Missouri House Bill HB802

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 2/6/25
• Report Pass: 3/13/25
• Refer: 4/2/25
• Report Pass: 4/17/25

Caption

Establishes requirements for physical copies of a municipal code a municipal clerk keeps on file

Impact

The passage of HB802 could significantly impact the legislative framework surrounding public access to local governance documentation. By establishing clear requirements for the physical availability of municipal codes, the bill may enhance transparency and accessibility for residents who wish to review their local laws. This shift emphasizes the importance of both online accessibility and the provision of physical documents, addressing potential gaps that could exist in municipalities that may lack adequate technological resources.

Summary

House Bill 802 aims to amend the requirements for the maintenance of physical copies of municipal codes in Missouri. It proposes repealing an existing section related to the availability of municipal general ordinances and introduces a new provision that stipulates how many physical copies must be maintained by local clerks based on whether the ordinances are available online. Under the bill, if a municipality does not provide access to general ordinances online free of charge, a minimum of three copies must be available for public inspection at the municipal clerk's office. Conversely, for municipalities with accessible online ordinances, only one copy needs to be available.

Contention

However, there may be points of contention regarding the implications for municipalities with limited budgets. Critics could argue that maintaining multiple physical copies of municipal codes may create additional financial burdens for smaller cities or towns, especially those that may struggle with resources. The balance between ensuring public access to local laws and the fiscal feasibility for municipalities forms a significant aspect of the debate around this legislation. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on whether the benefits of increased transparency outweigh the potential costs associated with compliance.