Texas House Bill HB1441

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 1/18/23

Caption

Relating to the inclusion of the mailing address of certain campaign treasurers in appointments and reports filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

Impact

The bill's provisions will specifically affect how campaign treasurer appointments are managed and reported in Texas. By requiring the inclusion of mailing addresses, this act is expected to allow voters to gain better insights into the financial backers of campaigns and to hold treasurers accountable for managing campaign expenditures. It sets a new standard for reporting that is intended to provide a clearer picture of campaign finance in Texas, potentially influencing how candidates approach fundraising and financial disclosures.

Summary

House Bill 1441 aims to amend the Election Code by requiring that the mailing address of certain campaign treasurers be included in the appointments and reports filed with the Texas Ethics Commission. The intention behind this legislation is to enhance transparency in campaign financing, making it easier to track financial activities related to political candidacies. This change is seen as a necessary step toward improving accountability in the electoral process, ensuring that the public can access relevant information about those managing campaign funds.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 1441 appears to lean positive among supporters who advocate for increased transparency in election processes. Proponents argue that clearer and more accessible information will empower voters and enhance the democratic process. However, there may also be concerns from opponents who might view additional requirements as bureaucratic red tape or an infringement on privacy for campaign treasurers. The discussion reflects a balancing act between transparency and privacy in the context of campaign finance.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 1441 could involve the potential effects on small campaigns where the treasurers may be less inclined to manage a public mailing address due to privacy concerns. Campaigns that rely on volunteer treasurers might face challenges verifying compliance with the new requirements. Discussions on this issue will likely highlight the importance of protecting individual privacy while also advocating for a robust framework of public accountability in campaign financing.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

• Chapter 252. Campaign Treasurer
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 254. Political Reporting
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 121