Senate Bill 1036 Summary

• Prohibits cities, towns, counties, school districts, and special taxing districts from using public resources (money, facilities, equipment, personnel, etc.) to influence election outcomes, with exceptions for neutral informational materials and reporting on official government actions.

• Expands the definition of "influencing elections" to include presenting any non-neutral information related to an election or its subject matter, in addition to supporting or opposing candidates or ballot measures.

• Establishes civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation plus reimbursement for misused public resources, with penalties paid to the attorney general, county treasurer, or a resident initiating the suit depending on who files the action.

• Allows the Attorney General, county attorneys, or residents of the affected jurisdiction to file enforcement actions in superior court for alleged violations.

• Permits government-sponsored forums and debates if impartial, allows routine communications necessary for public safety, and protects employee civil and political rights under state and federal constitutions.