New Jersey Senate Bill S800

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/22
• Refer: 1/18/22

Caption

Expands deadline for filing financial disclosure statements by candidates for Governor and member of Legislature.

Impact

The bill is positioned as a means to enhance compliance and transparency within New Jersey's political system. By extending the filing deadline, the intention is to reduce the likelihood of inaccuracies in financial disclosure statements, which are crucial for promoting accountability in government. The changes are considered relevant for both gubernatorial and legislative candidates, ultimately impacting how campaign financing and potential conflicts of interest are disclosed to the public.

Summary

Bill S800 aims to modify the deadlines for financial disclosure statements that candidates for certain New Jersey elective offices must file. Specifically, it changes the deadline for the Governor's disclosure from the 10th day after the petition deadline to the 30th day, while the deadline for members of the Senate and General Assembly is adjusted to coincide with the date they are required to submit their own disclosures to the Joint Legislative Committee on Ethical Standards. This new timeline aims to provide candidates with more time to complete these important documents accurately.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a positive step towards increasing transparency, it has faced scrutiny regarding the balance between timely disclosures and providing sufficient time for candidates. Supporters advocate that the amendments will simplify the process, whereas opponents may argue that even longer deadlines could delay public access to important financial information regarding candidates' interests and affiliations, potentially undermining the transparency objectives that the bill seeks to achieve.