Campaign donation cap stalls Missouri ethics bill

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Legislation overhauling Missouri's political ethics rules has stalled over a proposed $5,000 cap on campaign contributions.

The House Rules Committee voted 7-4 on Monday to block debate on the bill on the House floor.

Missouri lawmakers repealed limits on campaign contributions in 2008.

House Democrats and Gov. Jay Nixon say capping donations is necessary for an ethics overhaul to be meaningful. But critics say the proposed limit would reduce transparency by creating an incentive for finding ways to hide the source of donations.

Some Republicans also say they also want other elements stiffened, such as rules for gubernatorial appointments.

There's still time for the bill to be revised and the House committee to reconsider its block on floor debate. The legislature adjourns May 14.