Conflicts of interest: nonprofit organizations: membership dues.

Senator Padilla's proposal carves out a specific exception to California's conflict of interest regulations, allowing public officials to participate in governmental decisions affecting nonprofit organizations even when those organizations are income sources, provided the financial interest stems solely from membership dues changes.

The measure modifies the Political Reform Act of 1974, which currently prohibits public officials from participating in decisions affecting entities from which they received $500 or more in income during the previous 12 months. Under the proposed exception, public officials who receive income from nonprofit organizations would not face disqualification from relevant decisions when the organization's only financial interest involves potential adjustments to membership dues. The exception applies regardless of whether the dues would increase or decrease as a result of the decision.

The bill maintains the existing enforcement framework of the Political Reform Act while adding this targeted exemption. Implementation would occur immediately upon enactment, requiring a two-thirds vote for passage but no additional appropriations or administrative infrastructure.