New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB195

Introduced
1/3/23  
Refer
1/3/23  
Report Pass
3/16/23  
Engrossed
3/24/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Report Pass
4/20/23  
Enrolled
6/21/23  
Chaptered
7/12/23  

Caption

Relative to the definition of political advocacy organization.

Impact

By adjusting the definition of political advocacy organizations, HB195 will likely have a nuanced effect on state campaign finance laws. This new definition could lead to additional filing and reporting requirements for organizations and entities involved in political communications. It aims to promote more transparency in political contributions and expenditures, which supporters argue is essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. However, the increase in regulatory oversight could also place additional burdens on smaller organizations that engage in political discourse.

Summary

House Bill 195 seeks to redefine the term 'political advocacy organization' as it pertains to political contribution and expenditure laws. The legislation modifies the existing legal framework to classify any entity that spends $2,500 or more in a calendar year for communications that imply advocacy for or against political candidates or measures. This change is significant as it broadens the scope of organizations that fall under the regulation of political contributions and spending, thereby increasing the transparency required from them.

Contention

As with many legislative changes concerning campaign finance, HB195 may face contention related to the balance between regulation and free speech. Opponents of the bill may argue that the increase in financial disclosure requirements could hinder organizations' abilities to voice their political opinions, particularly those that are smaller or community-based. Proponents assert that transparency is necessary to ensure that voters are informed about who is funding political messages, thus preventing potential corruption and undue influence in the electoral process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB1091

Relative to the financing of political campaigns.

NH SB348

Relative to political expenditures and contributions.

NH SB534

Relative to campaign finance.

NH HB364

Revising the definition of charitable organizations relative to games of chance.

NH HB179

Relative to the definition of electioneering.

NH HB175

Relative to defined coordinated expenditures.

NH HB645

Relative to the establishment of decentralized autonomous organizations as legal entities within the state.

NH HB483

Relative to the definition of a scholarship organization for purposes of the education tax credit.

NH HB1128

Relative to the definition of a scholarship organization for purposes of the education tax credit.

NH HB1375

Relative to the definition of veteran.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.