:

• Springfield News-Leader, dated 10/22/25: Springfield lodging association officially endorses increased hotel/motel tax
• Springfield News-Leader, dated 10/12/25: What to know before voting on Springfield lodging tax increase, convention center funding
• City of Springfield, dated 7/28/25: Springfield City Council approves ballot measure to help fund regional event center

Voters will decide whether the Wheatland R-2 and Hermitage R-4 school districts will merge into a single, unified district with an operating tax levy of $2.84 per $100.00 of assessed valuation.

For more information:

• Hermitage/Wheatland Merger Tax Facts Document from 1/1/2024

Voters will decide whether to approve the City of Bolivar's proposal to enter into a franchise agreement with Southwest Electrical Cooperative (SWEC), granting it non-exclusive rights to provide electric utility service to Bolivar and its residents, and operate infrastructure within public rights-of-way, lasting 20 years as outlined in Ordinance 4071.

For more information:

• City of Bolivar, MO: Election for Southwest Electric Cooperative Ballot Issue
• Ozarks First, dated 10/27/25: Franchise agreement between Bolivar, Southwest Electric to appear on November ballot

Voters will decide whether to approve the City of Osceola's proposal to increase a 0.5% citywide sales tax for public safety initiatives, which may include hiring and retention of qualified employees, upgrading equipment and vehicles, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and improving public safety infrastructure.

For more information:

• City of Osceola: http://www.cityofosceolamo.com/home.html.

Voters will decide on the Nixa Fire Protection District's proposal to authorize an additional $0.25 tax per $100.00 of assessed valuation on real and personal property to fund replacement of ageing equipment, recruiting and retaining qualified personnel, and meeting the demands of increased emergency calls. This will be the district's first operational tax increase in more than 20 years.

For more information:

• Nixa Fire Protection District: Tax Levy Question
• Ozarks First, dated 10/27/25: Nixa Fire holds town hall ahead of election
• KSMU, dated 10/2/25: Nixa Fire District will put tax levy before voters in November

Voters will decide whether to replace the expiring Capital Improvements sales tax with a new Road and Bridge sales tax in April 2026. This proposed tax would continue the current rate of 0.5% but redirect funds toward township-level infrastructure improvements. This will not increase the overall tax rate.

For more information:

• Texas County: Sales Tax Handbook
• Texas County website: https://www.texascountymissouri.gov/

Voters may be asked to decide on a ballot measure that would exempt residents from increases in property tax liability on their primary residence. this proposal aims to stabilize property taxes for homeowners amid rising property values.

• Why local elections are critical to our democracy: LWV
• Down ballot voting and the role of local elections: PBS
• The importance of Elections: LWV
• Learn more about the Redistricting / Gerrymandering Initiative Referendum: People not Politicians
• Worried about Missouri’s Initiative Petition being in jeopardy? Click HERE to learn more about the 2026 Citizen Initiative Overview by Respect MO Voters

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

Donate to the LWVMO Education Fund–it’s tax deductible!

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

The state legislature is in a special session right now, called by Governor Kehoe, to redraw the state’s congressional districts. This isn't just a routine process; it's a mid-decade effort being pushed by President Trump and the GOP to gain more seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Bill #: HB1: Modifies the redistricting plan established in 2022. The League of Women Voters of Missouri OPPOSES this bill.

• The new map was drawn with a total lack of transparency and public participation 
• Maps should reflect communities, not political calculations 
• Redrawing congressional maps mid-cycle reflects political gamesmanship and erodes public trust in our democracy 
• Democracy only works when every person has the right to be heard, counted, and fairly represented 
• Gerrymandering runs counter to the principle of equal voting rights for all 
• The newly proposed map affects voters who live in the 5th Congressional District and surrounding areas 
• Partisan and racial gerrymandering distorts and undermines representative democracy by allowing officials to select their voters rather than voters select their officials 

Link to the bill: HB 1 

1. Contact your Missouri representatives to tell them you oppose mid-cycle partisan redistricting. Find your representatives here. 
2. Join the League at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City Wednesday, September 10 at

noon to show Missouri legislators you want your vote and voice heard. 

