Substitute Bill No. 7246 proposes significant amendments to campaign finance laws, enhancing the authority of the State Elections Enforcement Commission and introducing new regulations for candidate committees. Key changes include the repeal and replacement of definitions in section 9-601, particularly for "organization expenditure" and "solicit," with the new definition of "organization expenditure" allowing for electronic sharing of candidate-related content. The bill expands the definition of "solicit" to exclude activities like sharing links to fundraising events by party committees. It also mandates disclaimers on communications promoting candidates, requiring clear identification of the source and approval of messages, and sets new rules for advertising, including personal audio statements from candidates in radio and internet ads.

Additionally, the bill revises the requirements for independent expenditures, reduces the percentage of candidate committees subject to audits, and establishes new guidelines for the return of non-qualifying contributions. It introduces a presumption of truthfulness for contribution certification forms and mandates online broadcasting of commission meetings. The appointment process for the commission's executive director is also restructured, requiring General Assembly consent. The bill clarifies the definition of "contribution," increases limits on allowable contributions for political events, and outlines exemptions for certain campaign-related activities. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and integrity in campaign financing while ensuring compliance with updated regulations.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-7b
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 9-7b