The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, titled the "Safeguarding Election Candidates Using Reasonable Expenditures Act," to Title 17 of the General Laws concerning elections. This act authorizes candidates and elected officials to use campaign funds for security-related expenses, including the purchase, installation, maintenance, and upgrade of home and office security systems, as well as ongoing monitoring, in response to threats arising from their public service or candidacy.

The act defines key terms such as "campaign funds," "immediate family," and "security expenses." It allows candidates to use up to $10,000 per individual and campaign cycle for verified security expenses. However, it prohibits the use of campaign funds for the purchase of firearms or ammunition, payments to family members or entities they own or control, and unrelated home improvements.

All security-related expenditures must be reasonably related to security risks and reported to the state campaign finance agency in accordance with existing rules governing disbursement of campaign funds. These expenditures must be supported by itemized receipts or invoices and are subject to public disclosure under applicable campaign finance laws, although specific threat documentation or law enforcement verification is not required.

The board of elections is tasked with adopting rules and regulations necessary to implement and enforce this chapter, including standardized reporting formats and audit procedures. The act is set to take effect upon passage.