SB 1676 - This act establishes "Mason's Law". At the time of motor vehicle registration, a resident of this state with a health condition or disability that limits or impairs the ability to effectively communicate with law enforcement may apply to the Department of Revenue for a designation that shall be associated with the person's motor vehicle license plate number and be available to law enforcement. Upon approval of the application, the Department shall notify the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Highway Patrol shall prepare an entry in the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES). Such entry shall remain active for five years, unless the applicant requests such designation be removed from the system. Upon expiration of the five year period, a renewal form may be filed with the Department to renew the designation. This act is identical to SB 1658 (2026), SS#2/SCS/HCS/HB 1840, and HB 3492 (2026), and substantially similar to HB 3175 (2026) and HS/HCS/HBs 3068 & 3049. TAYLOR MIDDLETON

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jamie Burger

Missouri bill establishing law enforcement procedures and protections for people with communication disabilities during police interactions.

Second Read and Referred S Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee

Legislative bill overview

SB 1676 creates new legal provisions to address how law enforcement interacts with individuals who have impaired or limited ability to communicate. The bill establishes procedures and protections for people with speech, hearing, developmental, or cognitive disabilities during police encounters. These provisions aim to ensure fair treatment and reduce misunderstandings between officers and vulnerable populations.

Why is this important

Law enforcement encounters can escalate dangerously when communication barriers exist, potentially resulting in injuries, wrongful arrests, or trauma for people with disabilities. Clear statutory guidance helps officers recognize and accommodate communication needs appropriately. This addresses a documented gap in police training and procedures that has led to problematic outcomes for disabled individuals nationwide.

Potential points of contention

Officer training and enforcement mechanisms: The bill's effectiveness depends on whether it includes mandatory training requirements, enforcement procedures, and accountability measures for non-compliance

Definition and scope: Disagreement may arise over which communication disabilities are covered, whether the protections apply to all interactions, and how broadly "impaired or limited ability" is defined

Implementation costs: Law enforcement agencies may face expenses for training programs, communication aids, and personnel adjustments, raising budget concerns among municipalities