Independent Expenditure Requirements

Maryland Law requires registration with the State Board of Elections (SBE) by any person who makes aggregate independent expenditures of $5,000 or more in an election cycle on campaign material.

How does a person register an Independent Expenditure Entity with SBE:

Register your Independent Expenditure entity.

When are the reports due:

Within 48 hours after a day on the which the person makes aggregate independent expenditures of $10,000 or more in an election cycle.

What information is required on the Independent Expenditure Report:

The report shall include a detailed accounting on every expenditure made; including the name of the candidate or ballot issue to which the independent expenditure relates and whether it supports or opposes that candidate or ballot issue.  Additionally, the report shall include the names and address of any donors who made cumulative donations of $6,000 or more during the reporting period. Finally, the report must include the identity of any person exercising direction or control over the activities of person making independent expenditures.   

For more information see Election Law Article 13-306.