Critics: Loopholes abound in N.J. pay-to-play ban.

By SAMANTHA HENRY Associated Press Writer • July 4, 2008 TRENTON, N.J. - A law aimed at keeping contractors from profiting by making political donations survived its first legal test this week. But critics say there's still a long way to go to close gaping loopholes in New Jersey's so-called pay-to play ban. The ban - hailed as one of the toughest in the nation when introduced in 2005 - prohibits state agencies from awarding contracts worth more than $17,500 to companies who donate more than $300 to gubernatorial candidates, county or state political parties. On Monday, a unanimous state appellate court upheld the constitutionality of the law. But critics say the law is weak and must be expanded, especially to towns and municipalities where much of the contract awarding takes place. A 2006 law allows local governments to pass... [read full story]