Missouri bill on expert witness change advances in Senate

A bill to add requirements for expert testimony in Missouri court cases could be up for a final Senate vote Thursday.

Senators voted 19-12 for initial approval of the measure Tuesday. The bill would require expert witnesses to base testimony on sufficient facts and data and apply reliable principles and methods.

Missouri’s current law applies primarily to the facts, not the method by which they are analyzed.

The proposal wouldn’t apply to cases in juvenile or family courts, such as divorces or adoptions.

Sponsor Sen. Mike Parson says the measure will ensure qualified experts testify. Parson is running as a Republican for lieutenant governor.

Bipartisan opponents say the legislation could increase litigation costs and decrease access to the courts.

Majority Leader Mike Kehoe says a final vote is set for Thursday. It would also need House approval.

The bill is SB 591.