IN HB1314

Establishes a new election ethics commission to investigate and report on complaints alleging unethical or false campaign advertising by candidates, effective July 1, 2017.

Commission consists of five members appointed by the governor: one each nominated by the state chairmen of the political parties whose presidential candidates received the highest, second highest, and third highest votes in Indiana; one nominated by the League of Women Voters; and one nominated by Common Cause of Indiana.

Members serve four-year terms beginning July 1 and cannot serve two consecutive terms; the governor appoints one member as chair and fills any vacancies with individuals having the same qualifications as the member being replaced.

Commission accepts complaints from any person against candidates, determines complaint forms and filing fees, serves candidates with complaints within three days, allows 24-hour response periods, holds hearings within five days, and issues written opinions within 24 hours after hearings conclude.

Commission complaints are available for public inspection, and the election division provides staff and support services; commission may adopt rules under Indiana Code 4-22-2.