SF1911

This bill proposes the creation of the Minnesota Civic Fund Program while repealing the Political Contribution Refund Program. Here are the key provisions of the bill:

Key Points:

1. Establishment of the Minnesota Civic Fund Program

   • The program enables Minnesota residents to allocate civic fund credits in $25 increments (up to a total of $100 per person per year) to eligible political candidates or parties.
   • Citizens on the voter registration list are automatically enrolled, and others can opt in.

2. Eligibility for Candidates & Political Parties

   • Candidates must sign voluntary spending limits agreements.
   • Candidates must collect a minimum number of small contributions from individuals in their electoral district.
   • Only major and qualifying minor political parties are eligible.

3. Contribution Tracking & Redemption

   • Credits have no cash value, cannot be sold or transferred, and must be used by the end of the election cycle.
   • Candidates and parties can redeem credits from the state, which will be funded up to a cap based on total credits distributed.
   • Contributions assigned through the program must comply with existing campaign finance limits and reporting requirements.

4. Program Administration & Funding

   • The Campaign Finance Board will oversee registration, reporting, and enforcement.
   • Funding is appropriated from the general fund, not to exceed the redemption cap.
   • Transparent reporting and random audits ensure compliance.

5. Repeal of the Political Contribution Refund Program

   • The bill eliminates the current system where contributors receive state tax refunds for political donations.
   • It transfers support to the new Civic Fund, adjusting reporting and refund mechanisms accordingly.

6. Penalties and Enforcement

   • Unused campaign funds from credited contributions must be returned to the state.
   • Misuse of funds, fraudulent credit assignments, and unauthorized transfers carry financial and legal penalties.

Summary:

The bill aims to reform Minnesota’s public campaign financing system by replacing tax refunds for contributions with a direct state-funded civic credit system. This change seeks to make political donations more accessible while maintaining fairness and transparency in campaign financing.

Would you like further clarification on any aspect?