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State Sen. Raymond Lesniak (D-Union) is shown in a file photo.

(Star-Ledger file photos)

TRENTON — Businesses that receive state development subsidies would be banned from making campaign contributions to New Jersey candidates under a bill making its way through the state Legislature.

The state Senate's government committee voted 3-0 Thursday to approve the measure (S2311), which would prohibit any business and its key employees from making campaign contributions to any candidate running for public office in New Jersey during the period the company is receiving a development subsidy of $25,000 or more from the state.

"Big money shouldn't be controlling or influencing government grants, subsidies, or tax breaks," said state Sen. Raymond Lesniak (D-Union), a co-sponsor of the bill. "The public programs are supposed to serve the public's best interests, not special interests. This bill will put reasonable limits on contributions by businesses and employees of companies that get government benefits."

The measure would not ban any individuals who are candidates from contributing to their own campaign.

Violation would be a fourth-degree crime, with fines up to $500,000. Any business found in violation may have to pay back the value of its subsidy, may be ineligible for the remaining amount of the subsidy, and may be banned by the state Treasurer from contracting with any state agency or receiving another subsidy for up to five years.

State Sen. Sam Thompson (R-Middlesex) abstained from the vote Thursday.

The bill now heads to the full state Senate for consideration. It would also need to be passed by the state Assembly before it heads to Gov. Chris Christie's desk.

Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.

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