Governor Kehoe Announces Special Session on Congressional Redistricting and Initiative Petition Reform 

At Trump's urging, Missouri jumps into redistricting race to help Republicans 

Missouri governor calls lawmakers back to Capitol to gerrymander congressional map 

The responsibility for redistricting should be vested in an independent special commission, with membership which reflects the diversity of the unit of government, including citizens at large, representatives of public interest groups, and members of minority groups. The standards on which a redistricting plan is based, and by which any plan should be judged, requires substantially equal population, geographic contiguity, and effective representation of racial and linguistic minorities. It must also promote partisan fairness, preservation and protection of "communities of interest," and respect for boundaries of municipalities and counties. It explicitly rejects protection of incumbents or preferential treatment for a political party. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 44) 

Bill #: HJR 3: Modifies the Missouri Constitution regarding the Citizen's Initiative Petition Process, including making it necessary for ballot measures proposed by initiatives to pass by majority in all congressional districts. The League OPPOSES this bill.

• Governor Kehoe also called on the legislature to take up citizen initiative petition in this special session in an effort to limit all Missourians ability to propose and pass citizen initiative petitions 
• Currently measures must pass by a statewide majority, regardless of outcomes in the individual congressional districts. This fairly reflects the will of ALL Missourians 
• Requirements to have a constitutional amendment pass by a majority in all congressional districts will create a rule by minority, undermining the will of all Missourians 
• Article VIII, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution already prohibits contributions from foreign sources; this bill contains unnecessary repetitive language, most likely in an attempt to deceive voters 
• This is not an emergency issue and should not be dealt with in a special session 

Link to the bill: HJR3 

1. Join the League at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City Wednesday, September 10, to show Missouri legislators you want your vote and voice heard. 
2. Contact your Missouri representatives to tell them you oppose changes to the citizen initiative petition process. Find your representatives here. 

The League believes responsible government should be responsive to the will of the people. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024 - 2026, p. 11) 

The League believes that special sessions should be limited to real emergencies. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2023-2025, p. 17) 

Call every day and demand they stop the attempts at mid-decade redistricting and initiative petition reform: 

- Governor Kehoe: 573-751-3222 

- Speaker Patterson: 573-751-0907 

- Senator O’Laughlin: 573-751-7985 

- Your own state representative and state senator 

 Tell them your name, zip code, and that you (as an individual) oppose mid-cycling redistricting and any effort to dismantle our initiative petition process.  

 Join us on September 10th at 12:00 PM at the Capitol in Jefferson City.  

Before 1920, women in America were denied the most basic democratic right: the vote. But they didn’t stay silent.The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified on August 18, 1920—105 years ago today, granted women the right to vote.; buut it was a milestone, not a finishh line. The fight for full equality was—and still is—ongoing. 

The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

The League of Women Voters of Missouri

The History of the League of Women Voters

Minor v. Happersett

MIssouri Ratifies the 19th Amendment

National Park Service: Missouri Ratifies the 19th Amendment

National Park Service: Harry T. Burn

National Park Service: 20 Suffragists to Know

The Missouri Historical Society: STL History Minute/Golden Lane Parade

100 Years After the 19th Amendment, Women's Suffrage Continues

Coming off a bittersweet Fourth of July, Skyler and Michelle dig into what independence means in Missouri—especially when the state budget and new laws seem to leave so many behind.

In this episode, we break down the FY26 Missouri State Budget, signed by Governor Mike Kehoe, and what his $2 billion in vetoes really mean for public education, nonprofit services, infrastructure, mental health, and more. We also look at the national “Big Beautiful Bill” and how it’s putting pressure on Missouri’s health care systems. Finally, we offer real, concrete actions you can take to speak out and get involved—right from your phone.

