Substitute Senate Bill No. 1405, also known as Public Act No. 25-26, aims to modernize campaign finance laws and enhance the powers of the State Elections Enforcement Commission, with an effective date of July 1, 2025. The bill introduces new definitions and provisions, notably redefining "organization expenditure" to encompass electronic communications and sharing related to candidate support, including the use of personal electronic mail lists for campaign activities. It expands the definition of "solicit" to include electronic sharing of fundraising links and invitations, while removing previous limitations on attendance at fundraising events. Additionally, the bill amends disclaimer requirements for campaign communications, particularly for text messages, and mandates that candidates' advertisements include a photographic image and a printed approval statement, removing the need for a personal audio message.

The legislation also revises auditing processes, reducing the percentage of candidate committees subject to random audits from fifty percent to twenty percent, while ensuring all statewide candidate committees are audited. It establishes new guidelines for campaign contribution limits, adjusting the maximum individual contribution to $250 and allowing biennial adjustments based on the consumer price index. The bill further clarifies the definition of "contribution," increases thresholds for certain contributions, and outlines new requirements for candidate eligibility and financial disclosures. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness in campaign financing while adapting to the evolving landscape of digital communication and fundraising practices.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-7b
GOS Joint Favorable: 9-7b
File No. 489: 9-7b
APP Joint Favorable: 9-7b
Public Act No. 25-26: 9-7b