Connecticut House Bill HB05101

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/17
• Refer: 1/4/17

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Increase Of Grants Under The Citizens' Election Program.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05101 would have a significant impact on how election funding is administered in the state. By capping grants in relation to the CPI, the bill would limit the potential financial resources available for election campaigns under the Citizens' Election Program. Proponents of the bill argue that this will help control state spending and prevent excessive increases in political campaign funding, thereby fostering a more fiscally responsible approach to budgeting.

Summary

House Bill 05101 aims to prohibit any increase in the amount of grants awarded under the Citizens' Election Program, directly linking these grants to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The bill seeks to amend existing legislation to not only prevent future increases based on inflation but also to credit any theoretical increases to the state's General Fund, effectively reallocating funds that would otherwise support election-related expenses. The measure is presented as a way to maintain fiscal responsibility within state budgeting processes while managing election funding more effectively.

Contention

The introduction of HB 05101 has sparked debate among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters claim that the bill is necessary to curb rising costs associated with election funding and to ensure that taxpayer money is used judiciously. Conversely, opponents raise concerns that such a prohibition on grant increases could undermine the effectiveness of the Citizens' Election Program, potentially leading to less competitive elections. They argue that limiting funding in adjusting economic contexts might disadvantage candidates from less affluent backgrounds, reducing overall electoral competitiveness and representation.