Panel advances Utah bill that would require more campaign disclosures

Utahns could learn more about who is spending money on political campaigns under one of several election-law bills working their way through the House.

Under HB39, sponsored by Rep. Douglas Sagers, R-Tooele, anyone who spends more than $1,000 on an election — outside of the normal contributions to campaigns or political-action committees — would have to disclose the expenditure within 30 days.

"I've heard in the last couple of years of … money coming in at the last minute or funds that were never disclosed that influence campaigns," Sagers said. "I've always been troubled by that. I believe that any kind of campaign expenditure or anything that goes on in a campaign should be open and subject to public scrutiny."

Sagers' measure would not apply to nonprofits or corporations, which already have to disclose any electioneering expenses.

Numerous bills this session are seeking to strengthen Utah election laws in the wake of the scandal involving former Attorney General John Swallow.

HB39 received unanimous approval Tuesday from the House Government Operations Standing Committee and goes to the full House for consideration.