Bill > HB1130

This bill, known as the Safeguarding Election Candidates Using Reasonable Expenditures (SECURE) Act, amends Georgia law to enhance the security of election candidates and clarify campaign finance regulations. It defines "security expenditures" to include reasonable costs for security equipment and monitoring services, such as installation by licensed providers. The bill also establishes a 30-day period for candidates or their campaign treasurers to comply with requests to inspect campaign accounts, with penalties for failure to do so. Importantly, it allows campaign funds to be used for security equipment and services for candidates and public officials, with specific limitations: funds cannot be used for structural improvements unrelated to security, firearms, or weapons, nor can they pay family or campaign staff for installation or monitoring services. Any security equipment purchased with campaign funds must be returned after the campaign or term of office, unless the candidate or official personally reimburses the campaign for its full cost. Additionally, candidates and officials must provide itemized reports with invoice documentation for all security expenditures.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72684