Missouri HB3178: Requires all rules and regulations for library programs receiving state funding to comply with the First Amendment

What the bill says

From the introduced text:

SECOND REGULAR SESSION HOUSE BILL NO. 3178 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY INTRODUCED BY REPRESENTATIVE THOMAS. 7030H.01I JOSEPH ENGLER, Chief Clerk To repeal section 181.060, RSMo, and to enact in lieu thereof one new section relating to regulations governing state aid to public libraries. Section A. Section 181.060, RSMo, is repealed and one new section enacted in lieu thereof, to be known as section 181.060, to read as follows: 181.060. 1. The general assembly may appropriate moneys for state aid to public libraries, which moneys shall be administered by the state librarian, and distributed as specified in rules and regulations promulgated by the Missouri state library, and approved by the secretary of state. All such rules and regulations shall be written in substantial compliance with the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States; Article I Section 8 of the Constitution of Missouri concerning the freedom of speech; and applicable federal and state civil rights laws concerning places of public accommodations and access, prohibitions against discrimination, and protection against harassment in workplaces. Any such rules and regulations made prior to July 1, 2026, shall be reviewed for compliance with this provision by August 28, 2028, as otherwise provided by law. 2. At least fifty percent of the moneys appropriated for state aid to public libraries shall be apportioned to all public …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• Nicholas Thomas (D, 019) · primary sponsor
• Jeremy Dean (D, 132)
• Jo Doll (D, 091)
• Fuchs, Elizabeth (D, 080)
• Jamison, Ken (D, 015)
• Kimble, Nick (D, 082)
• Mark Boyko (D, 090)
• Kemp Strickler (D, 034)
• Marla Smith (D, 074)
• Kem Smith (D, 068)
• Appelbaum, LaDonna (D, 071)
• Gregg Bush (D, 050)

Latest actions

1. May 15, 2026: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
2. February 4, 2026: Read Second Time (H)
3. February 3, 2026: Introduced and Read First Time (H)

Common questions

What is HB3178?

HB3178 is a bill in the Missouri Legislature (2026 Regular Session): Requires all rules and regulations for library programs receiving state funding to comply with the First Amendment.

What is the status of HB3178?

In committee as of May 15, 2026. Latest action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H) (May 15, 2026).

Who sponsored HB3178?

Nicholas Thomas (D, 019), with 11 co-sponsors.

Where is the official record for HB3178?

On the Missouri Legislature website: https://house.mo.gov/BillContent.aspx?bill=HB3178&year=2026&code=R