SB 1718 - This act modifies provisions relating to workers' compensation. The act provides that a construction industry employer who erects, demolishes, alters, or repairs improvements is considered an employer for purposes of workers' compensation law if they have five or more, rather than one or more, employees. Current law provides that any employer who knowingly fails to insure his liability pursuant to the workers' compensation law shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor. This act provides that any employer who knowingly fails to insure his or her liability shall result in a written warning for the first violation and upon a second violation or any additional subsequent violations thereafter shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor. Moreover, the act repeals a provision that stipulates that a person who has previously been found guilty of any unlawful acts with respect to the workers' compensation law, as described in the act, and who subsequently commits any such unlawful act shall be guilty of a class E felony. This act is identical to HB 3032 (2026). SCOTT SVAGERA

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brad Hudson

SB 1718 modifies Missouri workers' compensation provisions affecting employee benefits, employer insurance costs, and injury claim processes, with specific impacts pending bill text release.

Second Read and Referred S General Laws Committee

Legislative bill overview

SB 1718 modifies Missouri's workers' compensation system, though specific provisions are not detailed in the available information since the bill is at its initial stage. The bill was introduced by Senator Brad Hudson and received its first reading on February 25, 2026, meaning the full text and detailed provisions have not yet been publicly analyzed or debated.

Why is this important

Workers' compensation systems directly affect millions of employees and employers by determining how workplace injuries are covered, medical treatment is provided, and wage replacement is calculated. Any modifications to Missouri's system could alter benefits for injured workers, insurance costs for businesses, or dispute resolution processes—making this potentially significant for both labor and business communities in the state.

Potential points of contention

Benefit levels vs. employer costs: Changes could either expand worker protections (increasing employer insurance premiums) or limit claims (reducing worker support)

Medical treatment standards: Modifications might affect which providers injured workers can see or how treatment decisions are made

Dispute resolution processes: Changes to how workers appeal denied claims could impact access to justice for injured employees