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Bill

HB 3387

Modifies provisions relating to the appointment of commissioners in the 7th judicial circuit

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ken Jamison

HB 3387 changes how commissioners for Missouri’s 7th Judicial Circuit are appointed, including who is eligible, by whom, and the terms of service.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3387

Bill Overview

  • Bill: HB 3387
  • Session: 2026 (Missouri)
  • Jurisdiction: Missouri General Assembly
  • Title: Modifies provisions relating to the appointment of commissioners in the 7th judicial circuit
  • Sponsor: Primary sponsor not listed; Co-sponsor: Ken Jamison

Purpose and Intent

HB 3387 aims to change how commissioners are appointed within the Missouri 7th Judicial Circuit. The bill seeks to alter eligibility criteria, appointment processes, or both, for individuals designated as commissioners who assist in judicial administration and court operations in that circuit.

Key Provisions (as indicated by the title and typical structure)

While the exact text is not provided here, the bill is described as “Modifies provisions relating to the appointment of commissioners in the 7th judicial circuit.” Based on similar reform bills, expected areas of modification may include:

  • Appointment Process: Revisions to who selects commissioners (e.g., judges, elected officials, or a specific appointment panel) and the timeline for appointments.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Changes to qualifications required to be appointed as a circuit commissioner (e.g., professional background, age, residence, prior judicial experience).
  • Term Lengths and Renewal: Adjustments to how long commissioners serve and conditions for reappointment or removal.
  • Duties and Powers: Possible clarification or expansion/restriction of the scope of authority and duties of commissioners within the 7th circuit.
  • Removal and Discipline: Procedures for removal, replacement, or disciplinary actions if a commissioner misconducts or fails to perform duties.
  • Accountability and Oversight: Provisions establishing reporting requirements or oversight mechanisms.

Note: The specific provisions are not included in the summary provided. The above reflect common elements such bills address when modifying appointment provisions.

Affected Parties

  • Missouri 7th Judicial Circuit: The primary governance and administration of court operations would be directly affected through changes in how commissioners are selected and empowered.
  • Commissioners (Current and Prospective): Individuals serving or eligible to serve as commissioners in the 7th circuit, and those involved in appointing them.
  • Judges and Court Administration: May experience changes in staffing, administrative workflow, and governance structure.
  • Public/Residents of the Circuit: Indirectly affected through potential changes in court efficiency, access to services, and transparency in appointment practices.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduction: February 24, 2026 (Introduced and Read First Time in the House).
  • Second Reading: February 25, 2026 (Read Second Time in the House).
  • Referral: May 15, 2026 (Referred to Emerging Issues Committee (H)).
  • Next Steps: If the committee advances the bill, it would proceed to potential committee hearings, further floor debates, and votes in both chambers, followed by potential reconciliation and enactment into law.

Potential Impact and Considerations

  • The bill could streamline or restructure how commissioners are chosen, potentially impacting independence, oversight, and efficiency of circuit operations.
  • Changes to qualifications or terms may affect the pool of eligible candidates and the continuity of court administration.
  • Depending on the final language, the bill could alter checks and balances within the 7th circuit’s governance.

Summary

HB 3387 seeks to modify the framework for appointing commissioners in Missouri’s 7th judicial circuit. While specific textual changes are not provided here, the bill likely addresses who appoints commissioners, who is eligible to serve, and the terms and authorities of those commissioners, with aim of altering governance and administration of the circuit’s judiciary. The bill is in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced in February 2026 and referred to the Emerging Issues committee in May 2026.

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

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