A Cole County judge has set trial dates next week for two proposed Missouri ballot measures blocked by Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, including a referendum challenging the state’s 2025 congressional map and a constitutional amendment aimed at limiting lawmakers’ ability to change voter-approved laws.
Circuit Judge Daniel Green scheduled hearings Tuesday, Aug.18, 2026 in Jefferson City as the cases move on an expedited timeline ahead of a Sept. 8 deadline to finalize questions for the Nov. 3 ballot.
The congressional map case was brought by People Not Politicians, which is seeking to place a statewide referendum before voters. The group submitted more than 305,000 signatures and argues Missourians should have the opportunity to vote on the map approved by lawmakers in 2025.
Hoskins has argued Missouri law does not allow congressional redistricting plans to be challenged through the referendum process and determined the proposal was insufficient for the ballot.
Green also allowed the Republican National Committee, National Republican Congressional Committee and Missouri Republican State Committee to join the lawsuit on the secretary of state’s side. The groups argue they have an interest in ensuring the 2025 map remains in place for the November election.
The new congressional map altered six of Missouri’s eight congressional districts.
A separate lawsuit involves a proposed constitutional amendment backed by Respect MO Voters. The proposal would require legislative changes to voter-approved laws or constitutional amendments to receive support from 80 percent of lawmakers and then be approved by voters statewide.
Hoskins rejected that proposal, arguing it contains too many subjects. Supporters contend it meets legal requirements and should be placed on the ballot.
The redistricting referendum hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, followed by the Constitutional amendment case at 3 p.m. Any ruling is expected to face appeals.
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