The bill amends the Charitable Solicitations Act in New Mexico to strengthen the regulatory framework governing professional fundraisers and third-party solicitors. It mandates that these entities register with the attorney general prior to contracting with charitable organizations, pay a registration fee, and provide detailed operational and personnel information. A new definition for "third-party solicitor" is introduced, and contracts with charitable organizations must clearly specify compensation terms, authority, and solicitation campaign details. The bill also aims to prevent deceptive fundraising practices by requiring accurate representations regarding contributions and mandates that fundraisers maintain detailed records and submit regular financial reports to the organizations they represent.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for demands made by the attorney general during investigations, specifying requirements for the subject matter, requested information, compliance timelines, and inspection dates. It prohibits unreasonable demands and requests for privileged information, while allowing for financial audits by independent accountants for relevant entities. The district court is given the authority to order the production of documentary material for inspection by individuals beyond the attorney general's authorized employees, and it allows for petitions to modify or set aside demands. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations of the Charitable Solicitations Act, ensuring that these provisions do not interfere with criminal prosecutions.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 57-22-2, 57-22-3, 57-22-6.1, 57-22-6.3, 57-22-6.4, 57-22-9.1