HB 407 -- COUNTY CLASSIFICATION (Robirds)

This bill allows any third class county with a population of
less than 75,000 that will meet the qualifications of becoming a
first or second class county to remain a third class county,
upon voter approval.

The bill also allows any second class county with a population
of less than 150,000 that will meet the qualifications of
becoming a first class county to remain a second class county,
upon voter approval.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

HB 407 -- COUNTY CLASSIFICATION

SPONSOR:  Robirds

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass by consent" by the Committee
on Local Government and Related Matters by a vote of 15 to 0.

This bill allows any third class county with a population of
less than 75,000 that will meet the qualifications of becoming a
first or second class county to remain a third class county,
upon voter approval.

The bill also allows any second class county with a population
of less than 150,000 that will meet the qualifications of
becoming a first class county to remain a second class county,
upon voter approval.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that counties with small population
and high property values are being forced into big government.
These counties don't need and can't afford a first class
government.  This bill will save the county $500,000.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Robirds; Kathryn
Braden; and Taney County Presiding Commissioner.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Steve Bauer, Legislative Analyst

HB 407 -- County Classification

Sponsor:  Robirds

This bill allows any third class county with a population of
less than 75,000 that will meet the qualifications of becoming a
first or second class county to remain a third class county,
upon voter approval.

The bill also allows any second class county with a population
of less than 150,000 that will meet the qualifications of
becoming a first class county to remain a second class county,
upon voter approval.