The bill amends the campaign finance act and the state governmental ethics law, primarily enhancing the enforcement authority of the governmental ethics commission. It establishes that multiple reasonable interpretations of any provision should favor the rights of freedom of speech and assembly as guaranteed by the U.S. and Kansas constitutions. The commission is restricted from making law or interpreting provisions through adjudicative decisions, and advisory opinions issued after July 1, 2024, will not be considered precedential, except for compliance presumption or consistency in penalties. Key amendments include redesignating the Kansas commission on governmental standards and conduct to the governmental ethics commission, removing eligibility restrictions for commission members, and repealing several existing statutes to streamline the legal framework.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions and updates reporting requirements for political committees and treasurers, increasing the contribution reporting threshold from $50 to $150 and mandating electronic filing for state-wide candidates. It introduces new provisions for political advertising disclosures and establishes penalties for excessive charges. The bill also outlines procedures for witness testimony and subpoenas, including the requirement for notice of rights and the expiration of subpoenas after six months unless enforced by a district court. It modifies penalties for violations, allowing civil fines based on the number of offenses, and removes restrictions on candidacy for individuals with unpaid penalties. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and the protection of constitutional rights in campaign finance practices in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 25-4119a, 25-4119d, 25-4142, 25-4153b, 25-4189, 25-4143, 25-4148, 25-4156, 25-4158, 25-4181, 22-3415, 46-214a, 46-237a, 46-254, 25-4119g, 25-4148a