MO HB763

Creates new section 115.850 establishing the "Political Accountability in Campaigning Act" to regulate false statements in political campaigns.

Prohibits candidates from knowingly publicizing false statements of material fact in political advertisements referring to statewide or general assembly candidates after filing for office; "material fact" defined as a verifiable proposition that is not embedded in opinion-based content.

Violations must be proven by clear and compelling evidence and are punishable by damages limited to the lesser of: the cost to adequately inform the public of the false fact or $20,000 per violation.

Candidates may avoid penalties by retracting false statements through the same media within 14 days of the false statement and at least 14 days before an election.

Allows prosecutors, the attorney general, and any eligible voter to bring enforcement suits; damages from state officials go to schools under Missouri Constitution Article IX, Section 7, while damages from voter suits go to the plaintiff.