Disclosure of political activity at the local level in Rhode Island could expand by a bill introduced earlier this month. As it pertains to advocating for the approval or rejection of any question presented to voters at a financial town meeting, financial town referendum, or local election involving charter amendments, Rhode Island House Bill 7147 defines entity to include any political committee, campaign committee of a candidate or officer holder, and all corporations, whether they are for profit or not-for-profit. The definition also includes any financial institution, cooperative, association, receivership, partnership, committee, union, charity, trust, holding company, firm, joint stock company, public utility, sole proprietorship, limited partnership, or any other entity recognized by the laws of the United States and/or the state of Rhode Island.

The bill, which was introduced by Rhode Island House Majority Whip John G. Edwards, is schedule to be heard today by the House Judiciary Committee.