summary
Introduced
02/04/2025
02/04/2025
In Committee
02/04/2025
02/04/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Provides that the amendatory Act to be referred to as the Truth in Politics Act. Includes legislative findings. Amends the Prohibitions and Penalties Article of the Election Code. Creates prohibitions against (i) false statements to affect a vote, (ii) unlawful attempts to affect the outcome of a campaign, (iii) distribution of materials intending to mislead people on a candidate's incumbency status, and (iv) libel and defamation in political advertising. Provides that, if a person violates the provisions, the person can be enjoined civilly. Provides that a violation of the provisions are Class A misdemeanors. Amends the Fair Campaign Practices Article of the Election Code. Requires (rather than allows) candidates and the chairs of political committees to sign and file the Code of Fair Campaign Practices. Makes changes to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices. Requires a candidate to include in all of the candidate's campaign literature and advertising the following statement: "I am a candidate for (specify office), and I support the accuracy of this message." Provides penalties for failure to timely file a signed Code of Fair Campaign Practices and for violations of the Code of Fair Campaign Practices or other provisions of the Article. Effective February 1, 2026.
AI Summary
This bill, known as the TRUTH IN POLITICS ACT, aims to enhance the integrity and accuracy of political campaigns in Illinois by establishing several key provisions. The bill creates new prohibitions against false statements designed to affect voting, including making intentionally misleading claims about a candidate's education, professional background, criminal record, or voting history. It introduces civil and criminal penalties for individuals or organizations that spread misinformation, with violations considered Class A misdemeanors. The legislation requires candidates to sign a mandatory Code of Fair Campaign Practices, which outlines principles of decency, honesty, and fair play in political communication. Additionally, candidates must now include a statement in all campaign materials affirming, "I am a candidate for (specify office), and I support the accuracy of this message." The bill recognizes the growing challenges of misinformation in political campaigns, particularly through social media, and seeks to discourage mudslinging, misleading advertisements, and tactics that can discourage voter participation. By providing legal mechanisms to challenge false statements and imposing meaningful consequences for violations, the bill aims to promote more transparent, honest, and substantive political discourse.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Assignments (on 02/04/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1565&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104 |
| BillText | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/SB/10400SB1565.htm |
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