MO HB749

Eliminates the right to trial de novo in landlord-tenant actions under chapter 535, allowing only appeals to appellate court instead of retrial before a circuit judge.

Allows landlords to contact animal control or terminate leases for unauthorized pets, defined as pets prohibited by lease agreements or any animal deemed aggressive.

Establishes landlord-tenant courts in the 22nd judicial circuit (St. Louis) and 16th judicial circuit (Jackson County) with commissioners authorized to hear disputes and issue orders for payment, possession, and equitable relief.

Requires sheriffs to inspect premises for safety within ten days after judgment for possession and mandates courts to inquire about tenants' residence and employment during nonpayment hearings.

Reduces the bond requirement for appeals from ten to three days for payment of accruing rent and allows parties to request hearings in associate circuit court within ten days of commissioner decisions.