Bill > HB1454

This bill modifies campaign finance laws in Maryland to allow for "security expenditures," which are defined as payments for things like electronic security systems, personal security services, or reimbursement to the state for security costs related to a "protectee" – an individual being protected, such as a candidate, elected official, or their immediate family or staff. These expenditures are permitted if a threat to the protectee's safety arises from their role as a candidate or elected official, or their association with one, but cannot be used for firearms or directly to certain family members. The bill also establishes record-keeping requirements for campaign finance entities, mandating that treasurers detail security expenditures and include evidence of the threat that necessitated them in campaign finance reports, with a lifetime limit of $10,000 for such expenditures on behalf of an individual candidate or elected official. Furthermore, individuals who receive tangible security items purchased by a campaign finance entity must either return them or reimburse the entity at fair market value within specific timeframes after the threat or the individual's term ends, with provisions for reimbursement by the candidate or elected official if the items are for family or staff.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1454?ys=2026RS