R.I. Senate backs use of campaign funds for security systems

PROVIDENCE, R.I.—The Rhode Island Senate has approved legislation that would allow candidates and elected officials to use campaign funds to pay for security systems, citing a rise in threats and violence against public officials.

Sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Hanna M. Gallo (D-Cranston, West Warwick), the measure - known as the SECURE (Safeguarding Election Candidates Using Reasonable Expenditures) Act (2026-S 2334A) - would explicitly permit campaign funds to be used for security-related expenses tied to an individual’s role as a candidate or officeholder, “including home and office security systems and ongoing monitoring,” according to the bill.

“Individuals who seek public office make many sacrifices, but they cannot be expected to sacrifice their personal safety,” Gallo said in a statement.

The legislation comes amid heightened concerns about safety.  Lawmakers pointed to several incidents in the past year, including the killing of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their home, and the shooting of Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Rhode Island state legislators were also among officials across the country whose homes were targeted by bomb threats.

If enacted, the bill would allow spending on security measures such as alarm systems, video surveillance, access control systems and ongoing monitoring services. The proposal caps such expenditures at $10,000 per individual per election cycle.

The legislation also includes guardrails intended to maintain campaign finance transparency. It prohibits payments to family members or businesses they control, as well as spending on unrelated home improvements, firearms or ammunition. All expenditures must be linked to security risks associated with holding or seeking office and must be documented through campaign finance filings with itemized receipts.

Gallo noted that while federal candidates are already permitted to use campaign funds for security, relatively few states have codified similar allowances.

“We have been witnessing a disturbing increase in threats and violence against officials at all levels,” she said. “This provides a transparent way for candidates and officeholders to protect themselves while maintaining public trust.”

Companion legislation (2026-H 7495) has been introduced in the Rhode Island House of Representatives by Rep. Jennifer Boylan (D-Barrington, East Providence).

Photo courtesy of State of Rhode Island General Assembly