Michigan House Bill HB5275

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/26/23
• Refer: 10/26/23
• Report Pass: 11/1/23

Caption

Campaign finance: committees; prohibition on certain candidate committee expenditures and disbursements; create exception. Amends 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.201 - 169.282) by adding sec. 44a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5272'23, HB 5274'23, HB 5273'23

Impact

The passage of HB5275 would represent a notable shift in the financial responsibilities of candidate committees in Michigan. By enabling committees to pay for late filing fees, the bill aims to reduce the financial burdens on candidates that could deter them from active participation in the election process. This could particularly benefit those candidates who may otherwise be disadvantaged in terms of fundraising capabilities.

Summary

House Bill 5275 seeks to amend the Michigan Campaign Finance Act by adding a new section, 44a. This amendment allows a candidate committee that supports a candidate to cover any late filing fees incurred under the Public Officers Financial Disclosure Act or the Candidate for Office Financial Disclosure Act. This change is aimed at providing more support to candidates who may struggle to meet financial disclosure requirements due to bureaucratic delays or other factors.

Contention

Despite its intention to assist candidates, there may be points of contention surrounding the implications of allowing candidate committees to cover such expenses. Critics might argue that this could create an uneven playing field where candidates with more substantial backing can alleviate financial penalties more easily, potentially skewing the competition. Furthermore, the tie bar with other bills suggests that this amendment is part of a larger legislative strategy, raising questions about the broader implications of changing campaign finance laws.

Voting_history

The bill was reported with a recommendation without amendment on November 1, 2023, indicating support from the committee, with a unanimous vote of 3-0 in favor. This voting outcome reflects a consensus on the benefits of the proposed amendment among the legislative members.