Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB662

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/9/23
• Refer: 11/9/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Reporting a contributor's place of employment.

Impact

The implications of AB662 could lead to a significant shift in how political contributions are tracked and disclosed in Wisconsin. By lowering the reporting threshold, the state is taking steps towards greater accountability and governmental transparency. Supporters advocate that this will deter potential corruption and conflicts of interest, as a clearer picture of financial backing would be available to the public and regulatory bodies. However, it also means that more contributors will be subject to scrutiny, which could dissuade some individuals from making contributions for fear of public exposure.

Summary

Assembly Bill 662 aims to enhance the transparency of campaign finance in Wisconsin by modifying the reporting requirements for political contributions. Specifically, the bill mandates that any political committee receiving contributions exceeding $100 must report the contributor's principal place of employment and occupation. This amendment significantly lowers the threshold for reporting such employment information, previously set at $200. The goal of this change is to provide a clearer view of who is financially supporting candidates and political parties, which may help in understanding potential influences in campaign practices.

Contention

Despite its benefits, AB662 could face opposition from those who argue that the new requirements may infringe on privacy rights. Critics might express concern that the reporting of an individual's employer and occupation could discourage participation in the political process, especially among smaller donors who may prefer to remain anonymous. There is also the potential for increased administrative burden on committees to comply with the new reporting standards. This dual-edge nature of the bill indicates a broader debate on the balance between transparency in campaign finance and the personal privacy of individual contributors.