Substitute Senate Bill No. 1406 seeks to enhance the regulation of online platforms that facilitate contributions to political committees and expand the jurisdiction of the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) over voting in special taxing districts. Key provisions include the requirement for online platforms to obtain explicit consent from contributors before enrolling them in automatically recurring contributions, ensuring that passive actions do not constitute consent. The bill also introduces a definition for "volunteer" and clarifies exemptions related to contributions, such as those for food and beverages at events and advertising space purchases. Additionally, it repeals and replaces certain subsections of existing statutes to streamline definitions and clarify the scope of contributions and expenditures.

The bill further strengthens the SEEC's investigatory powers, allowing it to investigate complaints from eligible voters regarding election law violations and to impose civil penalties for such violations. It mandates the hiring of additional staff to support these efforts and expands the Commission's authority to issue orders for the return of prohibited contributions and revoke eligibility for election officials. The bill also updates terminology related to voting processes and modifies quorum requirements for district meetings. Overall, sSB1406 aims to improve the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process in Connecticut while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-7b, 7-327
GOS Joint Favorable: 9-7b, 7-327
File No. 490: 9-7b, 7-327