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Missouri law

Administrative Laws in Missouri.

Missouri administrative law is governed by the Missouri Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 536), which governs rulemaking, contested cases, and judicial review of state agency action. Agencies must publish proposed rules in the Missouri Register and submit them to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR). Contested cases are heard by administrative hearing commissions or ALJs at individual agencies. Final agency decisions are reviewable in circuit court under substantial-evidence and authorized-by-law standards.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Missouri Statutes

Missouri Administrative Procedure ActRSMo Chapter 536

Governs agency rulemaking and contested cases. Rulemaking requires notice, public comment, fiscal note, and JCAR review.

Judicial ReviewRSMo § 536.140

Final agency decisions are reviewable in circuit court (or Administrative Hearing Commission for certain cases). Standard: substantial and competent evidence, authorized by law, not arbitrary or capricious.

Administrative Hearing CommissionRSMo § 621.015 et seq.

Independent hearing body for certain state-agency contested cases (including licensing discipline, tax disputes, and unemployment-related matters).

State law

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.

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