Political Reform Act of 1974: security expenses.

Assembly Member Bonta's legislation modifies how California candidates and elected officials can use campaign funds for security expenses, removing the existing $10,000 lifetime cap on such expenditures through January 1, 2029. After that date, the bill establishes an annual limit of $10,000 per calendar year, regardless of how many offices an individual seeks or holds.

The measure maintains current provisions defining eligible security expenses, which include electronic security systems, personal security services, and related tangible items. Campaign funds cannot be used for firearms or security services provided by relatives within three degrees of consanguinity. When campaign funds pay for security systems or equipment, the items must either be returned to the campaign committee or reimbursed at fair market value within one year after the official leaves office or is no longer a candidate. This timeline extends if law enforcement verifies an ongoing security threat.

The bill preserves existing oversight mechanisms while adding new verification requirements. Officials must document security threats through a sworn form submitted to the California Fair Political Practices Commission alongside regular campaign finance reports. They must maintain detailed records demonstrating the security threats that necessitated the expenditures, including relevant bills and receipts. The measure requires a two-thirds vote in both legislative chambers for passage, as it amends the Political Reform Act of 1974.