The bill amends various sections of the Rhode Island General Laws related to campaign contributions and expenditures, focusing on enhancing transparency and accountability in campaign finance. Key definitions are clarified, including "candidate," "candidate committee," "political action committee," and "political party committee," while the definition of "accounts payable" is expanded to include credit extended to candidate committees, political action committees, and political party committees.

The bill introduces new reporting requirements for campaign treasurers, mandating accurate record-keeping and reporting of contributions and expenditures. It requires treasurers to submit notices for significant disbursements to controlling persons and emphasizes that any report filed must include expenditures or disbursements made on behalf of the reporting person by an agent or independent contractor. Additionally, if the electronic campaign finance reporting system is capable, the state board of elections must provide online public access to such information.

The bill establishes limitations on contributions, stating that all contributions made by political committees established, financed, maintained, or controlled by the same person or group shall be considered as made by a single political committee. It prohibits self-dealing with committee funds, explicitly banning the use of contributions for personal benefits of controlling persons, and outlines specific prohibited uses of campaign funds.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits donations made in fictitious names and establishes penalties for violations of these provisions, including fines and potential misdemeanor charges for willful violations. Overall, these amendments aim to strengthen the regulatory framework governing campaign finance in Rhode Island.

Statutes affected:
7450: 17-25.3-1