Reform Bill Delivered to Governor, and Good Government Groups Raise Objections
On Friday, the Senate delivered S.8160/A.10742 to Governor Cuomo, presumably for his signature as the bill originated with the Governor.
The bill prohibits coordination between independent expenditure groups (‘SuperPACs’) and political candidates; requires the registration of political consultants; lowers the thresholds for ‘source of funding’ reporting; and requires 501(c)(4) groups to disclose any support they receive from 501(c)(3) groups. (Read my prior blog post on the agreement here.)
Even though the bill has not yet been signed, JCOPE has begun the process of adopting emergency source of funding regulations to implement Part D of the legislation.
Two government reform groups – the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) and Common Cause New York – have raised objections to the bill.
NYCLU argues that the Lobbying Act should not be used to mandate reporting requirements and restrictions on non-profits, because they will impact constitutionally protected activities.
Common Cause NY said:
“We are genuinely concerned it will chill the willingness of organizations to speak out about pending legislation and state policies that will have an impact on real people. It will also chill the collaboration of organizations amongst themselves.”
The Governor has until midnight on August 24th to act on the bill.