Bill > SB1043

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "masked intimidation" in Missouri, which occurs when a person intentionally harasses, intimidates, or threatens another person or group while deliberately concealing their identity with a mask or similar device, with the purpose of causing reasonable fear for physical safety. The offense is classified as a class E felony for the first occurrence, escalating to a class D felony for the second offense, and a class C felony for third or subsequent offenses. The bill carefully defines key terms like "harass" (engaging in a pattern of conduct causing fear or emotional distress), "intimidate" (interfering with constitutional or legal rights through threats), and "threaten" (communicating a clear intention to cause imminent bodily harm). The law includes several important exceptions that permit mask-wearing in contexts such as holidays with costumes, occupational safety, weather protection, artistic performances, emergency situations, health protection (like during a pandemic), and religious practices. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that it cannot be used to diminish First Amendment rights or other constitutional protections, ensuring that legitimate forms of expression and identity concealment remain legally protected.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=639