Nicole Lewis, the Division President of Sentry Management St. Charles, serves as the Treasurer of the Heartland Chapter of the Community Associations Institute (CAI) Legislative Action Committee. As part of her role, she analyzed and summarized the key points around strategy, legislative, and lawsuit updates impacting Missouri communities for CAI Heartland’s quarterly chapter magazine. Below is her take on the 2025 Missouri Legislative Session:

Working the Halls of the Capitol

This session, the LAC worked closely with our trusted lobbyist team at Steven R Carroll & Associates. Their expertise and relationships were instrumental in advancing key initiatives—including our ongoing work to secure sponsorship for the Missouri Homeowners’ Association Act. While the bill did not gain the traction we had hoped for in 2025, our advocacy efforts laid important groundwork for future progress.

We also successfully fought against multiple pieces of legislation that would have negatively impacted our industry. These victories wouldn’t have been possible without the vigilance of the LAC and our lobbying partners.

A Strong Presence at the Capitol

One of the session’s highlights was another successful Day at the Capitol, where LAC members met face-to-face with legislators to educate them about our industry’s role in local communities. These conversations are critical in shaping sound policy and raising awareness of the unique needs of community associations in Missouri.

Looking Ahead: Strategy and Adaptation

Although the Missouri Homeowners’ Association Act didn’t advance, the LAC is actively analyzing new strategies. We’re exploring ways to reframe and segment the legislation into smaller, more digestible bills. We’re also considering renaming the act to better reflect its goals and reduce unnecessary opposition from other industry stakeholders.

Chicken Bill Lawsuit Update

The “Chicken Bill” lawsuit continues to move forward. A key hearing was held at the end of June, and while we don’t yet have a timeline for a decision, we remain committed to keeping our members informed as developments unfold. This case could have a major impact on community governance and property rights in our state.

Federal Advocacy on the Horizon

Several LAC members are preparing for the CAI National Federal Advocacy Day this November, where we’ll represent Missouri’s interests on the national stage. This is another important opportunity to advocate for legislation that supports healthy, well-managed communities.

MOLAC Wins LAC of the Year – Thank You to Our Volunteers

This year MOLAC won the CAI National’s LAC of the year award. This award is granted to only one LAC each year and is a testament to the hard work and progress our LAC is making. We extend our deepest appreciation to every LAC member who dedicates time to reviewing legislation, traveling to the Capitol, and speaking on behalf of our industry. Your commitment makes a difference—and your voices are being heard.

Support the Cause: Dollar a Door Campaign

Advocacy doesn’t happen without resources. Our Dollar a Door Campaign directly supports the work of the LAC and our lobbying team. Without these efforts, harmful legislation could easily pass unchecked. If your community hasn’t contributed yet this year, now is the time to invest in the future of our industry.

Thank you for standing with us in this important work. Together, we will continue to protect, promote, and advance the interests of our communities.