19:44A-2.1 - Findings, declarations relative to individuals considering candidacy for public office
19:44A-2.1 Findings, declarations relative to individuals considering candidacy for public office.1.The Legislature finds and declares that:
a.Accessible public disclosure of money and other things of value given to a candidate for public office by an individual, another candidate or a political committee has proven to be the most effective means of fostering public awareness of and reducing public skepticism about the current system of financing elections for public office;
b.However, under the current disclosure system, certain individuals who collect and spend money while considering whether to become a candidate for public office at a future election do not have to disclose anything about the money they raise or expend until they become a candidate;
c.The continuation of this practice undermines public confidence in the current system of financing elections for public office;
d.The State has a compelling interest in preventing the actuality or appearance of corruption and in protecting public confidence in democratic institutions by requiring an individual who is considering whether to be a candidate for office to comply with the same laws that apply to any candidate for public office; and
e.It is, therefore, reasonable for the State to promote these compelling interests by requiring an individual who acts like a candidate to comply with the current limitations, prohibitions and requirements on campaign contributions and the disclosure of the sources and amounts of contributions and expenditures.
L.1999,c.57,s.1.