Bill > HSB223

This Study Bill establishes new protections for personal information related to tax-exempt organizations, specifically those recognized under section 501(c) of the federal Internal Revenue Code, which are organizations that are exempt from paying certain taxes. The bill defines "personal information" as any data that identifies someone as a member, supporter, volunteer, or donor to such an organization, excluding information already reported to the secretary of state. It prohibits "public agencies," which include state and local government entities, from requiring these tax-exempt organizations to provide this personal information, or from releasing it without the explicit written consent of the individuals and the organization. The bill also prevents public agencies from demanding lists of supported tax-exempt organizations from contractors, though it allows for disclosure under specific legal circumstances like a court warrant or a discovery request with a protective order. Furthermore, it introduces civil penalties for violations, ranging from a minimum of $2,500 per violation to three times that amount for intentional breaches, and also allows for the recovery of litigation costs. Criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, are also established for knowing violations. The bill clarifies that these new provisions do not affect existing campaign disclosure laws.