• Reflections on Independence Day and what freedom looks like in 2025
• What’s actually in Missouri’s $50.8B budget—and what was cut
• Governor Kehoe’s reasoning vs. the real-life impacts of his vetoes
• How federal cuts in the “Big Beautiful Bill” affect Missouri’s Medicaid system
• New laws taking effect, including SB 22 (ballot language), HB 567 (sick leave/wages), and the hands-free driving law
• What Missourians can do right now to protect their communities

• Click HERE for More information about the John Lewis Day of Action, July 17th.

Purpose: Call your Missouri state legislator to oppose tax cuts for the wealthy and vetoes that undermine community well-being.

“Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a constituent from [Your Town or ZIP code]. My phone number is [Your phone number].

I’m calling because I’m deeply concerned about the direction of Missouri’s FY26 budget.

I oppose the tax cuts that benefit wealthy investors—like the capital gains repeal—and I’m asking you to speak out against the decision to veto essential funding for public schools, mental health, nonprofits, and community programs that working families rely on.

These vetoes hurt our district. We need investments in people—not giveaways to those who already have more than enough.

I’d like to know: where do you stand on these cuts, and what will you do to protect the public services we depend on?

Thank you for your time.”

Subject: Oppose Capital Gains Tax Breaks & Restore Vetoed Community Funding

Dear [Representative/Senator Last Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I live in [Your Town or ZIP Code]. I’m writing because I’m deeply concerned about the direction of Missouri’s FY26 budget.

While the governor called his budget “fiscally responsible,” the reality is that $2 billion in vetoes have stripped away crucial investments in things that build stronger, safer, and more connected communities—including:

• CASA programs that support children in foster care
• Mental health response teams like the ARCH program
• Nonprofit grants that provide housing, job coaching, and violence prevention
• Literacy and reading programs that help Missouri kids succeed
• Public libraries, clean water infrastructure, and local aid

At the same time, Missouri enacted a $400 million annual tax break for capital gains—a move that overwhelmingly benefits wealthy investors. This creates a budget shortfall that’s now being used to justify cuts to the very services working families depend on.

These are not just numbers—they’re choices. And I’m asking you to make a different one.

Please:

• Speak out publicly against these vetoes and the ongoing shift of burden away from the wealthy and onto everyday Missourians
• Support the restoration of community-based funding that helps children, educators, rural families, and the elderly
• Reject future tax breaks that only deepen inequality and disinvest from our shared future

Budgets should reflect our values. Right now, the people doing the most with the least are being told to wait—while the wealthy get rewarded. That’s not the Missouri I believe in.

Thank you for your service, and I hope to hear how you’re standing up for our district.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your City or ZIP Code]

[Optional: Phone Number]

• Governor Kehoe's Official Statement: Click Here
• Full Veto List: Click Here
• John Lewis Day of Action Information: HERE
• Missouri Independent Budget Article: Click Here

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

Donate to the LWVMO Education Fund–it’s tax deductible!

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

In this episode, Skyler and Michele break down everything that came out of the June 2025 Missouri Special Legislative Session—what passed, what failed, and how it impacts voters. We also recap the League of Women Voters of Missouri State Convention, highlight key resolutions and awards, and reflect on recent No Kings protests that swept across Missouri in defense of constitutional democracy.

• Stadium bonds and tax credits
• Tornado recovery and housing investments
• Public school and infrastructure defunding
• LWVMO Convention recap: new leadership, key resolutions, and Dr. Emily Regier’s keynote
• Statewide peaceful protests and Governor Kehoe’s emergency response
• The League’s national stance on the right to protest

SCRIPTS: 

Hi, my name is [Your Full Name], and I am a constituent from [City], Missouri.

My address is [Your Street Address, City, ZIP], and my phone number is [Your Phone Number].

I’m calling to urge [Senator/Representative Name] to publicly condemn the deployment of National Guard and military forces in response to peaceful protests here in Missouri and around our nation.

