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In November 2019, Google will update the definition of election ads in the United States to include ads that feature:
- A current officeholder or candidate for a state-level elected office, such as Governor, Secretary of State, or member of a state legislature
- A federal or state level political party
- A state-level ballot measure, initiative, or proposition that has qualified for the ballot in its state
Additionally, California committees that are required by California Government Code § 84504.6 (2018) to provide express notification to online platforms before purchasing “online platform disclosed advertisements” will be required to verify their account and submit additional information about themselves for the Political advertising on Google transparency report and in-ad disclosures.
Starting November 18, 2019, all advertisers will be able to apply for verification with state board of elections registration information and California committees can complete the express notification process. Advertisers wishing to apply for verification before this date may do so using our existing political verification form and a FEC ID or EIN. Enforcement of the policy will begin on December 3, 2019.
Google restricts advertising for state and local election ads in Washington, Maryland, New Jersey, Nevada, and New York. On November 18, 2019, we will also update some of these restrictions.
(Posted November 2019)