A legislative panel is taking a closer look at Wisconsin electronic campaign finance report system.
The state began using the Campaign Finance Information System earlier this year, allowing candidates to submit reports online instead of in person. However, state Representative Jeff Smith (D-Eau Claire) has some concerns about its use. He says several lawmakers, candidates, and their campaigns have also approached him with complaints.
Smith says some candidates say the system is too complex. He says there are also worries about being able to access it, since the database requires high speed Internet to submit reports. The Eau Claire Democrat says some areas of the state still only have dial-up.
Those complaints have already inspired one piece of legislation this session. State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) has introduced a bill that would allow candidates to begin filing paper returns again, until issues with the system have been resolved.
To help address those issues and more, the Assembly Committee on Elections and Campaign Finance Reforms is holding a hearing today at the Capitol. Smith, who chairs the panel, hopes to hear from the GAB and those who are having problems. He says that could help the agency to identify what needs to be changed.
