Senator Roy Ashburn speaks in favor of increased fundraising transparency

Senator Roy Ashburn (R-Bakersfield) announced today that Senate Bill 1118 has passed out of the Senate Elections, Reapportionment and Constitutional Amendments Committee with bi-partisan support.

SB 1118 requires the reporting of contributions of $1000 or more within 24 hours during significant decision-making periods of the legislative session. These reporting times include the period of major budget negotiations, the end of the legislative session when most bills are voted on, and the 30-days when the governor signs or vetoes the majority of legislation.

"This bill will provide greater transparency to the public in regards to fundraising activities by the Legislature and Governor during key legislative seasons," said Senator Ashburn.

According to a press release issued by the state’s campaign finance watchdog, the Fair Political Practices Commission, "more than 25 percent of all fundraisers held, and more than 25 percent of all money solicited in Sacramento during 2009, occurred in the final three weeks of the legislative session.

"The goal of this bill is to increase public confidence that lawmakers are appropriately focused on legislative and budget priorities rather than fundraising during critical negotiations," Ashburn continued. "More disclosure means more sunshine, and sunshine is the ultimate disinfectant in politics."

Senator Ashburn believes that requiring immediate reporting of campaign contributions is an important first-step in informing the public and restoring public trust.

SB 1118 now moves on to the Senate Appropriation Committee.