Bill > HB162

This bill allows counties and cities in Virginia to create their own systems for public campaign financing for local elected offices through local ordinances. These systems must be voluntary for candidates, meaning candidates can choose not to participate and will not be subject to the new rules. If a candidate does accept public financing, they must use it only for the specific local office they are running for and cannot transfer these funds to or from other campaign accounts. The bill also requires a dedicated public election fund to be established and managed by the local treasurer. While local systems can impose stricter rules on participating candidates regarding campaign contributions, spending, and reporting than state law, they must still comply with state regulations and will be overseen by the State Board of Elections.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB162