The Undergraduate Student Government Senate changed several parts of the USG elections code last night, raising presidential candidates' spending limits and adding new campaign rules.

All the changes need to be approved by the USG Supreme Court before they are official.

The senate raised the spending limit from $400 to $500. The money is used for expenses such as fliers and buttons.

Town Senator Tracey Maulfair said the senate increased the limit to offset inflation.

A $500 limit will also "keep the playing field level," said town Senator Joe Atkinson.

But Head Elections Commissioner Wendy Goldstein said she is unhappy with the change. The senate should have kept the limit at $400 "in order to ensure a candidate's economic background is not a deterrent," she said.

The senate also voted that:

-- Candidates cannot use transparencies to campaign in front of University classes. Town Senator Mike Snider said outlawing transparencies limits freedom of speech. Speakers in favor of the restriction said all candidates may not have access to large classes. The senate passed the rule by one vote.

-- Members of the University faculty and staff may still endorse presidential candidates, but candidates may not encourage them to influence other students during class time.

-- For presidential debates, panelists will need to be approved by two-thirds of the candidates. Previously, a unanimous vote was required.