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HB 1706

Creates a constitutional glossary that requires voter approval

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mazzie Christensen

Missouri bill creates state constitutional glossary requiring voter approval to standardize legal term definitions and shape constitutional interpretation statewide.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
#constitutionalamendments #elections #secretaryofstate
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Bill Summary · HB 1706

Legislative bill overview

HB 1706 proposes creating a constitutional glossary for Missouri that would define key terms used in the state constitution. The glossary would require voter approval through a constitutional amendment before implementation, making it a binding interpretive tool for understanding constitutional language.

Why is this important

Constitutional glossaries can significantly influence how courts, legislators, and voters interpret foundational state law. By standardizing definitions of constitutional terms, this measure could affect legal outcomes across numerous policy areas and reduce interpretive disputes—but it also raises questions about who decides these definitions and whether they reflect original intent or contemporary understanding.

Potential points of contention

  • Interpretive authority: Creating an official glossary effectively delegates definitional power to whoever drafts it, potentially shifting constitutional interpretation away from courts and toward the legislative/ballot process
  • Amendment rigidity: Locking definitions into a constitutional glossary makes future updates difficult, potentially creating outdated language that no longer reflects societal needs or legal developments
  • Scope and bias concerns: Questions about which terms get defined, whether definitions are neutral or laden with particular policy preferences, and whether omitted terms create interpretive gaps

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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