Why do certain contributions and transfers seem to exceed the legal limits?
The amount of money given by a donor is subject to the limits specified under Maryland law (see Chapter 8 of the Summary Guide). In certain instances, the amount of money that is listed may seem to exceed the these limits. However, in most instances one of the following reasons explains the apparent over-contribution:

• Campaign committees are allowed to report contributions under $51.00 as a lump sum. For example, Committee to Elect John Jones holds a fundraiser in which $20 tickets are sold. If the committee sells 500 tickets, it can lump sum report the $10,000 received from ticket sales.
• Slates and the committees for the candidates associated with the slate are allowed to transfer unlimited sums of money between one another.
• Pursuant to 1975 and 1978 Opinions of the Attorney General, 60 OAG 259 (1975) and 63 OAG 263 (1978), political parties are allowed to receive administrative contributions that do not count towards the contributors' contribution limits, provided the money is used for the regular and ongoing administrative activities of the party. The same exception is applicable to corporations that make contribution to their corporate PAC.

If you have questions about a contribution or its legality, please feel free to contact this office for more information.