HF1944 Summary

• Modifies definition of "expressly advocating" to include communications that, when taken as a whole, can only be reasonably interpreted as advocating for or against a clearly identified candidate, in addition to communications using explicit advocacy language.

• Creates new disclosure requirements for "electioneering communications" (defined as communications referring to a clearly identified candidate made 30-60 days before elections, targeted to relevant electorate, without candidate authorization).

• Requires political committees, party units, and principal campaign committees to disclose electioneering communications on regular finance reports; allows other associations to register political funds for such disclosure or file separate statements.

• Establishes threshold of $1,500 in aggregate disbursements for unregistered associations to trigger disclosure statement filing within 24 hours, including identification of candidates, funders contributing over $200 to segregated accounts, and members/donors contributing over $1,000 to general treasury used for electioneering.

• Permits independent expenditure and ballot question committees to make disbursements for electioneering communications and updates related provisions regarding voluntary inactive status and contribution source designation; effective July 1, 2014.