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SB 1791

SB 1791 - This act prohibits candidates for state office from making contributions to their own candidate committee in excess of the contribution limitation applicable to the elective office sought that is applicable pursuant to the Constitution. This act is identical to a provision in SCS/HCS/HB 1788 (2026). SCOTT SVAGERA

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Cierpiot

SB 1791 caps how much personal money Missouri candidates can contribute to their own campaigns, aiming to reduce wealthy candidate advantages while raising free speech concerns.

Second Read and Referred S Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1791

Legislative bill overview

SB 1791 establishes contribution limits restricting how much money self-funded candidates can contribute to their own campaigns in Missouri elections. The bill sets caps on personal funds candidates may use to finance their own political campaigns, a departure from current law that generally allows unlimited self-funding.

Why is this important

Self-funding allows wealthy candidates to bypass traditional fundraising and potentially gain significant electoral advantages through personal wealth. Contribution limits on self-funded candidates could level the playing field for candidates with fewer personal resources, though they also raise free speech concerns about candidates' ability to spend their own money on their own campaigns.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Courts have previously struck down limits on candidates' personal campaign spending (Citizens United era jurisprudence), making constitutional challenges likely
  • Competitive disadvantage for wealthy candidates: Limits may unfairly restrict candidates' ability to compete using legitimate personal resources while other funding mechanisms remain unlimited
  • Enforcement complexity: Determining what constitutes "self-funding" versus coordinated spending or loans requires clear definitions and administrative oversight

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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