February 3, 2025
MISSOURI HOUSING VOUCHER BILLS: LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Missouri lawmakers are currently considering three bills that would prohibit local governments from requiring private landlords to accept Section 8 housing vouchers. These bills respond to the Kansas City, Missouri, Source of Income Law passed in 2024.
House Bills 343 & 595
House Bills 343 (sponsored by Rep. Ben Keathley) and 595 (sponsored by Rep. Chris Brown) were recently combined into a single bill with language shaped by the KC Regional Housing Alliance. These bills prevent cities and counties from enacting ordinances that:
- Require landlords to accept federal housing assistance as income.
- Restrict landlords from setting income-qualifying criteria.
- Prohibit landlords from requesting tenant criminal records.
- Limit security deposit amounts.
- Mandate a tenant’s right of first refusal.
Senate Bill 507
Senate Bill 507, sponsored by Sen. Nick Schroer, mirrors HB 343 and 595, reinforcing the same landlord protections at the state level.
With growing legislative momentum, these bills are poised to impact rental policies statewide. Stay tuned for further updates as they move through the Missouri legislature.
For the latest bill details: