Assembly Bill 1220 aims to amend existing laws regarding the coordination of expenditures for mass communications in political campaigns. The bill prohibits political action committees (PACs), independent expenditure committees (IECs), and other individuals from making expenditures for mass communications that are coordinated with candidates or their agents, legislative campaign committees, or political parties, in violation of contribution limits and source restrictions. It introduces new definitions for "mass communication," "mass distribution," "mass electronic communication," and "mass telephoning," while eliminating the previous definition of coordination for express advocacy expenditures.

The bill specifies that an expenditure for express advocacy is considered coordinated if there is substantial discussion or negotiation between the candidate or their representatives and the entity making the expenditure regarding various aspects of the communication. Additionally, it establishes reporting requirements for those making disbursements for mass communications, including details about coordination with candidates. The bill also creates a new section that outlines the restrictions on expenditures for mass communications during the 60 days leading up to an election, particularly those that reference clearly identified candidates.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 11.1203(title), 11.1203, 11.1203(2)(a)1, 11.1203(3)(intro.)