Bill > SB534

This bill, effective January 1, 2027, strengthens regulations against foreign influence in campaigns for constitutional amendments and local ballot questions by introducing new requirements for "measure committees" (groups working to pass or defeat these measures) and individuals making independent expenditures related to them. Key provisions include requiring measure committees to certify that their preliminary activities were not funded by foreign sources, obtain written affirmations from donors stating they are not foreign nationals, and maintain detailed records. Independent expenditure filers must also certify that they are not foreign nationals and that foreign entities did not direct their spending. The bill defines "foreign national" broadly to include domestic entities controlled by foreign nationals and prohibits foreign nationals from directing or soliciting funds for these campaigns. Enforcement will be handled by the Attorney General, with penalties including fines and disgorgement of funds, and a rebuttable presumption of violation if funds originate from a foreign national. This legislation is intended to supplement existing laws and specifically targets ballot measures, not candidate elections.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1307&inflect=2