Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H698

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to the campaign finance reporting cycle

Impact

The proposed changes are projected to enhance transparency in campaign financing by enforcing stricter limits on contributions, thus aiming to curb the influence of large donors in elections. Furthermore, by indexing these limits biennially for inflation, the bill seeks to ensure that the contribution limits remain relevant over time, adapting to the economic context in which they operate. This aspect of the bill could potentially lead to a more dynamic control of campaign finance practices, thereby reinforcing equity in electoral competition.

Summary

House Bill 698, introduced in the Massachusetts General Court, seeks to amend the existing rules governing campaign finance contributions and impose new limits on the amounts that individuals can contribute to candidates and political committees. Specifically, the bill revises Section 7A of Chapter 55 of the General Laws, establishing new aggregate contribution limits for individuals wishing to support their favored candidates. For instance, contributions to an individual candidate or their committee will be capped at $1,000 per election, while contributions to political committees tied to political parties will be limited to $10,000 per election.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its points of contention. Critics argue that while constraining contributions from individuals can be seen as a move toward fairness, it may inadvertently disadvantage new candidates who lack the established support networks enjoyed by longer-serving incumbents. Additionally, there are concerns about the implications for grassroots funding, as smaller contributions might be less impactful under stricter limits. Supporters counter that these measures are essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process by reducing the risk of corruption and increasing public trust in elected officials.

Companion Bills

MA H689

Similar To Relative to campaign finance reform

MA H4733

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA H845

Relative to the campaign finance reporting cycle

MA HB2719

Campaign finance and reporting

MA S515

Reforming campaign finance laws

MA S418

Relative to campaign finance reform

MA HB3455

Relating to campaign finance.

MA SB1561

Relating to campaign finance.

MA HB1091

Relative to the financing of political campaigns.

MA SB1303

Campaign finance; contributions; reporting

MA SB1048

Campaign finance; reporting threshold; lobbyists

MA SB42

Campaign Finance Reporting Changes

Similar Bills

CA SB794

Political Reform Act of 1974: contribution limits.

CA AB2882

Campaign contributions.

AZ HB2443

Campaign finance; contributions limits

CA AB775

Contribution requirements: recurring contributions.

AZ HB2623

Campaign finance; candidate committee transfers

MI SB0458

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; acceptance of certain contributions by judge or justice; prohibit. Amends 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.201 - 169.282) by adding sec. 30a.

AZ SB1129

Campaign finance; transfers; candidate committee

MI SB0655

Campaign finance: other; certain campaign contribution limits; reduce. Amends secs. 52, 52a & 69 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.252 et seq.) & repeals sec. 46 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.246).