Representative Healy introduced RS 32,370 to the committee, proposing that campaign materials — signs, mailers, websites and similar items — disclose the political affiliation of the candidate or organization.

Healy said the change is intended to increase transparency so voters can better assess the motivations of those seeking to influence elections. “By making people put their political affiliation on anything that they are using to campaign with … voters can better assess the motivations and credibility of those seeking to influence their choices,” Healy told the committee.

Committee members asked how broadly the requirement would apply and whether it would affect school-board or nonpartisan contests. Healy replied the requirement would apply to candidates who run on a party ticket; contests that do not run under a party would not be covered. He also said she intentionally left the form of designation vague so that an “R,” “D,” an elephant or donkey symbol or the full party name would satisfy the requirement.

Representative Mickelson asked about the legislative findings and intent language included in the RS; Healy said the intent section documents the rationale and could be useful if the measure is challenged. Lawmakers also asked about conflicts with party organizations that might restrict use of party marks; the sponsor said the rule would apply to persons who declare party affiliation when filing for office.

Representative Boyle moved to introduce RS 32,370; the committee voted to introduce the RS.