The Political Reform Act of California is a set of regulations that govern the conduct of candidates and committees during elections. It is essential for those involved in the electoral process to understand the rules and regulations that apply to them. In San Diego County, the Campaign Finance and Control Ordinance (San Diego County Code of Regulatory Ordinances, sec. 85) is an additional set of regulations that places limits on campaign contributions, prohibits certain contributions, and encourages public participation in elections.
The Political Reform Act requires candidates and committees to submit campaign statements within specific deadlines. These documents are public and can be audited by the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) to ensure that voters are fully informed and that mispractices are prohibited. It is the responsibility of candidates and committees to understand the rules that govern their campaigns in California. If a candidate is eligible to participate in the primary elections, but their office will not be elected until the general election is held in accordance with Article 401, 3 of the San Diego Charter, they can receive contributions for the primary elections until the Registrar of Voters announces that primary elections will not be held for that office. The San Diego County Campaign Finance and Control Ordinance is designed to limit the use of loans and credits in funding county elections, as well as to provide a broader basis of political effectiveness.
Potential candidates should be aware of this ordinance in addition to complying with state campaign law requirements. The district attorney is responsible for enforcing this ordinance. With its great weather, miles of sandy beaches, and top attractions, San Diego is known around the world as one of the best tourist destinations and a great place for residents to relax all year round.
