Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1250

Introduced
1/20/25  
Refer
1/20/25  

Caption

Campaign finance law; revise certain provisions of.

Impact

One of the notable impacts of HB1250 is its introduction of a perjury clause for the filing of campaign finance reports, enhancing accountability for candidates. It also revises how civil and administrative penalties are determined and assessed, which could lead to more severe repercussions for violations. By increasing the penalties for illegal corporate contributions, the bill aims to deter corporate entities from making unlawful donations, thus promoting a healthier electoral environment.

Summary

House Bill 1250 aims to revise the campaign finance laws in Mississippi significantly. The bill introduces clearer definitions for terms such as 'corporation' and 'corporate contribution,' ensuring that the guidelines surrounding contributions are more explicit. A key provision includes transferring the authority to assess fines and pursue judicial enforcement from the Mississippi Ethics Commission to the Secretary of State. This shift indicates a move towards a more centralized enforcement mechanism for campaign finance violations.

Contention

Discussion around HB1250 is expected to yield some contention, primarily concerning the balance of power between the Ethics Commission and the Secretary of State. Critics may argue that this change could dilute the effectiveness of oversight and make it easier for violations to go unpunished. Furthermore, changes to the penalties for accepting illegal contributions, which considerably increase fines and penalties, could be a point of debate among legislators, especially concerning the implications for candidates and corporations involved in political financing.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1504

Campaign finance; revise various provisions of laws related to.

MS SB2575

Campaign finance; reform.

MS SB2585

Campaign finance; reform.

MS HB730

Campaign finance reports; revise the time for filing electronically.

MS HB241

Campaign finance reports; revise the time for filing electronically.

MS HB144

Termination reports; require a candidate to be disqualified if he or she files while campaigning.

MS HB1306

Elections; revise certain provisions about names of candidates appearing on the ballot, judicial candidate's annual report and fraudulent absentee voter applications.

MS SB2352

Elections; penalty for fraudulently requesting or submitting absentee ballots.

MS SB2916

Lobbying; require lobbyists with a material financial interest in an issue or bill to register with legislative officers.

MS SB2693

Failing schools and districts of transformation; revise certain provisions related thereto.

Similar Bills

MS SB2585

Campaign finance; reform.

MS HB1504

Campaign finance; revise various provisions of laws related to.

MS SB2575

Campaign finance; reform.

MS SB2658

Campaign finance; comprehensive reform of laws pertaining to.

MS HB1334

Campaign finance law; revise various provisions related to.

MS HB1579

Campiagn finance law; revise provisions related to cash contributions and expenditures.

MS HB1375

Campaign finance law; revise.

MS SB2651

Campaign finance laws; SOS to report to the Attorney General regarding judicial enforcement for violations of.