Lynn N. Rivers: “the previous speaker mentioned the Constitution, and I think it is important that we collectively take a look at what…”

“the previous speaker mentioned the Constitution, and I think it is important that we collectively take a look at what constitutional case law tells us what Congress can do as it addresses campaign finance reform. Congress can prohibit the use of corporate treasury funds and union dues money in Federal elections. Congress can limit contributions to candidates, parties and political committees. Congress can pass laws to combat actual corruption and the appearance of corruption. Congress can require disclosure of the source and size of certain kinds of spending and most contributions. Congress can regulate coordinated expenditures, though thwart attempts to circumvent existing election law. In short, constitutionally Congress has many tools available to it to regulate campaign finance reform. The Supreme Court has spoken on this issue. Shays-Meehan does no more than what the Supreme Court has already endorsed as tools for Congress to use. The Shays-Meehan bill is constitutional, and it is absolutely needed. I urge support.”