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SF 995

Entities or organizations that receive state funding prohibition from making campaign expenditures or otherwise expending money for any political purpose

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jeff Howe and 1 co-sponsor

Bill prohibits state-funded organizations from any political spending or campaign activity, creating broad restrictions on speech and advocacy rights.

Author added Howe
#elections #government-state
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Bill Summary · SF 995

Legislative bill overview

SF 995 would prohibit any entity or organization that receives state funding from making campaign expenditures or spending money for political purposes. The bill essentially creates a blanket restriction on state-funded organizations' political activity, regardless of the source or amount of state funding received.

Why is this important

This raises fundamental questions about free speech rights, organizational autonomy, and the practical definition of "political purpose." Many organizations—nonprofits, universities, hospitals, and advocacy groups—receive some state funding while also engaging in issue advocacy, which could be classified as political activity depending on interpretation.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill doesn't clearly define "political purpose," which could broadly capture issue advocacy, educational campaigns, or legislative testimony that organizations currently engage in
  • Constitutional concerns: Courts have previously ruled that restricting speech based on funding sources raises First Amendment questions, particularly for nonprofit and educational institutions
  • Practical implementation: Organizations receiving even minimal state grants (research funding, Medicaid payments, etc.) could face severe restrictions on their ability to participate in civic processes or lobby for their interests

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

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