Louisiana Lawmakers Propose Bill That Could Limit Campaign Finance Transparency
Louisiana lawmakers are considering a significant rewrite of the state’s campaign finance laws, potentially reducing public access to information about political donations and election spending. Under House Bill 693, championed by Gov. Jeff Landry and sponsored by House Republican Caucus Chairman Mark Wright, the bill would increase the disclosure thresholds for contributions and expenditures, making it easier for political spending to go unreported.
The 101-page bill is challenging to decipher, even for those accustomed to campaign finance regulations. David Bordelon, Ethics Administrator for the Louisiana Board of Ethics, acknowledged the complexity, indicating that understanding the changes may require substantial time. Critics argue that this legislation favors politicians over public interests, with the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana (PAR) opposing the bill, citing its vague intentions and lack of clarity on the issues it seeks to address.
Key changes proposed include raising the minimum reporting threshold for national political committees’ contributions from $20,000 to $50,000 and increasing the reporting threshold for last-minute campaign contributions from $200 to $5,000. The bill also introduces loopholes that could permit groups and individuals not clearly defined as political committees to spend money without disclosing contributions.
Furthermore, the legislation permits politicians to use campaign funds for a broadened range of personal expenses, including home mortgages and gym memberships, while relaxing restrictions set during prior reforms initiated by former Gov. Bobby Jindal in 2007.
As the bill moves to the Senate, it has already passed the House with a 77-16 vote. Supporters claim the changes are necessary to alleviate perceived overreach by the ethics board, while critics remain concerned about the implications for transparency in Louisiana’s political landscape.
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