The right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy. Using state force to intimidate or silence peaceful demonstrators is not only dangerous—it’s authoritarian. I am asking you to:

• Speak out clearly against the suppression of peaceful protest
• Condemn the misuse of emergency powers for political advantage
• Reaffirm that Missourians have the right to dissent without fear of retaliation

This is a moment to lead with courage and principle. Our democratic freedoms are at stake, and I am looking to you to defend them.

Thank you for taking this seriously.

Subject: Defend Our Right to Peacefully Protest

To: [Senator or Representative’s official email or contact form]

From: [Your Full Name]

Address: [Your Full Street Address, City, ZIP]

Phone: [Your Phone Number]

Email: [Your Email Address]

Dear [Senator/Representative Last Name],

I am writing as a constituent from [City], Missouri, to express deep concern over the administration’s use of military force and emergency powers in response to peaceful protests across our state and our nation.

The protests we’ve seen in recent days—organized, nonviolent, and constitutionally protected—are essential expressions of civic engagement. Responding with National Guard deployments and intimidation tactics is a serious abuse of power and undermines the democratic values this state and country were founded on.

I urge you to:

• Publicly condemn the suppression of peaceful protests
• Reject the use of emergency powers as a tool of political control
• Reaffirm the right to protest without fear of state retaliation

Missouri needs leaders who will stand up for our Constitution and the people who dare to defend it. Please add your voice to those calling for restraint, accountability, and respect for our civil liberties.

Thank you for your time and your service to the people of Missouri.

In Solidarity,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Street Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

• Missouri Independent: Anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ rallies draw thousands across Missouri
• LWV National Press Release: League of Women Voters Supports Right to Protest
• AP News: Missouri lawmakers pass tornado relief, stadium funding in special session : https://apnews.com/article/missouri-legislature-special-session-stadium-tornado-budget-2025
• “Not in Our Wildest Dreams” Trailer and additional Viewings

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

Donate to the LWVMO Education Fund–it’s tax deductible!

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

Only 67 of the over 2,400 filed bills passed—but many have sweeping consequences for democracy, civil rights, education, and local governance.

The League of Women Voters of Missouri (LWVMO) tracked legislation closely throughout the session and continues to fight for transparent, accountable, and equitable policy in every part of the state.

Grants the General Assembly the authority to write ballot summary language for constitutional amendments it refers to the ballot.

Previously, summaries were written by the Secretary of State and subject to court review.

LWVMO opposes this law due to the risk of biased, misleading summaries that could misinform voters.

Overturns key provisions of Proposition A, which voters passed in 2024 to guarantee paid sick leave and raise the minimum wage.

LWVMO opposes this repeal as a direct attack on voter-led initiatives and worker protections.

Prohibits student cellphone use during the school day, including lunch and transition times, with limited exemptions.

Raises concerns about student safety and emergency communication during crises like school shootings.

Establishes a tuition reimbursement program for students pursuing two-year or technical degrees.

LWVMO supports this law as an investment in workforce development and educational access.

Allows school districts to pursue private national accreditation rather than state accreditation.

LWVMO raises concerns about transparency, accountability, and uneven standards for public schools.

Prohibits discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles in educational institutions that receive state funds or enroll students receiving financial aid.

LWVMO supports this long-overdue civil rights protection that promotes inclusion and student dignity.

Transfers control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department from local government to a state-appointed board.

Reverses the 2012 decision by Missouri voters to restore local control.

LWVMO opposes this legislation as an erosion of local governance and democratic accountability.

Would have prohibited local law enforcement from assisting with federal gun law enforcement and allowed lawsuits against them.

Passed the House but failed in the Senate by one vote.

Would have allowed concealed weapons on public transportation and reduced the minimum permit age to 18.

Passed the House but did not advance in the Senate.

Seeks to repeal Amendment 3, which secured reproductive rights in the Missouri Constitution.

Would ban abortion after 12 weeks and prohibit gender-affirming care for minors—even with parental consent.

