Mo. House member proposes ethics law

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A Democratic House member from Kansas City is proposing legislation to cap political donations and create new restrictions for lobbyists.

Jason Kander proposes capping contributions in House races at $500, at $1,000 for Senate campaigns and $2,000 for statewide offices.

Missouri currently does not have campaign contribution limits but donations of more than $5,000 must be reported within 48 hours.

The legislation also would bar former lawmakers from working as a lobbyist for two years and ban officials from accepting any gifts from a lobbyist.

Kander said the legislation would help restore the public's faith in the state Legislature. He says public service loses its meaning when officials use their positions to help themselves.

Missouri lawmakers passed ethics legislation in 2010.