Committee backs bill to let treasurers report large late contributions the next day

Delegate Seibel introduced House Bill 1348 to change the deadline for reporting a large contribution received the night before an election. Under the proposal, a contribution over the statutory large-contribution threshold received the night before election day would be due by 11:59 p.m. on the following day rather than the same night. "From what I understand, from my treasurer ... they really do need that next day period because the same day is too burdensome," the patron said.

Members asked how the change would affect voter access to information for very large contributions received earlier on election day. Counsel and staff explained that a contribution received in the early morning before election day would still need to be reported on election day by 11:59 p.m.; the bill targets last-night filings that practically cannot be turned around by volunteer treasurers.

Andrew Scalise, a campaign treasurer for Delegate Seibel and other candidates, testified in support. He said the large pre-election reporting requirement is useful but that a next-business-day extension balances transparency with the realities of volunteer treasurers and electronic-notification delays: "That one extra day requirement ... provides the right balance for when you receive a contribution to how much time it takes your treasurer." He added that electronic filings are available immediately when filed, but some platforms and notification systems deliver information in daily batches.

After questions and public comment, the committee voted to report HB 1348 with a favorable recommendation by a 6–1 vote.

The committee’s recommendation sends HB 1348 forward; further review on any technical filing or public-access requirements will depend on subsequent committee action.