Raised Bill No. 5546 seeks to amend campaign finance laws and enhance the recognition of indigenous tribes in state contracting. The bill proposes to repeal and replace subsection (f) of section 9-612 of the general statutes, introducing the term "indigenous tribe" and defining it to include any tribe recognized under subsection (b) of section 47-59a. This change allows indigenous tribes to be excluded from the definitions of "state contractor," "prospective state contractor," and "subcontractor," ensuring they are not subject to the same regulations as other entities involved in state contracts. The bill also clarifies definitions related to state contracts and emphasizes that municipalities and political subdivisions are not considered state contractors or subcontractors. These changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill introduces new regulations regarding contributions from state contractors and prospective contractors, prohibiting individuals with significant ownership or managerial roles in subcontractors, along with their immediate family members, from making or soliciting contributions to political committees associated with state office candidates. Violations could result in contract voiding and a one-year prohibition on new contracts unless mitigating circumstances are determined. The bill mandates that state agencies notify contractors of these prohibitions and requires contractors to certify compliance. Furthermore, it expands permissible expenditures for candidate committees to include personal security and child care services, while updating regulations to enhance transparency and compliance in campaign financing.