Md. Legislature Passes Campaign Finance Reform

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland lawmakers have passed a campaign finance reform bill.

The measure, which would close some loopholes in the law, was passed late Monday night before the General Assembly adjourned at midnight.

It raises limits, which have not been increased since 1991, but it closes loopholes that have enabled companies to get around intended limits set in the law.

Individual donation limits would rise from $4,000 to $6,000. The aggregate limit amount would be $24,000 in a four-year cycle.

The bill includes civil penalties to enforce campaign finance laws.

Jennifer Bevan-Dangel, executive director of Common Cause Maryland, says the state made progress this year by passing the reforms.

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