HB 1643

Bill Subjects

Agencies; Election Division And Election Commission Billboards And Signs County Government Education; Local School Boards Elections; Campaign Activities (Including Advertisements, Contributions, Expenditures, And Reporting) Elections; Candidates Public Records Technology; Computers, Cell Phones, And Devices

Abstract

Modifies the definition of "auxiliary party organization". Specifies that the definition of "contribution" includes certain donations of property through a payment platform that acts as a conduit. Repeals a provision that allows the Indiana election commission (commission) to issue advisory opinions. Provides that an advisory opinion issued by the commission before July 1, 2025, is void. Provides that certain paid political advertising or campaign material does not falsely represent that the candidate is or has been an officeholder. Provides that, after December 31, 2026, the computer system developed and used by the election division to store campaign finance reports must enable the election division to provide for electronic submission, retrieval, storage, and disclosure of campaign finance reports of candidates for local office and school board office. Requires, after December 31, 2026, that a: (1) committee for a candidate seeking election to a local office or school board office; and (2) political action committee; must file specified reports and statements electronically using a standardized software program or another approved format. Requires, after December 31, 2026, that each county election board and board of elections and registration have access to a particular computer system and software program for the purpose of managing filings by candidates seeking election to a local office or school board office. Specifies requirements that apply to the purchase of a software program by the election division after June 30, 2025. Allows the election division to send certain notices by electronic mail, if a workable electronic mail address is provided by the committee. Requires, after December 31, 2026, each county election board to mail: (1) to each candidate or political action committee required to file a campaign finance report with the county election board; and (2) 21 days before the campaign finance reports are due; a notice that states the date the campaign finance reports are due. Allows a county election board to adopt a resolution allowing certain reports to be submitted to the county election board by hand, mail, or electronic mail. Provides that a county election board that adopts a resolution is responsible for entering the submitted reports into the computer system and software program. Requires the reporting of certain information if a contribution is made through a payment platform that acts as a conduit.