Online campaign donation rules tightened under new federal bill

What does this do?

HR 8720 sets new verification requirements for online donations to federal campaigns, including mandatory collection of the card's CVV code and billing ZIP code, and a name-match requirement between the card and the donor. Gift cards and store cards would be banned entirely as donation methods. The bill also eliminates the current $200 reporting threshold, requiring campaigns to report every donor regardless of contribution size.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects anyone who donates to a federal political campaign online, as well as the campaigns and political committees that receive those donations. People living outside the U.S. would need to provide a passport or equivalent ID to confirm citizenship or legal permanent resident status before a donation can be accepted.

Why does it matter?

Campaigns would need to update their online payment systems to collect and verify new information, and small donors who currently give under $200 without public disclosure would now have their information recorded. Campaign treasurers who suspect a donation was made in someone else's name would be required to report it to the Federal Election Commission, which must issue implementing rules within 90 days of enactment.

Where does it stand?