Bill > HB2273

This bill modifies various Missouri statutes to enhance the protection of children and vulnerable persons, primarily by updating definitions, expanding reporting requirements, and strengthening penalties related to child sexual abuse material and human trafficking. Key provisions include the establishment of a statewide council against adult trafficking and the commercial sexual exploitation of children, which will develop recommendations and guidelines for combating these crimes, including mandatory sex and human trafficking training for professionals like prosecuting attorneys, emergency medical technicians, juvenile officers, lodging establishment employees, and peace officers. The bill also updates the definition of "child pornography" to "child sexual abuse material" and expands its scope, strengthens penalties for offenses involving this material and other sexual offenses against children, and introduces a new offense of "grooming of a minor" to address predatory behavior. Additionally, it modifies laws related to the licensing of certain professions to disqualify individuals with certain criminal convictions, enhances provisions for the forfeiture of property used in child sexual abuse material offenses, and establishes new funds and programs to support victims and law enforcement efforts.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2273&year=2026&code=R