Substitute House Bill No. 6911 (File No. 637) proposes amendments to section 9-610 of the general statutes, effective from October 1, 2023, concerning the prohibition on contributions or solicitations by lobbyists. The bill introduces a definition for "municipal office" and removes the phrase "to the contrary" for clarity on when lobbyists and political committees are restricted from making or soliciting contributions during legislative sessions. It also specifies that candidates or political committees cannot accept contributions from lobbyists or lobbyist-affiliated committees during these periods, with exceptions for special elections and exploratory committees. Additionally, the bill requires political committees to register with the State Elections Enforcement Commission to avoid contribution prohibitions and establishes an absolute defense for lobbyists or treasurers acting in good faith based on provided lists.

The bill also addresses the management of surplus funds by exploratory committees, stating that any surplus must be distributed to the candidate committee with restrictions, especially for those intending to participate in the Citizens' Election Program. Surpluses from exploratory committees for offices other than the General Assembly or a state office are limited by contributions from lobbyists or lobbyist PACs during prohibited periods, with the remainder to be returned or donated to charity. Furthermore, the prohibition on contributions and solicitations by lobbyists and lobbyist PACs is extended to include candidate or exploratory committees for municipal offices established by legislators or state officers. The bill makes technical changes, including updating terminology for gender neutrality, and is set to take effect on October 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
File No. 637: 9-610, 9-608