Bill > HB1617

This bill modifies the responsibilities and authorities of county auditors in charter counties, updating language to be gender-neutral and expanding their auditing powers. The bill clarifies that county auditors, with approval from the county governing body and state auditor, will prescribe the county's accounting system and maintain strict oversight of financial transactions, including certifying that sufficient unencumbered funds exist before any warrant is drawn or obligation incurred. The auditor is empowered to examine accounts, claims, and expenditures, and can take sworn testimony when necessary. The bill also grants county auditors new explicit authority to audit political subdivisions or local governmental entities within their county, either when they suspect improper governmental activity or to conduct performance audits focusing on economy, efficiency, effectiveness, internal controls, or compliance. The costs of such audits will be paid from the county auditor's budget, and the auditor is guaranteed access to relevant records while respecting confidentiality and privacy provisions. Additionally, the bill specifies that the county auditor will not be personally liable for legal proceedings initiated against them in their official capacity, and mandates annual inventorying of county property valued at $1,000 or more.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1617&year=2026&code=R