MONTGOMERY, AL – The Alabama House Ethics and Campaign Finance Committee has approved HB 363, a bill seeking to prohibit foreign nationals and foreign corporations from making contributions to political candidates, political action committees, constitutional amendment campaigns, and referendums. The legislation, sponsored by Representative James Lomax, now moves forward in the legislative process.
Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter have voiced strong support for the measure, emphasizing the importance of election integrity and transparency.
Under federal law, foreign nationals are already prohibited from donating directly to political candidates and committees. However, supporters of HB 363 argue that loopholes have allowed foreign funds to be funneled into ballot measure campaigns across the country. The bill aims to close these gaps and provide state and local prosecutors with the authority to address violations under Alabama law.
Allen, who has been an advocate for election security measures, likened HB 363 to previous legislation such as the state’s ban on private funding for election administration, often referred to as the “Zuckerbucks” bill. He stated that the proposed law would further safeguard Alabama’s elections from potential foreign influence.
“Alabamians deserve fair, secure, and transparent elections—period,” Allen said. “This legislation fortifies the integrity of our elections by eliminating loopholes that foreign actors could use to influence and manipulate elections.”
Speaker Ledbetter described the bill as a “commonsense measure” to maintain election security.
“Foreign entities have zero business attempting to influence the decisions Alabamians make when casting their ballots,” Ledbetter said. “Alabama’s elections are among the most secure in the United States, and Rep. Lomax’s legislation is a commonsense measure to ensure that remains the case.”
Representative Lomax emphasized the significance of protecting elections from outside influence, particularly in ballot initiatives that directly affect Alabama residents.
“Elections directly impact the day-to-day lives of every Alabamian,” Lomax said. “Protecting ballot initiative elections from foreign influence should be of great importance to every Alabamian.”
The bill will now advance to the Alabama House of Representatives for further consideration.
