Missouri proposal would tie required local work to state funding

Local governments would not have to carry out state-required duties without available state funding. The rule would cover local governments responsible for carrying out state-required duties. The proposal would need approval from lawmakers and Missouri voters. A pause would apply only to the affected local government. The state law would remain valid, and the pause would not count as that government's failure to comply. The pause would last until state funding becomes available. The proposal calls for a public vote at the November 2026 general election or a special election called by the governor.

Bills creating or changing required local duties would need a report estimating local costs before a committee considers them. The requirement would cover bills introduced in Missouri's legislature that create or change a local mandate, meaning a required local duty. The proposal would need approval from lawmakers and Missouri voters. The report would identify affected types of local governments, separate one-time and ongoing costs, and explain the source and adequacy of proposed state support. The report would have to be filed and made public before the committee votes to advance the bill.

State laws requiring local administration or enforcement would have to include clear rules and name a state agency responsible for guidance and practical help. These requirements would cover state laws that local governments must administer or enforce. The proposal would need approval from lawmakers and Missouri voters. The laws would need clear definitions and reasonable deadlines. They would also need uniform forms, procedures, or reporting requirements where applicable. Local governments would not have to carry out a required duty until standards are issued and applicable state funding is available.