The proposed bill aims to amend existing laws regarding the disclosure of campaign financing and to prohibit foreign funding for ballot measures in Arkansas. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining public confidence in elections and preventing foreign influence. The bill introduces new definitions and requirements, including the term "prohibited sources," which encompasses foreign nationals and entities that may contribute to campaign financing. It mandates that ballot question committees and legislative question committees affirm they have not accepted contributions from these prohibited sources, particularly those exceeding $10,000 within a specified timeframe.

Additionally, the bill outlines enforcement mechanisms for violations of the foreign funding ban, allowing the Attorney General to take civil action against offenders. It includes provisions for donor certification, ensuring that contributions are not sourced from foreign nationals or prohibited entities. The legislation also emphasizes the protection of donor privacy, restricting the collection and disclosure of donor information by governmental bodies unless related to violations of the new provisions. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance transparency in campaign financing while safeguarding the electoral process from foreign interference.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1837 Original - 3-18-2025 02:35 PM: 7-6-201, 7-6-220(b), 7-9-402, 7-9-407(2)
Old version HB1837 V2 - 4-3-2025 11:33 AM: 7-6-201, 7-6-220(b), 7-9-402, 7-9-407(2)
Old version HB1837 V3 - 4-9-2025 02:02 PM: 7-6-201, 7-6-220(b), 7-9-402, 7-9-407(2)
HB 1837: 7-6-201, 7-6-220(b), 7-9-402, 7-9-407(2)
Act 999: 7-6-201, 7-6-220(b), 7-9-402, 7-9-407(2)