CA SB1170

Campaign funds may be used to pay for a candidate's reasonable and necessary mental health care expenses if the candidate lacks health insurance or insurance does not cover full costs.

Mental health care expenses are only permitted if the candidate experienced harassment, prejudice, or a threat or other criminal act during the campaign that resulted in the need for services.

Campaign funds may be used for these mental health expenses starting 12 months before the election date through the date election results are certified or the candidate is sworn into office.

Candidates using campaign funds for mental health care must report this use on campaign statements and note which category of experience (harassment, prejudice, or threat/criminal act) they experienced, without requiring details.

Candidates must maintain records of mental health care services received, including provider name, license number, and license type, and violations of the Political Reform Act remain subject to misdemeanor penalties.