House to Vote on Relaxing Corporate Contribution Rules

The state could soon make it easier for corporations to donate money to political campaigns. The proposal is on its way to a floor vote in Tennessee’s House, and another version already passed the state Senate last month.

Right now, for corporations to contribute to races, they have to register as Political Action Committees. Franklin Republican Glen Casada wants to get rid of that requirement. Critics see the move opening elections up to more corporate influence, but Casada defends the measure, saying money isn’t everything in a campaign.

“Any individual that gets involved knocking on doors for a candidate – just getting involved has far more influence than a check for $1000. A House race now costs you $100-, $150 thousand. A corporation gives you $1400 – in the scheme of all that you spend, it’s negligible.”

Casada’s proposal would also lift a rule barring political donations from insurance companies.