Legislature(2001 - 2002)
2001-07-20 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2001-07-20 House Journal Page 1924 HB 177 The following letter, dated July 11, 2001, was received: 2001-07-20 House Journal Page 1925 "Dear Speaker Porter: Under the authority of art. II, sec. 15, of the Alaska Constitution, I have vetoed the following bill: SENATE CS FOR CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 177(RLS) AM S "An Act regulating nongroup entities and certain tax-exempt organizations under Alaska's election campaign finance statutes; and requiring disclosure of the true source of campaign contributions." Alaska has one of the strongest and best crafted campaign finance laws in the country. It should be viewed and respected as such and not amended piecemeal based on reaction to individual, specific political interests. This bill takes an unwise approach to our campaign finance laws, targeting and treating differently one entity that is clearly permitted by the law and courts to participate in elections. I generally support the expanded requirements for public disclosure of campaign finances included in this bill, but it goes too far in restricting campaign activities. According to the law and, as recognized by the Alaska Supreme Court, certain qualifying nonprofit corporations and other entities whose primary mission is to disseminate political ideas rather than engage in business have a right to participate in election activities. This bill unnecessarily restricts how those groups may disburse funds and is inconsistent with current campaign finance laws regarding individual and group contribution levels. Our campaign finance laws must balance principles of fairness with encouraging citizen participation in elections. This bill upsets that balance. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor"