Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen praised the state House earlier this month for passing HB 214, legislation aimed at preventing foreign nationals and corporations from influencing Alabama elections.

Sponsored by Rep. James Lomax, R-Huntsville, the bill prohibits foreign entities from directly or indirectly donating to political candidates, political action committees, constitutional amendments, or referendums, a news release said.

“Representative Lomax has been a strong advocate for HB 214 and for bolstering election security. Banning foreign influence in Alabama elections is a common-sense measure of election integrity. I look forward to seeing this bill pass out of the Senate and head to Gov. Ivey’s desk,” Allen said in the release.

While federal law already bans foreign nationals from contributing to political candidates or committees, loopholes have allowed millions of foreign dollars to influence ballot initiatives and referendums nationwide. HB 214 would give state and local prosecutors the authority to address such violations under Alabama law.

“Alabama’s hardworking men and women deserve elections that are funded honestly and transparently,” Allen added. “I am proud to see the Alabama House take action to protect the Alabama elections process from improper foreign influence.”

More information is available at www.sos.alabama.gov.