Bill > HB2817

This bill modifies the reporting requirements for independent expenditures in political campaigns by lowering the monetary thresholds for disclosure and reporting. Specifically, the bill removes previous dollar amount limits and now requires political action committees (PACs) and other entities to report independent expenditures of any sum, rather than only those exceeding specific dollar amounts. The bill mandates detailed reporting including the names of those making expenditures, the purpose of the expenditure, information about contributors, and certification that the expenditure was not coordinated with a candidate. Key reporting requirements now include filing disclosure statements for any independent expenditure during a calendar year, providing comprehensive details about the expenditure and its contributors, and submitting rapid reporting (within 24-48 hours) for expenditures close to an election. The bill also requires that any communication paid for by an independent expenditure clearly state it is not authorized by the candidate and identify who is making the expenditure. Violations of these reporting requirements can result in misdemeanor charges with fines up to $500 and potential jail time. Electronic filing is mandated, with documents to be made publicly accessible on the internet within 24 hours of receipt. The bill aims to increase transparency in political spending by requiring more comprehensive and timely reporting of independent expenditures.

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http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2817&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill