WASHINGTON -- The new campaign finance law seeks to limit the influence of corporations, unions and rich people -- and also makes it illegal for kids to donate money.

Supporters of the change say adults were abusing the system by contributing in children's names. Critics say the law will punish youngsters with a strong interest in politics.

"We are constantly told about the need to get more citizens involved in the electoral process," said Rep. Patrick Tiberi, R-Ohio. "With this bill, we are doing just the opposite. We are telling young people, the folks we want to get involved now so they will stay involved in years to come, 'No thanks, maybe when you're older."'

Frank Clemente, spokesman for the Washington watchdog group Public Citizen, said there are many ways youngsters can contribute to the political process aside from giving cash. They can go door-to-door dropping off campaign literature, make phone calls, stuff envelopes or put up political signs.

'Terrible civics'

"That's a terrible way to teach civics, to have them write a check for some candidate rather than participate in democracy," he said.

The main focus of the new law, which goes into effect Nov. 6, is to ban the hundreds of millions of dollars that corporations, unions and individuals give the national parties in unregulated "soft money." However, it also makes it illegal for anyone 17 or under to make a contribution.

A half-dozen teens interviewed Friday in Washington said they oppose the ban, though they acknowledged it probably won't affect them.

"I don't have much money to give, so it's not like it's a big burden," said Chris Morrissey, 17, a high school junior.

At least 14 states have campaign contribution regulations on youthful giving, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Bob Biersack, a spokesman for the Federal Election Commission, said the old federal system made it easy for parents to skirt the law.