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AB 953

Political Reform Act of 1974: contributions and expenditures by foreign nationals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Juan Alanis and 1 co-sponsor

AB 953 prohibits foreign nationals from contributing to California elections, ensuring only U.S. citizens and lawful residents can financially influence state and local politics.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 170, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 953

Summary of AB 953: Political Reform Act of 1974 - Contributions and Expenditures by Foreign Nationals

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: AB 953
  • Introduced: February 20, 2025
  • Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 170, Statutes of 2025
  • Author: Assemblymember Pacheco
  • Vote Requirement: 2/3 majority in both houses
  • Fiscal Committee: Yes
  • Local Program: Yes

Purpose and Intent

AB 953 amends the Political Reform Act of 1974 to expand existing prohibitions on political contributions and expenditures to include foreign nationals. The intent of the bill is to strengthen the regulation of foreign influence in California elections, ensuring that only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can participate financially in state and local elections.

Key Provisions

  • Expansion of Prohibitions:

    • The bill prohibits foreign governments, foreign principals, and foreign nationals from making contributions, expenditures, or independent expenditures related to state or local ballot measures or elections for state or local offices.
    • It also prohibits individuals or committees from soliciting or accepting contributions from these entities.

  • Definition of Foreign National:

    • A "foreign national" is defined as a person who is not a U.S. citizen and is not a lawfully admitted permanent resident.
    • Notably, individuals granted deferred action under the DACA program are excluded from this definition, allowing them to participate in political contributions.

  • Penalties:

    • Violations of these prohibitions are classified as misdemeanors, with fines equal to the amount contributed or expended.

  • No Reimbursement Requirement:

    • The bill specifies that no reimbursement is required for local agencies or school districts for costs incurred due to the creation of new crimes or changes in penalties.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The legislation primarily affects foreign nationals and entities, as well as political committees and candidates who may seek contributions or support from these groups.
    • It reinforces the existing framework that restricts foreign influence in U.S. elections, aligning state law with federal regulations.

  • Local Agencies:

    • Local agencies and school districts will not receive state reimbursement for costs associated with the implementation of this bill, as it creates new legal definitions and penalties.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was passed with a 2/3 majority in both the Assembly and Senate, reflecting broad legislative support.
  • It underwent multiple readings and amendments before being approved and chaptered into law.

Conclusion

AB 953 serves to fortify the integrity of California's electoral process by explicitly prohibiting foreign nationals from financially influencing state and local elections. By aligning state law with federal restrictions, the bill aims to protect the democratic process from foreign interference.

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

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