Bill > HJR130

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to be voted on in the 2026 general election in Missouri, which would modify the existing prohibition on retrospective (or ex post facto) laws. Currently, the state constitution bars laws that apply retroactively, but this resolution would create a specific exception for civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse. If approved by voters, the amendment would allow the state legislature to enact laws that retroactively address civil claims related to the sexual abuse of children, effectively removing the legal barrier that might prevent survivors from seeking justice for past incidents of abuse. The ballot language frames the amendment as a measure to "protect children" by expanding legal avenues for pursuing civil claims. Specifically, the proposed amendment would add a provision to Section 13 of Article I of the Missouri Constitution, explicitly stating that retrospective laws can be enacted for civil claims involving child sexual abuse or tortious conduct that caused or contributed to such abuse.

Justice

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR130&year=2026&code=R