By AP/KWMU
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich proposed sweeping changes today to state ethics law, including sharp limits on political donations.
The proposal comes as the Democratic governor faces increased scrutiny for his practice of awarding state jobs and contracts to campaign contributors.
Right now, Illinois has no restrictions on campaign donations.
Blagojevich wants to bar all donations from corporations and unions. He would limit individuals to giving $2,000 per candidate. Political parties could give $5,000.
He would also require lobbyists to disclose how much they are paid and bar lawmakers from becoming lobbyists for a year after leaving office.
The Illinois Campaign for Political Reform endorses the plan.