House blocks attempt to double campaign contribution limits

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — The Democratic-controlled House of Representatives has refused to agree to a bill that would double the amount of money people can donate to political candidates.

The Republican-led state Senate passed a bill Monday that would increase donation limits to $2,000 from $1,000, a move that would affect the governor’s race in November. But House leaders said on Tuesday they wanted more time to study the issue.

The move by the House sends the bill to a conference committee, where House and Senate lawmakers would have to work out a compromise if the bill is to pass this year. Lawmakers are scheduled to meet Wednesday before a nine-day recess. The legislature will adjourn on March 24.

Democrats have vastly outspent Republicans in the last two elections for governor.

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The legislation is House Bill 203.