Bill > HB2356

This bill establishes new regulations for how political subdivisions (such as local governments, school districts, or special taxing districts) can present tax-related ballot questions to voters. The bill prohibits using misleading language like "no-tax-increase bond issue" and requires ballot questions to include clear, plain-language information about the potential financial impact, specifically: whether the proposed measure will increase, decrease, or maintain the current debt service levy; the estimated dollar impact on the average residential property (calculated by the county assessor and verified by the state auditor); and a disclosure that issuing bonds constitutes a financial obligation for taxpayers. Before certifying ballot language, political subdivisions must submit the proposed text to the state auditor for review within 30 days, and the auditor can require revisions if the language is considered misleading. If ballot language is found non-compliant by a court, the political subdivision will be prohibited from placing the question on the ballot and must wait until the next general election cycle. The attorney general is also empowered to take legal action to prevent the use of non-compliant ballot language. These requirements are intended to increase transparency and help voters better understand the potential financial consequences of proposed tax measures.

Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2356&year=2026&code=R