Jackson – Bob Ross, candidate for the 64th State House Seat, announced today his support for the Campaign Finance Reform Proposal brought forth by Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land on April 24, 2006.

“I believe that the proposal by the Secretary of State will help to strengthen campaign finance laws in Michigan and level the playing field for those wanting to run for office,” said Ross.

The Secretary of State’s proposal would bring sweeping changes to the way campaigns and political action committees report their activities to the Secretary of State. Highlights of the proposal include:

• “Real-Time” disclosure of committee contributions and expenditures through the Secretary of State’s website;
• Candidates can no longer transfer money raised for their current office to a new committee created for seeking a higher office;
• Requiring that sponsors of issues ads to disclose;
• Requiring that all electronic communications have a committee disclaimer;
• Simplify the Definitions of Political Committees and Independent Committees;
• Require all PACs to register with the Secretary of State;v
• Require All PACs to File with the Secretary of State;
• Provide greater Audit Authority on committee records;
• Provide for Subpoena Power;
• Candidates Should Attest They Know, Understand & Will Comply with Michigan’s Campaign Finance Act;
• Fair Penalties for the Giver & Receiver of an illegal contribution.

“I call on Rep. Rick Baxter to join with me in advocating these important changes to Michigan’s campaign finance laws,” said Ross. “I hope that Rep. Baxter will embrace these proposals and assist the Secretary of State by introducing these proposals to the Michigan Legislature.”

Under the new CFR proposals, the contribution from Rick Baxter’s company, Baxter Machine & Tool, would have faced stiffer penalties on both Baxter and the Greater Detroit Leadership PAC. This proposal would have given the Secretary of State greater subpoena power and greater access to examine committee records.

“Integrity in our leaders in Lansing begins with their full understanding and compliance with Michigan’s campaign finance laws,” Ross said.

Bob Ross is a Republican candidate for the 64th State House District, which covers the City of Jackson, Summit Township and other townships in western Jackson County. He has been a Pharmacist and small business owner in Jackson for over 30 years. Bob is married to Jean Ross and they have two grown sons, Phil and Jon and two grandchildren. He also served as Summit Township Supervisor from 1990 – 1994.

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