The Christian Coalition filed suit against the Commission arguing that the statute was unconstitutional. Because of the suit no further action was taken until the court issue was resolved. However, the Commission did ask that the staff further investigate the matter. Staff investigation found that it was not able to determine if any of the contributions that the Christian Coalition received over their website resulted in any expenditures for the ballot issue in Hawaii. Also, staff found no other evidence of contributions or expenditures toward the ballot issue.
Staff recommends dismissing the complaint.
Mr. Muraoka moved to dismiss the complaint filed by Protect Our Constitution against Christian Coalition, Ms Low seconded. Sale of Nonmonetary Contributions Draft advisory opinion addresses questions on recordkeeping and reporting of goods that candidates receive and is later sold for cash. Anything of value that is received by the campaign must be recorded as a nonmonetary contribution and nonmonetary expenditure. The IRS has a new law, which became effective immediately, that creates new and expanded reporting requirements for certain section 527 organizations. Staff is advising organizations with questions regarding the new law to consult with their tax accountants or legal counsel.