Governor Kehoe Signs Two Bills Supporting Efficiency, Structure, and Fairness in Civic and Legal Processes
APRIL 24, 2025
Jefferson City — Today, in a move that underscores his commitment to both the protection of individual rights and legal efficiency, Governor Mike Kehoe signed into law two pieces of legislation: Senate Bills (SB) 22 and 47.
“While these bills differ in subject matter—one focused on electoral procedures and the other on tort reform—each reflects a broader effort to bring efficiency, structure, and fairness to our civic and legal processes,” said Governor Kehoe. “I am proud to sign legislation into law that streamlines complex procedures while protecting the rights of every Missourian.”
SB 22, sponsored by Senator Rick Brattin and Representative Ben Keathley, modifies provisions relating to statewide ballot measures.
- Establishes a timely revision process to ensure summary statements are clear, accurate, and informative for voters, protecting against judicial overreach.
- Sets a clear deadline for filing legal challenges to ballot measures ahead of the general election.
- Empowers the attorney general to appeal certain preliminary injunctions, ensuring prompt review of overreaching rulings.
SB 47, sponsored by Senator Curtis Trent and Representative Dane Diehl, amends Supreme Court Rule 52.08 relating to class actions.
- Aligns Missouri’s civil procedures with federal rules, promoting efficiency and fairness in the judicial process.
- Protects Missourians from predatory legal practices through stricter rules for counsel appointments, improving effective representation in class actions.
- Supports businesses by reducing litigation costs and limiting frivolous class actions through earlier certification and stronger defense appeal options.
For additional provisions and more information on the legislation signed into law, visit senate.mo.gov. To view photos from the bill signing, click this link.
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