Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB3921

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/23/09  
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the filing by political committees of reports of political contributions and expenditures in connection with a runoff election.

Impact

The impact of HB3921 is significant as it revises existing regulations concerning the reporting of political donations and spending during runoff elections. This bill mandates that the reports for runoff elections must be filed no later than eight days before the election date, covering financial activities from the period starting nine days prior to the main election. By setting these deadlines, the bill seeks to prevent last-minute financial maneuvers and ensures that both voters and regulatory bodies have ample time to analyze campaign financial activities before the runoff election.

Summary

House Bill 3921 focuses on the filing requirements for political committees regarding political contributions and expenditures related to runoff elections. The bill emphasizes the necessity for specific-purpose committees, which support or oppose candidates during runoff elections, to file reports detailing their financial activities. The changes proposed in this bill aim to establish clearer timelines for when these reports must be submitted, streamline the process, and enhance transparency in campaign finance during critical electoral moments.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance transparency, there may be some contention regarding the administrative burden it places on political committees, especially smaller or newly formed ones. Critics might argue that stringent reporting deadlines could deter participation or increase operational challenges during the election process. However, proponents assert that these measures are necessary to maintain fair play and accountability in election financing, ultimately benefiting the democratic process by keeping voters informed about the financial influences at play.

Companion Bills

TX SB1795

Identical Relating to the filing by political committees of reports of political contributions and expenditures in connection with a runoff election.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.