A watchdog group says payday lenders trying to avoid tighter regulations donated more than $140,000 to the Wisconsin governor and legislative candidates last year.
The Wisconsin Democracy Campaign says payday lenders have given an additional $28,000 in the first six months of this year as lawmakers consider tight regulations that would kill their business model.
Lawmakers are considering a plan that would prohibit lenders from charging more than 36 percent annual interest rates, which supporters say would protect consumers from predatory practices.
Industry groups say the bill would shut down existing lenders and take away a popular source of credit for consumers who need quick cash. They are mounting a lobbying blitz to defeat the bill. (AP)
