SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California's campaign finance watchdog is opening an investigation into the state Democratic Party after a consumer advocacy group alleged the party illegally funnels money from oil companies to Gov. Jerry Brown.

The Fair Political Practices Commission told Consumer Watchdog Friday that it will open an investigation in response to information the group presented in August.

Consumer Watchdog used emails sent by oil executives to the Democratic governor to show that conversations with oil officials and some gubernatorial actions were occasionally closely followed by substantial donations to the state party.

The group asked the FPPC to determine if the party earmarks donations to bypass contributions limits. Political parties are allowed to give more money to candidate than individuals can.

The FPPC says it is not investigating Brown.