The Government Transparency & Campaign Finance Commission voted Dec. 4 that reasonable grounds exist to believe respondent Nicole Masaias failed to comply with campaign‑finance filing requirements in connection with a special election and subsequent runoff.

Staff attorney Mr. Knittel told commissioners the investigation began after third‑party complaints and that Miss Masaias failed to file a personal financial disclosure statement within the 15‑day deadline after qualifying, failed to file the runoff campaign contribution disclosure report due six days before the runoff (OCGA §21‑5‑34(c)(4)), and failed to file the Dec. 31 supplemental CCDR for 2024. Knittel said Masaias later filed the missing reports but that they were untimely.

Miss Masaias addressed the commission, saying some reports had been filed ahead of deadlines, that confusion arose because the election schedule had changed to a special election, and that she had provided bank statements and records to staff. "Everything has been filed … there are no issues as it relates to that," she said during her statement.

After limited discussion the chair moved separately on each alleged violation; each motion received a second and was approved by voice vote. The chair advised the respondent that parties have 30 days before the matter is referred to the Office of State Administrative Hearings for formal proceedings.

The commission’s finding of reasonable grounds is an administrative determination to send the matter to adjudication; it is not a final finding of liability. Any formal penalties would be assessed after an administrative hearing and opportunity for defense. Miss Masaias was offered staff contact information to discuss potential resolution prior to referral.