Alabama 2023 Regular Session

Alabama Senate Bill SB289

Introduced
5/3/23  
Refer
5/3/23  
Report Pass
5/10/23  
Report Pass
5/10/23  
Engrossed
5/16/23  

Caption

Relating to political action committees; to amend Section 17-5-15, Code of Alabama 1975, to permit PACs to make contributions to political parties in certain circumstances.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact the operations of political action committees by easing the restrictions surrounding contributions to political parties. Supporters of the bill argue that this change could lead to increased support for political parties, allowing for more robust campaigning and better electoral competitiveness. The amendment aims to provide PACs with more options for strategic alliances and funding allocations, which may enhance political engagement and fundraising efforts.

Summary

SB289 proposes amendments to Section 17-5-15 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically targeting the restrictions placed on political action committees (PACs) regarding contributions. Under current law, PACs have limitations on the type of entities to which they can contribute. The proposed bill seeks to allow PACs to contribute to political parties under certain conditions, expanding the financial capabilities of PACs within the political landscape of Alabama. This shift indicates a movement towards more flexible campaign financing within state regulations.

Contention

However, the bill may also raise concerns regarding transparency and the potential for increased influence of money in politics. Critics may argue that by allowing PACs to contribute more freely to political parties, the bill could lead to situations where larger PACs have disproportionate influence in political processes. This aspect of the legislation could spark debates over campaign finance reform, ethical considerations, and the balance of power in political campaigning.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL SB291

Fair Campaign Practices Act; transfer of funds among political parties and local or other affiliated party organizations authorized

AL SB302

Fair Campaign Practices Act; definitions of electioneering communications, expenditures, and political action committee revised; reporting requirements for electioneering communications revised

AL HB186

Political parties; disqualifying candidate from ballot because of contributions from particular person or entity prohibited

AL HB6

Political parties; disqualifying candidate from ballot because of contributions from particular person or entity prohibited

AL HB217

Relating to gross income; to amend Section 40-18-14, Code of Alabama 1975; to exclude difficulty of care payments from gross income.

AL HB467

Taxation; to amend 40-18-14, Code of Alabama 1975, relating to overtime compensation

AL HB363

Fair Campaign Practices Act; prohibit campaign contributions and expenditures from foreign nationals

AL SB112

Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code; amended to delete references to Alabama Nonprofit Corporation Law, clarify and streamline certain provisions in accordance with changes in Delaware law and the Model Business Corporation Act

AL HB228

Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code; amended to delete references to Alabama Nonprofit Corporation Law, clarify and streamline certain provisions in accordance with changes in Delaware law and the Model Business Corporation Act

AL HB441

Growing Alabama Act, Innovating Alabama Act, Alabama Jobs Act, Innovate Alabama, allow existing communities to qualify for incentives

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