MO SB737

Repeals and replaces section 575.021, RSMo to establish the crime of obstruction of an ethics investigation involving violations of sections 105.450 to 105.496 and chapter 130.

Makes it unlawful to offer or accept anything of pecuniary benefit in direct exchange for concealing or withholding information about ethics violations.

Criminalizes knowingly uttering or submitting false statements and inaccurate writings or documentation to Missouri ethics commission members, employees, or officials investigating ethics violations.

Provides an affirmative defense allowing retraction of false statements or inaccurate documentation, except when the falsity was exposed or the ethics commission already took substantial action relying on the statement.

Classifies obstruction of an ethics investigation as a class A misdemeanor with defendant bearing the burden of proving the retraction defense.