By AP/KWMU
Springfield, ILL. – Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is considering corporate sponsorship of state programs, events and facilities. The plan might allow bumper stickers, for example, to be put on every state vehicle reading "This car donated by Ford."
The money raised would help fill holes in the state budget. The Democratic governor is proposing the new initiative to allow companies to purchase advertising rights to state programs, events and facilities.
Deputy Governor Bradley Tusk says businesses would donate materials or money. In exchange, the companies could display their logos inside a state facility or sponsor an event or attraction.
But some lawmakers aren't too happy about the plan. State Sen. Steve Rauschenberger (R, Elgin) says the proposal is inconsistent with the governor's pledge to stop influence-peddling.