Bill > HB2344

This bill modifies Missouri law by adding a new section to Chapter 67 that protects residents, tenants, and landlords from being penalized when they request emergency services or law enforcement assistance in good faith. The bill defines key terms such as "abuse", "emergency", "penalize", "premises", and "public nuisance", and specifically prohibits local governments from taking punitive actions against individuals who contact authorities during situations involving domestic abuse, crime, or emergencies where intervention is reasonably believed to be necessary. If a local government attempts to enforce an ordinance that violates these protections, the affected resident, tenant, or landlord can file a civil action seeking remedies such as a cease and desist order, compensatory damages, attorney's fees, court costs, and other equitable relief like reinstating a rental license. The primary intent of the bill is to ensure that victims of crime or abuse, or individuals in emergency situations, can seek help without fear of negative consequences like eviction or fines.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2344&year=2026&code=R