The Vermont Voting Rights Act, as proposed in S.298, introduces several amendments aimed at enhancing the transparency and management of candidate disclosure forms. Notably, the bill replaces the existing Section 4 of 17 V.S.A. 2414 with new provisions that require the State Ethics Commission to provide resources and support to candidates regarding the completion and submission of disclosure forms. This includes making the disclosure form and frequently asked questions available on their website. Additionally, the Office of the Secretary of State is tasked with linking to these resources from its own web page.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new Section 4a, which mandates a report from the State Ethics Commission and the Secretary of State's Office by January 30, 2027, detailing recommendations for managing candidate disclosure forms. It also amends the definition of a political committee in Section 4b of 17 V.S.A. 2901 to clarify that such committees can accept contributions and make expenditures in support of candidates or public questions during election cycles. These changes aim to improve the electoral process and ensure candidates are well-informed about their disclosure obligations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 17-2569, 17-2570
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 17-2569, 17-2570, 17-35, 17-2901
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 17-35, 17-2901
Senate proposal of amendment to House proposal of amendment Official: 17-2901
Senate proposal of amendment to House proposal of amendment Unofficial: 17-2901