The proposed General Assembly Substitute Bill No. 1409 seeks to amend Connecticut's campaign finance laws by centralizing the filing of campaign finance statements with the State Elections Enforcement Commission, replacing the previous requirement for certain committees to file with local town clerks. The bill repeals and replaces Section 9-603, mandating that all party committees, political committees, and candidate committees submit their statements to the State Elections Enforcement Commission. It also clarifies that political committees formed for slates of candidates in primaries for the office of justice of the peace must file with the same commission. Additionally, the bill modifies Section 9-604, requiring candidates to form a single candidate committee and file a statement within ten days of declaring candidacy, with specific exemptions for certain candidates.

Further amendments include the introduction of electronic submission for financial disclosure statements for committees and candidates raising or spending over $1,000, along with a web-based program for compliance. The bill establishes new filing deadlines and introduces late fees for non-compliance, while allowing for waivers in certain municipalities. It also clarifies the responsibilities of treasurers regarding the filing of statements and the handling of surplus funds. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in campaign finance reporting and management in Connecticut.

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