Missouri House Bill HB2260

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Refer: 5/17/24

Caption

Modifies jurisdiction over certain Missouri land

Impact

If passed, the bill would cede concurrent jurisdiction over the mentioned lands to the federal government, indicating that the federal government would maintain authority in areas related to federally owned and managed properties. Specifically, the bill outlines that jurisdiction is granted as long as the federal government owns and uses the land for its designated purposes. This has implications for state law enforcement and governance over these areas, as state authority could be significantly limited.

Summary

House Bill 2260 seeks to modify jurisdiction over specific lands in Missouri by repealing a section of the existing law and enacting a new one. The bill primarily addresses land owned by the federal government, particularly concerning the operation of a federal penitentiary and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The intent of this legislation is to clarify and formalize the extent of jurisdiction that the state of Missouri has over these federally operated lands. This bill may be seen as part of broader efforts to delineate state versus federal authority over land use and management.

Contention

While the bill straightforwardly addresses jurisdiction, there may be notable points of contention regarding local governance and the potential loss of state control over valuable natural resources. Discussions in the legislative committees may involve concerns about local interests and how state laws might adapt to ensure the rights of Missourians are preserved while federal oversight is acknowledged. The impact on land management practices and the governance of natural areas frequently managed by the state may draw community interest and debate.