Bill > SB1175

This bill introduces new ethical standards for public officials in Missouri, focusing on disqualifying individuals from elected office or public employment if they are convicted of specific financial crimes. The bill establishes that a person can be deemed unfit for public service if they are convicted of stealing campaign funds, misusing campaign funds, or converting campaign funds to personal use. If convicted of such offenses, the individual must be removed from their current public office or employment and will be barred from future public service. Additionally, the bill extends to retirement benefits, stipulating that individuals convicted of specified felonies directly related to their job duties will lose their retirement benefits. Specifically, the bill lists several felony offenses that trigger this penalty, including stealing, receiving stolen property, forgery, counterfeiting, bribery, and acceding to corruption. Any official who knowingly appoints or retains a person deemed unfit under these provisions will also forfeit their own office. The prosecuting attorney, circuit attorney, or attorney general is required to take action to remove such individuals from public employment or office upon learning of a qualifying conviction.

Government Affairs

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=683