MO HB1454

Repeals and replaces sections 482.305 and 482.340 of Missouri Revised Statutes relating to small claims court jurisdiction and procedures.

Grants small claims court judges original jurisdiction over landlord claims for tenant ejectment to obtain possession of a premises, in addition to existing civil cases up to $3,000.

Authorizes landlords to include ejectment claims in small claims court petitions alongside monetary claims for amounts not exceeding $3,000.

Updates small claims court petition and summons forms to include language permitting ejectment actions and adjusting default judgment language to specify "if any" when referencing claimed amounts.

Maintains existing small claims court procedures including waiver of jury trial rights, rules of evidence exemptions, and defendant instructions for counterclaims and settlement options.