Bill > S08613

This bill significantly restricts the political activities of artificial persons (defined as legal entities like corporations, nonprofits, limited liability companies, and other organizations) in New York State by explicitly revoking their previous powers to engage in election or ballot-issue activities. The bill defines "election activity" and "ballot-issue activity" as spending money to support or oppose candidates, political parties, ballot initiatives, or ballot questions, while explicitly excluding genuine news reporting. Under the proposed law, artificial persons would be prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in such political activities, with the exception of registered political committees that exist solely for that purpose and claim only limited liability. Any artificial person that engages in election or ballot-issue activities would forfeit its charter privileges (such as limited liability, tax credits, and perpetual existence), and such activities would be considered legally void. The bill emphasizes that an artificial person's existence is a conditional grant from the state, and it can have only those powers specifically granted by law. The legislation also provides for civil actions by members, shareholders, or the attorney general to enforce these restrictions, with procedures for potential reinstatement after penalties and compliance certification. The bill aims to dramatically curtail corporate political spending and influence by treating such activities as ultra vires (beyond the legal powers) of artificial persons.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8613