Commission refers Kunstler's petition on online sponsor ID to staff for study

Petitioner Joe Kunstler urged the commission to require clearer sponsor identification on social media political ads, arguing current templates and platform constraints allow sponsors to avoid transparent disclosure. Staff reviewed existing guidance and the 'one‑click' approach that permits a link to a landing page with full sponsor identification when templates are too small.

Commissioners heard public comment and staff analysis and concluded that while the petition raised valid concerns, the commission should study the matter and consider rulemaking or guidance rather than immediately adopt the petition's requirements. The commission voted to deny the petition as submitted and asked staff to report back with options for rulemaking, guidance, or other approaches to improve sponsor identification on online platforms.