Ill. Senate OKs Caps on Political Contributions

Illinois lawmakers have approved the state's first limits on the size of political contributions, with one key exception.

While it limits how much money individuals and special interest groups can gift to candidates, and requires those donations to be reported more frequently, it still lets major political leaders donate as much money as they want in general elections.

The measure passed the Senate 36-22 Friday and the House 66-49 the night earlier.  It now goes to Gov. Pat Quinn, who hasn't said whether he'll sign it.

Opposition comes mostly from Republicans who argue the limits should fully cover party and legislative leaders.

Government watchdog groups also said they were dissatisfied. But they agreed to support the measure after concluding they could not pass a stronger bill.