Bill > HB1868

This bill establishes a new criminal offense of impeding, threatening, or harassing a first responder in Missouri. Under the proposed law, a person commits this offense if they approach or remain within 25 feet of a first responder after receiving an oral warning not to do so, with the intent to interfere with the first responder's duties, threaten physical harm, or cause emotional distress. The bill defines "first responders" broadly to include law enforcement officers, parole and probation officers, firefighters, and emergency medical care providers. The offense is classified as a class D misdemeanor, which typically carries potential penalties like fines or short-term imprisonment. The bill specifically defines "harass" as willfully engaging in conduct that intentionally causes substantial emotional distress to a first responder without serving a legitimate purpose. This legislation aims to protect first responders by creating legal consequences for individuals who deliberately obstruct or threaten these essential workers while they are performing their professional duties.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1868&year=2026&code=R