The bill introduces a new chapter, titled "Safeguarding Election Candidates Using Reasonable Expenditures Act," to Title 17 of the General Laws concerning elections. This chapter authorizes candidates and elected officials to use campaign funds for security-related expenses, including the purchase, installation, maintenance, and upgrade of physical security equipment, 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 specifies that candidates may use up to $10,000 per individual and campaign cycle for physical security equipment. 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.

The bill outlines a verification and documentation process for these expenditures, requiring candidates to determine that security expenses are reasonably related to security risks to themselves and their immediate family. All expenditures must be reported to the state campaign finance agency in accordance with rules governing non-campaign disbursements, supported by itemized receipts or invoices, and are subject to public disclosure under applicable campaign finance laws, with the exception of plans, designs, or schematics. No documentation of a specific threat or law enforcement verification is required.

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