Missouri House Bill HB319

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 5/15/25

Caption

Requires a state agency to repeal two existing rules before enacting a new one

Impact

The implications of HB319 could significantly alter the landscape of administrative law in Missouri. Agencies will need to be more deliberate in their rule-making and should anticipate the operational requirements of repealing existing regulations. This could lead to a more efficient governance framework, as outdated or redundant regulations may be eliminated. However, there is also a risk that necessary regulations could be sidelined during this repeal process if not weighed carefully. Overall, this bill underscores a commitment to minimizing arbitrary and capricious rules that could create inequity among affected entities and individuals.

Summary

House Bill 319 aims to reform the administrative rule-making process by requiring state agencies to repeal at least two existing rules for every new rule proposed. This measure is designed to prevent the accumulation of potentially burdensome and conflicting regulations that can arise in state governance. By placing a clear burden on agencies to justify new rules, it seeks to promote a more streamlined and efficient regulatory environment. The bill is founded on principles of reducing unnecessary governmental interference and ensuring that any new regulation is grounded in statutory authority and fairness.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns regarding how this bill might impact the ability of agencies to respond to emerging issues that require timely regulation. Critics fear that the requirement to repeal multiple regulations could hinder agencies from acting swiftly to implement necessary protections or standards, particularly in rapidly changing fields such as public health and safety. Thus, while supporters praise HB319 as a necessary measure for government accountability, opponents caution that it may compromise the state's ability to govern effectively in certain critical areas.