MO HB1216

Creates new crime of "false identification to a law enforcement officer" (section 575.045) as a class B misdemeanor for falsely representing oneself to law enforcement during a lawful stop, detention, or arrest.

False identification requires that false information be given while the officer is performing duties and the person knew or should have known the recipient was a law enforcement officer.

Provides affirmative defense if the actor retracts the false statement before the officer or another person takes substantial action in reliance on it, with defendant bearing burden of raising this defense.

Amends section 575.060 to add verbal false statements regarding identity to the definition of "making a false declaration" (also a class B misdemeanor), and updates gender-neutral language throughout statutes.

Updates section 575.070 to require proof of falsity by specific evidentiary standards (two witnesses, one witness with corroboration, demonstrative evidence, contradictory sworn statements, or judicial admission) for convictions under false declaration and false identification statutes.