The Undergraduate Student Government elections code has confused USG senators in the past, and further proposed changes stalled Tuesday night's meeting until the senate adjourned at midnight.

USG has changed the spending limit on presidential campaigns several times in the past few years. According to the current elections code, candidates may spend up to $400 on publicity items such as flyers, buttons and commercials.

Tuesday the senate recommended that candidates be allowed to spend $500 on their campaigns. But the meeting adjourned before the senate could vote on the limit and other changes.

The senate will hold an emergency session on Sunday to continue debate and vote on the changes.

Wendy Goldstein, head elections commissioner, recommended the spending limit remain at $400. "Everytime you're upping the spending limit, you're forcing someone not to run," Goldstein said.

But town Senator Tracey Maulfair, sponsor of the elections code changes, said the raise is necessary to keep up with inflation.

Raising the limit will also help candidates who campaign fairly, said West Halls senator Mark Stewart, because some candidates inevitably spend more than they are allowed. Increasing the legal spending limit to $500 will help those staying within the rules compete with candidates who spend beyond their limits, Stewart said.

The senate will also vote on a clause making it illegal for candidates to encourage faculty and staff support or try to have them influence other students' opinions during class.

However, town Senator Michelle Keasey said winning the support of influential people is a fair advantage and should be allowed.

Petitions and forms for those interested in running for a USG position will be available Feb. 25 and must be turned in by March 1. But campaigning before March 11 is forbidden, Goldstein said.