Bill > SB640

This bill aims to enhance the privacy of individuals involved in political campaigns by prohibiting the public release of certain personal information. Specifically, it prevents the disclosure of a campaign contributor's home address and employer information, as well as the address of treasurers, from public records, including government websites and responses to public information requests. This protection is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and applies to financial statements filed on or after that date. The bill also mandates that financial statements for local elections (city, county, or municipal) must be filed with the Secretary of State. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for violations, including a misdemeanor charge for state or local officials who knowingly and willfully disclose this protected information, and a civil penalty of $1,000 for government entities that fail to remove or redact the information within 10 business days after being notified of the violation. The bill also removes a previous prohibition on distinguishing between different types of entities in certain circumstances.