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HD 3427

An Act relative to corporate disclosure when dealing with cities and towns

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Gaskey and 1 co-sponsor

Requires nonprofits with no governmental power in city/state affairs to disclose NGO status, funding sources, and provide conspicuous disclosures in public records and forums.

Senate concurred
0
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Bill Summary · HD 3427

Summary: An Act relative to corporate disclosure when dealing with cities and towns (HD 3427)

Overview

HD 3427 proposes new requirements for certain non-governmental corporations when they interact with cities, towns, and state government. The bill would mandate clear disclosures about the NGO status of such corporations, the nature of information they provide to the public, and the sources of their funding. It aims to increase transparency in communications and public records involving non-governmental entities that engage with municipal and state processes.

Key Provisions

  • Disclaimer of NGO status (Section 30(a))

    • Corporations that do not possess governmental power at municipal or state levels must issue a disclaimer stating they are a non-governmental organization.
    • The disclaimer must indicate that any publicly accessible information has been developed by the corporation.
    • The disclaimer must be posted conspicuously, including on the corporation’s website.
    • If the corporation participates in lobbying for legislative proposals, the disclaimer must be posted on:
    • email
    • website
    • social media platforms
    • any other publicly accessible digital content

  • Public record definition (Section 30(b))

    • The bill expands the concept of “Public record” to include any written statements, audio, or video recordings of public proceedings.

  • Public forums and disclosures (Section 30(c))

    • Corporations and their representatives speaking on proposals in public forums (e.g., town meetings, public hearings at state/local levels) must submit a disclaimer indicating NGO status.
    • The disclaimer must be readily accessible on the public record when requested through public records requests.

  • Funding sources disclosure (Section 30(d))

    • All corporations must post on their website and in any public-facing written or digital content a clear statement about funding sources.
    • This includes identification of individuals, groups, or committees providing financial support.
    • The funding disclosure must be conspicuous and easily accessible.

Scope and Definitions

  • Applies to corporations lacking formal governmental power at municipal or state levels.
  • Applies to information and communications that are accessible to the public, including digital content and public records.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Legislative history to date:

    • Introduced: February 27, 2025
    • Referred to the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies (same date)
    • Senate concurrence noted on February 27, 2025

  • Status: Senate concurred (indicates agreement between House and Senate on the bill’s language at that stage)

Who Is Affected

  • Non-governmental corporations that interact with cities, towns, or state government.
  • These organizations’ communications, lobbying materials, and digital content.
  • Public bodies and record custodians who handle public records and public proceedings.

Potential Impact

  • Increased transparency around NGO influence in public policy and municipal affairs.
  • Requirements to publicly disclose NGO status and funding sources could affect how NGOs present information and engage with local/state governments.
  • Public records would include NGO disclaimers, potentially affecting how residents evaluate information provided in public processes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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