Committee considers "Conrad's Law" to require nap-time safety training and weighted-blanket limits after child's death

Following a recent child fatality in her district, Representative Becky Lobinger presented House Bill 18-19, called "Conrad's Law," to tighten nap-time safety practices and require training for licensed child-care staff who care for children aged one and older.

Lobinger said the bill responds to gaps revealed after the May 16, 2025, death of a 3-year-old child during nap time. The measure would require non-restrained safe sleep policies, limit weighted-blanket use (the sponsor proposed a 5-pound maximum), require a written, signed care plan for children with special needs that must be reviewed annually by parents, the facility director, the child's medical provider and staff, and incorporate the training into the existing annual training hours required of licensed providers.

Testifying witnesses included relatives of the child and representatives of advocacy groups. Heather Knoll, who identified herself as the child's grandmother, described the incident and said a weighted blanket of 18.2 pounds was on the child when he died; she advocated for the bill to prevent similar tragedies. Robin Shulp (Kids Win Missouri) and other advocates supported the legislation and discussed best practices; witnesses suggested a guidance approach that allows DESE to adopt practical, enforceable rules and inspections would be a tool to ensure unsafe blankets are removed.

Ending: The committee concluded the public hearing with significant emotional testimony; no vote on the bill was recorded in this transcript. Members said the bill appeared aimed at attainable training and documentation requirements and left technical rulemaking to DESE.