SB 697 - This act creates the State Board of Certified Shorthand Reporter Examiners to license shorthand reporters. The Board shall meet at least annually.

The Board shall be composed of seven members to be appointed by Governor for terms of three years. Five members shall have belonged to Missouri Court Reporters Association for at least five years prior to appointment. One member shall be a lay person and one a licensed attorney.

The Board's duties include the determination of content of examinations for certification, to test applicant's ability and to administer continuing education programs. Applications for certification shall be made to the Board with non-refundable fee. Applicants must be at least eighteen years of age and be of good moral character. Each certified shorthand reporter shall complete at least ten hours of accredited programs annually. Excess hours may be applied to the next year.

JOAN GUMMELS