Missouri House Bill HB1850

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

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 implication of House Bill 1850 upon state law is significant, as it amends Chapter 105 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding a new section that outlines the responsibilities of legislators concerning their employment ties. By requiring disclosure within 15 days of filing legislation, the bill emphasizes the need for ethics in governance, potentially altering how legislators approach bill drafting if their workplaces have vested interests in legislative outcomes. This change aims to create a legislative culture where accountability to the public is prioritized.

Summary

House Bill 1850 aims to enhance transparency and accountability among members of the Missouri General Assembly by mandating that any legislator who files a bill that would directly benefit their employer must disclose this relationship to the Missouri Ethics Commission. This is intended to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that the legislative process is not unduly influenced by private interests. The bill introduces a formal requirement for disclosure, thereby attempting to bolster public trust in state lawmakers.

Contention

While the intentions behind HB 1850 are generally viewed in a positive light, with many stakeholders advocating for increased ethics in government, there may be some contention surrounding the implementation and scope of the amendments. Critics might argue that the proposed measures could lead to increased bureaucracy and may deter qualified individuals from seeking public office due to the complexities involved in navigating disclosure requirements. Additionally, discussions on what constitutes a 'benefit' may arise, potentially complicating compliance and enforcement.