The commission is authorized to solicit and accept donations, contributions, grants, bequests, gifts of money and property, facilities, or services, with or without consideration, from any person, firm, or corporation or from any state, county, municipal corporation, or local government or governing body to enable it to carry out its functions and purpose. The commission is prohibited from paying or compensating any member of the General Assembly, directly or indirectly, any amount in excess of expenses.