Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that limits the use of campaign funds for security purposes in California.

Highlights:

• Authorizes candidates, elected officers, and their staff to use campaign funds for security expenses to address threats arising from their official duties or status (Sec. 1-2). 

• Defines "security expenses” as home or office electronic security systems, personal security, and other related tangible items (Sec. 1-2). 

• Prohibits the use of campaign funds for the purchase of firearms or for payments to a candidate's or elected officer's immediate family members (Sec. 1-2). 

• Limits the expenditure of campaign funds for security to a maximum of $10,000 per calendar year starting January 1, 2029 (Sec. 1-2). 

• Requires candidates or officers to file a campaign report, signed under penalty of perjury, that verifies the specific threat necessitating the security expenditure (Sec. 1-2). 

• Requires the return of tangible security items or reimbursement to the campaign committee within one year of the official leaving office or the candidate ending their campaign (Sec. 1-2). 

• Requires officials to maintain detailed records, receipts, and evidence of the threat that necessitated the security expenditures (Sec. 1-2).

Full Bill Text