Bill > SB78

This bill establishes the First Amendment Protection Act, which safeguards professionals from disciplinary actions or complaints based on their constitutionally protected free speech or religious exercise rights. Specifically, the bill defines key terms such as "adverse action" (which includes discharge, demotion, or harassment), "license" (any professional permit or accreditation), and "oversight body" (the board or agency that issues professional licenses). Under this proposed law, if a complaint against a professional is based solely on their exercise of free speech or religious freedom rights as guaranteed by the Missouri or U.S. Constitution, the oversight body must immediately stop investigating and dismiss the complaint. Moreover, the bill explicitly states that engaging in constitutionally protected speech or religious expression cannot be considered unprofessional conduct. Interestingly, the bill also introduces a provision making it unprofessional conduct for a licensee to help another entity take adverse action against a professional for speech or conduct that would be constitutionally protected if done by a government actor. This legislation aims to provide robust protections for professionals' First Amendment rights in their professional and personal lives.

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=189