Bill > HJR40

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to establish and define the role of county sheriffs in Missouri, primarily focusing on their election, powers, and responsibilities. The amendment would require most counties to elect a sheriff every four years by majority vote, with an exception for counties where the sheriff is not currently an elected position. The resolution defines the sheriff as the chief law enforcement officer in the county, mandating that they be notified of federal investigations and empowering them to suppress riots, apprehend felons, attend court proceedings, and execute legal processes. The amendment also stipulates that sheriffs can only be removed from office through a quo warranto writ initiated by the attorney general, and grants sheriffs the authority to hire their own deputies and set their compensation within allocated budgets. Additionally, the resolution allows the state legislature to levy court costs and fees to support sheriffs' salaries and benefits. The proposed amendment would be submitted to Missouri voters at the general election in November 2026 or at a special election called by the governor, with a ballot summary emphasizing support for law enforcement, preserving citizens' right to elect sheriffs, and protecting law enforcement funding.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR40&year=2025&code=R