By Erica Thomas, Managing Editor
The Alabama Legislature will convene for a special session on Thursday, Oct. 28, for redistricting. During that time, all candidates for legislative and statewide offices must halt contributions to their campaigns.
According to Alabama law (Section 17-5-7(b), candidates for these offices and their principal campaign committees "may not accept, solicit, or receive contributions during the period in which the legislature is convened in session."
Secretary of State John Merrill sent out a reminder to candidates and said those candidates include all statewide offices, such as Constitutional Officers, statewide Judicial Officers, the Public Service Commission and state legislatures.
Lawmakers call this an "election blackout period" and it will begin at 12 p.m. on Oct. 28 and will continue until the legislature adjourns.
"During this period, candidates are encouraged to deactivate any web pages that accept contributions online to avoid inadvertently accepting funds," Merrill said. "This fundraising freeze does not apply to officials or candidates for circuit or district judge, district attorney, or other county or local elected positions."
For questions or concerns, you can contact the Office of the Secretary of State’s Elections Division at 334-242-7210.
