The proposed bill amends the Michigan Campaign Finance Act by adding Section 30a, which establishes restrictions on contributions to committees of judges and supreme court justices. Specifically, it prohibits individuals from making contributions if they are parties to legal matters pending before the judge or justice. Additionally, independent or political committees that are primarily funded by members of a limited liability company (LLC) are also barred from contributing if the LLC or its officers are involved in pending legal matters before the judge or justice. The bill further requires these committees to disclose their funding sources and any relevant affiliations when making contributions.

Violations of these provisions carry significant penalties, including misdemeanors punishable by up to one year of imprisonment or fines up to three times the amount of the prohibited contribution. The bill also holds judges, justices, and their committee treasurers accountable for accepting such contributions, with similar penalties for failing to return prohibited contributions within seven days. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of the judicial election process by preventing conflicts of interest related to campaign contributions.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 169.201, 169.282