Missouri Chamber, NFIB and business groups back two‑year statute reduction in competing bills

Summary

Representative Mackey and other sponsors proposed House Bill 21‑82 (and related filings) to reduce the general statute of limitations to two years. Business, agricultural, and industry groups said shorter limits improve Missouri's competitiveness; several committee members asked about carve‑outs for sexual‑abuse cases.

Representative Mackey presented House Bill 21‑82, another two‑year proposal to replace Missouri’s five‑year general limitations period. Mackey emphasized competitiveness: ‘‘having a five‑year runway…makes it harder to do business,’’ he said, and urged alignment with neighboring states.

Multiple chambers and trade groups testified in favor. Jared Hankinson (Missouri Chamber) and Brad Jones (NFIB) said two years would send a ‘‘Missouri open for business’’ signal to relocating firms. Mark Faganbaum (Missouri Farm Bureau) and industry representatives from railroads and contractors likewise supported the bill’s premise. Several witnesses asked for committee help gathering examples of suits they consider frivolous; committee members requested follow‑up documentation.

Opposing testimony echoed concerns heard earlier: trial attorneys and victim advocates said reduced windows would block some meritorious claims and urged exceptions for delayed disclosures. The committee took no immediate action; sponsors indicated they would coordinate further work and submit supporting reports and example cases.