DeLuca moves to limit electioneering

State Rep. Anthony DeLuca recently passed House Bill 113 prohibiting state officials from making funding announcements immediately before a general election. Under current law, state officials are prohibited during the ‘blackout’ period before an election from using their name, image or voice on any type of correspondence using taxpayer money. This prohibition includes using taxpayer money to distribute promotional materials, including mail to constituents, about new laws or upcoming votes. DeLuca’s legislation would extend this ‘blackout’ to include publically announcing grants and contracts awarded as well. The bill passed the house unanimously and has been sent to the Senate for further consideration.