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Committee defers bill that would let campaign funds cover clothing required for office
Summary
Representative DeWitt’s proposal to clarify that clothing required for holding office may be paid from campaign funds was voluntarily deferred after members asked for a cap and reporting clarifications.
Representative DeWitt introduced House Bill 9-96 on April 1, saying the bill would close a gap in existing law that treats clothing as a personal expense even when it is required for holding office. DeWitt said the change would recognize basic job‑related costs — suits, maintenance and cleaning — that can be significant for legislators living on modest salaries.
Committee members expressed broad sympathy for the idea but raised concerns about optics and potential abuse. Representative Newell and others asked whether a per‑year cap should be included; members discussed figures including $2,500 as a possible starting point. DeWitt said he would work with colleagues on a cap and on clarifying reporting language before floor consideration.
After discussion the committee voluntarily deferred HB 9-96 to allow further work between the author and colleagues on scope, dollar limits and reporting requirements. The committee’s record shows the bill was deferred so the author and staff can refine implementing language.
