Bill > H825

This bill aims to support candidates who have caregiving responsibilities by allowing campaign funds to be used for adult-care services directly related to campaign activities. The legislation defines "adult-care services" as care provided to a candidate's parent or other adult dependent, which can include professional caregiving services from non-profit or for-profit organizations. Importantly, the bill prohibits candidates from using campaign funds to pay family members for care, unless that family member is a professional caregiver and charges a standard market rate. The bill amends existing campaign finance laws to explicitly permit campaign funds to be used for adult-care expenses that would not otherwise exist without the campaign, such as additional caregiving needed when a candidate is performing campaign work or attending campaign events. Additionally, the bill requires the director of campaign and political finance to develop implementing regulations within 90 days of the law's enactment. The overall purpose appears to be removing financial barriers that might prevent individuals with caregiving responsibilities from running for public office by allowing campaign funds to cover necessary care expenses.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H825