California Assembly Bill AB775

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/21
• Refer: 2/25/21
• Report Pass: 3/23/21
• Refer: 3/24/21
• Report Pass: 4/12/21
• Refer: 4/14/21
• Refer: 4/28/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/3/21
• Refer: 6/7/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Report Pass: 6/17/21
• Refer: 6/17/21
• Refer: 6/21/21
• Refer: 6/24/21
• Report Pass: 7/12/21
• Refer: 7/13/21
• Refer: 8/29/22
• Enrolled: 8/31/22
• Chaptered: 9/30/22
• Passed: 9/30/22

Caption

Contribution requirements: recurring contributions.

Impact

The legislation imposes new requirements upon candidates and committees regarding how they solicit and process recurring contributions. For instance, candidates must provide a receipt for each contribution and offer clear pathways for contributors to cancel such contributions. Violation of these requirements could incur significant penalties, including fines of up to three times the amount of the contributions involved under specified conditions. This aims to prevent unethical solicitation practices and bolster donor protection.

Summary

Assembly Bill 775 introduced by Berman addresses the issue of recurring contributions within the context of campaign finance in California. The bill mandates that any solicitation for recurring contributions must include a requirement for affirmative consent from the contributor at the time of the initial contribution. This act modifies the existing provisions of the Political Reform Act of 1974, enhancing protections for contributors and ensuring that they have clear and transparent processes when it comes to recurring donations to candidates or committees.

Sentiment

Generally, there has been a favorable sentiment towards AB 775 among advocates for campaign finance reform and transparency. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect contributors from potentially misleading practices in political fundraising. However, some concerns have arisen regarding its administrative burden on smaller campaigns, which may find compliance challenging. Opponents worry that stricter regulations could inhibit grassroots fundraising efforts and limit the financial resources available to candidates.

Contention

Key points of contention focus on the balance between increasing regulatory safeguards and maintaining accessibility for all candidates in the political finance landscape. Supporters of AB 775 argue that it fundamentally enhances contributor protection, while critics claim that it could lead to complications and hinder funding for campaigns. The legislation represents a broader conversation on the necessity of reform within campaign finance, focusing on ensuring that contributors are fully informed and consenting to ongoing contributions.