An ethics bill limiting campaign contributions to the Prince George’s County executive is set for discussion Thursday during a public hearing in Annapolis.
The proposed state law presented by Del. Dereck E. Davis (D-District 25) of Mitchellville passed the county’s House Delegation on Friday. It now goes to be heard before the House Ways and Means Committee.
The bill proposes eliminating a restriction that doesn’t allow developers with pending projects to make campaign contributions to a county executive candidate or a slate that includes the executive.
The ban went in effect more than eight years ago when former County Executive Rushern L. Baker III pushed for the measure after his predecessor Jack Johnson served more than five years in federal prison for bribery and other violations.
Supporters of removing the ban say it hampered Baker from receiving more money during his gubernatorial bid in 2018 Democratic primary.
Davis denied the bill was crafted simply to help County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, who is rumored to seek the governor’s seat after Larry Hogan leaves office in 2022.