Bauer wants new limits on lobbyists

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives wants new restrictions on lobbying and campaign contributions.

Democrat Pat Bauer proposed ethics reform Tuesday morning that would require state lawmakers to report any gift of more than $50. The current threshold is a $100.

Bauer also hopes to keep state contractors from contributing to the governor or campaigns for governor.

The speaker said there is a need to address a public perception that some people have an ability to influence government.

“Do you want to do something, this does something. As it is, it could pass and should pass,” said Bauer.

Bauer's plan would also prohibit contributions to the governor or a candidate for governor during the legislative session, a ban that already applies to lawmakers.