Connecticut House Bill HB05939

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Increased Disclosure Of Independent Expenditures And Funds Used For Independent Expenditures.

Impact

The proposed changes will significantly affect the transparency of political financing within the state. By requiring more detailed disclosures regarding the sources and amounts of funds associated with independent expenditures, the bill seeks to improve accountability among those making political contributions. This could potentially alter the dynamics of campaign fundraising and propel more individuals to be conscious about the origins and the nature of their financial support.

Summary

House Bill 05939 aims to enhance the disclosure requirements related to independent expenditures in political campaigns and fundraising. The bill proposes to amend existing statutes by redefining certain terms related to the financial transfers that occur prior to making independent expenditures. Specifically, it expands the definition of 'covered transfer' to include a broader range of financial transfers, thereby increasing the amount of information that must be disclosed by individuals and entities involved in political spending activities.

Contention

Though the bill aims to bolster transparency and accountability in political financing, there may be points of contention regarding its implications for privacy and the operational burden on organizations involved in political contributions. Critics might express concerns about how expansive disclosure requirements could hinder the ability of groups to engage freely in political discourse, while supporters argue that increased openness is essential for fostering trust in the democratic process.