Committee backs bill clarifying foreign-influence rules apply to local elections

Chair opened a work session on Senate Bill 534, which clarifies that foreign influence and funding rules apply to local elections and constitutional amendment questions in addition to state and federal contests. Representative Carol McGuire spoke in favor of the bill and moved the committee to recommend it.

"This bill clarifies that the foreign influence and funding applies to local elections and constitutional amendment questions as well as state and federal elections," Representative McGuire said, adding the measure also creates fines and fees for violations.

She said the secretary of state indicated the change would not impose additional implementation burdens. After limited discussion and no opposition on the record, the committee closed the work session, moved into executive session and recorded a 9–0 roll-call recommendation to pass (OTP).

The bill will proceed out of committee for further legislative consideration.