Bill > HB314

This bill modifies provisions relating to minimum prison terms for various criminal offenses in Missouri, making several significant changes to sentencing guidelines. For offenders with no previous prison commitments for felony offenses, the minimum prison term is now set at 75% of the total sentence, while offenders with one or more previous prison commitments will be required to serve 80% of their sentence. For dangerous felonies, offenders must now serve 85% of their sentence, removing previous provisions about age-based early release. The bill also establishes a sentencing advisory commission with eleven members tasked with studying sentencing practices, disparities, and alternative sentencing options. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions for specific serious offenses like rape in the first degree, enticement of a child, and armed criminal action, mandating that individuals convicted of these crimes must serve 100% of their imposed sentence, eliminating possibilities for early release, parole, probation, or suspended sentences. Courts retain discretion to use restorative justice methods when suspending sentence execution, which may include restitution, offender treatment programs, community service, work release, and community-based programs. The bill is set to take effect for offenses committed on or after August 28, 2025.

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https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB314&year=2025&code=R