Representative Costlow introduces bill to update Missouri's age of consent laws

The Missouri State Legislature convened on February 27, 2025, to introduce House Bill 1471, a significant legislative proposal aimed at reforming the state's laws regarding the age of consent and related sexual offenses. Proposed by Representative Costlow, the bill seeks to repeal existing statutes and replace them with updated provisions that raise the age of consent from seventeen to eighteen years.

The key provisions of House Bill 1471 include the redefinition of statutory rape and child molestation offenses. Under the new framework, individuals aged twenty-one or older who engage in sexual intercourse with someone under eighteen would be charged with statutory rape in the second degree, classified as a class D felony. Additionally, the bill stipulates that child molestation in the second degree would apply to those who subject a child under twelve to sexual contact or who are more than three years older than a child under eighteen, categorizing this as a class B felony. Furthermore, child molestation in the fourth degree would apply to individuals more than three years older than a child under eighteen, classified as a class E felony.

The introduction of this bill has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that raising the age of consent is a necessary step to protect minors from exploitation and abuse, while opponents express concerns about potential overreach and the implications for consensual relationships among teenagers. The bill's supporters emphasize the need for stronger legal protections for vulnerable youth, citing statistics on sexual offenses against minors.

Economically and socially, the implications of House Bill 1471 could be profound. Advocates suggest that stricter laws may lead to a decrease in sexual crimes against minors, potentially reducing the burden on social services and law enforcement. However, critics warn that the bill could inadvertently criminalize young relationships, leading to unintended consequences for adolescents navigating their personal lives.

As the legislative process unfolds, experts anticipate that House Bill 1471 will face further scrutiny and possible amendments. The bill's future will depend on ongoing discussions among lawmakers, stakeholders, and the public, as they weigh the balance between protecting minors and respecting individual freedoms. The Missouri State Legislature will continue to deliberate on this critical issue, with potential votes and revisions expected in the coming weeks.