Missouri House Passes Measure to Toughen Constitutional Amendment Process

The Missouri House has approved a resolution that could make it harder for voters to amend the state constitution, setting the stage for a Senate showdown.

• The Missouri House has passed a resolution requiring a majority vote in five of eight congressional districts, in addition to a statewide majority, to amend the constitution.
• The proposed changes include controversial provisions like banning noncitizens from voting, which is already illegal, and preventing foreign interference in ballot measures.
• Critics argue the resolution is filled with 'ballot candy'—superfluous measures designed to attract voter support.
• The resolution was sent back to the Senate where its fate remains uncertain, with some predicting it may not pass due to added provisions.
• The measure is seen as a response to recent progressive victories in Missouri, such as Medicaid expansion and marijuana legalization, and could impact a forthcoming campaign to restore abortion rights.

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