LWVMO strongly opposes HJR 73 as a bundled, deceptive, and discriminatory measure.

Governor Mike Kehoe has announced a special session to address the failed capital improvements budget bill and potential stadium incentive proposals.

The budget would fund school building repairs, higher ed facilities, and deferred maintenance on public infrastructure.

LWVMO will advocate for prioritizing community needs over corporate subsidies.

• Transparent and inclusive democratic processes
• Equitable access to education and healthcare
• Local governance and community-centered public safety
• Protection of civil rights, especially for marginalized communities

• undermines voter power
• repeals citizen initiatives, or
• concentrates power at the state level without public accountability.

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

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

Get Involved or Join the League: https://my.lwv.org/missouri

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.

Interested in learning more about the SWMO League of Women Voters?  Click Here

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

• https://www.missourinet.com/2025/05/14/senate-passes-hb-567-repeal-prop-a/
• https://my.lwv.org/missouri/article/politicians-limit-voice-people
• https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR73&code=R&year=2025
• https://apnews.com/article/missouri-abortion-hjr73-2026-ballot
• https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/15/missouri-senate-ends-session-after-special-session-looms
• https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2024-11-05/missouri-voters-approve-prop-a-minimum-wage-paid-leave
• https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-great-plains/newsroom/missouri-republicans-file-hjr-73-to-overturn-voters-abortion-rights
• https://www.aclu.org/news/lgbtq-rights/these-anti-trans-bills-are-causing-people-to-flee-their-states

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #: SCS SJRs 47, 30, & 10

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Would require passage of initiative petitions proposing a constitutional amendment upon the majority of vote of both a statewide majority and a majority of state House districts. Includes “ballot candy” which unnecessarily restricts foreign involvement.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 12 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS SJRs 47, 30, & 10

Call to action: Contact your Senator using the Legislative Lookup HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWV Position: The League believes responsible government should be responsive to the will of the people. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, 2024 - 2026, p. 11)

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: HJR 54

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: This revised version of HJR 54 does not overturn Amendment 3, but instead applies government interest in all reproductive health care to allow regulations reinstating TRAP (Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers) laws as well as other legislation.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Perfection Calendar for Monday, May12 at 8 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: HJR 54

Call to action: Contact your Representative HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWV Position: The League believes that public policy in a pluralistic society must affirm the constitutional right to privacy of the individual to make reproductive choices. At the 2024 Convention, delegates passed a resolution reaffirming the Leagues commitment to fight for reproductive rights and justice, including bodily autonomy, privacy, reproductive health, and access to contraception and abortion. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, pp. 64-68)

LGBTQ Rights

Bill #: SB 100

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Prohibits amending a birth certificate of an individual where that person’s chooses to identify as a gender different than the birth certificate designation without surgery, and further prohibits the amendment of any certificate of birth related to the person’s gender if the gender of the individual was changed for reasons other than a medically-verifiable disorder.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 12 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 100

Call to action: Contact your Senator using the Legislative Lookup HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading: PROMO

LWV Position: Secure equal rights and equal opportunity for all. Promote social and economic justice, and the health and safety of all Americans. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, 2024-2026, p.135)

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.

Interested in learning more about the SWMO League of Women Voters?  Click Here

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

Citizen Initiative Petitions

Bill #: SCS SJRs 47, 30, & 10 

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Would require a concurrent initiative petition passage, meaning passage would be dependent on both a statewide majority and a majority of state House districts. Unnecessarily restricts foreign involvement.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 5 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS SJRs 47, 30, & 10

Call to action: Contact your Senator using the Legislative Lookup HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWV Position: The League believes responsible government should be responsive to the will of the people. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, 2024 - 2026, p. 11)

Voting Rights

Bill #: SCS/SB 62

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Requires documentary proof of US citizenship in order to register to vote; requires the clerk of each circuit court to provide a monthly list of all persons who identify themselves as not being citizens when called to jury duty.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Informal Perfection Calendar for May 5, 2025 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS/SB 62

Call to action:

Contact your Senator HERE using the Legislator Lookup site and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWVMO Position: The League supports measures that facilitate voter registration..reaffirming opposition to strict voter ID laws: ... ID requirements should not be punitive or costly." (Guide to State Action 2023-2025, pp.16-18)

Reproductive Rights

Bill #: HCS for HJR 73 (this is a House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Proposes a Constitutional Amendment that would prohibit abortion except in cases of medical emergency, rape or incest, no later than 12 weeks gestational age. Also contains language regarding gender transition and possible prosecution of medical professionals.  

