Bill would require legal last names on candidate filing

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Missouri House is considering requiring a political hopeful's legal last name when they declare their candidacy for office.

House members this past week gave the proposal initial approval in a voice vote. It could come up for a final House vote in the next week.

If passed, it would require candidates to provide their last names from birth certificates or from legal name changes on filings.

Supporters have argued in committee the measure would help prevent confusion from use of nicknames, or if candidates use identical or similar names as incumbents. Proponents also say it could make it easier for voters to look up candidates on online court records.