Missouri's legislature just passed HB 2061, an "antisemitism" bill — and it's one of the most sweeping speech-policing bills the state has ever seen. In this solo episode, Nathan Bechtold breaks down the actual text of the bill, the IHRA's definition of antisemitism it relies on, and what it means for students, teachers, and free speech in Missouri's public schools and universities.
Could a student get in trouble for saying "the Jews killed Jesus"? Could comparing Israeli policy to Nazi Germany land you in a federal investigation? Nathan reads the bill, walks through the implications, and makes the case that — no matter your politics — this is a dangerous road to go down.
🎙️ Produced by Lake Expo | Take on the Lake, Episode 37
Topics covered:
-What HB 2061 actually says
- The IHRA definition of antisemitism and its examples
- How Title VI coordinators would enforce this law
- Why the First Amendment carve-out doesn't fix the problem
- The self-censorship effect this bill will have
- Why Republicans and Democrats both got this wrong
Take on the Lake is produced by Lake Expo, covering the Lake of the Ozarks region. And the occasional insanity coming out of Jefferson City.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed four bills into law Thursday, April 23 during a ceremony at the State Capitol, addressing issues ranging from education and antisemitism to cannabis regulation and regional development.
Read the governor's press release in full below.
HB 2061, sponsored by Representative George Hruza and Senator Curtis Trent, provides protection against discrimination and antisemitism in public schools and public postsecondary educational institutions.
Adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism.
Requires Missouri public K-12 schools, charter schools, districts, and postsecondary institutions to treat antisemitic harassment and discrimination like any race-based discrimination under Title VI.
Establishes a formal complaint and accountability process to ensure Title VI concerns are investigated and addressed.
"Antisemitism has no place in Missouri, especially in our classrooms," said Governor Kehoe. "I'm grateful to Representative Hruza, Senator Trent, and the entire General Assembly for sending this legislation to my desk. By signing this bill, we are standing up for safety, dignity, and the fundamental right of every student to learn free from hate."
HB 2641, sponsored by Representative Dave Hinman and Senator David Gregory, creates provisions relating to cannabis and establishes the Intoxicating Cannabinoid Control Act.
Aligns the state's definition of hemp with the new federal definition, bringing the regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoid products under existing marijuana regulations.
Requires non-licensed entities to discontinue the manufacturing or sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products.
Prohibits marijuana dispensaries or other authorized parties from retaining records or disseminating identifying information for consumers of regulated marijuana products unless the consumer agrees to the creation or retention in writing.
"For too long, bad actors have exploited loopholes to market intoxicating products—including candy-like gummies or look-alike products—without meaningful oversight or accountability," said Governor Kehoe. "This legislation ensures that Missourians know the products sold in their communities are safe, regulated, and kept out of the hands of children."
HB 2934, sponsored by Representative Brad Christ and Senator Brian Williams, modifies provisions relating to the governance and funding of the St. Louis City and St. Louis County convention and sports complex authorities.
Merges the St. Louis Regional Sports Authority (RSA) and the St. Louis Regional Convention and Visitors Commission under a 15-member Regional Visitors Commission.
Creates a convention district to allow for special assessments on real property and a sales tax levy of up to 2 percent to support facility improvements and operations, upon approval by eligible voters and business owners.
"Oversight works best when it is efficient, focused, and structured to meet the moment," said Governor Kehoe. "By bringing two fantastic boards under one name, House Bill 2934 creates a stronger framework for collaboration and positions the St. Louis region for growth, investment, and long-term success."
Governor Kehoe also signed HB 2423, sponsored by Representative Philip Oehlerking and Senator Sandy Crawford. This bill revises statutory provisions under the Division of Finance by creating a new fund for depositing moneys collected from consumer credit licensing fees.
