General Assembly Substitute Bill No. 1409 proposes significant amendments to municipal campaign finance laws, primarily focusing on the filing requirements for political committees and candidates. The bill repeals Sections 9-603 and 9-604, mandating that all financial statements from party committees, political committees, and candidate committees be submitted to the State Elections Enforcement Commission instead of local town clerks. It expands the definition of public office to include town committee members and clarifies the filing process for candidates exempt from forming a candidate committee, such as those financing their campaigns entirely from personal funds or with expenditures not exceeding $1,000. Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for late filings and establishes a web-based program for electronic submission of registration and financial statements, enhancing compliance and oversight.

The legislation also updates the requirements for exploratory committees, stipulating that treasurers must file a notice of intent to dissolve with the State Elections Enforcement Commission within fifteen days of a candidate's declaration of intent. It revises the designation process for treasurers of party committees and mandates that candidates seeking nomination or election file an affidavit with the State Elections Enforcement Commission. The bill introduces the term "nonparticipating candidate" for those opting out of the Citizens' Election Program and specifies that candidates must file certifications regarding the use of funds from the Citizens' Election Fund. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the campaign finance process, enhance transparency, and improve accountability in the electoral system, with an effective date set for January 1, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675
GOS Joint Favorable: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675
File No. 493: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675
APP Joint Favorable: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675