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Legislative Alert! Support SB 22 to Reduce Biased Ballot Language for Constitutional Amendments.

Missouri residents have a critical opportunity to shape election integrity by submitting online testimony for SB 22 ahead of its House Elections Committee hearing on April 1. The deadline for public input is 11 PM CT on April 1, with testimony accepted at the Missouri House Witness Form. Missourians hold dear the principles enshrined in our state constitution and the rights it protects. Yet, the process by which we amend this vital document must be robust and transparent to ensure that changes truly reflect the informed will of the people. Senate Bill 22 (SB 22) offers a critical safeguard by improving how ballot measures are presented to voters, protecting our constitution from amendments driven by confusion or misrepresentation. With a hearing scheduled in the House on Tuesday, April 1st, now is the time to rally behind this bill and show our support.

Why SB 22 Matters

  • Fair Ballot Language: SB 22 doubles the maximum word count for ballot summary statements from 50 to 100 words, allowing more detailed explanations of proposed measures. Courts would no longer rewrite summaries but instead direct the Secretary of State to revise language if legally flawed, ensuring accountability remains with elected officials.
  • Fixes a Flawed System: During the 2024 Amendment 3 (abortion rights) campaign, courts rewrote the ballot language after litigation, which opponents argued distorted voter perception. SB 22’s framework would prevent judicial overreach by requiring the General Assembly or Secretary of State—not courts—to finalize ballot summaries.
  • Urgency for Reform: With no comprehensive IP reform likely this session, SB 22 offers targeted improvements to increase transparency. Had it been law in 2024, Amendment 3’s ballot language might have remained closer to its original, non-partisan form, potentially altering the outcome of the narrowly passed measure.

Sample Testimony Paragraph

Feel free to personalize this template:


“I strongly support SB 22 because it ensures voters receive accurate, unbiased summaries of ballot measures. By expanding the word limit and limiting courts’ ability to rewrite language, this bill prevents special interests from manipulating ballot titles. Missourians deserve clarity, not confusion, when deciding complex issues. I urge the committee to advance SB 22 swiftly.”

Act Now: With less than 24 hours remaining, your voice is essential to advancing this reform. Submit testimony by 11 PM CT on April 1 at the House Witness Form.

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