The proposed General Assembly Substitute Bill No. 7221 seeks to amend Connecticut's campaign finance laws by centralizing the filing requirements for municipal campaign finance statements with the State Elections Enforcement Commission, replacing the previous local town clerk system. Key provisions include the repeal of Sections 9-603 and 9-604, mandating that all statements from party committees, political committees, and candidate committees be filed with the Commission. The bill also introduces new requirements for candidate committee formation, stipulating that candidates must file a committee statement within ten days of declaring candidacy and may be exempt from forming a committee under certain conditions, such as self-funding or limited expenditures. Additionally, the bill establishes a late filing fee and allows for electronic submission of financial disclosure statements, enhancing compliance and oversight.

Further amendments in the bill address the operations of exploratory committees, requiring treasurers to file a notice of intent to dissolve with the State Elections Enforcement Commission within fifteen days of a candidate's declaration. The bill clarifies the roles and responsibilities of treasurers, including the process for designating successors, and updates the filing requirements to ensure all submissions are directed to the Commission. It also introduces new requirements for candidates participating in the Citizens' Election Program, including the submission of an affidavit regarding expenditure limits. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline campaign finance reporting, enhance transparency, and improve regulatory compliance, with many provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675
GAE Joint Favorable: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675
File No. 649: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675
APP Joint Favorable: 9-603, 9-604, 9-624, 9-675