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Bill

SB 136

Limiting contributions under the campaign finance act made to political committees for the purpose of independent contributions and requiring the accounting, reporting and auditing of such independent contributions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cindy Holscher

Kansas bill would cap independent political contributions and require stricter accounting of super PAC spending to increase campaign finance transparency.

Died in Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 136

Legislative bill overview

SB 136 would impose new restrictions on campaign contributions specifically designated for independent expenditures and establish enhanced accounting, reporting, and auditing requirements for such funds. Independent expenditures are political spending made without coordination with candidates or their campaigns. The bill seeks to bring greater transparency and oversight to this category of campaign spending.

Why is this important

Independent expenditure committees (often called "super PACs") can legally raise and spend unlimited funds, making them significant players in modern elections. Currently, reporting requirements for independent spending vary in detail and timeliness. This bill could substantially increase oversight of money flowing to these organizations, potentially affecting how political campaigns are funded and disclosed to voters in Kansas.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Contribution limits on independent spending may face constitutional challenges, as courts have previously struck down aggregate limits on such spending in cases like Citizens United
  • Effectiveness vs. workarounds: Opponents may argue that new restrictions simply encourage alternative funding mechanisms rather than reducing outside spending influence
  • Compliance burden: Enhanced reporting and auditing requirements could impose significant administrative costs on political committees, potentially disadvantaging smaller organizations or grassroots efforts

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

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