Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00582

Introduced
1/24/17  
Introduced
1/24/17  
Refer
1/24/17  
Refer
1/24/17  
Refer
3/24/17  
Refer
3/24/17  
Refer
4/5/17  
Refer
4/5/17  

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Independent Expenditures By Foreign-influenced Business Entities And Limiting Covered Transfers.

Impact

If passed, this bill would significantly amend existing state statutes related to campaign finance and political expenditures. It introduces definitions for foreign-influenced business entities and sets limitations on their ability to make independent expenditures or covered transfers in connection to elections. This change aims to provide clearer regulations that could help safeguard local and state elections from potentially manipulative funding sources linked to foreign interests. The bill's passage could serve as a model for further regulations across the country concerning foreign contributions to political campaigns.

Summary

SB00582, introduced in the General Assembly, addresses the growing concerns regarding foreign influence in the political process by prohibiting independent expenditures by foreign-influenced business entities. The bill seeks to define foreign owners and their influence over U.S. businesses, specifically in the context of contributing to political campaigns and lobbying activities during elections at various levels of government. The goal is to ensure that the political landscape remains free from undue foreign interference, thereby preserving the integrity of the election process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00582 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary measure to protect democracy from foreign meddling, highlighting its importance in maintaining electoral integrity. On the other hand, some critics may view it as an overreach that could restrict legitimate business activities and political contributions from foreign entities that play a role in global commerce. The discussions reflect a tension between safeguarding electoral integrity and maintaining a free-flowing political funding environment.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the definitions of 'foreign-influenced' and how they might apply to various business operations. Opponents may argue that the restrictions could overly penalize businesses collaborating with foreign investors, potentially stifling economic opportunities and partnerships. Additionally, there are concerns about the compliance burdens this bill may impose on businesses that must navigate these new definitions and regulations regarding their political activities. The balance between transparency in political financing and the rights of business entities remains a pivotal area of debate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00252

An Act Concerning Referenda, Independent Expenditures And Other Campaign Finance Changes.

CT SB00253

An Act Concerning Foreign Political Spending.

CT SB00003

An Act Concerning Consumer Protection.

CT SB00419

An Act Limiting Property Tax Increases.

CT SB00254

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Risk-limiting Audits Working Group.

CT SB00398

An Act Concerning The Regulation And Taxation Of Travel Insurance And Associated Entities, Products And Professionals.

CT HB05341

An Act Requiring Reporting Of Projected And Actual Revenues And Expenditures At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT HB05299

An Act Concerning The Department Of Economic And Community Development's Recommendations For Revisions To The Jobsct Program And The Commerce And Related Statutes.

CT SB00002

An Act Concerning Artificial Intelligence.

CT SB00004

An Act Concerning Victims Of Domestic Violence, The Unsolicited Transmission Of Intimate Images By Means Of An Electronic Communication Device And The Impermissible Use Of Nondisclosure Agreements In The Workplace.

Similar Bills

CA SB321

Late signature curing expenditure reports.

VA SB1185

Campaign finance; coordination and required independent expenditure committee disclosure.

VA HB2173

Campaign finance; coordination and required independent expenditure committee disclosure.

VA HB2484

Campaign finance; coordination and required independent expenditure committee disclosure.

CT HB05589

An Act Concerning Campaign Finance Reform.

CT HB05511

An Act Concerning Disclosure Of Coordinated And Independent Spending In Campaign Finance.

NJ S3391

Requires enhanced reporting of campaign contributions and expenditures by independent expenditure committees.

CT HB05526

An Act Concerning Dark Money And Disclosure.