Bill > SB3025

This bill, the Illinois Clean Elections Act, establishes a voluntary system for public financing of campaigns for statewide constitutional offices and the General Assembly, starting with elections in 2028. Candidates who choose to participate, known as "certified candidates," must agree to limits on private contributions and instead rely on funds from the newly created Illinois Clean Elections Fund. This Fund will be replenished through a portion of income tax revenues, a voluntary $3 tax return checkoff for individuals, and other sources like unspent campaign funds and fines. To become a "certified candidate," individuals must collect a specific number of small "qualifying contributions" (donations of $5 made by registered voters in their district) and adhere to strict rules regarding "seed money contributions" (small personal contributions from the candidate or their family, capped at $100 per individual before certification). The State Board of Elections will administer the program, determine the amount of public funds distributed to candidates based on election type and whether races are contested, and oversee compliance and reporting. The Act also outlines penalties for violations, including fines and the potential return of public funds.

Government Affairs

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=3025&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104