Sweeney backs bill for non-profits to disclose donors

Senate President Steve Sweeney has endorsed legislation requiring independent advocacy committees to disclose their donors.

The bill, introduced by State Sen. Troy Singleton (D-Palmyra), would mandate all 527 and 501(c)(4) groups to disclose their contributors and expenditures.

“We need to bring greater transparency and accountability to the organizations that work to influence the actions of government that have an impact on the lives of the people of New Jersey,” said Sweeney. “If they are attempting to advocate for favored policies, influence the fate of legislation or direct state regulations, the public has a right to know. Full disclosure will improve the process of government and enhance public confidence.”

Sweeney said he has reviewed Singleton’s bill and Gov. Phil Murphy’s recent call for a non-profit run by his former campaign aides disclose their donors.

“While there have been areas of disagreement between the Governor and me of late, this is one area where we agree,” Sweeney said.  “I am going to move Senator Singleton’s bill and propose that it be strengthened to cover all contributions retroactive to January 1, 2018 and expand it to include the advocacy or opposition to proposed or existing legislation and proposed or existing regulations.”