Bill > HB1351

This bill establishes the "Foreign Agents Registration Act" in Missouri, which requires individuals or entities acting as agents of foreign principals from adversary nations or foreign terrorist organizations to register with the state Attorney General. The bill defines detailed requirements for registration, including comprehensive disclosure of the agent's activities, financial transactions, agreements, and relationships with foreign principals. Agents must file an initial registration statement within ten days of becoming an agent, provide updates every six months, and disclose any changes within ten days. The registration must include specifics about the agent's business, employees, foreign principals, financial transactions, and political activities. The bill imposes significant penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to $100,000, potential expulsion from universities for students who violate the act, and possible referral for removal for non-citizen violators. The act applies to a broad range of activities, including political consulting, public relations, information services, and attempts to influence state officials or policies. Certain exceptions exist, such as for diplomatic officials and lawyers engaged in legal representation. The Attorney General is empowered to investigate potential violations, require additional information, and publish registration details online. The bill aims to increase transparency about foreign influence in Missouri by mandating detailed public reporting of agents representing foreign interests.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1351&year=2025&code=R