Last updated January 9, 2023
Fair Political Practices Commission News
On January 1, 2023, a new state law became operative. The new law, SB 1439, prohibits local elected officials from soliciting, accepting, or directing campaign contributions of more than $250 from a party or participant or their agent involved in certain proceedings pending before the official’s agency and for 12 months after the agency renders a decision on the matter. In December, the Fair Political Practices Commission issued an opinion stating that contributions made or received in 2022 are not subject to SB 1439.
Federal Election Commission News
On December 1, 2022, the Federal Election Commission adopted final rules to update the digital campaign advertisement disclaimer requirements. The regulations clarify how the disclaimer requirements apply to various types of internet communications and allow certain internet communications to display disclaimers through alternative technological means. The new rules take effect on March 1, 2023.
City of Oakland Public Ethics Commission News
The City of Oakland Public Ethics Commission is seeking a new Executive Director. For more information on the position and how to apply visit: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oaklandca/jobs/3803818/executive-director-public-ethics-commission?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs
In November, The City of Oakland voters passed Measure W, which alters the Public Ethics Commission’s staffing, authority, and public financing authority. The new public financing program disperses $100 in Democracy Dollar vouchers to eligible Oakland residents who can then assign the Dollars to their preferred candidate. The Public Ethics Commission is working toward implementing Measure W and the necessary financing by July 2023.
San Francisco Ethics Commission News
In December, the San Francisco Ethics Commission discussed and approved legislation to update the city’s campaign advertisement disclaimers to comply with a court order related to disclosure of the identity of secondary contributors.