Bill > HB2164

This bill modifies Missouri's existing law regarding wrongful death lawsuits by slightly expanding who can file such a lawsuit. Specifically, the bill adds language that allows family members to bring a wrongful death action even if the parent of the deceased had previously had their parental rights terminated. The bill maintains the existing hierarchy of who can file a wrongful death lawsuit: first, the spouse, children, or lineal descendants of the deceased; second, if no one from the first group is available, then siblings or their descendants; and third, if no one from the first two groups can file, then a court-appointed plaintiff ad litem (a person legally appointed to bring a lawsuit on behalf of others). The bill reinforces the existing rule that only one lawsuit can be filed against a single defendant for a person's death. The purpose of the bill appears to be ensuring that more family members have the opportunity to seek legal recourse and potential compensation in cases where a loved one has died due to another party's actions or negligence.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2164&year=2026&code=R