Hawaii lawmakers are agreeing to raise the campaign contribution limit from out-of-state donors in a move that would benefit Democratic gubernatorial candidate U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie.

House and Senate negotiators struck a deal Wednesday to increase the limit for Mainland contributions from 20 percent to 30 percent.

Abercrombie has a large base of financial support around the country, and the previous limit was seen as a hindrance in his 2010 campaign for governor. The new law will allow him to draw more heavily on Mainland donors.

The Republican candidate for governor, Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, is also expected to attract significant Mainland contributions.

The measure now heads for final approval in the House and Senate.