AN ACT ESTABLISHING A PILOT PROGRAM FOR THE PUBLIC FINANCING OF MUNICIPAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CAMPAIGNS IN CERTAIN DISTRESSED MUNICIPALITIES FOR THE 2027 MUNICIPAL ELECTION.

HB 7205 establishes a pilot program to provide public funding for campaigns of candidates running for mayor or equivalent municipal chief executive roles in designated distressed towns with populations under 25,000 for the 2027 elections. Candidates who join the program must agree to limit fundraising and campaign spending, while those who opt out remain subject to standard campaign finance rules. The State Elections Enforcement Commission will administer the program, requiring participating municipalities to establish oversight structures and fund grants for qualifying candidates. This pilot program, limited to 13 currently qualifying towns, aims to reduce reliance on private donations in local elections without classifying the funds as "public funds" under existing law.