Substitute Senate Bill No. 1168 seeks to amend existing campaign finance regulations, particularly focusing on political contributions made through online fundraising platforms. The bill repeals subsection (b) of section 9-601a and introduces new definitions and exemptions for what constitutes a "contribution." It clarifies that contributions do not include certain forms of support, such as loans from banks, nonpartisan voter registration efforts, volunteer services, and specific donations of food or property, while also establishing monetary limits on these exemptions. Additionally, the bill allows for the donation of food or beverages for events, capped at fifty dollars, and permits the use of personal property and services for campaign purposes, with a limit of one hundred dollars.

Moreover, the bill amends the definition of "expenditure" and outlines new exemptions, particularly regarding endorsements made by unopposed candidates and voluntary payments to online platforms for operational costs. It repeals and replaces subsection (b) of section 9-601b, retaining certain exemptions while specifying limits on contributions like food and beverages provided to candidates. The bill also mandates that online platforms must secure affirmative consent from contributors before enrolling them in recurring contributions, ensuring that passive actions do not suffice for consent. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance transparency and accountability in campaign finance while protecting contributors from unintended charges.