Committee retains bill on foreign contributions to ballot-measure campaigns for further clarification
Summary
Senate Bill 11-42, which would bar foreign corporations or persons from contributing to campaigns influencing ballot measures and require disclosure, was retained by the committee amid questions about how 'foreign corporation' and in-kind donations would be defined and enforced.
Senate Bill 11-42, which would prohibit a foreign corporation or person from contributing money or in-kind goods or services to influence a ballot-measure election and require specified disclosures on campaign finance reports, was retained on the committee calendar after members raised definitional and enforcement questions.
Staff explained the bill's core prohibition but members and staff said they were uncertain how the measure would apply to indirect or in-kind donations. Committee members asked whether purchasing campaign material from a vendor that imports goods would constitute receipt of an in-kind contribution from a foreign entity. One member noted the draft language may impose liability without a knowledge requirement, raising concerns that a campaign could inadvertently violate the measure and face penalties for perjury.
Committee discussion acknowledged the sponsor was not present; members said similar measures have come through previously and that the bill likely needs amendments to clarify definitions and exceptions. The committee voted to retain the bill on the calendar so the sponsor can appear and staff can draft clarifying amendments.
Action taken: the motion to retain SB 11-42 on the calendar carried; the committee will work with the sponsor to refine definitions and enforcement mechanisms before further action.
