Creates new requirements for eligibility for public office
Impact
In addition to felony convictions, the bill places strict criteria on candidates who owe taxes to the state or are considered in any way delinquent regarding their tax payments. If a potential candidate has unpaid state income taxes, personal property taxes, municipal taxes, or any real property taxes, they will be disqualified from running for office. This requirement aims to ensure that public officials are financially responsible and accountable to the citizens they represent, potentially leading to a political landscape with candidates who have a clean fiscal record.
Summary
Senate Bill 1307 introduces new regulations regarding the eligibility criteria for candidates wishing to run for elective public office in Missouri. This bill stipulates that any individual found guilty of or pleading guilty to a felony, either under federal laws or the laws of Missouri or another state, will be disqualified from running for public office. This reinforces existing laws but expands the scope to include those who may have complexities with felony charges from other jurisdictions.
Contention
A significant point of contention within the discussions surrounding SB1307 arises from the clause that prohibits candidates from running for president of the United States if the governor has declared a state of actual or threatened invasion of illegal immigrants. This provision may lead to legal and ethical issues regarding voter rights and representation at the national level, as it introduces subjective determinations based on the governor's proclamations rather than objective criteria for candidacy. Critics argue that this could disenfranchise individuals who may otherwise be eligible and raise concerns about the governor's power to influence electoral processes based on immigration issues.