How the Elections Transparency Act Changes New Jersey’s Political Contribution Landscape

Governor Murphy signed into law one of the most sweeping campaign and political law reform bills since the enactment of The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act in 1977. The Elections Transparency Act (“Act”) has been the focus of much attention due to the changes in the leadership and enforcement operations at the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (NJELEC). However, the Act’s most significant impacts will be felt in the areas of campaign contribution limits, reporting requirements, and the standardization of the state’s pay-to-play laws. Campaign Contributions Current law provides for contribution limits on a per election or per year basis, ranging from $2,600 to “no limit” contributions between leadership and party committees. These limits remain in effect until after the June 2023 Primary Election. Following the June 2023 Primary Election, the contribution limits dramatically increase to double, or in some instances, triple the current limits. For example, individuals, corporations, unions, associations, and groups will be subject to the following limits: $5,200 per election cycle to a Candidate Committee $14,400 per election cycle to a Political Committee $14,400 per year to a Continuing Political Committee or Municipal Political Party Committee $75,000 per year to a Legislative Leadership Committee, State Political Party Committee, or County Political Party Committee Contribution limits will also be...