AL SB471

Amends Section 17-5-19 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to clarify that civil penalties for Fair Campaign Practices Act violations are assessed by the appropriate filing official.

Civil penalty amounts for failing to timely or accurately file required reports are $300 or 10% of unreported amount (first offense), $600 or 15% (second offense), and $1,200 or 20% (third or subsequent offense) per election cycle.

Penalties collected by judges of probate are distributed to county general funds; penalties collected by the Secretary of State go to the State General Fund.

Persons who voluntarily file amended reports to correct errors in timely filed reports are exempt from civil penalties if corrected before the relevant election.

Secretary of State may promulgate rules to implement the amended section; the act becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.