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Calendar for House Bills on Third Reading for Monday, May 5 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS for HJR 73

Call to action: Contact your Senator using the Legislative Lookup HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading: HERE and KTVO

LWV Position: The League believes that public policy in a pluralistic society must affirm the constitutional right to privacy of the individual to make reproductive choices. At the 2024 Convention, delegates passed a resolution reaffirming the Leagues commitment to fight for reproductive rights and justice, including bodily autonomy, privacy, reproductive health, and access to contraception and abortion. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 64-68)

Education

Bill #: HCS SS SB 160 (This is a Senate bill now in the House)

LWVMO FOR INFORMATION ONLY

Short Description: Establishes the "Missouri Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (Missouri CROWN) Act" governing discrimination against protective hairstyles in educational institutions, requires school districts to hire Title VI coordinators to monitor antisemitic discrimination and harassment at public schools and education institutions, and prohibits institutions of higher education from taking adverse action against student associations because of their beliefs or the actions of its leaders. 

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Calendar for Senate Bills on Third Reading for Monday, May 5 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS SS SB 160

Links to further reading: 

WEEKLY LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 04/07/2025

Firearms

Bill #: HCS HB 1175 (this is a House bill now in the Senate)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Reestablishes the "Second Amendment Preservation Act" (SAPA), which would invalidate Federal laws and regulations that infringe upon the Second Amendment, and prohibit their enforcement in Missouri.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Calendar for House Bills on Third Reading for Monday, May 5 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1175

Call to action: Contact your Senator using the Legislative Lookup HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading: HERE

LWV Position: Protect the health and safety of citizens through limiting the accessibility and regulating the ownership of handguns and semi-automatic weapons. (LWVMO Guide to State Action, 2023-2025, p. 60) 

The League supports strong limitations on access to semi-automatic/automatic weapons, enforcement of strict penalties for the improper possession of and crimes committed with handguns and assault weapons. (LWVUS Impact on Issues 2024-2026, p. 179)

LGBTQ Rights

Bill #: SB 100

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Prohibits amending a birth certificate of an individual where that person’s chooses to identify as a gender different than the birth certificate designation, and further prohibits the amendment of any certificate of birth related to the person’s gender if the gender of the individual was changed for reasons other than a medically-verifiable disorder.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, May 5 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SB 100

Call to action: Contact your Senator using the Legislative Lookup HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading: PROMO

LWV Position: Secure equal rights and equal opportunity for all. Promote social and economic justice, and the health and safety of all Americans. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, 2024-2026, p.135)

Social Justice

Bill #: HCS#2 HBS 567, 546, 758 & 958

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description: Modifies schedule of minimum wage increases and provisions related to paid sick leave as approved by voters in November with Proposition A.

Status of the Bill: Remains on the Senate Informal Calendar. 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS#2 HBs 567, 546, 758 & 958

Call to action:

Contact your Senator HERE using the Legislator Lookup site and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWV Position: Secure equal rights and equal opportunity for all. Promote social and economic justice, and the health and safety of all Americans. (Impact on Issues 2024 - 2026, p. 135)

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.

Interested in learning more about the SWMO League of Women Voters?  Click Here

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

Short Description: Would require a concurrent initiative petition passage, meaning passage would be dependent on both a statewide majority and a majority of state House districts. Unnecessarily restricts foreign involvement.

