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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- The personal use of campaign funds would be banned once a lawmaker leaves office under a bill approved by the Utah Legislature.
The Utah House also voted Wednesday to require lobbyists to identify legislators by name when they accept a meal worth $25 or more, down from the current $50.
Both bills are on their way to governor and are intended to restore the public's confidence in the Legislature following a public outcry over the influence of lobbyist money in state government and accusations of bribery against lawmakers.
Both bills easily passed the House. Only Rep. Neil Hansen, D-Ogden, voted against a lower disclosure requirement for meals. He says he's worried it will lead to lawmakers paying their own way at lunch, but demanding a campaign contribution.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
