HF1750

This bill proposes the establishment of the Minnesota Civic Fund Program, which will replace the existing Political Contribution Refund (PCR) Program.

Key Provisions:

1. Minnesota Civic Fund Program Creation:

   • Establishes a new program where registered voters and certain other eligible Minnesota residents receive an automatic civic fund credit.
   • Participants can direct their credits in $25 increments to qualified candidates or political parties.
   • The credits have no cash value, cannot be transferred, and must be assigned within 30 days after the next state general election.

2. Repeal of the Political Contribution Refund (PCR) Program:

   • Eliminates the longstanding political contribution refund system after December 31, 2027.

3. Candidate and Political Party Eligibility:

   • Candidates must adhere to voluntary spending limits.
   • Candidates must meet small donor fundraising thresholds to qualify.
   • Political parties must be recognized under Minnesota law.

4. Funding and Redemption:

   • The Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board will oversee the administration and redemption of civic fund credits.
   • The total amount redeemable in a calendar year is capped initially at 8% of total credits issued, with provisions for gradual increases.
   • Candidates and parties must submit credits for redemption by December 31 of the year in which they were issued.

5. Prohibited Actions:

   • Sale or transfer of civic fund credits for cash or other benefits is strictly prohibited.
   • Violations are subject to penalties and enforcement by the Campaign Finance Board.

6. Appropriations and Rulemaking:

   • The bill provides ongoing funding for administering the program.
   • The Campaign Finance Board is granted rulemaking authority.

Impact:

The bill aims to reform campaign financing in Minnesota by encouraging small-dollar contributions and increasing public participation in elections while eliminating the direct taxpayer refund mechanism of the PCR program.