Future Election Campaign funds leftover after an election may be redesignated for a future election to seek the same office in a city or county that has enacted its own contribution limit so long as the funds are not “surplus funds.” If the city or county has not enacted its own contribution limit, campaign funds leftover must be deposited in a new bank account for reelection to the same office. (Note: Candidates for a city or county office in a jurisdiction that has enacted a local contribution limit should check with the local jurisdiction to determine if there is a local ordinance that does not allow a candidate to use the same committee for a future election.) In addition, campaign funds leftover after an election may be transferred to a new bank account for a future election to seek a different office so long as the funds are not “surplus funds.” There is a discussion on when leftover funds become “surplus funds” at the end of this chapter. See Chapter 11 for the other requirements that must be met in order to use the funds for election to a future office. Gifts Unless directly related to a political, legislative, or governmental purpose, personal gifts may not be paid for with campaign funds. However, gifts of less than $250 in a calendar year to campaign employees or workers are permitted because they are considered to be directly related to a political, legislative, or governmental purpose. When a candidate controlled committee reports itemized expenditures for gifts, meals, or travel, specific details must be included as described in Chapter 8. Health-Related Expenses A committee may use campaign funds to pay for health care benefits for its employees or independent contractors. However, campaign funds may not be used to pay for other health-related expenses such as health club dues, special dietary foods, or medical check-ups.
Fair Political Practices Commission advice@fppc.ca.gov
Chapter 6.8
Campaign Manual 2 August 2023 Page 238
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