HS/HCS/SB 173 For elections that occur after March 31, 2003, this act provides that when a fire protection district expands the number of directors from three to five, the initial term of office for the newly elected fire protection district director receiving the second highest number of votes shall be four years. Currently, the term of office is three years.

For any fire protection district located within or which adjoins a fire protection district that is located within a street light maintenance district with a population of less than 6,000 inhabitants in St. Louis County, the board of election commissioners shall establish wards for the purpose of electing directors for such district. The act sets forth the process for the division of the district into wards and the election of the directors.

The act prohibits firefighters from electioneering or any political activity while on duty or wearing a uniform. Violation of this provision shall be a class four election offense and may result in forfeiture of employment.
JIM ERTLE