Bill > SB413

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for court reporters in Missouri, creating a new licensing and certification system administered by a board of certified court reporter examiners. The bill defines key terms such as "court reporting" and "court reporting firm" and requires individuals to obtain a license from the board before practicing court reporting for compensation. It prohibits unlicensed individuals from using titles like "court reporter" or charging fees for reporting services, and establishes criminal penalties (class A misdemeanor) for violations. The legislation also sets ethical standards for court reporters, preventing them from signing transcripts they did not personally create and restricting contractual agreements that might compromise their impartiality. Additionally, the bill modifies existing statutes related to depositions, requiring certified court reporters to include their license number on documents, specifying how depositions should be transcribed, signed, and certified, and outlining how court reporting costs and expenses can be awarded and limited in legal proceedings. The goal appears to be professionalizing court reporting, ensuring quality and integrity in legal documentation, and protecting the rights of all parties involved in legal proceedings.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=169