Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski (D-New City) announced that his legislation to require disclosure on all political communications unanimously passed the Assembly on Wednesday (A.8187-C). The bill requires all political committees making an expenditure for communications including print, internet, television or radio advertisements to contain a “paid for by” statement.

“Candidates and political committees should not be allowed to hide behind anonymous ads. Faceless advertisements lack the basic principle of transparency and violates the public’s trust in the political process,” said Assemblyman Zebrowski.

The legislation will incorporate all types of political communications that advocate for or against a candidate, election, ballot measure or issue. Candidates and political committees that make any expenditure for a political communication must be named on the advertisement in an appropriate and legible manner.

The bill would not regulate the content of the communication, only requiring that they contain a disclaimer statement. It includes certain exemptions to the requirement including promotional items and small digital media, provided it contains a link to a disclaimer statement.

“Voters deserve the right to know where political advertisements are coming from and who is paying for them. This legislation is critical to ensuring voters experience an open and transparent campaign process,” said Zebrowski.

The bill is carried by Senator Griffo in the Senate and is currently in the Elections committee.