Bill > H0442

This bill amends Idaho's campaign finance laws to provide comprehensive transparency and regulations for campaign contributions, expenditures, and political activities. It creates a new chapter in Idaho Code dedicated to campaign finance transparency with several key provisions: It prohibits foreign contributions and expenditures in elections, requires detailed reporting of financial contributions and independent expenditures by candidates, political action committees, and other entities, mandates clear identification of funding sources in political communications, and establishes new reporting requirements and penalties for non-compliance. The bill introduces a new definition of "electioneering communication" that covers various forms of paid political messaging, requires disclosure of payments to signature gatherers, and creates mechanisms for the Secretary of State to oversee and enforce these campaign finance rules. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions addressing the use of synthetic media (AI-generated content) in political communications, allowing candidates to seek legal remedies if their image or speech is misrepresented. The bill aims to promote openness, prevent potential foreign interference in elections, and ensure that voters have clear information about the financial backing of political campaigns and communications.

Government Affairs

State Affairs Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0442/