California Senate Bill SB35

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/7/20
• Refer: 1/28/21
• Refer: 2/24/21
• Refer: 3/9/21
• Report Pass: 3/17/21
• Refer: 3/18/21
• Refer: 3/24/21
• Report Pass: 4/14/21
• Refer: 4/14/21
• Engrossed: 5/10/21
• Refer: 5/20/21
• Report Pass: 6/16/21
• Refer: 6/17/21
• Report Pass: 7/14/21
• Refer: 7/15/21
• Report Pass: 8/19/21
• Refer: 8/26/21
• Report Pass: 8/31/21
• Refer: 9/3/21
• Enrolled: 9/9/21
• Chaptered: 9/27/21
• Passed: 9/27/21

Caption

Elections.

Impact

The bill expands existing prohibitions related to electioneering within 100 feet of polling locations. It explicitly prohibits obstructing access to polling places, election officials' offices, and satellite voting locations, alongside unsanctioned solicitation and election-related discussions with voters within the same vicinity. These amendments aim to protect voters from intimidation and ensure a fair voting environment, reflecting an effort to streamline election integrity measures.

Summary

Senate Bill 35, authored by Senator Umberg, addresses several amendments to the California Elections Code concerning electioneering activities and candidate qualifications for the direct primary election ballot. Notably, it revises the deadline for candidates for Governor to submit their income tax returns to the Secretary of State, shortening the timeframe from 98 to 88 days prior to the election while imposing stricter regulations on the redaction of sensitive information from these returns. This change is aimed at enhancing transparency regarding candidates' financial histories.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 35 appears mixed, with supporters praising the emphasis on transparency in candidate finances as a step toward ethical governance. However, opponents have raised concerns over the potential for the expanded electioneering prohibitions to infringe on free speech rights during the voting process. This has sparked a broader debate about balancing free expression with ensuring voter protection at polling places.

Contention

Key points of contention involve the implications of limiting the scope of permissible political expression near polling locations versus upholding voter safety. Critics argue that the new regulations may deter legitimate interactions between candidates and voters during a crucial time, while supporters contend that enhancing penalties for deceptive practices—such as misleading ballot collection attempts—is essential in safeguarding electoral processes. The bill’s passage indicates a legislative trend towards tightening election-related laws to foster a more orderly voting environment.