Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2578

Introduced
2/19/24  
Refer
2/19/24  

Caption

Campaign materials; expand definition of publish and establish fine for failure to comply with disclosure requirements.

Impact

One of the significant impacts of SB2578 is the introduction of specific disclosure requirements for candidates and political committees regarding their campaign materials. The bill stipulates that anyone publishing campaign materials must provide the name of the candidate, or if not approved by a candidate, disclose the person, committee, or organization responsible for the publication. This requirement is intended to enhance accountability and transparency in political communications, thereby ensuring voters are aware of who is behind campaign messages.

Summary

Senate Bill 2578 aims to amend Section 23-15-897 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 by expanding the definition of what constitutes 'publish' within the context of campaign materials. The bill defines campaign materials as any materials intended to influence voters regarding a candidate, party, or measure, and includes a variety of distribution methods. This change is intended to clarify existing laws and ensure better compliance with campaign finance regulations. The broader definition promotes transparency in campaign advertising, thereby aiming to safeguard the electoral process.

Contention

One notable point of contention in the discussions around SB2578 is the requirement for campaigns to comply with transparency regulations. Some supporters argue that such regulations are essential for maintaining fair electoral practices, while opponents may view these provisions as overly burdensome and potentially stifling to small candidates or grassroots movements who may struggle to meet the stringent disclosure requirements. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the financial penalty of $1,000 for non-compliance, which could deter candidates from distributing their campaign materials effectively.

Effectiveness

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, and it will be critical to monitor its implementation to assess whether it effectively improves compliance with campaign finance laws. Proponents believe that by clarifying the rules around campaign material publication and imposing fines for non-adherence, SB2578 will lead to more ethical campaigning practices in Mississippi. Ultimately, the effectiveness and impact of SB2578 will depend on how well it is integrated into the existing regulatory framework and whether it resonates with the electorate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1304

Elections; prohibit use of word "re-elect" unless for person who is current incumbent of the office sought.

MS HB241

Campaign finance reports; revise the time for filing electronically.

MS SB2424

Municipal executive committee; prohibit members of from campaigning for candidates on the municipal primary election ballot.

MS HB36

Campaign finance reports; require those filed by all candidates to be available online.

MS HB1

Campaign finance reports; require candidates for county, county district and municipal offices to file with Secretary of State.

MS SB2278

Social media companies; require to file a report for any restriction of a candidate or elected official. Social media account.

MS HB2

Campaign finance reports; shall be available on county and municipal websites.

MS HB1041

State depositories; revise certain definitions relating to align with federal regulatory standards.

MS SB2354

Elections; revise procedures regarding voter roll maintenance and monitoring.

MS HB1305

Elections; revise provisions related to the integrity of.

Similar Bills

TX SB217

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TX HB2510

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CT HB05513

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CA AB220

Political Reform Act of 1974: campaign funds: childcare costs.

SC S0091

Campaign Bank Account Statements

CA AB225

Political Reform Act of 1974: campaign funds: childcare costs.

CT HB07186

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CA AB3239

Political Reform Act of 1974: campaign funds: disclosures.