The bill amends existing Arkansas campaign finance laws to enhance transparency regarding the influence of hostile foreign entities in political activities. It introduces a new subchapter requiring representatives of hostile foreign principals to register with the Secretary of State and disclose their activities. The bill defines "hostile foreign principal" as entities from specific nations, including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, and mandates that these representatives file registration statements detailing their business information and political activities. Additionally, foreign-supported political organizations must register annually and report any financial contributions received from hostile foreign entities.

The bill also updates the Arkansas Ethics Commission's authority to investigate violations related to campaign finance and citizen complaints. It includes provisions for penalties for non-compliance with the new registration and reporting requirements, allowing the Secretary of State to impose fines for violations. The amendments aim to ensure that voters and policymakers are informed about the potential influence of foreign interests on local and state political processes, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in campaign finance.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1800 Original - 3-17-2025 09:23 AM: 7-6-217(g), 7-6-218(a), 7-6-218(b)
Old version HB1800 V2 - 4-1-2025 10:18 AM: 7-6-217(g), 7-6-218(a), 7-6-218(b)
Old version HB1800 V3 - 4-8-2025 04:49 PM: 7-6-217(g), 7-6-218(a), 7-6-218(b)
HB 1800: 7-6-217(g), 7-6-218(a), 7-6-218(b)
Act 998: 7-6-217(g), 7-6-218(a), 7-6-218(b)