The proposed bill amends Title 74 of the Idaho Code by introducing a new Chapter 3, "Campaign Finance Transparency," which aims to enhance transparency in campaign financing. Key provisions include prohibiting foreign contributions, independent expenditures, and electioneering communications, while establishing requirements for commercial reporting and mandating that reports be certified by the Secretary of State. Candidates and political action committees (PACs) are required to appoint political treasurers, maintain detailed records of contributions and expenditures, and disclose the sources of contributions. The bill also sets specific contribution limits based on the office sought and introduces penalties for violations, including civil fines and potential felony charges for significant infractions.

Additionally, the bill includes the "Freedom from AI-Rigged (FAIR) Elections Act," which addresses the use of synthetic media in political communications, allowing candidates to seek legal remedies against misleading representations created through such media. It mandates that all individuals and organizations making electioneering communications or independent expenditures file reports with the Secretary of State, including political party committees and caucuses. The bill also revises definitions within the campaign finance framework, clarifying the roles of county clerks and the Secretary of State in enforcing these provisions. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen the regulatory framework surrounding campaign finance and lobbying in Idaho, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-6602, 67-6621, 67-6625, 19-5904, 19-6004, 44-2602, 44-2605, 50-2006, 50-2005, 67-5282, 72-1503