SB 597 Summary

• Adds a new permitted use of campaign funds allowing candidates to pay for child care and vital household dependent care costs incurred due to the candidate's campaign participation.

• Limits qualifying child care and dependent care expenses to costs incurred from January 1 of the election year through the day after the primary or general election in which the candidate appears on the ballot.

• Restricts child care services to children under twelve years old (biological, adopted, foster, stepchildren, or legal wards) and requires services not be provided by immediate family members.

• Defines "vital household dependent" as a household member physically or mentally incapable of self-care and allows campaign funds for their necessary care services.

• Takes effect on May 1, 2029.