(a) The Legislature determines that there is a compelling state and public interest in the disclosure of the source of funds used to advertise or otherwise influence public opinion with regard to elections as defined in Section 17-5-2(3). The Legislature further finds that these compelling interests should be designed to protect the public's right to know while protecting free speech of individuals as guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of Alabama of 1901.
(b) Currently, the Fair Campaign Practices Act, as provided in this chapter, commencing with Section 17-5-1, et seq., regulates the disclosure of contributions and expenditures made for the purpose of influencing the outcome of an election. This chapter is also intended to regulate the disclosure of contributions and expenditures for electioneering communications.
(c) The Legislature finds and declares that Alabama voters have a right to know who pays for the costs of electioneering communications.
Last modified: May 3, 2021