Connecticut Senate Bill SB00223

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/15
• Refer: 1/21/15

Caption

An Act Reducing Grants For Certain Candidates Under The Citizens' Election Program.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will primarily affect candidates and the funding they receive under the current Citizens' Election Program. The modification of grant distributions could encourage more competition by potentially limiting the financial advantages that major party candidates typically enjoy when facing minor party opponents. This could result in a shift in campaign strategies for major parties as they may need to reassess their funding approaches when competing against minor parties.

Summary

SB00223 aims to amend the Citizens' Election Program by reducing the amount of grants allotted to major party candidates when their only opposition comes from eligible minor party candidates. The bill specifies that depending on the minor party's qualification status for grants, the major party candidate may receive one-third, two-thirds, or the full amount of the general election campaign grant. This adjustment seeks to create a more equitable financial landscape in campaign funding by recognizing the presence of minor party candidates in elections.

Contention

Notable contention surrounding SB00223 may arise from the impact it could have on the electoral competition. Proponents might argue that the bill fosters a more level playing field by integrating minor party candidates into the funding equation. Conversely, opponents could raise concerns that this bill undercuts the financial viability of major party candidates, possibly discouraging them from participating in elections or undermining their ability to campaign effectively, especially in competitive districts.