S.B. No. 2035 aims to strengthen the regulation of political committees involved in ballot measures by prohibiting contributions and expenditures from foreign nationals. The bill requires these committees to submit an affidavit with their campaign treasurer appointment, certifying that they have not received funding from foreign nationals for preliminary activities related to the ballot measure. It also defines "foreign national" and outlines prohibited actions, such as soliciting or accepting contributions from foreign nationals or entities with significant foreign funding. Violations of these provisions are classified as Class B misdemeanors, and civil penalties can be imposed, amounting to twice the value of the contributions or expenditures in question. The attorney general is empowered to enforce these regulations through civil actions and can seek injunctive relief to prevent further violations.

Additionally, the bill introduces measures to protect donor identities for nonprofit organizations while enhancing transparency in political campaign financing. Investigations into alleged donation law violations must maintain donor confidentiality, with public servants prohibited from disclosing donor identities unless a violation is confirmed, classifying such violations as Class A misdemeanors. The bill also amends the Election Code to require political committees to affirm that they have not solicited or accepted contributions from foreign nationals and mandates the disclosure of any contributions from foreign nationals or entities with significant foreign funding. These changes will take effect for campaign treasurer appointments and reports filed after September 1, 2025, ensuring that prior filings remain under existing laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51.014, Chapter , Election Code 253.206 (Chapter , Election Code 253, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51)
Senate Committee Report: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51.014, Chapter , Election Code 253.206 (Chapter , Election Code 253, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51)
Engrossed: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51.014, Chapter , Election Code 253.206 (Chapter , Election Code 253, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51)
House Committee Report: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51.014, Chapter , Election Code 253.206 (Chapter , Election Code 253, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 51)