An act relating to campaign expenditures and candidate salaries

This bill restricts how candidates can use campaign funds by prohibiting their use for personal expenses like rent, utilities, household items, and personal living costs. It defines personal use broadly to include expenses for the candidate and their household members, such as mortgage payments, car purchases, and entertainment, unless directly tied to campaign activities. The legislation creates an exception that allows candidates for statewide office to receive a salary from their campaign funds under specific conditions. These conditions include salary limits based on the candidate's previous year's income, requirements for tax compliance, and rules ensuring salary payments are pro-rated based on the time spent campaigning. The law takes effect on July 1, 2023, and applies to candidates running for statewide positions in Vermont elections.