A proposal brought by Democratic gubernatorial candidate to provide taxpayer matching funds for small contributions to political hopefuls has won Illinois Senate approval. It was the second attempt by state Sen. Daniel Biss. The Evanston Democrat failed to win a majority earlier this month.
The plan would match contributions of $25 to $150 with taxpayer money. The match would be six times the amount of the contribution.
Biss says it will make elections fairer for candidates without independent wealth. Spending would be capped at $50 million per election and participating candidates couldn't accept more than $500 from a single donor. The measure moves to the House.
Biss is seeking the Democratic nomination in a field that includes two wealthy businessmen.
