To direct the Federal Election Commission to establish a program under which participating States shall provide individuals with vouchers which may be used to make contributions to candidates for election for the office of Representative in, or Delegate or Resident Commissioner to, the Congress, to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to establish a program to provide small dollar financing for candidates for election for the office of Representative in, or Delegate or Resident Commissioner to, the Congress, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · May 24, 2024
Referred to the Committee on House Administration, and in addition to the Committees on the Judiciary, and Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
# Government by the People Act Summary
This bill creates two major campaign finance programs designed to increase small-dollar donations and public participation in congressional elections. The first program, called "My Voice Vouchers," is a pilot initiative where three selected states would give eligible residents $25 vouchers to distribute among House candidates. Residents could split their vouchers among multiple candidates in $5 increments, and candidates would receive direct payment from a federal fund when they submit the vouchers. The Federal Election Commission would reimburse participating states up to $10 million per election cycle for program costs.
The second and larger program establishes a small-dollar financing system where House candidates can opt in to receive matching funds. Participating candidates must raise at least $50,000 from at least 1,000 individual donors contributing no more than $200 each to qualify. Once certified, they receive a 600 percent match on small-dollar contributions—meaning a $200 contribution triggers $1,200 in matching funds. In exchange, participating candidates must limit themselves to only small-dollar donations (up to $200 per person), contributions from political parties, and no more than $50,000 in personal funds. The program includes additional "enhanced match" payments of up to $500,000 for candidates who raise $50,000 in small donations during the final weeks before a general election.
The bill creates a "Freedom From Influence Fund" fed by 4.75 percent assessments on criminal fines, civil penalties, and settlements involving organizations and corporate officers, plus unspent matching funds returned by candidates. No general taxpayer funds would be used. The programs begin in 2030, and the Federal Election Commission must issue final regulations by June 2028.
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