COMMISSION’S RECOMMENDATIONS

The California Commission on Campaign Financing has recommended a model campaign-financing ordinance for Los Angeles County and area cities as a solution “to the fundamental campaign financing problems that have plagued local government for two decades.”

Among its proposed provisions:

EXPENDITURE CEILING

Impose expenditure limits of up to $40,000 per candidate, per election for smaller cities, depending on the size of the city. For middle-sized cities, the limit would be up to $500,000 and for large cities up to $1 million. Limits would apply separately to primary elections and runoffs.

CONTRIBUTION LIMIT

Place a limit on contributions of up to $1,000 for individuals, businesses, labor unions and political action committees. Permit contributions of up to $5,000 from political action committees formed by small contributors (those giving $50 or less). Place $1,000 limit on contributions to PACS. Ban or limit contributions in non-election years and ban transfers from one candidate to another.

MATCHING FUNDS

Provide for matching funds, probably appropriated by local governments from their general funds or by allowing citizens to allocate a small portion of municipal utility bill for the fund. Limits would be place on matching funds, such as not allowing candidates to get them unless they face a serious opponent. Matching funds would cover only part of the election costs. Proposition 73, the campaign contribution law passed by the voters in 1988, bans public financing. But that ban has been challenged in the courts.

ENFORCEMENT

Set up local fair political practices commissions to take administration and enforcement out of the hands of city attorneys and city clerks. The commission said those officials often hesitate to enforce the law against fellow politicians.

OTHER PROVISIONS

Limit gifts and honoraria. Provide for cost-of-living adjustment of limits. Require full disclosure of contributors’ occupations and employers before the contribution could be used. Require return of unused matching funds to government.