The proposed bill seeks to enhance transparency in campaign finance in Idaho by amending various sections of the Idaho Code. Key changes include the introduction of definitions for terms such as "Business," "local government office," "measure," "nonbusiness entity," and "political committee." The bill establishes new reporting requirements for non-business entities, political committees, and individuals making independent expenditures, particularly emphasizing that any nonbusiness entity spending over $1,000 must file a detailed statement with the Secretary of State. Additionally, it mandates that signature gatherers disclose their funding sources, and it prohibits anonymous contributions while requiring detailed reporting of corporate donors, including significant shareholders.

The legislative intent is to combat perceptions of quid pro quo corruption and to increase public trust in the electoral process by ensuring accountability in campaign financing. The bill includes provisions that require individuals or entities paying for signature gathering to file statements detailing their payments and the names of significant donors. It also updates the filing process for reports to be conducted online and sets specific timelines for reporting contributions and expenditures. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of remaining provisions if any part is invalidated.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-6602, 67-6606, 67-6607, 67-6610, 67-6611, 67-6612, 67-6614, 67-6621