This bill amends existing law to allow candidates for state office and current state officeholders to utilize campaign funds for security measures. Specifically, it introduces a new section, RSA 664:11-a, which stipulates that campaign funds may be used to cover reasonable costs associated with security measures for the candidates, their families, and campaign employees. The bill clarifies that such expenditures will not be classified as personal use, provided that the security measures address specific threats or dangers related to their status as candidates or officeholders. The bill outlines what constitutes "usual and normal charge" for goods and services and lists various types of security measures that can be funded, including non-structural and structural security devices, professional security personnel, cybersecurity solutions, and related training.
The bill also includes a provision that it will take effect 60 days after its passage. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the safety of individuals involved in state politics by allowing them to allocate campaign resources towards necessary security measures, thereby addressing the growing concerns regarding threats faced by public officials.