A Missouri bill would require lobbyists to report sexual relationships they have with lawmakers or their staff.
The legislation filed this week defines those sexual relations as "gifts," which lobbyists would have to regularly report to the Missouri Ethics Commission.
Republican sponsor Rep. Bart Korman says taxpayers should know about those relationships. He says the relationships could lead to influence.
The measure is one of a number of bills that would change ethics laws. Legislative leaders say that's a priority this session after two former lawmakers accused of inappropriate behavior toward interns resigned in 2015.
The bill by Korman, of High Hill, would exclude sexual relationships between married couples. Relationships that begin before an individual becomes a lobbyist or serves as a lawmaker or staff member also would be exempt.
