FPPC to accept e-filing of Behested Payments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 5, 2019

For More Information Contact:

Jay Wierenga (916) 322-7761

To continue our efforts to simplify filing requirements and promote transparency, the Fair Political Practices Commission is now providing online Behested Payment Reports (Form 803) filing. The new system allows elected officials to directly input the information, which will then allow the public to see it the day after it’s filed.

“We are always looking for ways to make it easier for people to find the information they’re looking for. Transparency is important for our political process,” said Chair Alice Germond. “Improving our technology not only helps make things more efficient, it also makes it easier for our elected officials to file their required reports. I’m proud of our staff for this latest improvement.”

Once a Form 803 is filed, the system will send the filer a confirmation the report has been accepted. The e-filing system will eliminate the need for a paper Form 803 to be manually uploaded by staff, enhancing accuracy and eliminating any lag time for the public to see the document.

Under California’s disclosure laws, an elected official who fundraises or otherwise solicits payments from one individual or organization to be given to another individual or organization may be required to report the payment. Generally, a payment is considered "behested" and subject to reporting if it is used for legislative, governmental or charitable purposes, and it does not otherwise meet the definition of a campaign contribution or a gift. Unlike gifts and campaign contributions, there are no limits on behested payments. However, the law requires the reporting of behested payments within 30 days if they total $5,000 or more per calendar year from a single source.

This system is now active. Filing electronically is not required and paper filing will still be accepted. Just go to the FPPC website (www.fppc.ca.gov) and locate the system under the FPPC Forms (FPPC Forms) page. To provide any comments, suggestions, or for questions, please send those to form803@fppc.ca.gov.

The Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) is California’s governmental ethics and campaign disclosure agency.

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