The Ohio Anti-Corruption Act, introduced in the 136th General Assembly, aims to amend various sections of the Revised Code concerning campaign finance laws to enhance transparency and accountability. Key changes include a redefined "political party," which must either poll at least three percent in the most recent state election or file a party formation petition. The bill clarifies definitions of "contribution" and "expenditure," and introduces new provisions requiring political contributing entities to maintain separate accounts for funds intended for influencing elections. It also establishes detailed reporting requirements for campaign committees, political action committees, and political parties, mandating timely disclosures of contributions and expenditures, including the names of controlling corporations and details about contributors.

Additionally, the bill imposes stricter regulations on contributions from foreign nationals, explicitly prohibiting them from making any related contributions or expenditures. It replaces the term "continuing association" with "political contributing entity" and aggregates contributions to political action committees associated with a political party with those made to the party itself. The legislation also outlines a competitive selection process for deputy registrar contracts, emphasizing their independence as contractors rather than state employees. Overall, the Ohio Anti-Corruption Act seeks to strengthen the regulatory framework governing campaign finance, ensuring proper reporting and compliance to reduce corruption in the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3517.01, 3517.08, 3517.10, 3517.102, 3517.105, 3517.106, 3517.107, 3517.13, 3599.03, 3921.22, 4503.03