Bill > HB126

This bill modifies numerous provisions related to elections in Missouri, with several key changes. It establishes a presidential preference primary to be held on the first Tuesday in March during presidential election years, creating a specific process for candidates to be listed on the ballot, including paying a filing fee or gathering voter signatures. The bill introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds for election advocacy, prohibiting public pension systems and political subdivision employees from directly contributing funds to support or oppose ballot measures or candidates. It also expands provisions for absentee and provisional voting, including allowing in-person absentee voting in first-class and charter counties beginning six weeks before election day. The bill adds new election offenses, such as threatening or harassing election officials, and creates stricter rules for challengers and watchers at polling places. Additionally, it modifies candidate filing procedures, write-in vote rules, and establishes more detailed processes for election administration, including how ballots are counted and how provisional ballots are handled. The bill aims to provide more structure and transparency to the election process while adding protections for election workers and integrity of the voting system.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB126&year=2025&code=R