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S 506

An Act relative to dark money in local government

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 506 mandates reporting for contributions over $1,000 to influence local government decisions, enhancing transparency and accountability for voters and officials.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 506

Summary of Bill S 506: An Act Relative to Dark Money in Local Government

Bill Number: S 506
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Status: Reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
Sponsors: Julian Cyr (Primary), Dylan A. Fernandes (Cosponsor)
Related Bills: SD 144 (replaces)

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 506 aims to enhance transparency in local government by regulating the influence of "dark money"—funds contributed to influence local government decisions without disclosure of the source. The bill seeks to ensure that any significant financial contributions made to affect town warrant articles are reported, thereby promoting accountability and informed civic engagement.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes amendments to Chapter 55 of the General Laws, specifically by adding a new section (22B) that outlines the following:

  1. Definitions:

    • Article: Subjects to be acted upon at a town meeting.
    • Town Meeting: Annual or special meetings called as per state law.
    • Warrant: The official call for a town meeting.

  2. Reporting Requirements:

    • Any individual or entity contributing $1,000 or more to influence a town warrant article must file detailed reports with the town clerk. Reports must include:
      • Date and purpose of the expenditure.
      • Amount spent.
      • Names and addresses of both the spender and the recipient of the funds.
      • Details of any contributions received to support the expenditure.

  3. Filing Timeline:

    • Reports are to be filed:
      • Monthly, by the 5th day of each month for contributions made in the previous month.
      • Five days before a town meeting, covering contributions up to seven days prior.
      • A final report is due 30 days after a town meeting.

  4. Exemptions:

    • The bill does not restrict actions taken by state officials in their official or private capacities regarding warrant articles.

  5. Penalties for Non-compliance:

    • Violations of the reporting requirements may result in penalties, including:
      • Imprisonment for up to one year.
      • Fines up to $1,000.
      • Or both.

Impact

This legislation is expected to affect:
- Local Governments: Increased administrative responsibilities for tracking and reporting contributions.
- Individuals and Organizations: Those contributing significant sums to influence local government decisions will need to comply with new reporting requirements.
- Voters and Citizens: Enhanced transparency will empower citizens to make informed decisions during town meetings, fostering greater civic engagement.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was reported favorably by the committee on November 24, 2025, and is currently under consideration by the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
  • A public hearing was scheduled for October 21, 2025, to gather input on the proposed legislation.

This bill represents a significant step towards curbing the influence of undisclosed financial contributions in local governance, aiming to foster a more transparent and accountable political environment in Massachusetts.

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

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