SB 490 Connecticut Senate · 2026 Regular Session

AN ACT CONCERNING ONLINE POLITICAL DONATION PLATFORMS AND LIMITING AUTOMATICALLY RECURRING CONTRIBUTIONS.

This bill defines what does not count as a political contribution under Connecticut election law, specifically clarifying exemptions for various activities and transactions. It directly affects political committees, candidates, donors, and online donation platforms by establishing clear boundaries for what is considered a contribution versus what is not. Key provisions include excluding loans from banks, internal communications to members, volunteer services, certain in-kind donations like food and lawn signs, and small-value purchases at fundraising events from the definition of contributions. The law also sets specific dollar limits on discounted food sales, property donations, and advertising purchases at fundraisers, while prohibiting certain state contractors and lobbyists from buying advertising space at political fundraising events. These changes aim to provide clearer guidance on campaign finance reporting and compliance for political organizations and their supporters.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 12, 2026 Last action Apr 8, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
9
Key actions
1
Committee
2
Mar 23, 2026
Upper · Passed
Joint Favorable
upper
Mar 12, 2026
Committee
REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Government Administration and Elections
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Gary Winfield
Gary Winfield
DDemocratic
CT
10