New Scholarship Scandal in Springfield

Scholarships handed out by state legislators through a long-criticized program often end up in the hands of political donors' relatives.

An Associated Press analysis of the General Assembly scholarship program and state political contribution records found that between 2004 and 2009 at least 41 scholarships went to relatives of someone who gave money to the lawmaker awarding the perk.

State law allows legislators to give the scholarships to anyone who lives in their districts. But the state provides no money, leaving public universities to cover the costs.

They totaled $12.5 million in 2008.

Critics like retired University of Illinois political science professor Kent Redfield say the scholarships should end. He says they create at least the potential for corruption. Many lawmakers say they pick committees to award the scholarships based on merit and financial need.