Which law, passed in 1903, forbids corporations from contributing directly to candidates for public office?

The Terrell Election Law, passed in 1903, was significant in establishing regulations concerning campaign financing, particularly the prohibition of direct contributions from corporations to candidates running for public office. This law aimed to curb the influence of money from corporations in politics, thereby promoting a more equitable electoral process and preventing potential corruption.

The establishment of such a law reflects the historical context of growing concerns about corporate influence in democracy at that time. It laid the groundwork for future campaign finance regulations that would evolve in subsequent decades.

Other options focus on different aspects of election law and campaign financing but do not specifically address the prohibition enacted by the Terrell Election Law. The Texas Ethics Law and Campaign Finance Act pertain to broader regulations regarding political contributions and disclosures, while the Election Code of 1991 is aimed at codifying various election procedures and policies rather than establishing initial prohibitions on corporate contributions.