Jill Carter bill enshrining office of sheriff in Missouri constitution advances to House

(From Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby)

On Wednesday, the Missouri Senate third read and passed Senate Joint Resolution 87, sponsored by State Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby. The resolution, which proposes a constitutional amendment enshrining the office of sheriff in Missouri’s Constitution, now moves forward in the legislative process. As a constitutional amendment, SJR 87 would ultimately need to be approved by voters.

“At its core, this bill is about one simple but powerful idea: accountability to the people,” Sen. Carter said. “Sheriffs in Missouri should be chosen by and held accountable to the voters of their county — not appointed, insulated or controlled by political bodies.”

If approved by voters, SJR 87 would require counties to elect a sheriff to a four-year term by a majority vote of qualified county voters. The measure also clarifies the sheriff’s responsibilities and duties as provided by law.

“When citizens elect their sheriff, they know exactly who is responsible for public safety. And if that sheriff fails to lead with integrity, competence and courage, the people can remove them at the ballot box,” Sen. Carter said. “That is how a constitutional republic is supposed to work.”