CAMPAIGN FINANCE – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding the duties of political treasurers.

Stricter money rules for Idaho campaigns

Beginning July 1, 2026, Idaho political treasurers are the Secretary of State’s official contact for campaigns and political committees. Treasurers must prepare and file all required campaign finance reports. For campaigns and committees required to report, treasurers must maintain at least one checking account and deposit all funds there. They must keep detailed contribution and spending records current within seven days of each transaction. Campaign and committee money must stay separate from all other funds. Investments are limited to certificates of deposit, money market accounts, or other cash-equivalent accounts in the campaign’s or committee’s name. Stocks and other equity investments are banned. Candidates who lend their campaigns more than $1,000 of personal money must promptly transfer it to the campaign account. Before elections, the Secretary of State—or county clerk for local offices or measures—can inspect accounts during campaign finance investigations. Their agents or employees can also conduct these inspections, and treasurer records are open to inspection during investigations. Accounts must be kept for at least one year after the relevant election or the last required report, whichever is later.