Bill > HB361

This bill modifies Missouri's blind pension law by updating eligibility requirements and administrative procedures for blind individuals seeking state financial assistance. The bill maintains that eligible blind persons must be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, and a Missouri resident, while introducing several specific conditions for receiving the pension. These conditions include asset limitations (with a notable exemption allowing the first $100,000 in an ABLE account to be excluded from asset calculations), requirements related to driver's licenses (such as surrendering licenses), restrictions on operating vehicles, and provisions about spousal income. The bill also specifies disqualifying circumstances, including publicly soliciting alms, being maintained in certain institutions, or having been found guilty of specific violations. Additionally, the bill introduces new administrative requirements, such as mandating that recipients inform the department of address or circumstance changes within ten days and submit to vision tests when requested. The bill aims to clarify and potentially tighten the conditions under which blind individuals can receive state pension benefits while providing some flexibility and protections for recipients.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB361&year=2025&code=R