Aug 19, 2009 1:28 pm US/Central
New Law Would Bar Blagojevich From Book Profits
Former Governor Couldn't Collect Money From Radio Show, Party Appearances Either
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CBS) ―
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Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (File)
Charley Gallay/Getty Images
Deposed Gov. Rod Blagojevich may not make a dime from his new book about his stormy time in office and the scandal surrounding him.
Gov. Pat Quinn has signed a new state law that would bar public officials convicted of corruption from profiting from their misdeeds.
If the former governor is convicted of the charges he is now fighting, the law would apply to his book deal, his upcoming radio gig, and even his
recent surprise party appearance covering an Elvis Presley song.
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The legislation is sponsored by state Rep. Jack Franks (D-Marengo).
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan says she is prepared to enforce the law.
Blagojevich's book doesn't come out until September, but it's already on sale. Amazon.com is selling his book, "The Governor," for 34 percent off list price. The hardcover is selling for $16.47.
The book is due out Sept. 8 and promises to tell "the truth behind the political scandal that continues to rock the nation."
Meanwhile, Blagojevich is awaiting trial
on charges that he tried to sell President Barack Obama's Senate seat to the highest bidder, among other allegations.
His say they will need three more weeks to listen to secret recordings that'll feature prominently at his corruption trial.
Federal prosecutors and defense lawyers attended a 10-minute status hearing Wednesday where Judge James Zagel asked how preparations for a trial were going. Blagojevich did not attend.
FBI wiretap tapes of then-governor Blagojevich on the phone before his Dec. 9 arrest are a cornerstone of the federal case.
The next status hearing is set for Sept. 22. A trial isn't expected to start until next year.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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