MO HB1582

Transfers responsibility for filling vacancies in most county offices from the governor to the county commission, which shall appoint an interim officer until the vacancy is filled through section 105.030 procedures.

Allows elected county officers (commissioners, clerk, collector, assessor, treasurer, auditor, prosecuting attorney, sheriff, coroner, recorder, and public administrator) to designate a temporary replacement during approved leaves of absence for medical issues, mental health issues, or military service.

Deems any leave of absence exceeding 18 months or extending past January 31 of an election year as an automatic resignation from office.

Modifies section 105.030 to remove sheriffs from the governor's vacancy-filling authority, aligning with the new county commission appointment process established throughout the bill.

Updates language in multiple county office statutes to reflect gender-neutral terminology and clarify interim appointment procedures pending permanent vacancy fills.