Louisiana 2024 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB906

Introduced
4/2/24  
Introduced
4/2/24  
Refer
4/3/24  
Refer
4/3/24  
Report Pass
4/10/24  
Engrossed
4/17/24  
Refer
4/22/24  
Refer
4/22/24  
Report Pass
5/8/24  
Report Pass
5/8/24  
Refer
5/13/24  
Report Pass
5/20/24  
Report Pass
5/20/24  
Enrolled
6/3/24  
Enrolled
6/3/24  
Chaptered
6/18/24  

Caption

Makes revisions to the Campaign Finance Disclosure Act (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

Impact

This legislation is set to significantly impact state law governing political contributions and transparency. It will increase the monetary limits on campaign contributions for candidates seeking major office, district office, and other offices, thereby allowing political committees to accept larger donations. Moreover, the bill permits the establishment of independent expenditure-only committees which enhance the landscape of political financing and support for candidates without direct contributions.

Summary

House Bill 906, titled the Louisiana Accountability and Modernization of Disclosure and Electoral Reform Now (LA MODERN) Act, proposes comprehensive revisions to the Campaign Finance Disclosure Act. The bill's main features include the registration and regulation of independent expenditure-only political committees, enhanced limits on campaign contributions, and protocols for electronic payments and filing. By aiming to modernize existing legislation, HB906 seeks to bring Louisiana's campaign finance laws in line with contemporary best practices observed in other states.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB906 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the modernization of Louisiana's campaign finance system is essential for promoting transparency and ensuring that contributions align with today's digital landscape. They emphasize the need for electronic filing and improved oversight mechanisms to prevent violations. Conversely, critics express concern that increased contribution limits could lead to greater corruption and undermine the integrity of the electoral process, advocating for stricter controls rather than broader access to funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the extent to which contribution limits are increased and the fees associated with filing reports under the revised system. While supporters view these changes as a necessary evolution in campaign finance, detractors warn that lifting limits could exacerbate issues of influence and accountability in political campaigns. The effectiveness of electronic disclosures and the Board of Ethics' ability to regulate these changes effectively will be critical in determining the success and public perception of this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

LA HB596

Provides for revisions to the Campaign Finance Disclosure Act (OR +$97,000 GF EX See Note)

LA HB693

Provides for revisions to the Campaign Finance Disclosure Act (REF +$97,000 GF EX See Note)

LA SB333

Limits the amount of money spent on election campaigns. (1/31/12)

LA SB311

Provides relative to campaign contributions and expenditures by individuals. (gov sig)

LA HB784

Provides relative to certain types of contributions and records required to be maintained relative thereto (EN +$4,000 GF EX See Note)

PA HB2099

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; in primary and election expenses, further providing for definitions, for organization of political committees, treasurer and assistant treasurer and records of candidate and committees, for registration and for reporting by candidate and political committees and other persons, providing for limitations on certain contributions, further providing for residual funds, for late filing fee and certificate of filing, for contributions or expenditures by national banks, corporations or unincorporated associations, for advertising and for reports by business entities and publication by Secretary of the Commonwealth and providing for independent expenditures and for independent expenditure evaluation; and providing for corporate political accountability.

PA SB11

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; in primary and election expenses, further providing for definitions, for organization of political committees, treasurer and assistant treasurer and records of candidate and committees, for registration and for reporting by candidate and political committees and other persons, providing for limitations on certain contributions, further providing for residual funds, for late filing fee and certificate of filing, for contributions or expenditures by national banks, corporations or unincorporated associations, for advertising and for reports by business entities and publication by Secretary of the Commonwealth and providing for independent expenditures and for independent expenditure evaluation; and providing for corporate political accountability.

PA HB542

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; in primary and election expenses, further providing for definitions, for organization of political committees, treasurer and assistant treasurer and records of candidate and committees, for registration and for reporting by candidate and political committees and other persons, providing for limitations on certain contributions, further providing for residual funds, for late filing fee and certificate of filing, for contributions or expenditures by national banks, corporations or unincorporated associations, for advertising and for reports by business entities and publication by Secretary of the Commonwealth and providing for independent expenditures and for independent expenditure evaluation; and providing for corporate political accountability.