Bill > HB226

This bill creates the "Highway Patrol Department" by restructuring the existing Missouri State Highway Patrol's administrative framework, effectively transforming it from a division within the Department of Public Safety to a standalone department on December 3, 2026. The bill transfers all existing powers, duties, and functions of the Missouri State Highway Patrol to the new Department of the Highway Patrol, with the superintendent of the highway patrol maintaining leadership. Key changes include updating multiple sections of state law to replace references to the "Department of Public Safety" with the "Department of the Highway Patrol" and shifting administrative responsibilities accordingly. The bill modifies provisions related to crime reporting, criminal records management, emergency telephone services, and immigration law enforcement training. Notably, the bill's implementation is contingent upon voter approval of a constitutional amendment establishing the new department. The changes will impact various administrative processes, including crime incident reporting, criminal records information sharing, and the management of statewide emergency communication systems, while maintaining the core law enforcement functions of the existing highway patrol.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB226&year=2025&code=R