State Senator Orr’s bill to prohibit public money from being used to influence voters passes legislature

Senate Bill 313, sponsored by State Senator Arthur Orr (R-Decatur), was passed by the state legislature on Thursday. Republican leadership stated the legislation further protects the security and fairness of Alabama’s elections.

Orr said for years there have been instances of public officials using public funds to advocate for tax referendums. The bill bans colleges and universities, local boards of education, and schools from using public funds to advocate for or against ballot measures.

The bill specifically prohibits a public official or public employee from advocating in favor of, or against, a statewide or local ballot measure by expending public funds. It also prevents presenting or distributing political literature and placing political posters on public property. Additionally, this bill requires a public official or public employee to repay any such funds expended contrary to the provisions of this bill.

In a statement on the bill’s passage Orr said the integrity of elections in Alabama was a concern for Alabamians.

“These measures are a positive step forward to ensuring our election process is as secure and fair as it can possibly be,” he outlined.

Senate Majority Leader Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville) said the legislature would continue to work to ensure Alabama runs the most secure elections possible. “Over the last several years, the Senate Republican Caucus has led a successful effort to increase the security and honesty of our elections,” said Scofield. “I applaud Senator Orr for his leadership on this issue, and I am proud that we can deliver this important legislation for Alabamians.”

SB313 was one of two bills passed that Republicans say will ensure the integrity of Alabama’s elections administration process.

House Bill 194, sponsored by State Rep. Wes Allen (R-Troy), bans local election officials from accepting or receiving funds from certain individuals and nonprofits to use for election-related expenses. Allen says this effort helps to limit the influence that outside money has on Alabama’s elections.

Both bills received final passage on the 30th and final legislative day of the 2022 session and will be sent to Governor Kay Ivey for signature.