Bill > HB363

This bill amends Alabama's campaign finance laws to explicitly prohibit foreign nationals from making campaign contributions or expenditures in state and local elections. The bill provides a comprehensive definition of "foreign national" which includes non-U.S. citizens, non-permanent residents, foreign governments, foreign political parties, and entities organized under foreign laws or primarily based in foreign countries. It makes it illegal for foreign nationals to directly or indirectly contribute money, make donations, or spend funds to influence state or local elections, including contributions to political parties or committees. Similarly, the bill prohibits political parties, candidates, political action committees, and other entities from soliciting or accepting such contributions from foreign nationals. Any person who intentionally violates these provisions would be guilty of a Class C felony. The bill also clarifies that U.S. entities majority-owned by foreign nationals can make contributions only if the funds are generated by U.S. operations and decisions are made by U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to protect the integrity of state and local elections by preventing foreign interference.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search