A bill moving through the Alabama Legislature would prohibit foreign nationals and foreign corporations from donating to Alabama candidates and political committees.
The bill, sponsored by State Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville) and carried in the Senate by State Sen. Dan Roberts (R-Mountain Brook), would establish new restrictions on foreign political contributions in Alabama elections.
Federal law already prohibits foreign nationals from donating to federal candidates and committees, but Roberts said the existing framework leaves Alabama elections exposed.
“Currently, Alabama does not have a matching state law,” Roberts said. “Therefore, state and local prosecutors do not have the ability to pursue instances of criminal foreign influence on our elections.”
Roberts pointed to loopholes that have allowed foreign money to flow into ballot issue campaigns — constitutional amendments and referendums — even under the federal ban. A 2021 analysis by OpenSecrets found $33.5 million in individual political contributions came from foreign agents and lobbyists during the 2020 election cycle despite the federal prohibition. Foreign nationals are permitted to hire U.S. citizens to lobby and donate on their behalf.
HB214 prohibits foreign nationals from donating “directly or indirectly” to state or local political parties, political action committees, election advertisements, or promising to donate to campaigns. Candidates are also prohibited from soliciting foreign donations. Violations are Class C felonies, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen has expressed support for the proposal, saying it would help protect the integrity of Alabama elections.
Concerns about foreign influence in U.S. elections have grown in recent years, with lawmakers in multiple states exploring similar legislation aimed at strengthening election security.
Supporters say the proposal would help safeguard Alabama elections by preventing foreign money from influencing state and local campaigns.
Sawyer Knowles is a capitol reporter for Yellowhammer News. You may contact him at [email protected].
