Why It Matters
A new Pennsylvania measure would bar corporations from funding political campaigns, potentially reshaping how businesses influence state elections. The proposal represents a direct challenge to the legal landscape created by the 2010 Supreme Court decision that opened the door to corporate spending in elections.
What Happened
Democratic lawmakers in the Pennsylvania House introduced legislation that would prohibit corporations from making direct or indirect political contributions. Rep. Joe Webster of Montgomery County authored the measure, with co-sponsors Tarik Khan and Ben Waxman of Philadelphia, and Paul Friel of Chester County.
The bill would amend Pennsylvania’s corporate charter law to strip companies of their charter and business privileges if they violate the ban. The state Attorney General would be authorized to pursue civil enforcement actions against offending corporations.
Webster framed the measure as a response to surging corporate political spending since the Citizens United decision. “The power of that money diminishes the power of the Pennsylvania voter,” Webster told the Pennsylvania Capital-Star, noting that outside spending has grown exponentially in election cycles since the ruling.
Earlier this summer, the House passed a separate, bipartisan bill sponsored by Webster that would bar corporations with foreign ownership from influencing Pennsylvania elections. That measure has stalled in the Senate State Government Committee and has not advanced further.
By the Numbers
$4 billion — total outside spending in the 2024 federal elections
12 times — how much 2024 outside spending increased compared to pre-Citizens United levels
2010 — year of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission Supreme Court decision
Zoom Out
Corporate political spending restrictions have gained traction in other states. Hawaii became the first state to sign such legislation into law in May. Montana and Minnesota are pursuing similar limits on corporate political expenditures, signaling a broader effort among Democratic-led states to curb business influence in elections.
The push comes as outside spending in American elections has accelerated dramatically. Democrats have argued that unrestricted corporate money undermines ordinary voters’ influence on policy and candidate selection.
What’s Next
Webster expressed confidence the measure will pass the House, stating he expects sufficient support among his colleagues. However, he acknowledged the bill may not reach Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk this year, suggesting potential obstacles remain in the legislative process or in the Republican-controlled Senate.