Missouri proposal could reduce state reps, alter term limits

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A new proposal could shake up the Missouri political scene by slashing the number of state representatives and adjusting term limit rules for all state lawmakers.

Missouri State Rep. Jeff Myers (R-Warrenton) has introduced House Joint Resolution 12, which calls to modify term limits and the number of Missouri House representatives.

Currently, the Missouri House of Representatives consists of 163 members. The new proposal calls to reduce that number to 103 "by "beginning with the 2030 decennial census."

This plan would call for Missouri's House districts to be redrawn entirely, in addition to measures that pertain to voting and ensure "partisan fairness and competitiveness," according to the language of HJR 12.

As for term limits, the Missouri Constitution currently allows lawmakers to serve a maximum of 16 years total between the Missouri House or Senate, though it caps such experience to eight years in either chamber.

According to the language of HJR 12, "Beginning January 1, 2032, no one shall be elected to serve more than sixteen years total in both houses of the General Assembly."

Supporters of the proposed changes to term limits and House member size may argue that these revisions could enhance organizational efficiency, while opponents may contend that such changes could dimish their influence in future elections.

Since the proposal is a House Joint Resolution, it must pass through both chambers of the Missouri General Assembly like a bill. However, it will ultimately be decided by a majority vote of Missourians, rather than the governor.

House Joint Resolution 12 has been preemptively filed for the state’s 103rd General Assembly for the 2025 legislative session, which is set to begin January 8.