SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5537

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of February 8, 2011

Title: An act relating to soliciting or accepting campaign contributions.

Brief Description: Regarding time restrictions on soliciting or accepting campaign contributions.

Sponsors: Senators White and Prentice.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 2/08/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)

Background: Current law prohibits a state official or a person employed by or acting on behalf of a state official or state legislator from soliciting or accepting contributions to a public office fund, a candidate or authorized committee, or to retire a campaign debt beginning on the 30th day before the date a regular legislative session convenes and continuing through the date of final adjournment. The prohibition applies beginning on the date a special session convenes and continues through the date that special session adjourns.

Contributions received through the mail after the 30th day before a regular legislative session may be accepted if the contribution is postmarked prior to the 30th day before the session.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): The prohibition against a state official or person employed by or acting on behalf of a state official or state legislator from soliciting or accepting contributions to a public office fund, a candidate or authorized committee, or to retire a campaign debt which begins 30 days prior to the start of a legislative session and continues through the date of adjournment apply to any incumbent of a local elected office who has filed for a state office and persons employed by, or acting on behalf of, the incumbent.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: None.

Persons Testifying: No one.