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State House Backs Increase in Contribution Limits

By Beacon Staff

HELENA — The Montana House is backing an increase in candidate contribution limits.

The chamber on Monday endorsed the Republican-led plan to increase the amount political candidates can accept from individuals, political parties and PACs.

A candidate for governor, for instance, could accept an individual donation of $2,500 under the bill, instead of $630.

Supporters say the increases are needed so candidates can better compete with “dark-money” groups that spend large amounts not subject to disclosure.

Opponents, led by Democrats, argue the measure wrongly allows unlimited donations from political parties. The critics say Montanans don’t want to see more money in politics.

Gov. Steve Bullock is backing a bipartisan effort to require more financial disclosure. It calls for a more modest increase in candidate contributions than the Republican-backed House measure.