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HJR 136

Proposes a constitutional amendment that modifies provisions for continuing committees

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Will Jobe

Proposes amending the Missouri Constitution to redefine how continuing joint or standing committees are formed, renewed, and dissolved across legislative sessions.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HJR 136

Overview

  • Bill: HJR 136
  • Session: 2026, Missouri
  • Title: Proposes a constitutional amendment that modifies provisions for continuing committees
  • Sponsor: Primary sponsor not listed; co-sponsor: Will Jobe
  • Status history: Prefiled (Dec 8, 2025); Read First Time (Jan 7, 2026); Read Second Time (Jan 8, 2026); Referred to Emerging Issues (H) (May 15, 2026)

Note: As a House Joint Resolution, this measure would place a proposed amendment on the ballot for voter approval. If enacted, it would amend the Missouri Constitution. The summary below reflects the bill’s stated intent and proposed changes as described in the official text and summary language.

Purpose and intent

  • The bill seeks to alter the constitutional framework governing the operation, creation, or continuation of joint or standing committees within the Missouri General Assembly.
  • The core aim is to modify how committees are constituted, how long they may continue, or the conditions under which they persist between legislative sessions.

Key provisions and changes (as proposed)

  • Amendment scope: The resolution would amend the Missouri Constitution to redefine or adjust the rules governing continuing committees.
  • Continuing committees: Provisions may address one or more of the following aspects:
    • How long a committee can exist without reauthorization or renewal
    • Requirements for committee continuity across sessions
    • Procedures for discontinuing or reconstituting committees
    • Allocation of duties, jurisdiction, or oversight responsibilities for continuing committees
  • Authorizing mechanisms: The amendment could specify processes or thresholds (e.g., vote requirements, sunset provisions, or executive or legislative oversight) to maintain, modify, or dissolve continuing committees.
  • Grounds for modification: It may establish criteria for when and how committees can be changed, expanded, or terminated, and who may initiate such changes.

Because HJR 136 is a constitutional amendment proposal, it would require approval by voters in a statewide election to take effect.

Who would be affected

  • Legislative bodies: Members and leadership of the Missouri House of Representatives and Senate, especially committee chairs, members, and staff involved in ongoing or permanent committees.
  • Legislature operations: Procedures for committee formation, oversight, and continuity across sessions could be revised, impacting how bills are referred, scheduled, and reviewed.
  • Public stakeholders: Citizens and interest groups interacting with committees on policy areas governed by continuing committees would be indirectly affected by any changes in committee jurisdiction, transparency, or accountability.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Referral and consideration: The bill was referred to the Emerging Issues committee (H) on May 15, 2026, indicating it is being considered for potential expansion of issues that are timely or novel.
  • Legislative process: As a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment, it would require passage by both chambers of the Missouri General Assembly and voter ratification in a statewide election. If approved by voters, the amendment would become part of the Missouri Constitution.
  • Next steps (typical): If advanced, the measure would likely progress through committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes in both chambers before moving to the ballot for public consideration.

Potential impact and considerations

  • The amendment could provide clearer, more durable rules for how continuing committees operate, potentially improving legislative efficiency or oversight.
  • It may alter the balance of power or administrative control by changing how committees persist beyond sessions.
  • Voter approval is required, so public understanding of the implications for legislative structure and accountability will be important.

If you’d like, I can compare HJR 136 to existing constitutional provisions on committees or draft a plain-language briefing for voters highlighting what would change and the potential pros and cons.

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

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