Committee hears bill to ban deceptive recurring political donations and require clearer disclosure

Representative Jim Murphy told the House Elections Committee that House Bill 17‑88 would target deceptive recurring online fundraising practices that automatically enroll donors into ongoing charges and obscure who receives the funds.

"If you're going to go out and solicit campaign, through the mail or other electronic means, you have to state on there who is going to actually benefit from this," Murphy said, explaining that the bill would prohibit automatic recurring charges without affirmative consent and require clear disclosure of the beneficiary of any solicitation.

Supporters said the bill is aimed at consumer protection. Several members urged clarifying language to allow a lawful opt‑in for donors who want to give recurring gifts while prohibiting deceptive pre‑checked boxes and ensuring an easy opt‑out. Representative Woods pointed to Maryland law as a model for requiring affirmative consent.

Committee members asked technical and jurisdictional questions, including how the bill would apply to PACs and whether it could regulate federal campaign solicitations (Representative Engel noted state law cannot reach federal campaigns; Murphy acknowledged that limitation). Members also discussed remedies to recover funds and potential enforcement through the Missouri Ethics Commission or other remedies.

Arnie C., the state public advocate, told the committee the bill is overdue and urged passage to protect Missouri citizens from scams and misleading fundraising schemes. No final action was taken at the hearing; the sponsor said he is open to amendments and expects committee work to continue before a vote.