Bill > HB1971

This bill modifies existing Missouri law regarding the confidentiality of probation and parole records, specifically focusing on how information gathered by probation and parole officers is handled. The bill maintains the existing provision that information and data collected by probation or parole officers is considered privileged and generally cannot be used in court proceedings. However, the bill adds a new clarification that such privileged information may be disclosed in lawful criminal matters. The bill requires the court clerk to maintain permanent files of all probation and parole applications, investigations, orders, and related records, including preserving parole board records in counties where such boards no longer exist. The legislation also allows the court, probation and parole division, or parole board to discretionarily permit inspection of reports by the defendant, their attorney, or other parties with a proper interest. Additionally, the bill allows presentence investigation reports to be made available to the state if the court determines that sharing the information is in the state's best interest.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1971&year=2026&code=R