To amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to prohibit the solicitation and acceptance of a recurring contribution or donation in a campaign for election for Federal office by any method which does not require the contributor or donor to give affirmative consent to making the contribution or donation on a recurring basis, and for other purposes.
Impact
Should this bill be enacted, it would have significant implications for how political committees manage recurring donations. Under the proposed amendments, committees would need to provide clear documentation to donors about subsequent contributions, including detailed information on how they can opt-out of future payments. This measure is intended to curtail potential abuses in recurring donation practices, where individuals may unknowingly or unwillingly keep making contributions due to passive consent structures.
Summary
House Bill 7723 seeks to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 by introducing new regulations concerning the solicitation and acceptance of recurring contributions and donations for election campaigns aimed at federal office. The bill specifically mandates that any method of soliciting such contributions must require the contributor or donor to provide affirmative consent for recurring donations. This aims to safeguard donors and ensure transparency in political financing.
Contention
Debate surrounding HB 7723 may center on the balance between ensuring donor rights and the logistical challenges imposed on political committees. Proponents argue that the bill enhances donor autonomy and prevents unwanted continuous charges, reflecting a necessary reform in political fundraising practices. Detractors, however, might express concerns that the additional requirements could complicate fundraising efforts and reduce funds available for campaigns, potentially impacting political expression and the operational efficacy of grassroots movements.
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to set limits on Federal campaign contributions and spending, prohibit corporate spending in the political process, require Congress to develop a system of public campaign financing for all Federal candidates who qualify for the ballot, and allow the States to set reasonable limits on campaign contributions and spending in State and local elections, and for other purposes.
To amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to prohibit a candidate for election to the office or Representative in Congress or Senator from accepting contributions from any political committee other than an authorized committee of the candidate and from establishing a leadership PAC.
Amends various sections of law relating to campaign contributions and expenditures including prohibitions on self-dealing with committee funds and prohibits donations made in fictitious names.