On March 26, 2020, the Federal Election Commission updated its operational guidelines for enforcing the nation’s campaign finance laws during the coronavirus pandemic. While the agency has closed its office to visitors and employees have been directed to telework, the agency states most operations continue to be unaffected.
Despite standard campaign events almost certainly coming to a halt, it is important to know that April Quarterly reports remain due on April 15, 2020. And while 94% of filings are submitted electronically, the Commission will not process campaign finance reports filed by mail until the agency resumes normal mail operations. Their report notes that the “FEC does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, but it may choose not to pursue administrative fines against filers prevented from filing by reasonably unforeseen circumstances beyond their control.”
Additionally, complaints with allegations of violations of campaign finance regulations are still required to be filed in writing, but the FEC has asked that an electronic copy be submitted as well. Complaints may be sent to cela@fec.gov using electronic signatures and notarizations.
