Bill > SB167

This bill modifies several key provisions related to hazing and legal protections for juveniles and animals. For juveniles, the bill establishes strict guidelines about using restraints in juvenile court proceedings, requiring that handcuffs, chains, and other restraints can only be used if specific safety conditions are met, such as preventing physical harm or flight risk, and mandating that any restraint use must be accompanied by a hearing and specific findings. For animal-related laws, the bill updates procedures for law enforcement to confiscate neglected or abused animals, including more detailed requirements about how animals can be handled, cared for, and returned to owners, and establishing liability protections for animal owners. Regarding hazing, the bill, which will be known as "Danny's Law", significantly expands the definition of hazing to include actions against current, prospective, and former members of campus organizations, criminalizing activities that endanger physical or mental health. The bill also creates important exceptions for individuals who call for help during a hazing incident or provide medical aid, offering immunity from prosecution to those who proactively seek assistance for potential hazing victims. The hazing offense can be classified as a class A misdemeanor or, in cases creating substantial life risk, a class D felony.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=1028