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Mo. state senate backs new robocall limits

The Missouri Senate has passed legislation that would forbid automated phone calls known as "robocalls" from going to numbers on the state's no-call list.

The Senate backed the legislation in a 32-0 vote Thursday. It now goes to the House.

Political phone calls would be exempt from the new rule. But those political calls would have to include a statement saying which candidate or campaign paid for it.

People or groups who violate those rules could face a fine of up $5,000 for each violation.

Sponsoring Sen. Scott Rupp, a Wentzville Republican, says political calls can't be banned because that could interfere with a candidate's First Amendment right to free speech. But he says people should know which campaign is responsible for the call.

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