Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB524

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the filing with the Texas Ethics Commission of campaign treasurer appointments and reports of political contributions and political expenditures.

Impact

The legislative revisions proposed in HB 524 impact state laws by updating existing regulations surrounding political finance. By repealing and amending several sections within the Election Code, the bill aims to reduce confusion and promote accountability in political contributions and expenditures. The effective date set for January 1, 2024, indicates that these changes will require stakeholders in the election process, particularly candidates and committees, to adapt to new compliance measures well in advance of the next election cycle.

Summary

House Bill 524 addresses various amendments to the Election Code concerning the filing and reporting requirements for campaign treasurer appointments and political contributions. This bill seeks to streamline the processes associated with campaign finance, ensuring that candidates and political committees maintain accurate records with the Texas Ethics Commission. Key provisions include the requirement for political committees to promptly notify any changes in campaign treasurer details and the codification of the process for terminating the campaign treasurer appointment for inactive candidates or committees.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 524 appears largely favorable among proponents of electoral transparency and reform. Supporters argue that enhancing the requirements for reporting and accountability will foster greater public trust in the political financing system. Conversely, some critics may express concerns regarding the burden these new regulations could place on smaller political committees, who may struggle to meet the increased compliance demands. However, the overall tone of the discussion suggests a commitment to reforming political finance practices for the better.

Contention

While there is general support for the intent behind HB 524, notable points of contention could arise around specific provisions, such as the added complexity of the reporting requirements. Advocates for smaller organizations might argue that the increased obligations could inadvertently favor larger, more established committees with more resources. On the other hand, lawmakers may contend that these changes are necessary to close loopholes and enhance the integrity of electoral processes.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

  • Chapter 252. Campaign Treasurer
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0031
  • Chapter 254. Political Reporting
    • Section: 0401
    • Section: 0402
    • Section: 043
    • Section: 064

Government Code

  • Chapter 571. Texas Ethics Commission
    • Section: 079

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2225

Relating to the filing with the Texas Ethics Commission of campaign treasurer appointments and reports of political contributions and political expenditures.

TX HB189

Relating to the filing with the Texas Ethics Commission of campaign treasurer appointments and reports of political contributions and political expenditures.

TX HB176

Relating to filing of campaign treasurer appointments and campaign finance reports with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB111

Relating to filing of campaign treasurer appointments and campaign finance reports with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB2474

Relating to the electronic filing of certain reports of political contributions and expenditures with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB806

Relating to the appointment of a campaign treasurer and filing of reports of political contributions and expenditures by certain candidates.

TX HB2926

Relating to the appointment of a campaign treasurer and filing of reports of political contributions and expenditures by certain candidates.

TX HB1616

Relating to the reporting of political contributions, political expenditures, and personal financial information, and to complaints filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB4057

Relating to the regulation and reporting of political contributions and expenditures and legislative caucus contributions and expenditures.

TX HB2586

Relating to political contributions and political expenditures made to or by political committees or other persons.

Similar Bills

TX HB2225

Relating to the filing with the Texas Ethics Commission of campaign treasurer appointments and reports of political contributions and political expenditures.

TX HB189

Relating to the filing with the Texas Ethics Commission of campaign treasurer appointments and reports of political contributions and political expenditures.

VA HB2484

Campaign finance; coordination and required independent expenditure committee disclosure.

VA HB2173

Campaign finance; coordination and required independent expenditure committee disclosure.

VA SB1185

Campaign finance; coordination and required independent expenditure committee disclosure.

TX SB1980

Relating to political contributions and political expenditures made to or by political committees or other persons.

TX HB2586

Relating to political contributions and political expenditures made to or by political committees or other persons.

TN SB0160

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2, Chapter 10; Title 3, Chapter 6; Title 4, Chapter 55; Title 8, Chapter 50, Part 5 and Title 57, relative to campaign finance.