US appeals court OKs some WV election ad rules - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

US appeals court OKs some WV election ad rules

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CHARLESTON (AP) — A federal appeal court says West Virginians have a right to know more about who's behind certain political ads.

Friday's decision from the 4th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals restores several campaign finance rules struck down earlier by a U.S. District Court judge.

These rules address ads from individuals or groups other than candidates or political action committees.

One rule calls on such independent advertisers to disclose their donors. Another requires disclosure when ads expressly advocate for or against a candidate even if they don't use so-called magic words to urge voter action.

Friday's decision also suggests that West Virginia could regulate ads beyond those on TV or radio that appear close to Election Day.

The three-judge panel ruled unanimously in a challenge brought by the Center for Individual Freedom.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.