This bill amends existing laws concerning political expenditures and contributions by introducing new definitions and regulations for coordinated and independent expenditures. It expands the definition of "contribution" to include "coordinated expenditure," clarifying that a "coordinated expenditure" is distinct from an "independent expenditure." The legislation establishes a new maximum expenditure limit for political advocacy committees to enhance transparency and accountability in political financing. It also defines "coordinated expenditure" and outlines the conditions under which expenditures are deemed coordinated, including the flow of information between parties and candidates, and specifies that coordinated expenditures encompass the republication of campaign materials and expenditures made with instructions from candidates or political parties.

Furthermore, the bill introduces regulations regarding the relationship between spenders and candidates or parties, stating that expenditures involving former employees or common agents are not considered coordinated if an effective firewall is implemented. This firewall must include measures such as staff separation and documentation of the policy. The bill also amends existing laws on political contributions by deleting previous limits and establishing new maximum contribution amounts: $15,000 for candidates or candidate committees and $30,000 for political advocacy organizations and other political committees or parties. It repeals RSA 664:4, V, which previously regulated political contributions by committees or organizations, and will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 664:2, 664:4