U.S. District Judge Alan B. Johnson has approved a settlement agreement ending a lawsuit challenging the fundraising restriction faced by third-party candidates.

Jennifer Young, the Constitution Party’s candidate for secretary of state, and her supporter Donald Wills challenged a state campaign finance law prohibiting candidates from accepting contributions for the general election before the primary election. Since third-party candidates do not participate in the primary elections, they were prohibited from fundraising until August of an election year.

The court order finds the fundraising restriction unconstitutional and unenforceable against minor party candidates, independent candidates, and potential contributors.