A. Purpose
In 2018, voters amended the City Charter to regulate campaign contributions and expenditures in City candidate elections. Article 3 of the Charter and Chapter 2.10 of the Portland City Code (collectively, “the City’s campaign finance regulations”) set contribution and expenditure limits for campaigns relating to the election of City of Portland candidates (Mayor, Commissioners, and City Auditor). The City’s campaign finance regulations also require certain campaign communication disclosures, the registration of certain expenditures with the Secretary of State, and the availability of employee political deductions via payroll. Any person may file a complaint with the Auditor's Office alleging a violation of the City's campaign finance regulations, and the Auditor's Office may initiate a complaint when there is reason to believe that a violation has occurred. The Auditor’s Administrative Rules set forth additional guidance regarding the requirements of City Charter Article 3 and Portland City Code Chapter 2.10.
B. Independence of Auditor’s Administrative Rules
The Auditor’s Administrative Rules are distinct from any administrative rules governing the City of Portland’s voluntary Open and Accountable Elections program.
C. Authority
Charter Section 2-506 authorizes the Auditor’s Office to adopt, amend, and repeal administrative rules to carry out the Auditor’s Office’s duties.
D. Construction
The Auditor’s Administrative Rules will be construed in conformity with the City Charter and the City Code, and with applicable state and federal laws, rules, and regulations, all of which supersede any conflicting provisions in this rule.
Questions about this administrative rule may be directed to the City Elections Office
HISTORY
Interim Rule Adopted by the City Auditor on April 6, 2020
Interim Rule Revised by the City Auditor on April 29, 2020
Adopted by the City Auditor on October 3, 2020