New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S4329

Introduced
5/12/25  

Caption

"Political Donation Transparency Act;" prohibits automatic enrollment in recurring political contributions and establishes penalties for violators.

Impact

If enacted, S4329 could significantly alter the dynamics of political fundraising in New Jersey. By restricting the use of automatic contribution setups, the law seeks to enhance transparency and ensure that donors understand their financial commitments to political candidates. The bill empowers the Election Law Enforcement Commission to create rules necessary for its implementation, which indicates that a regulatory framework will be established to oversee compliance and enforcement.

Summary

Senate Bill S4329, known as the 'Political Donation Transparency Act,' aims to regulate political contributions by prohibiting automatic enrollment in recurring donations. The bill establishes specific guidelines that must be followed for recurring contributions, emphasizing the necessity for affirmative consent from contributors. Candidates and political committees will be required to provide clear information regarding the nature, frequency, and amount of these contributions, ensuring that donors are fully informed before consenting to recurring withdrawals.

Contention

While the proponents of S4329 argue that it is a necessary step towards cleaner political financing and increased donor awareness, opponents may view it as a limitation on fundraising practices. There are concerns about how this legislation could impact small donations and the ability of candidates to efficiently manage their campaigns. The imposition of penalties for violations is also noteworthy, as it elevates the importance of adherence to the new regulations and underscores the intent to prevent any unethical practices regarding political donations.

Companion Bills

NJ A5559

Same As "Political Donation Transparency Act;" prohibits automatic enrollment in recurring political contributions and establishes penalties for violators.

Similar Bills

CA SB794

Political Reform Act of 1974: contribution limits.

CA AB2882

Campaign contributions.

AZ HB2443

Campaign finance; contributions limits

CA AB775

Contribution requirements: recurring contributions.

AZ HB2623

Campaign finance; candidate committee transfers

AZ SB1129

Campaign finance; transfers; candidate committee

MI SB0655

Campaign finance: other; certain campaign contribution limits; reduce. Amends secs. 52, 52a & 69 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.252 et seq.) & repeals sec. 46 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.246).

MI HB4234

Campaign finance: other; automatic payroll deductions for PAC contributions; allow. Amends secs. 4, 6, 11, 54, 55 & 57 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.204 et seq.).