SB19-232 Summary

• Establishes comprehensive codified procedures in Section 1-45-111.7 for the Secretary of State to enforce Colorado campaign finance laws, including complaint filing, initial review, investigation, and hearing processes.

• Complaints must be filed within 180 days of alleged violation; the Division conducts initial review within 10 business days to determine if complaint is timely, properly identifies violations, and alleges sufficient facts.

• Provides opportunity for respondents to cure certain violations (filing/disclosure deficiencies) within 10 business days; Division determines substantial compliance using three factors including extent of noncompliance, purpose achievement, and intentional misconduct.

• Establishes investigation and enforcement procedures with 30-day timeline for Division to file complaint with hearing officer; allows Division to request documents and protects investigative materials from public disclosure under Colorado Open Records Act.

• Replaces references to "administrative law judge" with "hearing officer" throughout campaign finance enforcement sections and repeals outdated training course requirements effective July 1, 2019.