Virginia Senate Bill SB111

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/22
• Refer: 1/6/22

Caption

Campaign finance; candidate contribution limits, civil penalty.

Impact

The implementation of SB111 will significantly amend the Code of Virginia by introducing provisions that impose stricter controls on campaign contributions and thereby enhance transparency in political financing. By ensuring that candidates are aware of and adhere to these limits, the bill seeks to curb excessive political spending and maintain a level playing field among candidates. This change is expected to impact future election cycles, as it aims to prevent the influence of wealth on political competition, thereby supporting democratic integrity.

Summary

SB111 introduces new regulations concerning campaign finance in Virginia, specifically setting limits on candidate contributions. The bill establishes a contribution cap of $25,000 per election for any individual or committee to a candidate or their campaign committee, effectively formalizing the rules governing how much financial support a candidate can receive from various sources. The bill also delineates that no entity, other than individuals and certain defined family members, may contribute to a candidate's campaign, which aims to reduce the possibility of financial influence from larger entities on election outcomes.

Contention

The bill has sparked some debate among lawmakers and political analysts. Supporters commend the measures taken to limit contributions, arguing that they are necessary to mitigate undue influence and enhance accountability in political campaigns. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the potential limitations imposed on individual political expression and fundraising endeavors. They argue that caps such as these could deter candidates from pursuing their campaigns due to insufficient funds, and may inadvertently favor well-established candidates who have more access to financial resources and donors.

Provisions

In addition to setting contribution limits, SB111 contains provisions to address violations related to these new limits. Candidates or committees that knowingly accept contributions exceeding the set limits could be subject to civil penalties up to twice the excess amount. This enforcement mechanism ensures that campaign finance laws are adhered to and that potential violations are taken seriously, with the State Board assigned the responsibility for assessing penalties and ensuring compliance.