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SB 1047

Election Law - State Elected Officials - Fundraising Activities During General Assembly Session

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Gallion

SB 1047 prohibits Maryland state elected officials from fundraising during General Assembly sessions to reduce legislative distraction and ensure focus on legislative duties.

Referred Senate Rules
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Bill Summary · SB 1047

Legislative bill overview

SB 1047 restricts state elected officials from conducting fundraising activities while the Maryland General Assembly is in session. The bill applies specifically to officials holding state office and aims to limit the distraction of fundraising during legislative work periods.

Why is this important

This addresses a recurring tension in legislative bodies: whether elected officials should be actively raising campaign funds while they are supposed to be focused on legislative duties. The restriction could affect campaign financing strategies and the ability of legislators to build war chests during their tenure, potentially impacting electoral competitiveness and legislative workload management.

Potential points of contention

  • Campaign finance impact: Restricting fundraising windows may disadvantage challengers or less-established candidates who rely on continuous fundraising, while potentially helping incumbents with existing donor networks
  • Enforcement and definition: Unclear how the bill defines "fundraising activities"—does it include phone calls, emails, events, or all solicitation? How would violations be monitored and penalized?
  • Constitutional concerns: First Amendment questions may arise regarding whether restricting when officials can raise money infringes on political speech rights or donors' ability to contribute

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

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