Richard West — Richard West introduced the bill, explained that House Amendment 1 was only a cleanup amendment that did not change the bill’s function, and later clarified that the amendment made no material changes—just minor wording edits—while responding to questions and yielding during the discussion.
Richard West — Made an announcement about the Future Caucus AI meeting.
Gregg Bush — Gregg Bush and another member were recognized in sequence to question the bill sponsor about the amendment and bill language. Bush asked what language needed cleanup, noted he could not tell what was materially different and wanted to ensure nothing was missing, and the Boone member then expressed appreciation for the bill’s intent while raising concerns about how the proposal would work in practice, including recurring donations to parties.
Matthew Overcast — Matthew Overcast discussed the bill’s treatment of recurring donations, asking how to tell when an issue ends at an election and noting that donations tied to an issue or candidate must end with the election. He raised a First Amendment concern but then supported the bill, citing a Missouri case involving deceptive campaign contribution practices by a gubernatorial candidate. He argued that affirmative consent and clear disclosure are the right standards, described the conduct as fraud, and emphasized the need for clear cancellation instructions and receipts. He also praised another representative for being instrumental in improving the bill.
Mike McGirl — Mike McGirl was recognized to close on House Amendment 1, then continued discussing the bill, thanked the committee and prior speaker for their suggestions, and renewed his motion for adoption/perfection and printing of House Committee Substitute for House Bill 1788 as amended.