REPEALS PROHIBITION AGAINST PUBLIC FUNDING OF ELECTION CAMPAIGNS. LEGISLATIVE STATUTE.
OFFICIAL TITLE AND SUMMARY
PREPARED BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
Current law prohibits state and local governments from using public funds for election campaigns except in charter cities and counties.
This measure repeals that prohibition and allows state and local governments to establish public campaign financing programs for candidates who agree to specified spending limits and meet eligibility criteria.
Prohibits public funding programs from using funds earmarked for education, transportation, or public safety.
Prohibits candidates from using public funds for legal defense costs, fines, or repayment of personal loans to campaigns.
Triples maximum fine for campaign contributions by foreign entities.
SUMMARY OF LEGISLATIVE ANALYST'S ESTIMATE OF NET STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT FISCAL IMPACT:
Ongoing costs to the state of a few hundred thousand dollars each year for the Fair Political Practices Commission to answer questions from state and local governments about public campaign finance programs.
FINAL VOTES CAST BY THE LEGISLATURE ON SB 42 (PROPOSITION 4) (CHAPTER 245, STATUTES OF 2025)