Iowa Admin. Code r. 351-4.51 - Candidate debate-media organization; debate structure; debate funding; contribution reporting inapplicable
Iowa Code section 68A.503 prohibits corporations from making contributions to state or local candidates in Iowa. This prohibition does not apply to incorporated media organizations that host candidate debates described in this rule.
(1)
Media
organization defined. "Media organization" means a
broadcaster, cable television operator, television programmer,
television producer, bona fide newspaper, magazine, or any other
periodical publication. The media organization shall not be owned or
controlled by a political party, political committee, or
candidate.
(2)
Debate structure. The structure of the debate shall
be left to the discretion of the media organization provided that at
least two or more candidates for the particular office are invited to
participate. The debate shall not be structured to promote or advance
one candidate over another In choosing which candidates to invite to
a debate, the media organization shall use good faith editorial
judgment that is reasonable and viewpoint-neutral.
(3)
Funding
debates. A media organization may use its own funds and may
accept funds donated by corporations to defray costs incurred in
staging a candidate debate under this rule.
(4)
Contribution reporting
inapplicable. The costs of a debate under this rule are not
a reportable monetary or in-kind contribution under Iowa Code section
68A.402.
This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 68A.402 and 68A.503.
Notes
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