JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Members of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) issued the following statements regarding the passage and signing of Senate Bill 888, omnibus legislation that significantly modifies Missouri’s criminal justice and juvenile justice systems.
State Rep. Michael Johnson, Chairman of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus said the following:
“While we recognize the importance of public safety and the responsibility of government to respond to serious crime, the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus remains deeply concerned about several provisions within Senate Bill 888 that may disproportionately impact vulnerable communities, particularly Black youth, and shift Missouri further away from a rehabilitative justice model.”
SB 888 expands the authority of prosecutors to seek certification of juveniles as adults, increases data sharing and tracking of youth within the justice system and establishes new sentencing structures that require individuals to serve longer portions of their sentences before parole eligibility. Additionally, the legislation promotes the expansion of juvenile detention facilities across the state.”
Chairman Johnson added:
“Public safety and accountability must always be priorities, but we cannot ignore the long-term consequences of policies that criminalize our youth instead of investing in their potential. Senate Bill 888 represents a significant shift toward punitive measures that risk deepening disparities in our justice