Substitute Senate Bill No. 1405, also known as Public Act No. 25-26, aims to modernize campaign finance laws and enhance the powers of the State Elections Enforcement Commission, with an effective date of July 1, 2025. The bill redefines "organization expenditure" to encompass new forms of digital communication, allowing for the electronic sharing of content by candidate and party committees. It expands the definition of "solicit" to include electronic fundraising activities and introduces new disclaimer requirements for campaign communications, particularly for text messages. The bill also mandates that candidate advertisements include a photographic image of the candidate and a printed approval statement, while removing the previous requirement for a personal audio message. Additionally, it revises the auditing process, reducing the percentage of candidate committees subject to random audits and ensuring all statewide candidate committees are audited.

Further amendments include adjustments to campaign contribution limits, setting the maximum individual contribution at $250 and allowing biennial adjustments based on the consumer price index. The bill also clarifies the requirements for contributions exceeding $50 and modifies the definition of "contribution" to increase monetary thresholds for certain types of contributions. It establishes a structured process for the appointment of the executive director of the State Elections Enforcement Commission and enhances transparency by requiring annual reports on the commission's activities. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve accountability in campaign financing while adapting to the evolving landscape of digital communication and fundraising practices.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-7b
GOS Joint Favorable: 9-7b
File No. 489: 9-7b
APP Joint Favorable: 9-7b
Public Act No. 25-26: 9-7b