The 2024 legislative session in Missouri saw a record-low number of bills passed, due to infighting and partisan battles. However, Governor Mike Parson signed several new laws that will take effect this week. One key law includes a private school scholarship program for K-12 students from low-income families, offering up to $6,375 per child for various expenses. This law also includes a pay raise for teachers, with a minimum salary of $40,000 per year.
Another notable law prohibits Medicaid funding from going to abortion providers like Planned Parenthood, which has led to Planned Parenthood suing the state. Additionally, revisions have been made to the senior property tax freeze, allowing anyone over the age of 62 to freeze their property taxes at 2024 levels.
Furthermore, an expansive property use bill allows jurisdictions to establish land banks, bans eviction moratoriums unless authorized by law, and permits homeowners to have up to six chickens. Additionally, a public safety bill has been passed, increasing the minimum age for juveniles to be tried as adults and establishing new laws related to cyberstalking, assault on law enforcement animals, and fleeing a vehicle stop.
Overall, these new laws aim to address various issues ranging from education and public safety to property taxes and healthcare funding. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Source
Photo credit www.ksdk.com