Bill > SB3870

This bill amends the Election Code to prohibit "foreign-influenced business entities" from making political contributions or donations with the condition that they be used for specific political purposes, such as independent expenditures, contributions to candidates or political committees, electioneering communications, or supporting ballot initiatives. A "foreign-influenced business entity" is defined as a business where a single foreign investor owns 1% or more, or multiple foreign investors collectively own 5% or more, or where a foreign investor directly or indirectly influences the entity's political decision-making in the U.S. A "foreign investor" is broadly defined to include foreign governments, political parties, entities organized or based in foreign countries, and individuals outside the U.S. who are not citizens or lawful permanent residents, or corporations where such foreign entities hold significant ownership. The bill requires these business entities to certify to the State Board of Elections, within seven days of making a contribution or expenditure, that they were not foreign-influenced at the time, signed by their chief executive officer, and to provide a copy of this certification to the recipient. Importantly, this certification requirement does not create liability for candidates or political committees who can rely on the certification in good faith. The bill also grants the Attorney General, State's Attorneys, and political committees the power to seek court injunctions to stop contributions or expenditures by foreign-influenced business entities that violate these provisions. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=3870&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104