Bill > SB1380

This bill creates new provisions in Missouri law prohibiting lobbyists from receiving compensation from foreign adversaries, their political parties, or their clients. Specifically, the bill defines several key terms, including "foreign adversary" (which includes countries like China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria) and "foreign adversary client" (which encompasses current or former government officials, executives, and their immediate family members from these countries). The legislation requires lobbyists to refrain from accepting any direct or indirect compensation, whether monetary or in-kind, for lobbying activities on behalf of such entities. Lobbyists who violate this provision can face significant penalties, including potential disgorgement of compensation and civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation. The bill also grants the Attorney General broad investigative powers, including the ability to subpoena documents and testimony and file civil actions to enforce compliance. The purpose of this legislation appears to be preventing foreign governments or entities from influencing state-level political processes through lobbying activities, with a particular focus on potential interference from nations deemed adversarial to U.S. interests.

Government Affairs

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=352