Bill > HB205

This bill, titled the "Voter Action Act," aims to expand public financing for legislative races in New Mexico by amending existing law. Key provisions include defining "contribution" to encompass gifts, loans, or advances of money or value made to support or oppose a candidate, and "coordinated expenditure" as a campaign expense made in conjunction with a candidate's campaign. The bill extends "covered office" to include state legislators, in addition to judicial offices and the public regulation commissioner. It also clarifies that individuals seeking to become "applicant candidates" must declare their intent to participate in the Voter Action Act before collecting any contributions and must adhere to contribution and expenditure limits. The process for becoming a "certified candidate" is refined, requiring the collection and submission of qualifying contributions after filing the declaration of intent. The bill also specifies that public funds distributed to certified candidates must be used solely for campaign-related purposes and cannot be used for personal expenses, contributions to other campaigns, or payments for legal expenses. Furthermore, it introduces new rules for allowable contributions, prohibiting coordinated expenditures except under specific circumstances, and sets limits on contributions from individual electors. The amount of public funds distributed to certified candidates, including legislative candidates, is adjusted based on voter numbers in their districts, and the bill outlines a system for matching funds to provide additional support when opponents raise more money. Finally, it revises penalties for violations of the Voter Action Act, including potential civil penalties and the requirement to return public funds, and establishes that willful violations can result in felony charges.