Senator Anthon presents campaign finance reform bill to committee

The Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee of Idaho is set to consider a significant campaign finance reform bill aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in political funding. During the meeting on March 31, 2025, Senator Kelly Anthon presented the bill, which proposes several key changes to the state's campaign finance regulations.

The proposed legislation seeks to increase the reporting requirements for candidates and political action committees (PACs). Notably, it will mandate monthly reports for PACs and require detailed disclosures for donations exceeding $1,000 as elections approach. This move is designed to provide voters with clearer insights into campaign financing and the influences behind political messaging.

One of the most impactful changes in the bill is the proposed increase in candidate contribution limits. The limit for individual contributions to candidates would rise from $1,000 to $1,500, a figure that has remained unchanged for decades. For statewide offices, the limit would increase from $5,000 to $6,000 per election. These adjustments aim to reflect the economic realities of inflation while still maintaining a conservative approach to campaign financing.

Additionally, the bill addresses the need for updated penalties by proposing increases in fines for late filing of reports and for missing disclosure statements. This aspect of the legislation emphasizes the importance of accountability among candidates and their campaigns.

The committee is expected to hold a full hearing on the bill in the near future, where further discussions will take place. If passed, these reforms could significantly reshape the landscape of campaign finance in Idaho, promoting greater transparency and ensuring that voters are better informed about the financial backing of their candidates.