If enacted, this bill would significantly update current statutes regarding the use of public resources to influence elections. Under existing law, only the Attorney General, county attorney, or a resident of the county where the violation occurred can initiate a lawsuit for such violations. The bill would allow a resident of the respective jurisdiction to file a suit in the superior court of their county and stipulates that penalties collected by the court for a suit initiated by a resident must be paid to that resident. This change aims to incentivize individuals to report violations and enhance accountability. The bill also modifies definitions related to “influence an election” and “influencing the outcomes of elections” to encompass any non-impartial presentation of election-related information. It clarifies that cities, towns, counties, and school districts cannot use resources for election influence, except for distributing neutral informational pamphlets about bond elections. The prohibition extends to promotional expenditures after an election is called and through election day, while allowing for impartial government-sponsored forums or debates. Additionally, it introduces new definitions, clarifies penalties that can exceed $5,000, and ensures that misused public funds are returned to the respective entities, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in the use of public resources during elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-500.14, 11-410, 15-511, 16-192, 35-454, 15-481, 15-491, 15-342
Senate Engrossed Version: 9-500.14, 11-410, 15-511, 16-192, 35-454, 15-481, 15-491, 15-342
House Engrossed Version: 9-500.14, 11-410, 15-511, 16-192, 35-454, 15-481, 15-491, 15-342