Senator Mark Finchem’s SB 1647 has advanced out of the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee, moving one step closer to protecting Arizona’s ballot measures from foreign influence.
SB 1647 prohibits foreign corporations, foreign persons, and foreign nongovernmental sources from contributing money or in-kind goods or services to influence the outcome of an Arizona ballot measure, initiative, referendum, or proposition. While federal law already bars foreign nationals from contributing to candidate campaigns, ballot measures have become a major avenue for outside money to shape public policy. SB 1647 closes that gap at the state level.
The bill also makes it unlawful for any person, entity, or political committee to accept or use foreign-sourced contributions for ballot measure activity. Campaign finance reports must now include a certification, under penalty of perjury, affirming that no foreign funds were accepted or used. This adds accountability and ensures that Arizona voters, not foreign actors, determine the outcome of public policy decisions.
Arizona’s ballot initiative process was created so citizens could directly shape the laws that govern them. When foreign money enters that system, it undermines sovereignty and public trust. SB 1647 reinforces the principle that only Americans, and specifically Arizonans, should have a financial voice in shaping Arizona law.
Senator Finchem has long warned about foreign influence in elections. SB 1647 reflects that ongoing commitment to election integrity and state sovereignty. With this bill advancing out of committee, Arizona moves closer to ensuring that its ballot measures are decided by its own people, not by outside interests.
Bill info: https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/84994