Bill > S01774

This bill prohibits contributions or donations from "hostile foreign nations" in state and local elections, specifically defining such nations as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, along with their governmental entities and affiliated organizations. The bill makes it illegal for these nations to directly or indirectly contribute money, make promises of contribution, donate to political committees, or spend money on political communications. It also prohibits any person from knowingly soliciting, accepting, or using such contributions. Furthermore, the bill establishes that any violation of these provisions is a class A felony, with offenders subject to a civil penalty equal to the contribution amount plus a potential fine of up to ten thousand dollars. The penalty would be enforced by the state board of elections chief enforcement counsel through a special proceeding or civil action. The law aims to prevent foreign interference in state and local elections by creating strict legal barriers and significant financial and criminal consequences for potential violators.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1774