Prohibit Union Contributions to Political Elections

Section 1: Title

This Act shall be known as the "Union Political Contribution Prohibition Act."

Section 2: Findings and Purpose

(a) Findings. The Congress finds that:

1. The integrity of the electoral process is fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society.

2. Union contributions to political campaigns can lead to undue influence over elected officials and policy decisions.

3. Prohibiting union contributions to political campaigns is necessary to ensure that elections remain fair and free from the disproportionate influence of organized labor.

(b) Purpose. The purpose of this Act is to prohibit unions from contributing directly or indirectly to political candidates, parties, or committees in order to promote transparency, fairness, and integrity in the electoral process.

Section 3: Prohibition on Union Contributions

(a) Prohibition. No labor union, union local, or other collective bargaining organization shall make any contribution or expenditure, whether direct or indirect, to:

1. Any candidate for federal, state, or local public office;

2. Any political party;

3. Any political action committee (PAC);

4. Any organization involved in political campaigning, advertising, or advocacy for or against any candidate or political party.

(b) Definition of Contribution. For the purposes of this Act, the term "contribution" shall include:

1. Any donation of money, goods, services, or anything of value made for the purpose of influencing any election for federal, state, or local public office;

2. Any expenditure coordinated with, or made in cooperation with, or at the request or suggestion of, a candidate, political party, or committee.

Section 4: Enforcement and Penalties

(a) Enforcement. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this Act and shall promulgate rules and regulations necessary for its implementation.

(b) Penalties. Any labor union, union local, or other collective bargaining organization found to be in violation of this Act shall be subject to:

1. A civil penalty equal to three times the amount of any unlawful contribution or expenditure;

2. Any additional penalties as determined by the FEC, including but not limited to fines, injunctions, and other appropriate remedies.

Section 5: Reporting Requirements

(a) Disclosure. Labor unions shall be required to file quarterly reports with the FEC disclosing any political contributions or expenditures made prior to the enactment of this Act. These reports shall include:

1. The amount of each contribution or expenditure;

2. The recipient of each contribution or expenditure;

3. The date of each contribution or expenditure;

4. The purpose of each contribution or expenditure.

Section 6: Severability

If any provision of this Act, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of the Act, and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected thereby.