Missouri Senate Bill SB1320

Missouri 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/26
• Refer: 1/27/26

Caption

Modifies provisions relating to the admissibility of certain evidence

Impact

If enacted, SB1320 would amend section 490.692 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri to clarify the conditions under which business records can be introduced in court. Specifically, it mandates that all parties involved must receive copies of such records and related affidavits at least seven days prior to the trial. This provision is expected to foster more transparent legal proceedings and ensure that all parties are adequately prepared when such evidence is presented.

Summary

Senate Bill 1320 is designed to modify the provisions concerning the admissibility of certain forms of evidence in state courts, particularly focusing on business records. The bill proposes that records or copies thereof, which have been created in the regular course of business through various means like photography or microfilming, will be recognized as admissible as business records. This change aims to streamline the process for introducing business records as evidence by setting clear guidelines that govern their admission into court proceedings.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1320 include the handling of digital signatures and notarization requirements for the affidavits that accompany business records. The bill explicitly states that affidavits utilizing electronic signatures will not be deemed invalid and removes the necessity for notarization. This could potentially raise concerns about the authenticity of submitted affidavits, particularly among parties wary of the implications of digital signatures in legal contexts.