Lawmakers Grill Kane About Contract For Email Investigation

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa., (CBS) -- Attorney General Kathleen Kane's decision to hire special prosecutors to investigate controversial emails exchanged by state officials came under scrutiny as Kane appeared at state House budget hearings Monday.

Bucks County House Republican Marguerite Quinn questioned Kane's decision to authorize spending up to $2 million on the email investigation while asking state lawmakers for a five percent increase in her budget, five times what the governor has proposed. Quinn says it's a lot of money when there is need all over.

"And I'm not convinced yet that we're going after criminal activity as opposed to naughty activity," said Quinn.

But Kane, who is facing criminal charges for alleged violation of grand jury secrecy, says the probe is necessary to restore integrity.

"When we come across what may be a potential problem running up to the highest level of the court in Pennsylvania, we can't turn a blind eye to it," said Kane.

Quinn also expressed concern that Kane does not have the authority to appoint special prosecutors with her law license under suspension.