SB 177 is a thinly-veiled attack on First Amendment-protected rights of freedom of expression and association.

The bill dramatically expands the state’s oversight of individual and organizational political activity.. The bill sponsors claim that the purpose is to increase transparency about the source of campaign contributions coming from “hostile foreign countries” defined as China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. However, broad language in the bill as well as the sponsor’s own testimony confirm that this bill is a vehicle for surveilling and suppressing political dissent, especially pro-Palestinian advocacy. Additionally, the policy could hamper some individuals' freedom of speech based on their nationality and immigration status.

If made into law, the bill would grant the Attorney General unqualified discretion to investigate, penalize, and criminalize grassroots advocacy organizations. The bill may also require some nonresident persons from China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia to register with the State Ethics Commission as an agent of “hostile foreign country” based on a broad definition of foreign “control”, which could hinder individuals’ civic participation based on their nationality. The broad definitions used in the bill open up the potential for expanding scrutiny of labor unions, civil rights organizations, and student activist groups. By giving the Attorney General the authority to selectively initiate criminal investigations of those who take unpopular political positions, SB 177 seeks to silence opposition through intimidation and fear.

The House added exceptions for industry and trade associations, TikTok and the National Rifle Association, leaving non-profit advocacy organizations vulnerable.

SB 177 and protect our freedoms. The bill has now passed in both chambers and has returned to the Senate for a yes/no vote on the substitutions in the House version. Take a moment and contact the Lt. Governor and your senators and tell them to STOP SB 177.