MN SF1915

Modifies definition of "expressly advocating" to include communications that, when taken as a whole, are susceptible of no reasonable interpretation other than as an appeal for or against a clearly identified candidate, in addition to communications using express advocacy words or phrases.

Creates new regulatory framework for "electioneering communications" (broadcast, printed, telephone, email, or text communications referring to clearly identified candidates made within 30-60 days of elections) with disclosure requirements for organizations spending over $1,500 annually.

Requires organizations making electioneering communications using general treasury money to disclose names and amounts of persons contributing over $5,000 attributable to those communications, using a prorating method based on total disbursements over total receipts.

Allows independent expenditure and ballot question political committees to make disbursements for electioneering communications and prohibits principal campaign committees from making such disbursements.

Establishes penalties including late filing fees up to $1,000 and civil penalties up to $1,000 for failure to file electioneering communication disclosure statements, with enhanced penalties up to four times the disbursement amount for willful failures to disclose general treasury money sources.