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SB 960

SB 960 - The act repeals certain provisions and creates new provisions relating to the membership of the Clean Water Commission. Under the act, each Commission member shall serve in a manner consistent with the provisions of Missouri Clean Water Law. The Commission shall be comprised of the following members: - One member, instead of at least two as currently provided, shall be knowledgeable about agriculture; - One member, instead of at least two as currently provided, shall be knowledgeable about the needs of industry or mining; - One member shall be knowledgeable about the needs of publicly owned wastewater treatment works; and - Four members, instead of no more than four as currently provided, shall represent the public. At the first meeting of the Commission and annually thereafter, instead of at yearly intervals as currently provided, the members shall select a chairman and a vice chairman. The Governor shall not appoint any person who has a substantial interest in certain business entities if located in the state. The Commission shall establish rules specifying when members shall exempt themselves from participating in discussions and from voting on issues due to potential conflict of interest. Specifics relating to the resolution of a conflict of interest are described in the act. Any Commission member absent from four, instead of six as currently provided, consecutive regular commission meetings shall be deemed to have resigned and the vacancy shall be filled immediately. The act is identical to HB 3295 (2026), SB 569 (2025), SB 1419 (2024) and HB 2853 (2024). JULIA SHEVELEVA

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Roberts

SB 960 restructures Missouri's Clean Water Commission membership rules, potentially reallocating power over water quality policy between state government and various stakeholder groups.

Hearing Conducted S Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy & the Environment Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 960

Legislative bill overview

SB 960 repeals existing provisions governing Clean Water Commission membership and establishes new criteria for how members are selected and serve. The bill restructures the composition and potentially the appointment process for this environmental regulatory body in Missouri.

Why is this important

The Clean Water Commission oversees water quality standards and environmental protection policies affecting Missouri's waterways, agriculture, industry, and public health. Changes to commission membership directly influence which interests gain influence over water policy decisions and how those policies are developed and enforced.

Potential points of contention

  • Appointment authority shifts: The bill may alter who appoints commissioners (governor, legislature, stakeholder groups), affecting political influence over water policy
  • Stakeholder representation balance: Changes could shift power between environmental advocates, agricultural interests, industrial users, and municipal water systems with competing water priorities
  • Expertise requirements: Modifications to membership qualifications might prioritize different professional backgrounds, potentially favoring certain industries or environmental perspectives over others

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

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