House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes comprehensive amendments to the Campaign Finance Disclosure Act in Louisiana, aiming to enhance the regulation of campaign financing while safeguarding constitutional rights related to political speech and due process. Key changes include the introduction of leadership committees, updated definitions of contributions and expenditures, and new reporting requirements. The bill raises the threshold for in-kind contributions and expenditures from $25 to $50 and increases the reporting thresholds for candidates and political committees, such as raising the limit for reporting contributions from individuals for major office candidates from $1,000 to $2,000. Additionally, it clarifies that communications from churches are exempt from disclosure unless they advocate for or against a specific candidate.

The bill also modifies the definitions and regulations surrounding political committees, specifying that a "business entity" includes various legal forms and expanding the definition of "loan" to encompass transfers made to political committees. It introduces new terms like "coordinated expenditure" and "joint fundraising agreement," outlining specific conditions for collaborative expenditures. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate financial records and imposes stricter reporting requirements and penalties for non-compliance. Overall, the proposed changes aim to streamline campaign finance regulations, enhance transparency, and ensure accountability in the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
HB596 Original: 18:1483(8), 18:6(C), 18:1(C), 18:2(H)(1), 18:1483(15), 18:1486(C)(1)