South Dakota House members defeated a measure that would increase the amount an individual or business could give to candidates running for state or local office.
HB 1111 would have increased the limit from $1000 to $2000 for local races and from $4000 to $5000 for state races. The measure lost 31 to 37.
The sponsor, Republican Rep. Roger Chase from Huron, said the measure would go into effect for the next election. “This (additional campaign funds) could get into your campaign in 2024,” he said.
Other supporters said inflation has eroded the value of the $1,000 contribution and needed to be increased.
Republican Rep. Jon Hansen from Dell Rapid spoke against the bill. “You know what people really don’t like in politics?” Hansen asked. “Big money and big corporations that come in and spend a bunch of money to buy influence.”
While the chamber killed the measure– for now– nothing is truly dead at the legislature until lawmakers adjourn in March.
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