Bill > SB995

This bill changes how the Sheriff of the City of St. Louis is selected by replacing the current elected position with an appointed one. Specifically, starting August 28, 2026, the sheriff will be appointed by a majority vote of the circuit and associate circuit judges of the 22nd Judicial Circuit, rather than being elected by popular vote. The appointed sheriff must meet the same qualifications as elected sheriffs and can be removed for cause by the judges according to Missouri Supreme Court administrative rules. The current elected sheriff will continue to serve until the end of their term, and if a vacancy occurs before then, it will be filled by judicial appointment. The bill maintains the existing provisions about the sheriff's law enforcement responsibilities, including that they primarily serve court-related functions and may be eligible for peace officer training and licensure. The bill also ensures that all existing legal processes and laws referring to county sheriffs will apply to the St. Louis City Sheriff, with the slight modification that they will not be responsible for general criminal law enforcement except incidentally.

Government Affairs

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=446