Opinion ID: 2545099
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 15

Heading: Elected v. Appointed Felons

Text: Finally, Young argues section 115.350 creates an additional unequal classification in that it treats Missouri felons who run for elective office differently from Missouri felons who are appointed to public office. As an example, Young cites language from section 561.021.2 that disqualifies Missouri felons, whether they hold elective or appointive office, until the completion of their sentences or periods of probation. Young's argument fails because he cannot demonstrate these classes of felons are similarly situated. There is a clear distinction between being elected to public office by the citizens of the state and being appointed to an office by an appointing authority that ostensibly performs a vetting process to determine the qualification of its appointees. Young failed to demonstrate section 115.350 violates the equal protection laws under the United States or Missouri Constitution. Young's third point is denied.