Governor; state agencies' use of public media to influence proposed actions. (HB532)

Introduced By

Del. Bob Marshall (R-Manassas)

Progress

Introduced
Passed Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Signed by Governor
Became Law

Description

Governor; state agencies' use of public media to influence proposed executive or legislative action prohibited; exception. Requires the Governor to ensure that no state agency uses or attempts to use appropriated funds or grant or contract funds to solicit pressure on state or local government officials through the use of public media. The bill excludes (i) the publication of notices in accordance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act ( 2.2-4300 et seq.), the Public-Private Transportation Act of 1995 ( 56-556 et seq.), or the Public-Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act of 2002 ( 56-575.1 et seq.); (ii) the soliciting of public comment or soliciting as may be required or permitted by law; or (iii) other ministerial acts if there is no attempt to use appropriated funds in violation. The bill defines "public media" and "state agency" and provides that the provisions of the bill shall not be construed to inhibit the necessary flow of information and communication between the executive and legislative branches of government but are intended to prevent any inappropriate or undue influence on executive or legislative matters or processes. Read the Bill »

Outcome

Bill Has Failed

History

DateAction
01/06/2014Committee
01/06/2014Prefiled and ordered printed; offered 01/08/14 14103432D
01/06/2014Referred to Committee on General Laws
01/10/2014Assigned GL sub: Subcommittee #4
01/16/2014Subcommittee recommends laying on the table
01/24/2014Impact statement from DPB (HB532)
02/12/2014Left in General Laws

Comments

Willard Scott writes:

using our tax dollars for ESPN ads to influence me about a road project is unacceptable.

Carol Lindstrom writes:

The use of the media to notify citizens of changes in voting regulation helps to insure that every eligible voter is informed and aware of changes. This prevents a lot of chaos and confusion on election day.