PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Some Rhode Island lawmakers are backing legislation that would allow them to post their photos on official state websites and social media accounts during their re-election campaigns.
Existing law says elected officials running for office may not use public funds to publish or broadcast their likenesses on official government platforms for the 120 days preceding an election.
The Providence Journal reports that lawmakers want to amend the law with an exemption.
The proposed amendment would clarify that the ban does not apply to likenesses of elected politicians published on government sites as long as they are for the purpose of transparency or sharing general information.
Opponents say the amendment needs to specify that government-run platforms cannot be used to promote incumbents but should instead provide information about current office holders.
