Bill > HB214

This bill amends the Fair Campaign Practices Act to prohibit foreign nationals from making campaign contributions or expenditures in state or local elections, including donations to candidates, political parties, or political action committees, and any spending on electioneering communications. It also makes it illegal for any person, political party, or committee to solicit or accept such contributions or expenditures from foreign nationals, with exceptions for certain membership dues or event fees if the organization is not a foreign national and decisions are not dictated by foreign nationals. Violators of these provisions, including those who knowingly and willfully accept prohibited funds, face a Class C felony conviction. The bill defines "foreign national" broadly to include individuals who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, foreign governments, political parties, or entities organized or majority-owned by foreign nationals, unless specific conditions regarding U.S. operations and decision-making are met. It also defines "noncandidate election" as a vote on a question or proposition, not a candidate. The Legislature intends for state officials to use federal guidance on foreign national campaign activities to avoid confusion, and the bill will take effect on October 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

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