Missouri House of Representatives

As KSMU reported previously, HB 709 was prompted by abuse scandal linked to Kanakuk sports camp in the Branson area. The bill would essentially ban nondisclosure agreements as a tool to resolve civil lawsuits over child sexual abuse.

People who say they survived sex abuse at Kanakuk camp near Branson spoke out at a hearing in Jefferson City last week. A bill proposed by an Ozarks lawmaker would restrict nondisclosure agreements signed to settle court cases between sexual abuse survivors and perpetrators.

House Bill 937 is sponsored by Rep. George Hruza and House Speaker Jon Patterson.

The new elections mark a significant geographic change in Democratic leadership for Missouri.

Republican incumbent Jamie Gragg is up against Democrat Julia Curran in November.

Incumbent Republican Darin Chappell will face Democrat Bryce Lockwood in November.

Incumbent Democrat Stephanie Hein will face Republican Jim Robinette on November 5.

Democratic incumbent Betsy Fogle will face Republican Michael Hasty on November 5.

Republican incumbent Melanie Stinnett will face Democrat Derrick Nowlin on November 5.

The 130th race features Democrat Jeremy Dean and Republican Stephanos Freeman. The General Election is November 5.