MS SB2702

Requires all electioneering communications and public communications advocating for or against candidates or ballot measures to include disclaimers identifying who paid for and authorized the communication

Communications paid for by candidates or ballot measure sponsors must state that fact; communications paid by others but authorized by candidates must identify both the payer and authorizing party

Unauthorized communications must include the name, street address, telephone number, or website of the paying entity and state the communication is not candidate-authorized

Exempts news stories, editorials, organizational newsletters to members, and communications reaching fewer than 500 people from disclaimer requirements

Establishes civil fines of $500 per violation enforced by the Secretary of State, with willful violations punishable as misdemeanors with fines up to $3,000 and/or six months imprisonment; effective July 1, 2016