Missouri House Bill HB993

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 5/12/23

Caption

Requires members of the general assembly to report to the Missouri Ethics Commission when they file bills that would benefit their employer

Impact

The enactment of HB 993 is expected to amend Chapter 105 of Missouri state laws by adding a new reporting requirement for legislators. This addition is significant as it establishes a formal mechanism for tracking and reporting potential conflicts of interest, which could deter legislators from introducing legislation that may lead to ethical violations. Supporters argue that this bill will help foster greater trust in government processes and promote ethical behavior among elected officials by making their actions more transparent to the public.

Summary

House Bill 993 aims to enhance transparency and accountability among members of the Missouri General Assembly by introducing a requirement for legislators to disclose any potential conflicts of interest related to their employers. Specifically, if a legislator files a bill that could directly benefit their employer, they must report this information to the Missouri Ethics Commission within fifteen days of filing the legislation. This move seeks to address concerns about conflicts of interest in government and ensure that lawmakers act in the public interest rather than personal or corporate gain.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 993 appears to be largely positive, particularly among advocates for government ethics and transparency. Proponents believe that the bill is a crucial step towards establishing a more accountable legislative process. However, there may also be some contention from those who perceive this requirement as an added burden on legislators, potentially complicating the legislative process. The sentiment reflects a recognition of the importance of addressing conflicts of interest while balancing the operational needs of lawmakers.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 993 may revolve around the practicality of enforcement and the definitions of terms such as 'employer' and 'directly benefit.' Critics may argue that the bill could lead to unintended consequences, such as discouraging individuals from engaging in public service due to fear of repercussion or over-reporting trivial connections. The challenge will lie in striking an appropriate balance between transparency and adaptive governance without hindering legislative responsibility.