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Court Ruling May See Super PAC Money Rise In Texas

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - In a state already known for sky-high political spending, so-called super PACS can now begin flexing their financial muscle.

A recent federal court ruling essentially overturned Texas' ban on political action committees that can spend lavishly as long as they aren't coordinating with political campaigns.

The Austin American Statesman reports that the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals' decision in October makes Texas law consistent with the U.S. Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United ruling. That high court decision sparked super PACs.

The Texas decision makes corporate political spending easier. But more money isn't the only issue because corporations statewide could already give unlimited amounts to candidates.

Now, lavish donations to outside groups may mean harder-edge advertising since they won't be held to the same standards as candidates.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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