Texas House Bill HB2474

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the electronic filing of certain reports of political contributions and expenditures with the Texas Ethics Commission.

Impact

The main impact of HB 2474 is the establishment of a more systematic approach to the filing and compiling of political contribution reports in Texas. By requiring electronic submissions, the bill aims to minimize errors associated with paper filings and to facilitate easier access to data for both the Texas Ethics Commission and the public. The intention is to bolster transparency in political financing, which has been a significant concern in recent years, especially during election cycles. Consequently, this change is expected to improve compliance rates among candidates and committees by providing a clearer framework in which they operate.

Summary

House Bill 2474 proposes significant amendments to the Texas Election Code regarding the electronic filing of reports related to political contributions and expenditures. The bill mandates that certain reports must be filed electronically using specific software that meets Texas Ethics Commission specifications. This requirement is aimed at streamlining the reporting process, enhancing accuracy, and improving the accessibility of information regarding political financing to the public. The bill largely focuses on candidates for county offices, precinct offices, and specific-purpose committees, thereby impacting how these groups report financial data regarding their campaigns.

Contention

Notably, HB 2474 faced questions regarding the shift to mandatory electronic filing. Some legislators expressed concerns over whether all candidates and committees would have the necessary resources and technological capacity to comply with electronic filing requirements. Critics argue that this change could disproportionately affect smaller campaigns or those of individuals who may not be as tech-savvy, potentially disenfranchising certain candidates. There were also discussions about the potential for increased administrative burdens on the Texas Ethics Commission to manage this expanded electronic filing system effectively. As the bill progresses, further debate on these issues is expected.