More Soft Money Hard Law

On December 10, 2003, the Supreme Court issued its decision upholding most of the provisions of the new federal campaign finance law that Congress enacted. The Court's decision followed the publication by the Federal Election Commission of scores of new rules and also "advisory opinions" clarifying and expanding upon the provisions of the new statute. With these developments, the Presidential and Congressional elections of 2004 will proceed under a host of new campaign fundraising, advertising and other restrictions.

More Soft Money Hard Law provides a current account of the changes in the law, with special attention to the new rules of the Federal Election Commission and the impact of the Supreme Court decision. Examples are provided to clarify the effect of particular provisions, and a new and expanded Appendix includes the relevant Commission rules, along with excerpts from the Supreme Court decision. The book addresses:

*New restrictions on fundraising by federal candidates and party officials.

*Illegal "coordination" between candidates (and parties) and groups engaged in political advertising and voter mobilization programs

*Relief for candidates facing "millionaire" opponents

*Effect of the new law and rules on the political activities of corporations and unions.

*New disclosure requirements for political advertising.

*Restrictions on get-out-the-vote and voter registration by political parties.

*New criminal and civil penalties for violations.