Connecticut House Bill HB05204

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/17
• Refer: 1/5/17

Caption

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

Impact

By freezing grant amounts, HB 5204 could limit the resources available to participating candidates in state elections, particularly those who rely heavily on public financing to fund their campaigns. This freeze may create disparities in campaigning capabilities between candidates who are self-funded or have access to private funds and those who depend on these grants for electoral success. As a result, the bill could have broader implications for the competitiveness and accessibility of elections within the state.

Summary

House Bill 5204 aims to amend the existing statutes concerning the Citizens' Election Program by prohibiting increases in the amount of grants awarded under the program. Specifically, the bill seeks to eliminate adjustments to grant amounts that would typically occur based on changes in the consumer price index (CPI). This means that the funding allocated for these grants would remain static rather than increasing to keep pace with inflationary pressures, thereby potentially impacting the program's effectiveness in supporting candidates seeking public financing for their campaigns.

Contention

The bill may face significant criticism from various stakeholders who argue that it undermines the purpose of the Citizens' Election Program, which is intended to level the playing field for candidates who may not have significant financial backing. Critics may assert that by not allowing grant adjustments for inflation, the legislation effectively diminishes the program's value and its ability to support new entrants who wish to pursue public office but lack the resources of more established candidates. The essential contention revolves around balancing budgetary considerations with the equitable treatment of candidates in the electoral process.