A state watchdog group says a move to ban in the Assembly on campaign fundraising could hopefully lead to more reforms.
Assembly leadership on Wednesday approved a rule banning lawmakers from trying to raise campaign cash while working on the state budget. Mike McCabe of the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign says it's a good first step that sets a higher standard for the upcoming budget negotiations.
Now, McCabe says lawmakers need to take it to the next level and pass legislation that would make a similar prohibition apply to both houses of the Legislature and the Governor.
Assembly Republican leaders voted for the rule, but argued it's just a feel good move because it doesn't provide any real penalties for violations. However, McCabe says the rule is enforceable by Assembly leadership, and lawmakers who violate it could face censure and other repercussions. McCabe also expects lawmakers who violate the rule could face a strong public backlash.
