New Missouri Laws Starting this Year You Need to Know

It's been said that ignorance of the law is no excuse. That's why you need to know about new Missouri laws and regulations that will be taking effect later this summer.

The Missouri governor Mike Kehoe has recently signed legislation that will enact new Missouri laws. Most go into effect on August 28, 2026, but another won't be enforced until later this year. Here's what you need to know:

1. “Grooming” officially becomes a crime definition

Missouri is adding a legal definition of child grooming to state law under “Evie and Sophie’s Law.” This means suspects accused of manipulating minors for sexual exploitation will now face new tools that prosecutors will have to make them face justice.

2. Missouri divorce law changes for pregnant women

A major family law change will allow divorces to be finalized even if one spouse is pregnant. Previously, Missouri courts often delayed divorces until after birth.

• Pregnancy no longer an automatic barrier to divorce
• Paternity issues and divorce proceedings will be separate issues
• Divorce cases can be finalized quicker

3. New education & school policy laws

• School safety measures expanded
• More rules around classroom policies
• Possible new restrictions involving student conduct and curriculum standards
• Expanded extracurricular access for homeschool students

4. Act Against Abusive Website or Web Content Access Litigation

Predatory lawsuits against small businesses involving alleged website violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act will be restricted

5. Vehicle licensing & dealership rule changes continue rolling out

Missouri’s overhaul of temporary tags and vehicle tax collection is underway. Some provisions already took effect, while others will activate later when the state’s new computer system is ready.

Eventually:

• Sales tax on dealership purchases will be collected at the dealership
• Permanent plates may be mailed directly to buyers
• Temporary tags will largely disappear

The full rollout may extend into late 2026 or 2027.

6. Hemp-derived THC product ban (goes into effect in November 2026)

Missouri passed a law banning many intoxicating hemp-derived products such as THC seltzers and some delta products sold in stores.

You can see all of the legislation making its way through the legislature on the Missouri Senate Bill website.