Bill > HB2879

This bill establishes the "Foreign Agents Registration Act" in Missouri, requiring individuals or entities acting as an "agent of a hostile foreign principal" to register with the Missouri Ethics Commission. A "hostile foreign principal" is defined as a government, political party, or entity from a foreign country designated as an adversary by the U.S. Department of Commerce, or any person or organization controlled by such entities. "Political activity" is broadly defined as any action intended to influence Missouri state or local government officials or the public regarding policy, laws, or elections. The bill mandates that these agents file detailed registration statements, including information about their identity, business, the foreign principals they represent, financial dealings, and political activities. Additionally, "foreign-supported political organizations" that have received funds from hostile foreign principals within the last five years must also register and disclose their expenditures and funding sources. The Missouri Ethics Commission will oversee compliance, investigate violations, and can impose penalties ranging from fines to disbarment, with the option to refer cases to the Attorney General. The commission is also empowered to create necessary rules and regulations for the administration of this act.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2879&year=2026&code=R