Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF4431

Introduced
2/29/24  
Refer
2/29/24  
Refer
3/7/24  
Refer
4/2/24  
Refer
4/2/24  

Caption

Political contribution refund claims online system establishment, campaign finance and Public Disclosure Board electronic transfer of information allowance amendment to the political contribution refund program, and appropriations

Impact

The introduction of SF4431 is expected to have a significant impact on Minnesota's election laws by facilitating easier access to political contribution refunds. Taxpayers will be able to claim refunds electronically, with the bill stipulating that the maximum refund amount for individuals is capped at $75, and for married couples filing jointly, it is capped at $150 per calendar year. This change is designed to encourage greater participation in the electoral process by easing the financial burden of contributing to political candidates, aiming to increase civic engagement among voters.

Summary

SF4431 proposes the establishment of an online system that allows taxpayers to claim refunds for political contributions made to candidates and political parties. The bill aims to amend existing statutes governing the political contribution refund program by allowing for electronic data transfers between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue. This modernization intends to streamline the process for claiming refunds and improve transparency within the campaign finance system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SF4431 appears to be supportive, particularly among proponents who see the bill as a necessary step towards modernizing the political contribution refund process. Advocates argue that the online system will make it easier for taxpayers to engage with the political process and ensure that contributions are tracked more effectively. However, some critics may express concerns regarding data privacy issues associated with electronic systems and the capacity for misuse of private data within campaign finance management, although the bill incorporates measures to address these concerns by classifying certain data as private.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the specifics of data management and the implications of the online claim process. While the bill seeks to provide convenience, there may be disagreements about how to safeguard personal information shared within the electronic system. Additionally, some stakeholders may question the adequacy of refund limits and whether they appropriately reflect the costs of engaging with political campaigns. Overall, SF4431 is positioned as a progressive update to existing laws, but it has the potential to stimulate debate regarding adequacy of protections in election finance.

Companion Bills

MN HF4728

Similar To Commissioner of revenue required to establish online system to claim the political contribution refund, political contribution refund program amended to allow electronic transfer between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue, and money appropriated.

Previously Filed As

MN HF4728

Commissioner of revenue required to establish online system to claim the political contribution refund, political contribution refund program amended to allow electronic transfer between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue, and money appropriated.

MN HF1168

Commissioner of revenue required to establish an online system to claim the political contribution refund, political contribution refund program modified to allow for electronic information transfer between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue, data classified, and money appropriated.

MN SF9

Commissioner of revenue requirement to establish an online system to claim the political contribution refund

MN SF3458

Political contribution refund program repeal

MN HF3149

Political contribution refund program repealed.

MN AB1511

Political Reform Act of 1974: refunding and transferring contributions: voter information guide.

MN HF3288

Political contribution refund program repealed, and conforming changes made.

MN SF1405

Maximum refund permitted by the political contribution refund program increase

MN HF1489

Maximum refund permitted by political contribution refund program increased, and money appropriated.

MN HF1374

Democracy Dollar coupon program enacted, political contribution refund program repealed, and rulemaking authorized.

Similar Bills

MN HF4728

Commissioner of revenue required to establish online system to claim the political contribution refund, political contribution refund program amended to allow electronic transfer between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue, and money appropriated.

MN HF1168

Commissioner of revenue required to establish an online system to claim the political contribution refund, political contribution refund program modified to allow for electronic information transfer between the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board and the Department of Revenue, data classified, and money appropriated.

MN SF9

Commissioner of revenue requirement to establish an online system to claim the political contribution refund

MN SF1427

Democracy Dollar coupon program enactment

MN HF1374

Democracy Dollar coupon program enacted, political contribution refund program repealed, and rulemaking authorized.

MN SF1911

Minnesota Civic Fund program establishment

MN HF1750

Minnesota Civic Fund program established, political contribution refund program repealed, rulemaking authorized, and money appropriated.

MN HF3

Voter registration and absentee voting provisions modified; voting instructions and sample ballot required to be multilingual and interpreters required to be provided; intimidation, deceptive practices, and interference regulated; campaign finance provisions modified; and money appropriated.