01 — The Text
What.
- Blocks foreign nationals from contributing money to state and local ballot measures, referenda, and recall elections.
- Applies specifically to initiatives, referenda, and recalls—not federal elections, which already have restrictions.
- Enforcement mechanism and penalty details not specified in CRS summary.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Affects ballot committees and political groups running state/local campaigns that currently lack uniform foreign-donation rules.
- Closes a potential gap: federal elections ban foreign funds, but state/local ballot measures have looser oversight in many states.
- Pro-regulation groups see foreign interference risk; some business groups may cite compliance costs for campaign committees.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed it July 13 via voice vote. Sent to Senate Rules Committee July 14—typical spot for election bills but no timeline set.
- Senate must vote to advance; Republican-controlled chamber has not signaled urgency on election administration measures.
- Contact your senator to ask where they stand on foreign-donation restrictions in state/local races.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 14, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration.
- Jul 13, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Jul 13, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4400)
- Jul 13, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4400)
- Jul 13, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3535.
- Jul 13, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H4400-4401)
- Jul 13, 2026 — Mr. Steil moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.
- Jul 13, 2026 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 649.