Bill > HB794

This bill creates several new provisions related to election administration and campaign finance in Missouri, focusing on restricting foreign influence in elections. The bill establishes detailed requirements for election challengers and watchers, including that party chairs must provide signed official designation forms to local election authorities at least four business days before the election and allows for challenger and watcher substitutions. It introduces significant restrictions on accepting funds or in-kind goods for election administration from non-governmental sources, particularly foreign nationals. The legislation defines specific terms like "foreign national" and "prohibited sources" and requires committees and individuals making ballot measure expenditures to obtain and provide affirmations that they have not accepted funds from prohibited sources. The bill also establishes a robust enforcement mechanism through the Attorney General's office, including civil investigative demands, potential civil actions, and penalties for violations, which can include refunding contributions, disgorging funds, and statutory damages up to twice the amount of prohibited contributions. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect donor privacy during investigations and sets specific procedural requirements for legal proceedings involving potential violations. Violations can result in financial penalties, injunctive relief, and potential personal liability for committee directors and officers.

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https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB794&year=2025&code=R