Designates every August 19th as "Eddie Gaedel Day" in Missouri
Summary
SB 799 is a commemorative bill that designates August 19 of each year as "Eddie Gaedel Day" in Missouri. The bill honors Eddie Gaedel, who played for the St. Louis Browns on August 19, 1951 and is recognized as the shortest player ever to appear in Major League Baseball. It states that Gaedel is an important figure in both baseball history and Missouri sports history, and it encourages Missouri citizens to participate in events and activities celebrating his contributions.
The measure does not create a regulatory program, tax change, or enforcement mechanism. Instead, it adds a new section to Chapter 9 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri establishing an annual observance and placing the designation into state law. Its practical effect is limited to official recognition and public commemoration, with no direct legal obligations imposed on individuals, businesses, or government agencies.
Impact
SB 799 would amend Chapter 9, RSMo, by adding section 9.292 to formally recognize August 19 as Eddie Gaedel Day. The bill affects state law only by creating a new commemorative designation and encouraging public observance; it does not alter substantive rights, duties, or funding requirements for any state agency or private party.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes, the overall sentiment appears neutral to favorable. The bill is framed as a tribute to a notable Missouri baseball figure and a piece of sports history, suggesting a ceremonial measure likely intended to be noncontroversial and celebratory.
Contention
No specific points of contention are shown in the available materials. Because there are no committee transcripts or recorded votes, there is no evidence of opposition, amendments, or debate over policy impacts. Any discussion would likely center on the appropriateness of creating another state commemorative day rather than on substantive legal effects.