After years of languishing in the Illinois legislature, a campaign finance law that would limit pay-to-play politics is moving rapidly.
The Senate could vote this week on House Bill 824. Its key provision bans people or businesses that do $50,000 or more in business with the state from donating to the campaign of the official who controls the contract.
In other words, it's designed to stop the kind of influence peddling that allegedly has occurred in Gov. Rod Blagojeivich's administration.
The Chicago Tribune recently reported that Blagojevich received 235 contributions of $25,000 each, and most of the donors got a job or a contract or other favorable treatment in return.
Maybe it's the Tribune analysis or the embarrassment of the Tony Rezko influence peddling trial that has gotten lawmakers' attention. Maybe it's that Senate Majority Leader Debbie Halvorson is in a tough re-election race, and needs this bill to bolster her campaign.
One thing's certain: It's not a sudden desire for good government. Note that the bill doesn't apply to lawmakers.
Whatever their motivation, this reform would be a positive step. We urge the bill's passage.
