MO HB2423

Repeals existing section 36.220 and enacts new sections 36.032 and 36.220 to establish uniform veteran hiring preferences across all executive branch state government departments and agencies.

Requires merit system agencies to add 5 points to the final examination grade of veterans and surviving spouses who pass, and 10 points to disabled veterans' grades.

Requires nonmerit system agencies to give positive consideration to veterans, disabled veterans, and surviving spouses when evaluating qualified candidates, with additional preference for disabled veterans.

Exempts certain positions from veteran preference requirements, including elective offices, board and commission members, departmental directors, division directors, chaplains, interns, and policy-making assistants.

Grants spouse of disabled veterans the same hiring preference as veterans or surviving spouses if the disabled veteran is not employed in state service and the disability prevents them from qualifying for state employment.