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 28 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: SCS SJRs 47, 30, & 10

Call to action: Look up and contact your Senator HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWV Position: The League believes responsible government should be responsive to the will of the people. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, 2024 - 2026, p. 11)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill 

Short Description: Makes it harder for the public to use the Initiative Petition process.

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for a Hearing on Monday, April 28 at 2:00 PM in the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HBs 575 & 551

Call to action: Only in person testimony is allowed for Senate hearings. Contact members of the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill. 

LWV Position: The League believes responsible government should be responsive to the will of the people. (LWVUS Impact on Issues, 2024 - 2026, p.5)

LWVMO OPPOSES these bills

Short Description: Creates the Missouri Prenatal Equal Protection Act.

Status of the Bills: Scheduled for Executive Session on Tuesday, April 29 at 8:00 AM in the House Children and Families Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 1072 HB 1417

Call to action:

Contact the members of the House Children and Families Committee HERE and tell them you OPPOSE these bills.

LWV Position: Public policy in a pluralistic society must affirm the constitutional right to privacy of the individual to make reproductive choices. At the 2024 Convention, delegates passed a resolution reaffirming the Leagues commitment to fight for reproductive rights and justice, including bodily autonomy, privacy, reproductive health, and access to contraception and abortion. (LWVUS 2024-2026 Impact on Issues, pp.64-68)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill

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

Status of the Bill: Placed on the Senate Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 28 at 8:00 AM.

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 328

Call to action: Contact your Senator HERE using the Legislator Lookup site and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

Links to further reading: MO Public Transit Association

LWVMO Position: Protect the health and safety of citizens through limiting the accessibility of guns. Support regulation of firearms and ammunition for consumer safety. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2023-2025, p. 60)

LWVMO OPPOSES this bill (Senate bill currently in the House)

Short Description: This act repeals the August 28, 2027, expiration date of the "Missouri Save Adolescents from Experimentation(SAFE) Act (Section 191.1720).

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session on Tuesday, April 29 at 12:00 PM in the House Government Efficiency Committee.

Link to the summary of the bill: HERE

Call to action: Contact members of the House Government Efficiency Committee HERE and tell them you OPPOSE this bill.

LWV Position: LWV is an organization fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in principle and in practice to all persons, regardless of their race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or disability. (LWVMO Guide to State Action 2023-2025, p. 53)

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.

Interested in learning more about the SWMO League of Women Voters?  Click Here

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions? Email [email protected]

CLICK HERE TO TELL YOUR SENATOR TO OPPOSE THE SAVE ACT. 

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.

• Click Here to See the LWV full Statement about the SAVE act:  

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act is a bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in April 2025. It proposes requiring all individuals to provide in-person documentary proof of U.S. citizenship—such as a birth certificate or passport—when registering to vote or updating voter registration information. This requirement would apply even though voters in every state are already required to affirm or verify their citizenship status when registering.

• Disenfranchisement of Eligible Voters: The SAVE Act could disenfranchise millions of Americans, particularly those who may not have immediate access to the necessary documentation. This includes naturalized citizens, married women who have changed their names, rural residents, and others who may face challenges in obtaining or presenting the required documents.
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• End of Online and Mail Registration: The legislation would effectively end online and mail voter registration, as it mandates in-person submission of citizenship documentation.
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• Strain on Election Administration: The act would place additional burdens on election officials, requiring them to verify citizenship documents and potentially leading to voter roll purges.
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The League of Women Voters strongly opposes the SAVE Act, viewing it as a direct attack on the fundamental right to vote and a dangerous step backward for democracy. They argue that the act would create unnecessary barriers to voting and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. 

• League of Women Voters – Oppose the SAVE Act: League of Women Voters
• League of Women Voters – Take Action: League of Women Voters
• NPR – What the SAVE Act Could Mean for Millions of Voters: NPR

Interested in learning more about the SWMO League of Women Voters?  Click Here

Want to be a guest on the podcast or have questions?  Email [email protected]