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Committee holds S 1365 after debate on church exemptions for campaign reporting
Summary
S 1365, which would create a limited reporting exemption for religious organizations participating in ballot initiatives, was held in committee after testimony from church leaders and comments from the Secretary of State about enforcement and disclosure concerns.
The Senate State Affairs Committee on March 23 held S 1365 in committee after extended debate about whether religious organizations should receive a limited exemption from campaign reporting requirements. The bill would allow religious organizations to avoid disclosing donor totals for ballot-initiative spending so long as such spending does not exceed 10% of the organization’s prior-year receipts, according to proponents’ testimony.
Christian Welp of the Idaho Catholic Church and pastors Paul Lewer (Well Reformed Church, Boise) and Alan Burrow (Meridian) testified in support, saying mandatory disclosure chilled church participation in ballot initiatives and threatened donor anonymity. They argued churches face administrative burdens under current law and that the proposed 10% threshold would allow participation without forcing churches into PAC structures.
Committee members pressed witnesses on enforcement: Chairman Guthrie asked how the Secretary of State’s Office could determine whether a church exceeded the 10% threshold without disclosure. Secretary of State Phil McGrane later told the committee that when a valid complaint is received the office examines the claim and will investigate including reviewing donor financial records. McGrane also said that disclosure and transparency laws remain constitutional when money is involved.
Procedurally, Senator Toews moved to send S 1365 to the 14th Order of Business for possible amendment; that motion was followed by a later motion from Senator Ruchti to hold the bill in committee. The motion to hold passed on a roll call (5–4): Chairman Guthrie, Vice Chairman Bernt, Senators Harris, Adams and Ruchti voted aye; Senators Anthon, Den Hartog, Toews and Shippy voted nay. The committee’s minutes record both support and skepticism among members, with concerns focused on enforcement and separation of church and state.
Because the committee voted to hold S 1365, the bill will not advance immediately; proponents and opponents may prepare revised language or new evidence for future consideration.
