Requires the general assembly to approve proposed administrative rules

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bennie Cook

HB 1972 would require the General Assembly to affirmatively approve state administrative rules before they take effect, adding legislative oversight and potential delays.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)

#administrativerules #generalassembly

Summary of HB 1972 (Session 2026, Missouri)

Purpose and intent

HB 1972 proposes to require the Missouri General Assembly to approve proposed administrative rules before they take effect.

The bill seeks to change how administrative rules from state agencies are enacted, adding a legislative approval step to the rulemaking process.

Key provisions and changes

Legislative approval requirement: Administrative rules proposed by state agencies would not become effective without affirmative authorization or approval by the General Assembly.

Scope of rules: The bill does not specify in the summary provided which agencies or types of rules would be subject to review, leaving interpretation to the text of the bill and any accompanying statutory definitions.

Process for approval: The bill would establish or rely on a defined process for the General Assembly to review, potentially amend, or reject proposed rules before they become binding policy or regulatory requirements.

Timeline implications: Introducing legislative approval could add a delay between a rule’s proposal and its effective date, depending on the scheduling of legislative action and any required committee review.

Sponsorship: Co-sponsor Bennie Cook is listed, indicating bipartisan discussion and potential committee interest.

Affected entities and stakeholders

State executive-branch agencies that draft and publish administrative rules.

The General Assembly, which would gain a gatekeeping role in rulemaking.

Businesses, nonprofits, and individuals subject to regulations that might be affected by agency rules, as the timing and content of rules could change with legislative approval.

Public interest groups and advocates interested in regulatory processes and government accountability.

Procedural and timeline considerations

Referral history: Referred to Emerging Issues (H) on May 15, 2026, indicating initial consideration by a House committee focused on emerging or potentially impactful issues.

Prior readings: The bill has progressed through the Missouri House with a First and Second Reading in January 2026, suggesting it has been introduced and is moving through the legislative process.

Next steps (typical for a bill of this nature): Committee hearings (to debate and refine the bill), potential amendments, and a House floor vote. If passed, it would proceed to the Senate and undergo a similar process.

Potential impacts and considerations

Regulatory efficiency vs. accountability: The bill would strengthen legislative oversight of rulemaking, potentially increasing accountability and transparency but possibly slowing regulatory changes.

Administrative burden: Agencies may face additional workload to prepare rules for legislative review and to respond to inquiries or revisions from the General Assembly.

Policy alignment: The requirement could influence the speed and direction of regulatory policy, impacting how promptly public policies can be implemented or adjusted in response to new information or emergencies.

Notes
- The full text of HB 1972 would provide precise definitions (e.g., which rules are covered, timelines for approval, and any exemptions) and the exact mechanics of the approval process. This summary reflects the information available from the bill title, sponsor, and action history.