Connecticut Senate Bill SB00611

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/15
• Refer: 1/23/15

Caption

An Act Clarifying The Definition Of State Contractor Under The Campaign Finance Laws.

Impact

If enacted, SB00611 would have significant implications for how campaign finance laws are applied to individuals and businesses that engage in lease agreements with the state. By excluding those parties from the state contractor list, the bill aims to alleviate restrictions that might inhibit their ability to participate in political contributions or engagements. Proponents might argue that this could foster a more inviting environment for businesses and individuals to enter into lease agreements with the state without the added complication of campaign finance oversight.

Summary

SB00611, introduced by Senator Slossberg, aims to clarify the definition of a state contractor within the framework of campaign finance laws. The bill proposes that individuals or entities who hold a lease with the state should not be categorized as state contractors under these laws. This change is intended to amend section 9-612 of the general statutes, which currently includes such leases in the definition of state contractors, thus subjecting them to campaign finance restrictions. The clarification seeks to streamline the application of these regulations by removing potential ambiguity surrounding the leasing agreements.

Contention

The discussion surrounding SB00611 may involve contention from various stakeholders. Advocates for strict campaign finance regulation may oppose the bill, viewing it as a potential loophole that could allow undue influence in the political process by individuals who have business relationships with the state, albeit through leasing rather than contracting. Opponents of the current laws may argue that this distinction is necessary for facilitating economic activity without compromising the integrity of political contributions. Thus, the bill presents a balancing act between encouraging economic engagement and maintaining rigorous campaign finance oversight.