Golden State Today

California Common Cause has released a report challenging the belief that campaign contribution limits lead to increased independent expenditures. The study, based on research from various California cities, suggests that contribution limits do not result in more independent spending.

Sean McMorris, program manager for transparency, ethics, and accountability at California Common Cause, stated, "We know contribution limits are an effective way to help curb money’s influence in our local elections." He emphasized the organization's commitment to advancing campaign finance reform research in California.

Critics of campaign finance reform argue that contribution limits shift influence from direct contributions to less regulated independent expenditures. However, the report by graduate student fellow Zoe Klingmann indicates otherwise.

The analysis focused on changes following the implementation of California State Assembly Bill 571 (2019), which established default contribution limits for city and county elections. Cities with new or existing limits were compared during the 2018 and 2022 election cycles. The findings showed no increase in independent expenditures among cities affected by AB 571. In contrast, cities unaffected by the law experienced an increase in such spending.

Researchers note that further study is needed to assess how AB 571 impacts individual donors and its applicability in state or federal elections. Initial results suggest potential for reforms without adverse effects.