Connecticut Senate Bill SB00134

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/12
• Refer: 2/16/12

Caption

An Act Appropriating Funds To The Office Of Governmental Accountability To Fund The Hiring Of Campaign Finance Auditors By The State Elections Enforcement Commission.

Impact

If enacted, SB00134 would significantly enhance the operational capacity of the State Elections Enforcement Commission by allowing it to rehire essential personnel dedicated to campaign finance auditing. This revival of funding is intended to address previous budget cuts that may have hampered the commission's ability to monitor and enforce compliance with campaign finance regulations. By increasing the number of auditors, the bill aims to bolster oversight and transparency in campaign financing, which is fundamental to upholding fair electoral practices.

Summary

SB00134 is a proposed legislation aimed at appropriating funds to the Office of Governmental Accountability. The primary purpose of this bill is to provide necessary financial resources to the State Elections Enforcement Commission, specifically to facilitate the hiring of at least six full-time campaign finance auditors. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that the commission has the capability to effectively enforce campaign finance laws, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of electoral processes in the state.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on ensuring adequate funding for election enforcement, there may be points of contention regarding budget allocation and the effectiveness of hiring new auditors. Some proponents argue that restoring these funds is necessary for democracy and accountability, while critics might point to the need for broader electoral reform rather than simply increasing staffing. The discussions surrounding this bill are likely to explore the balance between adequate funding and the efficient use of resources within government agencies responsible for overseeing campaign finance.