MO SB796

Prohibits compensation for collecting signatures based on the number of signatures obtained, but allows fixed-rate compensation not tied to signature quantity.

Requires petition circulators to be at least 18 years old, registered with the secretary of state, and ineligible if convicted of forgery or equivalent offenses in any jurisdiction.

Establishes that circulators must submit personal information and oath to the secretary of state affirming they have not been convicted of forgery and will not accept per-signature compensation.

Creates new "sponsoring signatures" requirement where initiative petitioners must submit 1,000 to 2,000 verified voter signatures within 45 days of form approval before full petition circulation can begin.

Increases criminal penalties for petition-related fraud to class A misdemeanor with up to one year imprisonment or $10,000 fine, including falsely swearing circulator affidavits or accepting money for signatures.