MO HB1749

Prohibits compensating petition circulators based on the number of signatures obtained, though flat-fee compensation is permitted.

Requires petition circulators to be at least 18 years old, registered with the secretary of state, and bars those convicted of forgery-related offenses from serving as circulators.

Establishes a "sponsoring signatures" requirement where initiative petitioners must submit 1,000-2,000 verified voter signatures within 45 days of petition form approval before general circulation can begin.

Changes petition form approval timeline from 30 days to 15 days for the secretary of state to notify petitioners of approval or rejection decisions.

Creates new criminal penalties including class A misdemeanor charges for false sworn statements by circulators, signing another's name on petitions, and accepting money for petition signatures.