Bill > HB1733

This bill establishes the "Firefighters' Procedural Bill of Rights Act", which provides comprehensive protections for firefighters employed by public agencies in Missouri. The legislation defines key terms like "firefighter" (including emergency service workers) and outlines specific rights during investigations and employment procedures. The bill ensures that firefighters cannot be compelled to engage in political activities, can seek election to local boards, and must be treated fairly during interrogations, which must be conducted at reasonable hours, with limited interrogators, and with prior notification of the investigation's nature. The act mandates that interrogations must follow specific protocols, including providing immunity from criminal prosecution for compelled statements and allowing the firefighter to have a representative present. Additionally, the bill protects firefighters from punitive actions without proper cause, limits investigations to one year from discovery (with some exceptions), provides rights to review and respond to personnel files, prohibits mandatory lie detector tests, and prevents employers from demanding access to personal social media accounts. The legislation also establishes judicial remedies, allowing firefighters to seek injunctive relief and potential monetary penalties if their rights are violated, with provisions to prevent frivolous claims and protect the interests of both firefighters and their employing agencies.

Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1733&year=2026&code=R