SF828

Senate File No. 828 is a bill introduced in the Minnesota Senate that focuses on the oversight of campaign finance reporting by local candidates. The primary objective of the bill is to establish a working group to explore whether local campaign finance reports, which candidates for office in counties, municipalities, school districts, and other sub-state levels currently file locally, should instead be filed with the state's Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board.

The working group will consist of members from various government and political entities, including representatives from different political parties, the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, and associations representing cities, counties, townships, and school boards. The group will evaluate the current system, determine the support local filing officers provide to candidates and the public, and assess potential changes to reporting requirements. The group will also consider the impact of increasing the workload on the state board and propose any necessary legislation.

The bill mandates that this working group provide a report by January 15, 2026, detailing their activities, findings, and any legislative recommendations. The group will dissolve after submitting its report or by January 16, 2026, whichever is later.

Additionally, the bill includes a one-time appropriation for fiscal year 2025 from the general fund to support the activities of the working group. The funds will be managed by the Legislative Coordinating Commission and are available until June 30, 2026.